Lander University Receives National Pan-Hellenic Council Charter

A charter from the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) to Lander University is expected to have significant impact on the fraternities and sororities served by the organization.

Comprising the nine historically African–American, Greek-lettered fraternities and sororities, often referred to as the “Divine Nine,” NPHC was founded on college campuses across the United States, primarily during the early 20th century, to promote unity, academic excellence, community service and cultural awareness among African–American students. The NPHC serves as a governing body that oversees the activities and standards of its member organizations.

At Lander, NPHC will serve Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sigma Gamma Rho and Zeta Phi Beta sororities, as well as Omega Psi Phi and Phi Beta Sigma fraternities. Being chartered means official recognition by both the national organization and the college or university. This recognition lends support to the chapters’ activities and initiatives.

“Chartered chapters play a vital role in preserving the rich history, traditions and values of their respective NPHC organizations,” said Katherine Lukas, coordinator of Student Life for Fraternities and Sororities. “By upholding these traditions, chartered chapters honor the legacy of their founders and maintain the integrity of their organizations.”

NPHC chapters may have access to resources provided by both the national organization and the university. These resources may include funding, training materials, leadership development programs, and support for events and activities, Lukas said.

Other benefits include networking opportunities for chapter members with NPHC chapters across the countryand increased visibility on campus and within the broader community, she said.

“Being part of a chartered NPHC council provides members with opportunities for leadership development and growth,” Lukas said. “Members may hold positions within the chapter, participate in leadership training programs and represent the chapter in various campus and community activities.”

Chapters can make a meaningful impact on their campus and in their community through service projects, philanthropic efforts and advocacy initiatives, she said.

“Receiving this charter will allow us to continue to further educate the Lander community not only on Greek life, but also on life skills and community service efforts,” said Shelley Nevins, a senior business major from Columbia and a participant at the charter ceremony held Saturday, March 23, at Lander. “We’ll also continue to engage further with all the of the Lander Greek community

Nevins, who holds the office of anti-basileus (vice president) in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, said, “This will impact my sorority because it will increase Greek unity within the Divine Nine (NPHC) organizations and allow us to work together more to achieve a common goal.”

The charter ceremony was the culmination of a weeklong series of Greek Week activities, which includedsorority and fraternity members engaging in service projects in Greenwood District 50 and donatingapproximately 600 books to area elementary schools.

“Greek Week adds to the vibrancy and diversity of campus culture by showcasing the traditions, values and contributions of the Greek community,” Lukas said. “It provides opportunities for non-Greek students to engage with and learn about Greek organizations and their members.”

Photo: Participants at the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) charter ceremony at Lander University included, from left Cassandra Joseph, NPHC National Collegiate chair; Paulyna Wheaton, NPHC representative for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority; Maya Dickerson, NPHC representative for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority; Shelley Nevins, NPHC representative for Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority; Rickey Moore, NPHC representative for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, and Glenda Beverly, NPHC president of Greater Greenville. Contributed Photo