KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — More than a century ago, a group of young Black men came together at Indiana University to create a Greek-letter organization meant to fulfill what they were missing in their college experience. From a group of ten students, Kappa Alpha Psi now has more than 700 undergraduate and graduate chapters across the U.S.
It was founded on Jan. 5, 1911, and two members of the original group had transferred to Indiana University from Howard University — where the only Black Greek-letter organization existed.
The Knoxville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi usually hosts two major events a year but serves the community year-round.
"We try to do as much community service as we possibly can do. Like, we participated this year in the Angel Tree program with The Salvation Army," said Tony Anderson, the Polemarch of the chapter.
KAPsi also operates the Kappa League program, aimed at mentoring students and developing their leadership skills. It emphasizes college preparatory programs and tutoring and helps high school seniors choose careers.
"We are planning to have an event with our adopted school later on in the year, with Maynard Elementary. We did an ice cream spree with them last year. So, we are planning to do that again later this year," said Keith Butler, the Vice Polemarch of the Knoxville chapter.
Anderson said while applications are closed to join the program, KAPsi hopes to reopen them soon and invites people to apply to join when they can.
"Roll your sleeves up and come on and join us, because we are about doing great work in the community," said Anderson.