PITT NPHC

What is NPHC?

 

The National Pan-Hellenic Council, Inc. (NPHC) is the umbrella organization for the nine (9) historically African-African American fraternities and sororities. It was organized in May 1930 at Howard University, Washington D. C.

 

How do I become a member of Pitt NPHC?

Recruitment and membership intake for the organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council may vary differently between each of the Divine Nine organizations. Most of the organizations require that you be invited to the organization by the current chapter members. Those who are interested in learning more about these Divine Nine Fraternities and Sororities are encouraged to research the history of each organization, visit their National website, learn of their respective membership requirements, and develop a relationship with the chapter members of your organizational interest.

 

What are the requirements for membership in Pitt NPHC?

The requirements vary from organizations to organization. Pitt NPHC requires active students to have a least a 2.5 GPA, and some organizations requirements are higher than that. It also helps to have prior leadership experience, and community service, as most organizations will want to see your resume to know that you will represent their organization well.

 

How much does it cost?

The cost to join an NPHC organization varies from organization to organization, and the fees are subject to change at any time. Because these organization exist under a national umbrella, a significant portion of the funds go to the National organization, required conferences and conventions, local chapter dues, and other various items that may be needed for the membership intake process. Talk to the members of the organizations if you would like a better idea of how much they might cost.

 

If I am a legacy or close members of my family are members of NPHC, do I automatically get in?

Being a legacy of any Greek organization does not automatically guarantee membership in any organization. Some organizations have special sections on membership intake paperwork where you can indicate whether you are a legacy or not, while others do not have policies regarding legacies.

 

Do I have to be African-American to join?

No. The NPHC, and each of its member organizations have non-discriminatory policies and practices.

 

How do I express interest to join Pitt NPHC?

The best way to express interest in joining an NPHC organization is by attending chapter programs, events, and community service projects. Each organization/chapter hosts a variety of educational, social, and philanthropic events on and off campus throughout the year, and by showing up and participating, you are letting them know you are interested in their organization. In addition, some organizations (not all) have interest/informational meetings that allow you to gain more knowledge about their organization/chapter, and express interest in their fraternity or sorority. Advertisement for these events can be found through social media and the LED screens around campus.

 

What organization are currently represented on Pitt's Campus?

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. - Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. - Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. - Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. - Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. - Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

 

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. - Iota Phi Theta Fratenity, Inc. are not on Pitt's Campus.

 

Why should I join NPHC?

You should join an NPHC organization if you are interested in a historically significant organization dedicated to serving their community and continuing education. These organizations each have something that makes them special and it is up to you to find which one fits you best. Joining an NPHC represented organization is joining a brotherhood/sisterhood for life and is a lifetime commitment to serving the surrounding communities.

 

Do organizations in NPHC haze?

All organizations in NPHC are non-pledging, non-hazing, service organizations.

 

When is Rush Week?

Unlike the Interfraternal Council (IFC) and the Panhellenic Council (Panhel), NPHC does not participate in nor host a "Rush Week". Organizations choose when to begin their membership intake process (MIP). MIP is not advertised and organizations must personally invite you to participate. Expressing interest to chapter members and attending events is the best way to try to earn an invitation.

 

If I do not go to Pitt, can I still join Pitt NPHC?

Sororities: All sororities at Pitt have charters that restrict membership to Pitt Students only; however, some sororities have neighboring chapters that may be located at your school or within the city.

 

Fraternities: All fraternities at Pitt have charters that will allow for membership within the city of Pittsburgh. It is best to contact members of the organization you are interested in to see if your school qualifies.

 

Are programs invitation only?

All programs hosted by NPHC are open to the public and all students are encouraged to attend. Any program that is advertised publicly by individual organizations are also open to the public and all students are encouraged to attend those as well. All NPHC meetings and chapter meetings are closed unless you are a guest requesting to speak to the membership.

 

Do I have to step and stroll to be a member?

Some NPHC organizations do step, however stepping and strolling is a small portion of what we do, and should not be a major consideration when considering joining an organization.

 

Am I allowed to be in two Greek lettered organizations at the same time?

Members of other organizations in NPHC, IFC, or Panhel may not become a member of Sigma Gamma Rho; however, members of academic or honorary Greek lettered organizations are eligible.
 

Who do I contact if I am interested in membership?

Please visit the "Contact Us" page to send an email to the executive board of NPHC and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.