History of Kappa Alpha Psi
Founded on January 5, 1911, at Indiana University, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was built on the principle of Achievement in every field of human endeavor.
A Legacy of Achievement
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was founded as Kappa Alpha Nu on January 5, 1911, on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana.
The Fraternity was founded by ten visionary men who sought to create a bond of brotherhood, leadership, culture, patriotism, and honor during a period when Black college men faced serious barriers in higher education.
From the beginning, Kappa Alpha Psi was more than a social organization. The Fraternity was established with a clear purpose: Achievement in every field of human endeavor.
Kappa Alpha Nu was nationally incorporated on May 15, 1911. The name later became Kappa Alpha Psi, giving the Fraternity a distinct Greek-letter identity that continues today.
Key Historical Facts
Founded at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana.
Founded by ten men committed to brotherhood, honor, and achievement.
Nationally incorporated as Kappa Alpha Nu in 1911.
Achievement in every field of human endeavor.
The Ten Founders
The Founders established a legacy rooted in Achievement, Brotherhood, scholarship, service, and honorable leadership.
Elder Watson Diggs
FounderKnown as “The Dreamer,” Diggs was a scholarly writer, educator, and first Grand Polemarch. He helped shape the Fraternity’s early structure, ideals, ceremonial forms, and national growth.
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Byron Kenneth Armstrong
FounderArmstrong was a scholar, educator, and creative force behind the Fraternity. He helped develop the motto, Coat of Arms, badge, and early chapter expansion.
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Ezra Dee Alexander
FounderAlexander was a dedicated worker, educator, physician, and military medical officer. He practiced medicine for nearly 50 years and served during World War I and World War II.
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Henry Tourner Asher
FounderAsher was known for dependability, education, service, and commitment to youth. He earned degrees from Indiana University, the University of Minnesota, and Detroit College of Law.
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Marcus Peter Blakemore
FounderBlakemore was a man of faith, confidence, and service. He contributed to education, community life, church service, hospital support, and Fraternity development.
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Paul Waymond Caine
FounderCaine was an entrepreneur, caterer, and chef. His business skill and service helped support the Founders and assisted early chapter organization.
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George Wesley Edmonds
FounderEdmonds enrolled at Indiana University in 1910 and joined the nine other men who founded Kappa Alpha Nu. He served as Corresponding Secretary in the incorporation record.
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Guy Levis Grant
FounderGrant was a dentist, historian, and preserver of Fraternity history. He graduated from Indiana University and later practiced dentistry in Indianapolis for over 50 years.
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Edward Giles Irvin
FounderIrvin was the youngest Founder. He was a civic and religious leader, journalist, entrepreneur, and member of the Fraternity’s Incorporation Committee.
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John Milton Lee
FounderLee was a scholar, soldier, organizer, and loyal worker for the Fraternity’s growth. He served as Secretary in the Articles of Incorporation and helped establish key chapters.
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