Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity: 119 Years of Impact and Leadership

On December 4, 2025, the world recognizes 119 years of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the nation’s first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity for African American men. Since emerging at Cornell University in 1906, the group’s visionary founders set a course that has inspired extraordinary change. Through leadership and service, the organization continues to lift up communities, shape leaders, and fuel progress.

From Humble Beginnings to a Historic Journey

Resilience defined the early years of what would become Alpha Phi Alpha. Seven determined students at Cornell, known as the “Seven Jewels,” faced significant adversity and racial isolation. Rather than giving in, they created a brotherhood focused on academic excellence, service, and uplifting one another. Their vision was to encourage high ideals and empower others to reach greater heights—goals that remain vital today.

What began as a literary society evolved into a pioneering fraternity. Over time, their principles have continued to inspire lasting positive change, both for members and wider society.

Legacy Leaders and Lasting Icons

Throughout its history, Alpha Phi Alpha has cultivated many who have shaped the world. Legendary members like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a torchbearer for civil rights, channeled the fraternity’s values. Similarly, Justice Thurgood Marshall—the first African American to join the Supreme Court—used those same ideals to effect legal and societal reform. Their achievements are a testament to the powerful support and vision provided by this brotherhood.

Notable artists and thinkers have also been among its ranks. Take W.E.B. Du Bois, a pioneer in scholarship, social activism, and the NAACP, or jazz master Duke Ellington, whose creative genius continues to echo throughout music history. Each leader adds to an impressive legacy that’s as cultural as it is academic.

Making a Difference Across the Globe

With more than 880 chapters around the world, Alpha Phi Alpha’s reach is both deep and wide. Members continually give back through volunteer service, awarding millions in scholarships and devoting countless hours to local projects. One well-known initiative, “A Voteless People is a Hopeless People,” encourages voting and civic participation—a message as vital now as it was in the 1930s.

Education is another pillar. Programs like “Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College” offer young people mentorship and access to opportunities. By investing in future generations, the fraternity helps launch tomorrow’s community leaders. To read more on its broader social justice efforts, check out The Narrative Matters for expanding perspectives.

Why 2025 Reminds Us Alpha’s Vision Is Still Essential

Much has changed over the past century, but the mission at the heart of this historic group remains vital. Equity, justice, and community uplift are ideals that never go out of style. In today’s polarized world, organizations built on those foundations are needed now more than ever.

Besides strengthening bonds among members, Alpha Phi Alpha guides individuals to serve with humility and courage. The fraternity’s motto, “First of All, Servants of All, We Shall Transcend All,” captures that enduring drive to make a difference—no matter the era or environment.

If you want to follow more real-time stories about this legacy, explore the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity coverage at The Narrative Matters.

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External resource: Learn the full history and ongoing initiatives at the official Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity site.

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