SC State students are educated on Greek life at the Divine Nine Lyceum
The Divine Nine Lyceum was a collaboration between SC State’s Student Success Center and Office of Student Life & Leadership.
ORANGEBURG, S.C. – Greek life has been an essential part of many colleges and universities for centuries.
For historically Black organizations, the tradition of synchronized stepping is the
most visible element of Greek life.
But there is so much more to it – community service, academics, leadership and commitment are the core principles.
South Carolina State University’s Student Success Center and Office of Student Life and Leadership collaboratively educated students on the history and importance of Greek life at the university’s first Divine Nine Lyceum, held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Auditorium on campus.
“It's important to educate our incoming freshmen and transfer students about Greek life, as many of them may not have prior experience or knowledge about it,” said Tyron Clinton, director of SC State’s Student Success Center and TRIO Programs. “It's crucial that they understand that being a part of Greek life is more than just attending a step show - it's actually a life-long commitment.”
The lyceum featured an open-panel discussion with members and mentors from each Greek organization in the Divine Nine, including both undergraduate and graduate chapters. It afforded a networking opportunity for both panelists and students.
The Divine Nine consists of four sororities and five fraternities:
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. (AKA)
- Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.
- Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.
- Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc.
- Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.
- Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.
- Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.
- Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.
- Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc.
“The lyceum helped us to have a more in-depth conversation,” said Dr. Franklin Pressley,
SC State’s director of Student Life and Leadership. “Students who attended got a better
understanding of Greek Life, especially with us having so many first-generation students
who may not have had exposure to Greek life.”
Each Greek organization had the opportunity to give a brief overview of their organization’s history, impact, and what they look for in prospective candidates.
More than 300 students attended and were given the opportunity to ask questions and gain knowledge to potentially become members.
“It gives a sense of pride to join these organizations,” Pressley said. “If you’re selected to join, you will get professional development. You will get a network like none other and also – you’ll carry on a legacy.”