1906
Founding of Alpha Phi Alpha
On December 4, 1906, seven visionary men founded Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at Cornell University—the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity for African American men.
Alpha Phi Alpha – Beta Chapter
First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All.
About Beta Chapter
Founded in 1907, the Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was the first chapter established at a historically Black university. Our mission is to develop leaders, promote brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing service and advocacy for our communities. We uphold the ideals of manly deeds, scholarship and love for all mankind in everything we do.
Brotherhood
We cultivate a network of lifelong support grounded in shared values, mentoring and fellowship.
Scholarship
We promote academic excellence and provide resources to help brothers excel and pursue higher learning.
Service
We serve our community through outreach, advocacy and partnerships that uplift and empower.
Our History
Beta Chapter’s history is deeply intertwined with the rich legacy of Alpha Phi Alpha. Below are key milestones that have shaped our chapter and the fraternity at large.
1907
Establishment of Beta Chapter
Beta Chapter was chartered at Howard University in 1907, blazing a trail for chapters at historically Black colleges and universities and setting the stage for a century of excellence.
Today
Continued Excellence & Leadership
Today Beta Chapter continues to produce leaders in academia, industry and community service, upholding the fraternity’s principles and making an impact across the globe.
Programs
Through our programs we bring Alpha Phi Alpha’s mission to life. Explore the initiatives that empower our brothers and serve the community.
Brotherhood
Building lifelong bonds through fellowship.
Our brotherhood initiatives include mentoring, study groups and social gatherings that foster unity and personal growth.
Scholarship
Championing academic excellence.
We support educational achievement through scholarships, tutoring, study halls and recognition programs.
Service
Serving campus and community.
Our service efforts include food drives, mentoring programs, civic engagement and partnerships with local organizations.
Leadership & Impact
Developing leaders across campus.
We cultivate future leaders through leadership academies, campus governance participation and professional development opportunities.
News
Stay up to date with the latest chapter happenings and announcements.
October 24, 2025 • Chapter News
Howard University 2025 Step Show Competiton
Beta Chapter won $3000 for first place in step show
Read more
May 28, 2025 • Service
Community Food Drive Success
Our chapter collected over 1,500 pounds of food for local families in need during our spring drive.
Read more
April 11, 2025 • Brotherhood
New Members Initiated
We welcomed 14 new brothers into Beta Chapter during a memorable initiation ceremony.
Read moreChapter Ventures
Beyond campus programs, brothers of Beta Chapter lead impactful ventures that blend innovation, entrepreneurship, and service. Explore the businesses powered by our brotherhood.
Mobile App 
Rooted: University Hub
Rooted is a student-built mobile platform that centralizes campus news, events, dining, and resources into one seamless experience. Built by Beta brothers, it helps students stay informed, connected, and empowered at the Mecca and beyond.
Available on major app stores (check your campus listing).
Designed for HBCU communities and student success.
Streetwear 
Gratified Garments
Gratified Garments is a faith-driven streetwear brand founded by a Beta brother. The line blends clean design, bold messaging, and storytelling to inspire gratitude, purpose, and community through every piece.
Drops feature limited-run designs and community-focused collaborations.
Built on service, creativity, and giving back.
Rooted
Impact
Campus Reach
Serving students with centralized access to campus information, events, and resources.
See platform →Garments
Drop
Creative Storytelling
Designs rooted in gratitude, testimony, and faith-forward messaging.
View latest drop →Beta
Builds
Work With Us
Interested in partnering with Rooted or Gratified Garments for campus or community initiatives?
Get in touch →Meet the Brothers
Browse our current brothers on campus. This section loads data from a CSV file (`data/brothers.csv`) and associated headshots from `assets/brothers/`. If no CSV is available (for example when viewed offline), use the uploader below to load a CSV manually. Search or filter by major or class year.
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Our Partners
We collaborate with a variety of organizations to expand our reach and impact.
