The enduring legacy of Black Greek Letter Organizations at Central State University

Greek life at Central State University is experiencing a resurgence, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and academic commitment among students. With seven of the nine historically Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs) now active on campus, Central State is witnessing the profound impact these organizations have on student engagement, academic performance, and community service. 

A growing presence on campus  

According to Talisa Boswell, interim director of the Office of Marauder Leadership and Engagement, the recent growth in BGLO participation has significantly contributed to student retention and campus involvement.  

“There are so many students who are interested in Greek life, and now that we have seven Divine Nine organizations, that just increases the opportunities for students to find a home within these organizations,” she said. 

Central State’s active Divine Nine organizations include Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity.  

The visibility of BGLOs in mainstream media — through prominent figures like Vice President Kamala Harris, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. — has further fueled student interest. However, these organizations offer a framework for leadership, scholarship, and service that extends beyond graduation. 

Academic excellence and leadership development 

At Central State University, membership in a BGLO requires maintaining a minimum 2.7 GPA, a standard that encourages academic discipline among students. “Because we have that GPA requirement, it challenges our students to strive for higher academic achievement,” Boswell noted. 

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Research underscores the academic and professional advantages of BGLO membership. A study by Meiyah Hill '22, a CSU alumna and University of Dayton graduate student, highlights the role of BGLOs in supporting academic achievement through study groups, tutoring, and mentorship programs. Hill’s research also found that members benefit from a robust professional network that aids in career advancement and leadership development. 

Hill’s study aimed to answer two questions:  

1. How do BGLO members view membership influencing their academic achievement?  
2. How do BGLO members view membership influencing their leadership and professional development?  

The study found BGLO members are “uniquely positioned to develop meaningful relationships and acquire valuable skills." BGLOs emphasize collective accountability, with members holding each other to high academic and ethical standards. These organizations provide professional development opportunities, including guest speaker series, networking events, and national conferences, preparing members for success beyond college, Hill found.  

Service and community impact 

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Community service remains at the heart of BGLOs at Central State. Boswell highlighted a newly reestablished National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) chapter on campus, which has facilitated collaborative service projects. “We have several initiatives planned, including events at local elementary and high schools, where our members will engage with students, share their experiences, and perform traditional Greek strolls and calls,” she said. 

Beyond these initiatives, individual chapters regularly participate in service projects, reinforcing their commitment to civic engagement. These efforts align with national BGLO objectives, which prioritize education, social justice, and economic empowerment. 

Fostering unity and lifelong friendships 

BGLOs at Central State cultivate a strong sense of community, uniting students with a shared mission of service and excellence. While friendly rivalries exist among the organizations, Boswell emphasized their overarching unity. 

“We all support one another. We may have different approaches, but our goals are the same — uplifting our community and mentoring the next generation.” 

This commitment extends beyond undergraduate life, as membership is a lifelong endeavor. Graduate chapters provide mentorship, professional opportunities, and continued community engagement, ensuring that members remain connected to their fraternity or sorority well beyond their college years. 

In her research brief, Hill concluded more comprehensive studies are needed “to fully understand the role of BGLOs in shaping students’ academic and professional trajectories because it will explain the value of these organizations on campus and in society to higher education and student affairs professionals.” 

Encouraging new members 

For students interested in joining a BGLO, Boswell advises starting with research. “Each organization has a national website with information on their history, values, and membership requirements,” she said. Attending campus events and engaging with current members can also provide valuable insight into the culture and impact of each organization. 

Central State’s Greek Life continues to expand, with aspirations to bring all nine BGLOs back to campus. As the community grows, so does its influence on student success, leadership, and civic engagement. 

“It’s an exciting time for Greek life at Central State University,” Boswell said. “The Divine Nine are back, and we’re here to stay.”