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Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. was established on January 9, 1914, at Howard University by three visionary students: A. Langston Taylor, Charles I. Brown, and Leonard F. Morse. Committed to their mission, the founders aimed to create a Greek-letter fraternity that would embody the core principles of brotherhood, scholarship, and service.
The fraternity shares a close connection with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., a sister organization that it helped to establish. Together, the two organizations promote shared values and collaborate on initiatives that uphold their foundational ideals.
Phi Beta Sigma’s motto, “Culture For Service and Service For Humanity,” reflects its dedication to making a positive impact on communities worldwide. Its official colors, Royal Blue and Pure White, symbolize unity and excellence, while the dove serves as a meaningful symbol for the fraternity.
Since its founding, Phi Beta Sigma has grown into a dynamic organization that advances education, leadership, and service. Its legacy continues to inspire individuals to work toward a better society through collective action and a commitment to lifelong learning.
1. Dr. Howard Fuller
A civil rights activist and education reformer, has dedicated his career to empowering families through equitable education.
2. Edward “Special Ed” Archer
A hip-hop legend, has influenced music and culture for over three decades, producing for icons like Tupac Shakur.
3. Leon Robinson
An actor and musician, is celebrated for his roles in classics like The Five Heartbeats and Cool Runnings.
4. Dr. George Koonce
A Super Bowl champion and academic leader, inspires as one of the few NFL players to earn a PhD.
5. Fred Hammond
A Grammy-winning gospel artist, revolutionized urban praise and worship music.
6. Dr. John K. Pierre
Chancellor of Southern University Law Center, has advanced diversity and innovation in legal education.
7. Dave “Unk” Huie
A marketing entrepreneur exemplifies service through philanthropy.
8. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries Jr.
A pastor and financial wellness advocate, empowers communities through his bestselling books and radio show.
9. Jerry Rice
Original Chapter: Delta Phi (Mississippi Valley State Univ.)
10. Al Roker
Honorary
11. Terrence Howard
Honorary
12. Blair Underwood
Honorary
13. Harry Belafonte
Honorary
14. Rep. John Lewis
Lambda Sigma
(Atlanta)
15. Emmitt Smith
Zeta Kappa
(University of Florida)
16. Richard Sherman
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Beta Tau
(Stanford Uni.)
17. Hines Ward
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Zeta Nu
(University of Georgia)
18. Lou Brock
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Rho
(Southern University)
19. Ryan Howard
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Rho Chi
(SW Missouri State University)
20. Willis Reed
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Xi
(Grambing State University)
21. Apollo Crews
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Kappa Zeta
(Auburn University)
22. Mike London
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Mu Omicron
(University of Richmond)
23. Bill Clinton
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Honorary
24. Dr. George Washington Carver
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Gamma Sigma
(Tuskegee, Alabama)
25. James Weldon Johnson
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Psi
(Clark Atlanta Univ.)
26. Congressman Elijah Cummings
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Honorary
27. Harold Washington
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Upsilon Sigma
(Chicago)
28. Warren Ballentine
Source:Radio One Digital
Iota Nu Sigma
(Chicago, Illinois)
29. Benjamin Chavis Muhammad
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Honorary
30. Huey P. Newton
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Beta Tau
(UC Berkeley)
31. Asa Philip Randolph
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Iota Sigma
(Richmond, Virginia)
32. Al Sharpton
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Honorary
33. Armstrong Williams
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Eta Alpha
(South Carolina State Univ.)
34. King Bach
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Mu Epsilon
(Florida State University)
35. J. Anthony Brown
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Eta Beta Sigma
(Nashville, Tennessee)
36. Kurt Carr
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Zeta Lambda
(Univ., of Connecticut)
37. Bootsy Collins
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Honorary
38. Combat Jack
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Kappa Xi (Cornell University)
39. Reginald Hudlin
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Honorary
40. Flex Alexander
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Kappa Delta Sigma
(San Francisco)
41. Ramsey Lewis…
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Honorary
42. Ben Vereen
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Honorary
43. Verdine White
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Honorary
44. Malik Yoba
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Honorary
