Over 100 students came out to see what Greek life is all about Thursday night at Florida A&M University’s National Pan Hellenic Council’s, “Meet the Greeks.”
The event was held in the old Gaither Gymnasium. Each organization introduced themselves with an informational video followed by a brief overview of the organization’s history and principles. Their shows concluded with each organizations’ signature strolls.
The Beta Nu chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity kicked off the show. The organization’s aims are manly deeds, scholarships and love for all mankind. Alphas entertained the crowd with their “Ice Cold Water” step performance.
Next up, were the ladies of the Beta Alpha chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. The organization was founded on the principles of sisterhood, scholarship and service to all mankind. In all black suits, the ladies lined up at the back of the gym and performed chapter songs.
A crashing sound of heel stomping roared through the gymnasium as the chapter marched through the crowd singing their version of, “I Know I’ve Been Changed.”
Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Whitney Moore, 21, a second-year pharmacy student from Tallahassee said these events are important because they show Greek organizations in another light.
“This shows students that we’re about more than just parties and socials,” said Moore.
Following the AKAs were the men of the Upsilon Psi chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. Donned in army fatigue gear and their trademark gold boots, the Omegas “set out” their most popular hops complete with spins, high kicks and a little ground humping.
Some students arrived and left at various times either missing their organization of interest or showing up just in time.
A 20 year old nursing student from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida who wanted to remain nameless, said she was pleased with the show.
“It was very entertaining and somewhat informative, but I knew most of those facts already.”
Uniformed in black suits, 22 members of the Beta Alpha chapter of Delta Sigma Theta took the stage positioned in a pyramid.
Another set of ladies lined up at the back of the gymnasium and marched in to the “Alphabet Song.” The Deltas sang two more songs before a powerful, melodic exit to “Hardwork.”
Shortly after their introduction, the brothers of Phi Beta Sigma broke into an electrifying step followed by their, “Phi Beta Sigma’s Got Soul,” which moved the crowd to cheer. A final step routine garnered crowd participation and hyped the Sigmas up for their stroll.
Following their constitutionally bound “brother” organization were the ladies of the Gamma Alpha chapter of Zeta Phi Beta. The first Greek sorority to be founded at FAMU, the self described community conscious, action oriented Blue Wonder, “set out” their show with a stroll.
After an organization overview, the ladies gathered and sang in an intimate circle.
The women of the Alpha Epsilon chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority gave an entertaining step show before moving into their stroll. The crowd was taken by surprise when the song faded into “Burn My S…” The entire crowd could be seen throwing one hand into the air mimicking the popular dance.
Finally, the men of the Gamma Chi chapter of Iota Phi Theta received “oohs” and “awws” as they surprised the crowd by entering from the back of the gymnasium carrying carnations that they handed out to the ladies in the audience.
The fraternity’s purpose is the development and perpetuation of scholarship, leadership, citizenship, fidelity and brotherhood among men. The men performed a step show before breaking into their signature stroll.
Dontrey Stuckley, 19, a criminal justice student from Miami said he will have to do further research [on each organization].
“I came late, so I didn’t get to see everybody.”
Quinton Stroud, 21, a health science student from Fountain Inn, S.C. and NPHC president was overjoyed with the turnout.
“I’m excited. An entire half of the gym was pack,” said Stroud. “This is a chance for students to see us up close and personal.”