New plaza recognizes the Divine Nine

by Lily Smith

Troy University dedicated the newest addition to Troy University Saturday morning, with the dedication of National Pan-Hellenic Council Plaza. The plaza recognizes the university’s historically Black Greek-letter organizations. 

The Divine Nine sororities and fraternities were able to be recognized through a new addition to campus, a plaza with markers representing each.

 The event opened with a performance from the Troy University Gospel Choir with “Oh Happy Day.” Several guest speakers, including Troy Board of Trustees member General Ed Crowell, expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the groups before unveiling each plaque.  

Gen. Crowell said sororities and fraternities deserve physical representation as they can be a fundamental part of developing character.

“My fraternity introduced me to the power of brotherhood and the satisfaction of serving others,” Crowell said. 

According to Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, the inspiration behind the plaza was credited to the late Lamar P. Higgins, who served as Troy University’s first African-American SGA President and a Troy trustee for 25 years. 

"A collective vision can drive people together," Hawkins said. “We know that this place is but a symbol. A wonderful symbol.”

The plaza was said by many to represent not only those who are currently members, but the alumni and those who may be a part of the organizations in the future. One alum in attendance reflected on the benefits of being in a fraternity. 

"I do believe that the human effort is meant to lose itself to service, not service to ourselves but service to a greater purpose," said alumni Ternisha Jones, who donated to the NPHC. 

“One thing that’s really remarkable about the Greek system… it doesn’t end at graduation, it really has a beginning at that point,” Hawkins said. 

The plaza can be found on the north side of Veteran’s Memorial Stadium.