Beginnings

The fraternity was founded by twelve men in the midst of the Civil Rights Movement even though there were already 4 other prominent Historically Black Fraternities at the time. Influences included organizations such as the Black Panthers, SNCC, plus individuals like Malcolm X, and Stokely Carmichael. Iota brothers participated in various protests and sit-ins throughout the city of Baltimore. The founders were distinguished from their peers as they were all non-traditional students. Older than their peers, many had served in the military, working full-time while attending classes, and having families. On September 19, 1963, in the height of the Civil Rights' Movement, these twelve founders gathered together on the steps of Hurt Gymnasium on the campus of Morgan State College (now known as Morgan State University) and formed Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.® The fraternity was formed as a support system for men of color during the turbulent U.S. social climate of the time.

Since its founding date, Iota Phi Theta has continued to grow and has become the fifth-largest predominantly black organization in the United States. As of now, there are over 35,000 members in the United States and overseas. A key appeal of Iota Phi Theta is, as an organization, it refuses to have its members bind themselves to a defined fraternal image but celebrates the individuality of its members. More importantly, its members continue to build upon the fraternity's commitment to success and excellence with individual and collective achievements in such fields as politics, education, law, business, medicine, and the performing arts.

The fraternity holds membership in the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), an umbrella organization comprising nine (9) International Historically African-American Greek letter Sororities and Fraternities, and the North-American Interfraternity Conference (NIC).

Iota Phi Theta has a similar, non-Greek "little sister" organization known as the Iota Sweethearts. Iota Sweethearts are nationally known throughout the fraternity for their "special offering" to the fraternity. Founded by Audrey S. Brooks in 1964, one year later than the fraternity itself, the goal and incentives of the Iota Sweethearts is to assist, support, and market the brothers of the fraternity.

Honorable Founders

1. Albert Hicks
2. Lonnie Spruill, Jr.
3. Charles Briscoe
4. Frank Coakley
5. John Slade
6. Barron Willis
7. Webster Lewis
8. Charles Brown
9. Louis Hudnell
10. Charles Gregory
11. Elias Dorsey, Jr.
12. Michael Williams