National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC): Northern Kentucky University, Greater Cincinnati Region

National Pan-Hellenic Council

The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) is the governing body for all of NKU's historically black Greek letter organizations. It was formed as a permanent organization on May 30, 1930, on the campus of Howard University, in Washington, D.C., with the following stated purpose and mission: "Unanimity of thought and action as far as possible in the conduct of Greek letter collegiate fraternities and sororities, and to consider problems of mutual interest to its member organizations."

Chapters

The National Pan-hellenic Council community at NKU consists of 7 chapters,

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.,

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.,

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.,

Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc.,

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.,

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.,

and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.

For more information, contact the NPHC President, JB Cowan, cowanj5@nku.edu or come to the Center for Student Engagement in the Student Union Suite 316.

Learn more about NPHC Plots

Executive Council

President
JB Cowen

(Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.)

Vice President
Tiara Watkins

(Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.)

Treasurer
Aliyah Tafoya

(Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.)

Secretary
Mikkayla Rhodes

(Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.)

Public Relations
Semaj Johnson

(Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc)

Parliamentarian
Victoria Sinclair

(Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.)

Chaplain
Eddie Minniefield

(Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.)

Intake/Joining

The first step to joining one of these organizations is attending opportunities to get to know the different organizations. The introductory programs are for all interested men and women to talk about the intake process, dispel some common myths, and give an overview of each organization.

Intake Dates:

Greek 411: August 26 and January 21 from 5:30 - 7:30 pm.

Each National Pan-Hellenic Council organization has their own process regarding membership intake. If you have questions about expressing interest for NPHC recruitment, please come to the Center for Student Engagement in the Student Union Suite 316.

National Pan-Hellenic Council Events

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Frequently Asked Questions

Intake / Joining

How do I show interest in joining an organization on campus?

It is highly encouraged to research the organizations to find out more information about them to determine which one might be right for you. Through research you can determine which organization(s) you are most interested. It is then up to you to go out and support the organization’s programs and talk with the individual members. You should attend programs for all of the active NPHC organizations on your campus.

Who do you show interest to if the organization is currently inactive?

If you are interested in a group that is not currently active or does not yet have a chapter at NKU, please set up a meeting with Center for Student Engagement staff.

What is it like for student athletes to join?

It is difficult for a student-athlete to join a NPHC organization simply due to the time commitment, however it can be done. As with any new obligation, it is important to develop good time management skills so that you can handle the extra commitment. Joining any student organization is going to require a time commitment. If you are a student athlete and interested in joining any greek letter organization, it is recommended that you talk with your coach to inform him/her of your intentions.

How long is a typical intake process?

Each organization has a different process, some last for a weekend and some may last up to 6 or 8 weeks. It is similar to taking a “class” based on the organization. There is a lot of history and information to learn. Regular scheduled meetings, typically with a graduate chapter advisor, are to be expected.

Membership

What are the differences between grad chapter and undergrad chapter?

The undergraduate chapter is engaged with other college/university activities and as well as community activities. The sponsoring graduate chapter will expect undergraduate chapter members to participate in some of their activities as well. Graduate chapters are very engaged in the community supporting many civic and community service based activities. Both levels of membership can require a significant time investment.

What is the policy regarding LGBTQ membership?

All NPHC organizations are open to anyone who identifies with the LGBTQ community. There are no policies prohibiting membership in any of the organizations.

What does my membership mean on a local and national level?

When you initiate into a chapter, you have all the rights and responsibilities of every member at the inter/national level. Your local chapter designation is a way to identify which school and/or which the chapter you initiated into. By initiating into the local chapter, you are in effect initiated into the national chapter.

General

Will joining a chapter interfere with my relationship with my God?

Each organization is founded on religious principles however none require you to denounce any of your religious beliefs. Your relationship with your God is yours to maintain and the organization will not interfere with that relationship if you do not let it.

What is the time commitment for being in a chapter?

There will be events and programs that will be required. The time commitment will be what you make of it, but be mindful that you will get so much more out of your organization than you put in. It is also important to realize that you are making a lifetime commitment by joining an organization.

What is the financial commitment like?

The initial fee for affiliation at the undergraduate level can be a pretty big financial investment. It is often times based on your academic status (sophomore/junior/senior). After the initial fee there is typically an annual fee paid to the collegiate chapter and this varies based on the Chapter’s budget. Graduate chapter membership fees are based on the annual fee each member must pay to the inter/national organization and the graduate chapter’s budget.

What is the policy for hazing?

Hazing is not tolerated by any of the organizations nor NKU and it is the expectation that hazing does not occur. Individuals participating in hazing (hazing someone else or allowing themselves to be hazed) face potential disciplinary action through the University and the inter/national organization. Consequences may also include criminal charges. The organization will also face consequences and may be suspended or expelled from campus.

How does joining an organization influence your values?

Each organization has its own values, all of which will oftentimes align in some way with your personal values. The organization’s values can often give you a better understanding of your own personal values and even further your dedication to these values.

Fraternity and Sorority Life: Councils

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC)