For nearly 100 years, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. has helped young men to develop character and exemplify ideals of “brotherhood,” “scholarship” and “service.” And now, the historically black organization will begin a new tradition on the campus of Concordia College-Selma.

Under the umbrella of graduate chapter Epsilon Theta Sigma (of Hayneville), Concordia’s new organization began its journey in October 2011, with nine young men. After a rigorous and extensive interview process, seniors Gerral Pinkston and line president Joshua R. Stewart, and juniors Jonathan Coachman, Edderick Toeran and Corey Williams, became known as the “Five Original Conquerors of Blu T.R.U.T.H.”

“We’re raising funds to have Epsilon Rho as our own chapter,” Stewart said. “We intend to have a new line this spring semester … we’ll be established as our own, once the new line comes in.”

Stewart, who said he studied all of the other organizations before finally deciding on Sigma, said Sigma’s founding members were “inclusive.”

“They weren’t just normal people — they were a part of the community,” Stewart said. “It’s ‘us’ together, we’re ordinary men trying to do extraordinary things.”

Vice President of Student Services for Concordia Dr. Stanford E. Angion said the presence of the newly formed Greek organization brings visibility to Concordia as a college.

“Greek life on a college campus is another phenomenon that says to students, ‘this is a college campus,’” Angion said. “In addition to the unity and sense of belonging that comes with membership in fraternities and sororities, students are encouraged to pursue academic excellence and engage in community service projects.”

Members have already hit the ground running with service projects such as adopting Martin Luther King Street for clean up, partnering with Selma City Ward 4, helping new students with registration and volunteering at a conference for the visually impaired Jan. 18.

Stewart believes the organization will open the door for other Greek organizations.

“We’re looking past Concordia,” Stewart said. “It will open the door for all organizations … we’re willing to raise the standards high — scholastically and in the community; it’s going to help the school out in a big way.”

The organization, Angion believes, is a plus for Concordia.

“The students are excited about having the first Greek fraternity in school history to make Concordia home,” Angion said.

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., was founded on Jan. 9, 1914 at Howard University in Washington D.C.