Phi Beta Sigma is a historically African American fraternity that offers opportunities for leadership and community.

The Grand Valley State University Nu Gamma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma aims to provide a space of growth academically and individually for students. 

“The mission of the fraternity is to not only educate young men and help them become better human beings, but to establish a presence on campus by sharing our principles of brotherhood, scholarship and service,” said President of Phi Beta Sigma Justin Hawkins. “(We are) focusing on helping our communities grow as one and taking initiative to build those healthy relationships with one another not just at Grand Valley, but the whole world.”

The fraternity works to fulfill its mission each year. Davon Whitfield said the organization has made a profound impact on him. 

“Phi Beta Sigma is important to me because it has allowed me to grow as a leader, helped build confidence within myself and provided opportunities for me to grow my network,” Whitfield said. “For others, I think the organization is a solid foundation for men to grow in the ways that they desire, while also proving to them that anything is possible as long as you work hard and take care of business.” 

Phi Beta Sigma aims to create a place where Black students can engage with individuals of similar interests and backgrounds. The organization hopes to allow Black students at GVSU to experience feelings of inclusiveness and comfort in the world of Greek life. 

“This fraternity is important to have at GV because, let’s face the music, the African American population at Grand Valley is small, so having an organization that builds brotherhood, and emphasizes the importance of scholarship and service is a great tool that can not only bring more black men to GV but also allow GV to prosper in the long run,” Whitfield said.

Like many organizations and fraternities here at GVSU, they hope to spread the word to individuals interested in joining. 

“I hope to grow the fraternity not just socially, but academically. Academics matter most before anything else and establishing a strong work ethic is most important to the brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.,” Hawkins said. 

Although the semester has just started, the fraternity is ready to put on some events that they have held in the past such as their “Walk Like a Sigma” competition event. Hawkins even expressed this as his favorite event from the past. Some other events the brothers look forward to are community service and charity events such as their “Donate with a Freddy’s Double” event. 

In the coming weeks, the fraternity plans to hold study tables where students can take the time to study and finish assignments to help members further excel in their academic careers.

Phi Beta Sigma focuses greatly on fostering academic success within the organization, emphasizes how to better help their communities and teaches what it means to be part of a brotherhood with personal growth as part of its goal. 

“A fraternity like this is important to have because it focuses on the importance of bettering men and giving them tools and resources that can help propel them to different heights and more confidence to reach their goals,” Hawkins said.