Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. Celebrates 90 Years at Lincoln University

Lincoln University’s Eta Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., celebrates 90 years of service with events connecting students, alumni and fraternity members while supporting future Lincoln University students through scholarships. From left: Hardy Dorsey, Samuel Adams, Joe Grooves, the Hon. Rodney Holmes, Leonard Woodson, Joe Torry and Quincy Dunlap.

As an ongoing celebration of Lincoln University’s Divine Nine community, each month we will highlight a different Divine Nine chapter. Through these monthly features, we’re proud to recognize the legacy, service, leadership and lasting impact of our Divine Nine organizations at LU. 

For 90 years, Lincoln University’s Eta Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., has been part of the University’s history and tradition. 

Chartered May 6, 1936, Eta Sigma is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year with a series of events bringing together students, alumni and fraternity members to honor the chapter’s legacy and look toward its future.

The chapter was founded by H. Monroe Purnell and nine undergraduate men: John Cobb, Edward James, Jesse Gray, Hiram Jackson, Lawrence Nicholson, Henry Peyton, Edward Pate, Theron Catlin and John DeShields.

Hardy Dorsey, Lincoln University Class of 1969.

Although Eta Sigma is an undergraduate chapter, its connection with members continues after graduation. Members remain connected to and supportive of the undergraduate chapter as graduate members, creating an ongoing relationship between Eta Sigma and its alumni.

The 90th anniversary celebration began with a career panel featuring Eta Sigma members of Omega Psi Phi who shared their experiences, provided career advice and engaged students in meaningful dialogue. The panel was accompanied by a meet-and-greet mixer for students and alumni. The program was open to all students and was attended by members of the Lincoln University Alumni Council (LUAC) and University deans.

The celebration included a career panel, memorial service, historical review and highlights of the fraternity, an afternoon cookout and a banquet attended by more than 300 people.

Hardy Dorsey, Homer and Donna Cavitte and Stephen Peters.

Funds raised from the 90th anniversary celebration will provide scholarships for students attending Lincoln University.

The LUAC consists of 16 members, five of whom are members of Omega Psi Phi who pledged the Eta Sigma Chapter. Brandon Kendrick, one of the five Omega Psi Phi members on the council, actively serves on the council and served on the Eta Sigma 90th anniversary celebration weekend committee.

Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, Inc., alumni. 

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and members of the LUAC encourage alumni and friends, including members of fraternities and sororities, to give their time, talent and treasure to Lincoln University.

LU Eta Sigma Fun Facts

• Jason Gym is named after William B Jason, one of the first men initiated into the fraternity. He was initiated into Alpha Chapter at Howard University in 1912 and was the 8^th president of Lincoln University and acting president when Eta Sigma was founded.
• Tull Hall is named after Irving C. Tull, who was initiated into Eta Alpha chapter in 1936.

Learn more about Greek Life at Lincoln University!

Special thanks to Hardy Dorsey and Brandon Kendrick for providing information for this article.