The Divine Nine was founded during a time when African Americans faced systemic barriers to education and societal participation. These organizations provided a sanctuary for intellectual growth, civic engagement, and mutual support. Spanning over a century, the Divine Nine includes:
- Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (1906)
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (1908)
- Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. (1911)
- Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (1911)
- Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (1913)
- Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (1914)
- Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (1920)
- Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (1922)
- Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. (1963)
These organizations were instrumental in creating spaces where members could excel academically and socially while fostering a sense of identity and purpose.
