MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Rhodes College unveiled a new National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Plaza on today, honoring Black sororities and fraternities.
The nine historically Black sororities and fraternities are also called the Divine Nine.
Most Divine Nine sororities and fraternities were created in the early 1900s, during a time of racial discrimination against Black students at predominately White institutions.
The purpose of the NPHC is to create programming and encourage civic engagement, scholarship, fellowship, and promote leadership.
A group of students in 2022 requested that a space be made to pay tribute to Black sororities and fraternities.
“It recognizes and celebrates the impact and importance of historically Black sororities and fraternities. I am very excited to officially dedicate this campus space during the college’s SpringFest and Black Students and Alumni Family Reunion,” Rhodes College President, Jennifer Collins said.
Located in the center of the campus, south of the Bryan Campus Life Center, the plaza will feature plaques specifically designed for each organization.
