Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

The information provided on this pages is strictly that of the individual student organization and are in alignment with the national organization in which it is affiliated. The contents of this page have not been endorsed by Iowa State University.

Nickname: Sigmas

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. was founded on January 9, 1914, at Howard University by three visionary African American students—A. Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse, and Charles I. Brown. They sought to establish a fraternity rooted in the ideals of brotherhood, scholarship, and service, one that would exist as a part of the community, not apart from it. The Founders emphasized inclusivity, judging members by merit rather than background, and believed in using their talents to uplift their communities. This vision is captured in the Fraternity’s motto: “Culture for Service and Service for Humanity.” Since its founding, Phi Beta Sigma has grown into an international organization and has played a vital role in the civil rights and Black liberation movements. The Fraternity helped establish the Phi Beta Sigma National Foundation, a Federal Credit Union, and the Sigma Beta Club for youth. It also assisted in founding Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, its constitutionally bound sister organization.
Motto
Culture For Service and Service For Humanity
Philanthropy
Adopt-A-School (AAS), Voter Registration, Education & Mobilization, Blue & White Legislative Days, Prostate Health & Sexual Recovery, Sigma Justice Alliance, Adopt-A-Business Initiative, National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) Homeownership Initiative
Colors
Royal Blue and Pure White
Symbols
Dove, White Carnation
Council
National Pan-Hellenic Council
Local Founding Date
September 5th, 1978
National Founding Date
January 9th, 1914
Chapter Website
https://www.stuorg.iastate.edu/374
National Website
https://phibetasigma1914.org

Since its founding, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity has continuously exceeded the traditional model of Greek-letter organizations. As Chapter President, I’ve witnessed firsthand how deeply rooted our mission of service, brotherhood, and scholarship is. Our legacy—shaped by inclusivity, community uplift, and historical impact—remains unmatched. From supporting the founding of Zeta Phi Beta to leading in civil rights and Black liberation movements, Sigma is more than a fraternity—it’s a movement of purpose. Truly, we are the People’s Fraternity.

Tyrique Ross, 2024 & 2025 Chapter President