Birth of Omega
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was founded on November 17, 1911, at Howard University in Washington, D.C., making history as the first international fraternal organization established at a historically Black college. Its founders—Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, Frank Coleman, and faculty advisor Dr. Ernest Everett Just—sought to create a brotherhood rooted in academic excellence, perseverance, and the upliftment of the community.
The fraternity’s name comes from the initials of a Greek phrase meaning “Friendship is essential to the soul,” which remains its guiding motto. Omega Psi Phi also upholds four Cardinal Principles: Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. These values have shaped generations of members, encouraging them to excel academically, serve their communities, and build strong fraternal bonds.
In its formative years, Omega Psi Phi demonstrated strong leadership and resilience. Edgar Amos Love served as the first Grand Basileus, with Cooper and Coleman taking on national leadership roles. Alpha Chapter was officially chartered on December 15, 1911, at Howard University, followed by Beta Chapter at Lincoln University in 1914. Although initially unrecognized by Howard, the fraternity persisted, eventually gaining official recognition.
Since those early days, Omega Psi Phi has expanded to include chapters across the United States and internationally. Through service initiatives, educational programming, and mentorship, the fraternity continues to impact communities while remaining true to its founding principles.
Today, Omega Psi Phi stands as a beacon of leadership, scholarship, and brotherhood. Its legacy lives on through the efforts of its members, who remain committed to personal growth, social uplift, and positive change.
For more Omega history please visit our International Website.
Thirkield Hall
Science Hall was constructed in 1901 and amongst other things was the birthplace of Omega Psi Phi fraternity. In 1936 it was renamed Thirkield Hall in in honor of Wilbur P. Thirkield, the 8th President of Howard University.
Thirkield Hall on the Campus of Howard University. Washington DC
Members Vs Men
The Greek Letter Societies among our group appear to have entered upon a period of mad competition for obtaining members. Pledges are increasing in numbers. Scarcely a student on the college campus but wears a pledge pin or a Frat pin. Are the Fraternities forgetting their original high standards? Can it be said that every man who enters college is of Fraternity material? If in any place, Omega has entered this mad race for members, pause and consider.
The value of our Fraternity is not in numbers, but in men, in real brotherhood. Eight men thoroughly immersed in the true Omega spirit are far greater assets than eighty with lukewarm enthusiasm. If any chapter has reached the maximum in numbers for efficient work and brotherly cooperation, let it initiate each year only a number of men equal to those leaving the chapter by way of graduation or otherwise.
Men, real men of Omega caliber, strive for that which is most difficult of attainment. Keep Omega the most difficult Greek Letter Society in which to obtain membership and be assured that Omega material will never be found lacking.
Brother Walter H. Mazyck, 1925