Members of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Incorporated recently celebrated Founders Week from September 16  to 20, marking the fraternity's first return to the yard since 2020.

This is the first line back at Howard University in three years, and the largest line ever from the Alpha Tau Chapter with seven members. This group is excited to continue the legacy of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Incorporated at Howard. 

Xavier Sterling, a member of the organization stated  he wants to “continue to show the campus and everyone else that didn't know we were inactive that we are here, and we are going to continue to be here. One of our biggest goals is to have longevity.” 

Sterling also mentioned that as the only seniors, he and his line brother Elijah Parker feel significant stress and weight on their shoulders to build a tradition and bring others in who can build upon it as well. Despite feeling overwhelmed, they are still determined to set a strong foundation for the next lines to come. 

Building on this dedication to foundation-setting and longevity, their Founders Week consisted of a variety of events designed by current members that they felt best reflected what the fraternity represented. 

The week kicked off with a “Study with the Centaurs” event, which allowed students to get homework assistance and study alongside the current members. This was followed by a “Building a Vision” gathering where everyone came together to create vision boards. The following day was an event titled “It Takes a Healthy Man,"  which focused on the importance of discussing mental health in Black men. Thursday, September 19,  was Founders Day for the fraternity which They celebrated by hosting a step show for students at Friendship Technology Preparatory Academy in D.C. 

The last program of the week, an open mic night, worked  to highlight which member Elijah Parker said, “This open mic night, I definitely enjoy being able to create that space where people are able to be open not only with themselves but with each other.”

Through these events and their dedication to community engagement, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Incorporated,  honors its past while also setting the framework for future generations.