100 Years of Social Responsibility and Community Service

LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. - Dec. 28, 2013 - PRLog -- The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, which was founded November 17, 1911 at Howard University, expanded with its second chapter at Lincoln University on February 6, 1914 and became the first stepping stone of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.  During that time, Lincoln’s faculty opposed the establishment of the fraternity’s chapter. Despite Howard and Lincoln faculty restrictions regarding fraternity expansion, Omega members Oscar James Cooper, William Griffith Brannon and John H. McMorries were dispatched to Lincoln University to establish Beta Chapter under risk of possible university expulsion.  Mrs. Charlotte “Lottie B.” Wilson, a local woman, who became acquainted with these men and their intention, allowed them to induct 20 charter members into the fraternity in her home that night.  Thus, Beta Chapter was established.

The inaugural charter members include: H.F. Andrews, A.S. Beasley, W.E. Bush, W. Douglass, J.E. Fowlkes, L.E. Ginn, G.A. Golighty, H.D. Green, N.A. Holmes, E.A. James, H.E. James. W.L. Kiser, H.M. Marlowe, W.G. Price, R.A. Prichett, R.G. Robinson, C.R. Saulter, F.P. Stewart, A.M. Willis and A.L. Wallace.

Since that time, the Men of Beta Chapter have made great strides in the community in order to fulfill the mission and vision of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Whether it be providing scholarships for deserving students to organizing community-service events in their local communities, Beta Chapter has dedicated itself to countless hours of community service and giving back.  These men are proud to be responsible for prompting widespread and meaningful change throughout the nation and the world.

The impact and legacy of the Beta Chapter is visible in the leaders that they have produced.  Individuals, such as, Langston Hughes a world-renowned author and poet that is credited as the primary contributor for the Harlem Renaissance; Roscoe Lee Brown an Emmy-award winning actor; H. Carl Moultrie, Chief Judge for the Superior Court of the District of Columbia are a few of their iconic members.  Other notable members of Beta Chapter include Melvin B. Tolson, the poet, educator and columnist, who was the architect of the debate team portrayed in the motion picture, The Great Debaters; Hildrus Augustus Poindexter, one of the most influential scientist of all time for his work in tropical medicine; James L. Usry, the first Black mayor of Atlantic City and former Harlem Globe Trotter; Robert Archie, Esquire, distinguished Philadelphia attorney; Charles A. Preston, the nation’s first Black postal inspector; and Dr. Frank “Tick” Coleman, Philadelphia icon, community activist and educator.

Furthermore, the Men of Beta Chapter continue to contribute greatly to their respective communities.  Many hold noteworthy positions, such as, educators, lawyers, judges, businessmen, politicians, and entrepreneurs.

The Centennial Celebration for the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Beta Chapter will recognize the impact of the chapter over the past 100 years, honor Beta Chapter Omega Men for achievement in all walks of life, and reiterate the Chapter's commitment to provding community service and scholarship activities.

Centennial events include Thursday, Feb. 6^th Charter Day activities at Lincoln University, Friday, Feb. 7^th “GQ Event” party at the Downtown Philadelphia Marriott, Saturday, Feb. 8^th Beta Chapter Centennial Gala at the Philadelphia Convention Center and Sunday, Feb. 9^th Beta Chapter Farewell Brunch also in Philadelphia.

For more information visit www.beta1914.com and click on link for “Centennial Events.”