The Founding

In September of 1963, twelve 'non-traditional', undergraduate Morgan State College (University) students had a slightly different perspective than the norm for college fraternities. 'Non-traditional' in that they were 4 or 5 years older than the regular students, went part time, had heightened responsibilities such as families and full-time jobs. They promoted the development of the 5 gold stars.... Scholarship, Leadership, Citizenship, Fidelity and Brotherhood among men. They adopted the concept and motto of 'Building a tradition, not resting upon one'. This book takes an in-depth look into the development of this organization, and those responsible, from its birth to the present day. Additionally, the auto biography of the 'Twelve', and their contributions and achievements within the community. Pictured above are The Honorable Founders of Iota Phi Theta Inc., They are as follows: Albert 'Bus' Hicks, Lonnie C. Spruill, jr., Charles ' Bang Bang' Briscoe, Frank 'Spanky' Coakley, John Slade, Barron Willis, Webster Lewis, Charles Brown, Louis Hudnell, Charles Gregory, Elias 'Tink' Dorsey and Michael Williams.