On Friday evening, November 17, 1911, three Howard University undergraduate students, with the assistance of their faculty adviser, gave birth to the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. This event occurred in the office of biology Professor Ernest E. Just, the faculty adviser, in the Science Hall (now known as Thirkield Hall). The three liberal arts students were Edgar A. Love, Oscar J. Cooper and Frank Coleman. From the initials of the Greek phrase meaning "friendship is essential to the soul," the name Omega Psi Phi was derived. The phrase was selected as the motto. Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift were adopted as cardinal principles. A decision was made regarding the design for the pin and emblem, and thus ended the first meeting of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Our Founders:

Kappa chapter was founded at West Virginia Institute in 1920. It was then re-designated to Syracuse on February 18th ,1922. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated was the first black organization on Syracuse University's campus. Due to the Great Depression and World War II, "in 1932 about one-half of the 90 chapters were inactive." (Robert Gill, 1963, p.23). Kappa Chapter was revived in 1968 (Spring) by the:
Persistent 16
M.Askew V.Brown G.Chirchlow R.Davidson F.Drew E.English H.Jemmott J.Laws R.Love C.Marshall T.Pryor J.Murray L.Samson R.Samson T.Smith D.William

Kappa Chapter is in the 2nd district & 6th corridor. As Kappa Chapter embarks on the 21st century, its members reflect on a rich tradition of serving the community. We have always responded to the call wherever there was human need. From setting up the first Black Boy Scout troop in Syracuse to campaigning for mayoral candidate Sid Johnson(1980), the brothers have served the community. We've registered people to vote, fed the needy, challenged the minds of youths and stood firm among our peers as a collective tie that binds the Black community.

Chapter Houses
Across from Slocum Hall // 507 University Ave. // 209 Comstock Ave. // 131 Comstock Pl. // 352 Fellows Ave. // 838 Westcott St. // 131 Comstock Pl.