2026/2027
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Historical
Foundations and Exam Review
Study Manual 2026/2027 for Test
Preparation and Practice Questions
Question 1
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. holds a unique place in African American collegiate
history because it was established as which of the following?
A. The first Black social organization founded in the United States
B. The first international fraternal organization founded on the campus of a
historically Black college
C. The first fraternity to establish chapters outside the United States
D. The first Greek-letter organization founded at Howard University
Correct Answer: B. The first international fraternal organization founded on the
campus of a historically Black college
Rationale: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is historically significant because it was the
first international fraternal organization founded on the campus of a historically Black
college or university (HBCU), specifically Howard University. This distinction
reflects its pioneering role in African American collegiate and fraternal history.
Option A is incorrect because other Black organizations existed prior to Omega Psi
Phi. Option C is inaccurate because international expansion occurred later in the
fraternity’s development. Option D is incorrect because Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
was founded at Howard University before Omega Psi Phi. The fraternity’s
international scope and HBCU origins remain central to its identity and historical
legacy.
Question 2
A historian documenting the origins of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity would correctly
identify which of the following as the fraternity’s founding date and location?
A. January 5, 1908 at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
B. November 17, 1911 in Thirkield Hall at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
C. October 28, 1914 at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania
D. December 15, 1911 at Meharry Medical School in Tennessee
Correct Answer: B. November 17, 1911 in Thirkield Hall at Howard University
in Washington, D.C.
,2026/2027
Rationale: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was founded on November 17, 1911, in Thirkield
Hall at Howard University in Washington, D.C. This date marks the official birth of
the organization and is celebrated annually by members worldwide. Option A refers
to another historically Black Greek-letter organization. Option C represents the
incorporation date of the fraternity, not its founding. Option D incorrectly references a
later chapter establishment rather than the fraternity’s origin. Understanding the exact
founding context is important because it reflects the fraternity’s early mission of
scholarship, leadership, and service within the African American community.
Question 3
Which group correctly identifies all four founders associated with the establishment
of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.?
A. Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, Frank Coleman, and Ernest Everett Just
B. Carter G. Woodson, Frank Coleman, Edgar Amos Love, and Charles Drew
C. Oscar James Cooper, Bayard Rustin, Ernest Everett Just, and Harold Thomas
D. Frank Coleman, Robert C. Weaver, Edgar Amos Love, and Mercer Cook
Correct Answer: A. Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, Frank Coleman,
and Ernest Everett Just
Rationale: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was founded by three undergraduate students—
Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, and Frank Coleman—with the support of
faculty adviser Ernest Everett Just. Together, these four men established the
fraternity’s ideals and organizational structure. Option B includes Carter G. Woodson
and Charles Drew, both influential figures but not founders. Option C incorrectly
includes Bayard Rustin and Harold Thomas. Option D includes Robert C. Weaver and
Mercer Cook, who were notable Omega men but not founding members. Recognizing
the founders is essential because their vision shaped the fraternity’s enduring
principles and influence.
Question 4
The phrase “Friendship is essential to the soul” is historically important to Omega Psi
Phi because it served as the basis for which of the following?
A. The fraternity’s official hymn
B. The fraternity’s charter constitution
C. The fraternity’s motto and name derivation
D. The National Achievement Week program
Correct Answer: C. The fraternity’s motto and name derivation
Rationale: The phrase “Friendship is essential to the soul” was selected as the
fraternity’s motto and inspired the name Omega Psi Phi. This phrase reflects the
organization’s emphasis on brotherhood, loyalty, and mutual support among members.
,2026/2027
Option A is incorrect because the official hymn was adopted later. Option B is
inaccurate because the motto is distinct from the fraternity’s constitutional framework.
Option D refers to a separate nationally mandated program inspired by Carter G.
Woodson. The motto continues to symbolize the philosophical and relational
foundation upon which the fraternity was established.
Question 5
A prospective member studying the foundational values of Omega Psi Phi should
identify which of the following as the fraternity’s Cardinal Principles?
A. Brotherhood, Scholarship, Leadership, and Service
B. Friendship, Integrity, Honor, and Excellence
C. Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift
D. Achievement, Loyalty, Discipline, and Justice
Correct Answer: C. Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift
Rationale: The Cardinal Principles of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity are Manhood,
Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. These principles define the moral and
organizational expectations of its members and guide the fraternity’s service
initiatives and leadership philosophy. Option A contains values commonly associated
with Greek organizations but not Omega Psi Phi’s official principles. Options B and
D are not historically accurate representations of the fraternity’s foundational ideals.
Understanding these principles is important because they continue to shape the
fraternity’s programs, member conduct, and commitment to community development.
Question 6
Who became the first Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity on November 23,
1911?
A. Frank Coleman
B. Oscar James Cooper
C. Edgar A. Love
D. Ernest Everett Just
Correct Answer: C. Edgar A. Love
Rationale: Edgar A. Love became the first Grand Basileus, or National President, of
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity on November 23, 1911. His leadership was instrumental
during the fraternity’s formative years. Option A, Frank Coleman, served in another
national leadership role. Option B, Oscar James Cooper, later became the second
Grand Basileus. Option D, Ernest Everett Just, served as faculty adviser rather than
Grand Basileus. Love’s leadership helped establish the fraternity’s early
organizational identity and national aspirations.
, 2026/2027
Question 7
On November 23, 1911, Oscar J. Cooper and Frank Coleman were selected to serve in
which national leadership positions, respectively?
A. Grand Counselor and Grand Marshal
B. Grand Keeper of Records and Grand Keeper of Seals
C. Vice Grand Basileus and Treasurer
D. District Representative and National Secretary
Correct Answer: B. Grand Keeper of Records and Grand Keeper of Seals
Rationale: Oscar J. Cooper was selected as the first Grand Keeper of Records, while
Frank Coleman became the first Grand Keeper of Seals. These offices correspond to
national secretary and treasurer functions within the fraternity structure. Option A lists
unrelated leadership roles. Option C uses modern terminology not officially applied at
that time. Option D inaccurately combines different positions. These appointments
were significant because they established the administrative framework needed for
organizational growth and governance.
Question 8
How many undergraduate men were selected to become the original charter members
of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity?
A. 4
B. 8
C. 11
D. 12
Correct Answer: C. 11
Rationale: Eleven undergraduate men were selected to become the original charter
members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. These individuals joined the founders in
establishing the organization during its earliest stage of development. Option A
incorrectly references the four founders only. Options B and D are historically
inaccurate. The charter members played a crucial role in helping the fraternity
transition from a newly formed idea into a functioning organization with structured
membership and traditions.
Question 9
Alpha Chapter of Omega Psi Phi was officially organized on December 15, 1911.
Which statement accurately describes this milestone?
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Historical
Foundations and Exam Review
Study Manual 2026/2027 for Test
Preparation and Practice Questions
Question 1
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. holds a unique place in African American collegiate
history because it was established as which of the following?
A. The first Black social organization founded in the United States
B. The first international fraternal organization founded on the campus of a
historically Black college
C. The first fraternity to establish chapters outside the United States
D. The first Greek-letter organization founded at Howard University
Correct Answer: B. The first international fraternal organization founded on the
campus of a historically Black college
Rationale: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is historically significant because it was the
first international fraternal organization founded on the campus of a historically Black
college or university (HBCU), specifically Howard University. This distinction
reflects its pioneering role in African American collegiate and fraternal history.
Option A is incorrect because other Black organizations existed prior to Omega Psi
Phi. Option C is inaccurate because international expansion occurred later in the
fraternity’s development. Option D is incorrect because Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
was founded at Howard University before Omega Psi Phi. The fraternity’s
international scope and HBCU origins remain central to its identity and historical
legacy.
Question 2
A historian documenting the origins of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity would correctly
identify which of the following as the fraternity’s founding date and location?
A. January 5, 1908 at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
B. November 17, 1911 in Thirkield Hall at Howard University in Washington, D.C.
C. October 28, 1914 at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania
D. December 15, 1911 at Meharry Medical School in Tennessee
Correct Answer: B. November 17, 1911 in Thirkield Hall at Howard University
in Washington, D.C.
,2026/2027
Rationale: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was founded on November 17, 1911, in Thirkield
Hall at Howard University in Washington, D.C. This date marks the official birth of
the organization and is celebrated annually by members worldwide. Option A refers
to another historically Black Greek-letter organization. Option C represents the
incorporation date of the fraternity, not its founding. Option D incorrectly references a
later chapter establishment rather than the fraternity’s origin. Understanding the exact
founding context is important because it reflects the fraternity’s early mission of
scholarship, leadership, and service within the African American community.
Question 3
Which group correctly identifies all four founders associated with the establishment
of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.?
A. Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, Frank Coleman, and Ernest Everett Just
B. Carter G. Woodson, Frank Coleman, Edgar Amos Love, and Charles Drew
C. Oscar James Cooper, Bayard Rustin, Ernest Everett Just, and Harold Thomas
D. Frank Coleman, Robert C. Weaver, Edgar Amos Love, and Mercer Cook
Correct Answer: A. Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, Frank Coleman,
and Ernest Everett Just
Rationale: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was founded by three undergraduate students—
Edgar Amos Love, Oscar James Cooper, and Frank Coleman—with the support of
faculty adviser Ernest Everett Just. Together, these four men established the
fraternity’s ideals and organizational structure. Option B includes Carter G. Woodson
and Charles Drew, both influential figures but not founders. Option C incorrectly
includes Bayard Rustin and Harold Thomas. Option D includes Robert C. Weaver and
Mercer Cook, who were notable Omega men but not founding members. Recognizing
the founders is essential because their vision shaped the fraternity’s enduring
principles and influence.
Question 4
The phrase “Friendship is essential to the soul” is historically important to Omega Psi
Phi because it served as the basis for which of the following?
A. The fraternity’s official hymn
B. The fraternity’s charter constitution
C. The fraternity’s motto and name derivation
D. The National Achievement Week program
Correct Answer: C. The fraternity’s motto and name derivation
Rationale: The phrase “Friendship is essential to the soul” was selected as the
fraternity’s motto and inspired the name Omega Psi Phi. This phrase reflects the
organization’s emphasis on brotherhood, loyalty, and mutual support among members.
,2026/2027
Option A is incorrect because the official hymn was adopted later. Option B is
inaccurate because the motto is distinct from the fraternity’s constitutional framework.
Option D refers to a separate nationally mandated program inspired by Carter G.
Woodson. The motto continues to symbolize the philosophical and relational
foundation upon which the fraternity was established.
Question 5
A prospective member studying the foundational values of Omega Psi Phi should
identify which of the following as the fraternity’s Cardinal Principles?
A. Brotherhood, Scholarship, Leadership, and Service
B. Friendship, Integrity, Honor, and Excellence
C. Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift
D. Achievement, Loyalty, Discipline, and Justice
Correct Answer: C. Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift
Rationale: The Cardinal Principles of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity are Manhood,
Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. These principles define the moral and
organizational expectations of its members and guide the fraternity’s service
initiatives and leadership philosophy. Option A contains values commonly associated
with Greek organizations but not Omega Psi Phi’s official principles. Options B and
D are not historically accurate representations of the fraternity’s foundational ideals.
Understanding these principles is important because they continue to shape the
fraternity’s programs, member conduct, and commitment to community development.
Question 6
Who became the first Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity on November 23,
1911?
A. Frank Coleman
B. Oscar James Cooper
C. Edgar A. Love
D. Ernest Everett Just
Correct Answer: C. Edgar A. Love
Rationale: Edgar A. Love became the first Grand Basileus, or National President, of
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity on November 23, 1911. His leadership was instrumental
during the fraternity’s formative years. Option A, Frank Coleman, served in another
national leadership role. Option B, Oscar James Cooper, later became the second
Grand Basileus. Option D, Ernest Everett Just, served as faculty adviser rather than
Grand Basileus. Love’s leadership helped establish the fraternity’s early
organizational identity and national aspirations.
, 2026/2027
Question 7
On November 23, 1911, Oscar J. Cooper and Frank Coleman were selected to serve in
which national leadership positions, respectively?
A. Grand Counselor and Grand Marshal
B. Grand Keeper of Records and Grand Keeper of Seals
C. Vice Grand Basileus and Treasurer
D. District Representative and National Secretary
Correct Answer: B. Grand Keeper of Records and Grand Keeper of Seals
Rationale: Oscar J. Cooper was selected as the first Grand Keeper of Records, while
Frank Coleman became the first Grand Keeper of Seals. These offices correspond to
national secretary and treasurer functions within the fraternity structure. Option A lists
unrelated leadership roles. Option C uses modern terminology not officially applied at
that time. Option D inaccurately combines different positions. These appointments
were significant because they established the administrative framework needed for
organizational growth and governance.
Question 8
How many undergraduate men were selected to become the original charter members
of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity?
A. 4
B. 8
C. 11
D. 12
Correct Answer: C. 11
Rationale: Eleven undergraduate men were selected to become the original charter
members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. These individuals joined the founders in
establishing the organization during its earliest stage of development. Option A
incorrectly references the four founders only. Options B and D are historically
inaccurate. The charter members played a crucial role in helping the fraternity
transition from a newly formed idea into a functioning organization with structured
membership and traditions.
Question 9
Alpha Chapter of Omega Psi Phi was officially organized on December 15, 1911.
Which statement accurately describes this milestone?
