International History

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity is an international association that has become a legacy of excellence. The lineage of greatness began on January 9, 1914 with the three noble founders: Honorable A. Langston Taylor, Honorable Leonard F. Morse, and Honorable Charles I. Brown on the campus of Howard University, Washington, DC. These proud men formed a chain of esteemed scholars striving to make a difference in society through the principles of brotherhood, scholarship and service.

The diversity of their membership was the unique attraction to Sigma. With Culture for Service and Service for Humanity as their motto, the Brotherhood was able to advance a variety of human causes, including civil and equal rights and service to America’s communities. Inclusion, rather than exclusion, was the ethical foundation of Sigma’s membership. Decade after decade, Phi Beta Sigma has captured within it’s ranks great men of American’s history. The Sigma Scroll inscribes names of achievement in the areas of education, science, medicine, law, business, politics, fine arts, civil rights and sports. Sigmas are men of vision, men of culture, men of service and men of leadership.

Nearly 100 years later and with over 150,000 members initiated, the Brotherhood has evolved into one of the nation’s oldest African American institutions. Sigma men are the high achievers, movers and shakers of their times.

Membership in Sigma has its privileges: professional development, systematic approach to organizational planning, progressive and innovative programs, leadership development, first-class social functions, an opportunity for community involvement and an international network of life-long friendships.