Have you ever heard of Iota Phi Theta? It’s one of the nine historically Black fraternities and sororities that make up the Divine Nine. Founded during the Civil Rights Movement, Iota Phi Theta is full of history, pride, and purpose.
In this article, we’ll take a fun journey through time to learn about the amazing founders of this brotherhood. Ready? Let’s go!
What is Iota Phi Theta?
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. is a historically African-American fraternity. It was founded on September 19, 1963 at Morgan State College in Baltimore, Maryland. It became the youngest member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, also known as the Divine Nine.
The fraternity was born in the middle of the Civil Rights era. This was a time when people were fighting for equal rights and social justice. The founders of Iota wanted something different. They didn’t just want to party or wear cool letters—they wanted to make a real difference.
Meet the Founders
Iota Phi Theta was founded by twelve visionary men. Most of them were older than your typical college students. Many were veterans, husbands, and fathers. They brought maturity and real-world experience to the table.</
Here are the Original Twelve Founders of Iota Phi Theta:
- Albert Hicks
- Lonnie Spruill Jr.
- Frank Coakley
- Charles Briscoe
- Michael Williams
- Roscoe Johnson
- Samuel Brown
- John Slade
- Barron Willis
- Webster Lewis
- Charles Gregory
- Elias Dorsey
Pretty cool, right? These men built something powerful. They had a clear vision and were not afraid to stand up for what they believed in.
What Made Them Different?
The founders of Iota Phi Theta were not your average students. Many had served in the military. Others were active in civil rights protests. Some were even married and raising families while studying.
This gave them a different outlook. They valued brotherhood, respect, and community service. They believed that being a man was about helping others, taking responsibility, and being strong in the face of injustice.
The founders created the fraternity with the motto: “Building a Tradition, Not Resting Upon One!” That means they wanted to make their own mark and not just copy what others were doing. Love that energy!
Core Values
From day one, the founders made sure their values were clear:
- Leadership – Be bold and lead smart.
- Scholarship – Education matters!
- Citizenship – Help your community grow.
- Fidelity – Stay loyal to your word and your bros.
- Brotherhood – Stick together, no matter what.
The Legacy Lives On
Since 1963, their message has spread across the globe. There are now chapters at hundreds of colleges and in cities across the U.S. and beyond. The spirit of those twelve men continues to inspire thousands of members every day.
They’re not just about stepping and stomping (although they do that really well!). The brothers of Iota Phi Theta work in schools, lead businesses, fight for justice, and uplift each other through service and love.
Fun Fact Time!
- The fraternity’s symbol is the Centaur—a creature that’s half-man, half-horse. It stands for strength and wisdom.
- Their colors are charcoal brown and gilded gold.
- Famous Iotas include politicians, educators, and entertainers!
Why Should You Care?
The story of Iota Phi Theta’s founders teaches us that you don’t have to follow the crowd to make a difference. You can carve your own path, stand up for what’s right, and bring people together for a powerful cause.
So whether you’re in college, thinking about Greek life, or just love learning about history, remember these twelve men. They saw the world as it was and worked to change it—brother to brother, hand in hand.
Iota Phi Theta isn’t just a frat. It’s a movement.
