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IOTA HISTORY
OUR FOUNDINGOn September 19, 1963, on the campus of Morgan State College (now Morgan State University), twelve visionary students laid the foundation for what would become the nation’s fifth-largest, predominantly African-American social service fraternity: Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated. These twelve men, known as The Honorable Founders, were: Albert Hicks, Lonnie Spruill, Jr., Charles Briscoe, Frank Coakley, John Slade, Barron Willis, Webster Lewis, Charles Brown, Lewis Hudnell, Charles Gregory, Elias Dorsey, Jr., and Michael Williams.What set this founding group apart was not just their shared vision, but their unique bond and backgrounds. Many had been friends since childhood. Spruill, Coakley, Dorsey, and Gregory knew one another from grade school, with Spruill and Coakley’s friendship stretching back to preschool. Unlike the typical college student, several of the founders were older, having returned to school after military service or while supporting families. Gregory, Willis, and Brown were veterans. Brown, Hicks, and Briscoe were married with children. Many worked full-time jobs while also attending school full-time.These life experiences brought a level of maturity and perspective uncommon among their peers. It was from this foundation of responsibility and resilience that they crafted the purpose of the Fraternity:
"The development and perpetuation of Scholarship, Leadership, Citizenship, Fidelity, and Brotherhood among Men." They also declared a guiding principle that still resonates today:
"BUILDING A TRADITION, NOT RESTING UPON ONE!"
CHAPTER HISTORY
Chartered in 1987 in Los Angeles, California, the Upsilon Omega Alumni Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. proudly represents the Far West Region of the Fraternity. The Far West Region, originally known as the West Coast Region, was established on June 18, 1983, by Brother Robert Clark (Alpha Lambda Chapter, University of Illinois), with founding chapters Alpha Chi (San Francisco State University) and Xi Omega (San Francisco Alumni). Since its inception, Upsilon Omega has remained committed to actualizing the Fraternity’s motto, “Building a Tradition, Not Resting Upon One,” while upholding the Far West Region’s core precepts: Social Service, Professionalism, and Brotherhood. Rooted in these values, our chapter continues to serve the Southern California communities through outreach initiatives, youth mentorship, and civic engagement. More than a fraternal bond, Upsilon Omega offers a lifelong brotherhood devoted to service, leadership, and excellence; welcoming those who seek to make a lasting impact alongside like-minded men of character and purpose.
