By Lawrence C. Ross, Jr.

America's black fraternities and sororities are a unique and vital part of 20th century African American history, providing young black achievers with opportunities to support each other while they serve their communities and the nation.

From pioneering work in the suffragetic movement to extraordinary strides during the Civil Rights era to life-changing inner-city mentoring programs in the 1990s, members of these organization share a proud tradition of brotherhood, sisterhood, and service.

Today, America's nine black fraternities and sororities are almost three million members strong with chapters at major universities and colleges, including Stanford University, Howard University and the University of Chicago. This extensive yet accessible book celebrates the spirit of excellence shared by African American fraternity and sorority members, both past and present, and is sure to be treasured for generations to come.

Includes a foreword by Nikki Giovanni plus inspiring profiles of famous members from Langston Hughes and Ella Fitzgerald to Toni Morrison and Colin Powell.