Originally launched at Howard University in May of 1930, The National Pan-Hellenic Council Inc. (NPHC) consists of nine black greek-letter organizations. These organizations, together, affectionately have been nicknamed the “Divine Nine.” 

Black Enterprise explains, "...these organizations have been a central resource for support and service in the educational advancement and strengthening of social bonds among black students, entrepreneurs and professionals, especially when the organizations expanded to majority white institutions of higher learning."  The organizations have provided meaning and pride to students for generations. Long after graduation, the members continue to be a strong and loyal community of outstanding black Americans. 

Fifty years ago, a young Purdue IE student, Curtis Baylor, (BSIE '72 & Omega Si Phi) was a leader within the Divine Nine. He went on to serve in the armed services, helped launch the Black Cultural Center at Purdue and has served almost five years as the President of the Purdue Black Alumni Organization (PBAO). Today, IE senior, Andrea Simone Gibson DuPerry (expected BSIE '22 & Alpha Kappa Alpha) follows in his legacy of leadership, making her own footsteps as one of the leaders of the National Pan-Hellenic Council at Purdue. 

Curtis recently shared his story of making Purdue better with a special edition of Purdue Stories Podcast in honor of Black History Month.

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