Our Chapter was established in the summer of 1920 – a mere six years after Phi Beta Sigma’s birth on the campus of Howard University in Washington, DC. Initially known simply as “Richmond Alumni Chapter,” our Greek letter designation would not be official until 1924. In December of that next calendar year, Iota Sigma and Lambda chapters hosted the entirety of the Fraternity’s chapters on the campus of Virginia Union University. Notably, this 1925 Conclave was the event where “Bigger & Better Business” (then known as “Bigger & Better Negro Business”) became an official program of the Fraternity. It is now the longest-enduring programmatic thrust of Phi Beta Sigma.
Interestingly, Richmond was also home to the first compensated office space for the Fraternity. Brother Lynwood Brown served as the Fraternity’s first Executive Secretary (now known as International Executive Director) from 1946 until 1948. Bro. Brown’s home, located at 2009 North Avenue in Richmond’s Northside, also served as the Fraternity’s official office during his tenure.
Iota Sigma Chapter has hosted two additional Conclaves (1952 and 1967) as well as numerous regional and state conferences. During the 1952 Conclave, Iota Sigma brothers organized the first Orchid Ball. Sparing little expense (the orchid leis were flown in the same day from Hawaii, for instance), this event created a grand tradition that has persisted as the culminating event for every Conclave since.
As one of the largest chapters in the state of Virginia as well as the Eastern Region, our roster is as diverse as it is talented. Iota Sigma brothers excel in their respective fields – be it education, law enforcement, medicine, government, or business. From neophytes to brothers with over 80 years of service in Sigma, our chapter is blessed to have a variety of perspectives and a wealth of experience at our disposal.
Our dedication to the principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship, and Service continues daily; some of Richmond’s hardest working and most notable community men are our chapter brothers. All of Iota Sigma’s numerous past achievements, the past conferences and conclaves we have hosted, and our great legacy of service provide regular inspiration as we continue to do the work of Sigma. Our Cause Speeds on its Way.
