Eta Zeta Chapter Celebrates 50 Years of Service and Brotherhood
The Eta Zeta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. at the University of Mississippi recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of commitment to brotherhood, service and community uplift. The milestone event took place April 21-23 and brought together current members, alumni and distinguished guests to reflect on the chapter’s rich history and the significant impact it has had on campus and beyond.
“I am so thankful for the young men who took the bold step to birth a chapter on the Ole Miss campus back in 1973,” says Xavier M. Hoskins (BBA 92). “The Eta Zeta Chapter has produced renowned leaders in politics, business, sports, science and education. The chapter has
also produced renowned authors, television personalities and highly decorated military officers in all branches of our great armed services.”
Chartered at UM on July 31, 1973, the Eta Zeta Chapter holds a special place in the annals of Ole Miss history as the first Black Greek letter organization to be chartered at the university, paving the way for the integration of the previously all-white Interfraternity Council. Chartering Eta Zeta also came just 11 years after James Meredith (BA 63) was the first African American admitted to the university in October 1962.
“The chapter is indebted to those brave 11 men, who in 1973 displayed a tremendous amount of courage and resilience in championing equality and unity in the face of adversity,” says alumni member Lt. Col. Dex McCain (BBA 92).
The reunion weekend began with a social where current and former members of the Eta Zeta Chapter gathered to reconnect and reminisce.
“I knew from my first visit that this would be my home,” Hoskins says. “What I did not know was that I would make lifelong friendships through membership in Omega Psi Phi.”
McCain says the highlight of the entire weekend celebration was the black-tie gala.
“It was a grand affair, and a particularly special moment during the gala was the tribute paid to the courageous brothers who in 1973, possessed the aspiration (to) make a difference and through their ingenuity, enthusiasm (and) sense of duty set the stage for generations of men to seek and find Omega through the Eta Zeta chapter, thereby cementing Omega’s legacy of achievement at the university and the broader Oxford and Lafayette County communities,” he says.
The celebration culminated with brothers attending a church service, which served as a reminder of the spiritual values that underpin the fraternity’s work and the moral compass that helps guide its members.
“The 50th anniversary celebration of the Eta Zeta chapter was a testament to the enduring impact of brotherhood, service and principles that the fraternity upholds,” McCain says. “As the chapter looks toward the future, we, the sons of Eta Zeta, remain steadfast in our commitment to promoting brotherhood, friendship and service while uplifting our community.”