KAPSI ConnectHistorical Brief
The story of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. — from its founding at Indiana University to a global brotherhood of achievement.
The Founding
Kappa Alpha Psi® Fraternity, Inc. (ΚΑΨ) was founded on January 5, 1911, at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. Originally named Kappa Alpha Nu, the fraternity was established in an environment of severe racism in Indiana. Black students faced social ostracization, discrimination, extreme prejudice, and were barred from dormitories, university facilities, and contact sports. Less than 1% of the campus population was Black.
Despite these obstacles, a small group sought to create an organization addressing their isolation and lack of social life participation. The fraternity was incorporated on May 15, 1911, making it the first incorporated Black fraternity in the United States.
The Name Change
Originally called "Alpha Omega," the organization became Kappa Alpha Nu on January 5, 1911. The name was changed on April 15, 1915 due to a racial slur incident involving member Frank Summers and confusion with the acronym "KAN" (Kansas). The Greek letter "Psi" replaced "Nu," creating Kappa Alpha Psi.
Achievement as a Founding Principle
"Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor"
Unlike other Greek organizations, Kappa Alpha Psi was founded with achievement as its distinguishing principle rather than focusing on wealth or social prestige. Five Objectives include: "To promote the spiritual, social, intellectual and moral welfare of members." The Constitution has never contained clauses excluding members based on color, creed, or national origin.
Growth & Impact
Five chapters were chartered between 1913–1915, primarily in the Midwest. The first Eastern chapter was established in 1915. The inaugural edition of The Kappa Alpha Nu Journal debuted in April 1914, making Kappa Alpha Psi a frontrunner among Black Greek organizations in issuing monthly publications.
Today, Kappa Alpha Psi is the 2nd oldest existing collegiate historically Black Greek letter fraternity and the 1st intercollegiate fraternity incorporated as a national body. With over 250,000 members and 700 undergraduate and alumni chapters across nearly every U.S. state and 13 international chapters — in Nigeria, South Africa, Bermuda, Bahamas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Panama, United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, Dominican Republic, Abu Dhabi, Canada, and Japan — the fraternity continues to develop leaders and uplift communities.
Members participate in feeding the homeless, providing scholarships, mentoring youth, organizing blood drives, and public health seminars. Nationally, the fraternity has raised over $1 million for St. Jude Medical Research Center. Internationally, members serve in military capacities and provide disaster relief.
A Legacy of Achievement
Founded at Indiana University
January 5, 1911 — Ten founders establish Kappa Alpha Nu at Indiana University Bloomington.
Incorporated
May 15, 1911 — Becomes the first incorporated Black fraternity in the United States.
First Journal Published
The inaugural edition of The Kappa Alpha Nu Journal debuts in April 1914.
Name Changed to Kappa Alpha Psi
April 15, 1915 — The Greek letter "Psi" replaces "Nu" in the fraternity name.
Guide Right Founded
Leon W. Stewart conceives the Guide Right program, the fraternity's national service initiative.
Kappa League Established
The Los Angeles Alumni Chapter launches Kappa League for youth development.
Centennial Celebration
Kappa Alpha Psi celebrates 100 years of achievement and service.
Achievement Across Every Field
Government & Civil Rights
Sports
Entertainment & Media
Learn More About Our Brotherhood
Discover the men who started it all and what it means to be a part of this legacy.