About Alpha

Learn more about our chapter and the legacy of Alpha Phi Alpha

Chapter History

The Theta Gamma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, was chartered at the University of South Florida on March 4, 1972 by Dr. Sherman Thompson and Dr. Richard Ford Pride. Dr Richard Ford Pride was the first African-American professor at the University of South Florida.

As part of the first intercollegiate Black Greek-lettered fraternity, founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University, we carry forward a legacy that has shaped generations of leaders, scholars, and visionaries.

The Dirty Dozen Charter Line

The Theta Gamma Chapter was charted in 1972 with the first line known as "The Dirty Dozen." These brothers laid the foundation for excellence, service, and brotherhood that continues to guide our chapter today.

Eugene Austin

Charter Member

Roosevelt Baker

Charter Member

Harry Bing

Charter Member

David Dwight

Charter Member

Milton Early

Charter Member

Fred Gibbs

Charter Member

Jesse Hill

Charter Member

Joe Maddox

Charter Member

O'Neal Milton

Charter Member

Earl Moore

Charter Member

Roger Storr

Charter Member

Gerard Thompson

Charter Member

1972
Chartered
100+
Active Brothers
360+
Service Hours a Year
15+
Annual Events
Over $100k
Raised for Charity

Fraternity History

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, by seven visionary African American students. These founders, known as the "Seven Jewels," created the first intercollegiate Greek-lettered fraternity for African Americans in response to the social isolation and racial prejudice they experienced.

The fraternity was established with the mission to develop leaders, promote brotherhood and academic excellence, and provide service and advocacy for communities. Throughout its history, Alpha Phi Alpha has produced exceptional leaders including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, W.E.B. Du Bois, and countless others who have made significant contributions to society.

Today, Alpha Phi Alpha continues its legacy of leadership and service with over 290,000 initiated members and more than 730 chapters worldwide, making it one of the most influential Greek-letter organizations in existence.

The Seven Jewels

The visionary founders of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

Become An Alpha

Discover what it means to become a man of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

Why Alpha Phi Alpha?

Membership in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity offers more than just letters—it provides lifelong brotherhood, leadership development, and opportunities for service and impact. Our members are scholars, leaders, and change-makers committed to excellence in all endeavors.

Membership Requirements

  • Full-time enrollment at the University of South Florida
  • Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA
  • Completion of at least one semester
  • Demonstrated leadership and character
  • Commitment to service and brotherhood
  • Registered to vote, if eligible and qualified
  • Approval by the chapter's membership committee
  • Is of good moral character
  • Full-time student taking courses leading to his first academic degree
  • And many more...
Learn More About Membership

What Brothers Say

"Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has been a blessing in my life. The lifelong opportunities, the brotherhood, and the connections I've gained have shaped me both personally and professionally. Being a part of this fraternity has pushed me to grow, lead, and serve with purpose, and I'm grateful for the impact it continues to have on me."

— Olamide Olajide, Fall 2019

"The motivation that led me to join this fraternity was the legacy of notable leaders that shaped my experience as a Black man. Brothers like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Thurgood Marshall paved the way for progress, and I wanted to be a part of something that carried that legacy forward. On campus, brothers were in high positions, handling business, and making an impact. I wanted to surround myself with like-minded individuals who were striving for greatness."

— Donvante Lavilis, Fall 2019

"The frat gave me so many life lessons--learning how to lead, organize, and execute under pressure. But more importantly, it gave me a support system of brothers who push me to be my best every day."

— Mario McPherson, Fall 2021