The Theta Omega Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Inc. was chartered on December 12, 1922. Our chapter was the eighth chapter chartered during the year 1922 under the leadership of Grand Basileus J. Alston Atkins. To date, there is no factual information pertaining to the events surrounding the chartering process. However, we can say unequivocally that the birth place of the chartering process took place in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. It is significant to note that in 1922 the double Greek letter Omega Graduate Chapters were introduced to designate the difference between the undergraduate and graduate chapters.

 

The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity's International Headquarters' Newsletter of 1922 states "To Theta Omega Chapter...to Brother William L. Kean, one of Howard University's greatest all- around athletes (An All-American in football in 1922) is clue a great deal of credit for the establishment of the chapter in Louisville. The Personnel of the chapter are without peer among Greek Letter Fraternities in the City". It further states that "Brother Ralph Dunn, who is current Executive Secretary of the Y.M.C.A.-Louisville, and former Lincoln University football star was present at the reception in Philadelphia, PA". Other charter members were C.H. Parrish, Jr. (Howard University), John Ove Catalan, MD (Howard University), James Redd (Howard University), Oliver Ross (Howard University), Jesse H. Lawrence (Howard University), and Francis A. Taylor (Howard University). Brother C.H. Parrish, Jr. was President of Louisville Municipal College.

 

In addition to the charter members, many other great leaders contributed to the success of the chapter. According to records from 1927/28, other notable brothers included Robert R. Nurse, MD (Howard University) and Russell Rice, MD (Howard University), John L. Leake, Businessman (Atlanta University), Dr. C.H. Parrish, Sr. and James Wood.

 

Our beloved Fraternity is now 108 years old! As we, Theta Omega celebrate 97 years, we pray God's blessings upon our chapter and look forward to the next 10 years as we become one of the few CENTENNIAL chapters!