History of Phi Beta Sigma and the Beta Chi Sigma Chapter
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. was founded on January 9, 1914, at Howard University in Washington, D.C., by three young visionaries—A. Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse, and Charles I. Brown. They created a fraternity built on the principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service, with a unique commitment to being an organization that was “a part of” the larger community rather than apart from it. From its inception, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. has championed inclusivity, education, economic empowerment, and social action, growing into a global network of leaders dedicated to uplifting others.
Today, the fraternity has grown into an international organization with over 225,000 members across nearly 600 active chapters and 700+ total chapters located across North America, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean.
Beta Chi Sigma Chapter History
Carrying this mission forward, the Beta Chi Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. was chartered on June 13, 1950, at Allen University in Columbia, SC. For more than seven decades, the chapter has stood as a vital alumni presence in the Midlands, advancing the fraternity’s ideals through community engagement, mentorship, and advocacy. Beta Chi Sigma proudly supports and partners with local institutions of higher learning—including Allen University, Benedict College, and the University of South Carolina—helping to nurture student leaders and guide our collegiate brothers.
The chapter was founded under the leadership of Brother Dr. B. J. Glover, who organized a distinguished group of community leaders and served as its first president. The charter members included: Brother Dr. Herbert B. Bynoe, Brother Dr. Samuel Richard Higgins, Brother Dr. H.P. Pride, Brother Dr. J.W. Luck, Brother Isaiah Hennie, Brother T.J. Sullivan, Jr., Brother Dr. A.B. Johnson, Brother Daniel Thompson, Brother Huey Carlton, Brother Dennis Williams, Brother George Williams, and Brother Ed Hall.
Through signature programs such as the Sigma Beta Club youth mentorship, along with national programs like Bigger and Better Business, Education, and Social Action, Beta Chi Sigma has had a profound impact on the Columbia community. With a dedicated membership of more than 60 active brothers, the chapter remains committed to strengthening education, promoting civic responsibility, and advancing the legacy of Phi Beta Sigma in South Carolina and beyond.
