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Construction at the NPHC monuments

Construction Update of NPHC Monuments

Rendering of the National Pan-Hellenic Council MonumentsThe Division of Student Life is thrilled to announce that the construction of the nine new monuments dedicated to UT’s National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) has started.

“What excites me most about seeing this project come to fruition is the fact that it embodies our ancestor’s wildest dreams. The collegiate Black Greek Lettered Organization movement started in 1906. Since that time, our respective organizations have worked tirelessly to advance the ideals of our respective organizations. When considering the University of Tennessee Knoxville’s history specifically, it is evident the historically Black Greek Lettered Organizations represented on our campus have been making invaluable contributions to the campus community since their establishment. With that said, I doubt the National Founders or the local Charter Members of the respective NPHC organizations represented at UTK ever imagined having a dedicated space on campus, and it’s happening. To me, the NPHC monuments are a physical manifestation of the dreams and aspirations of past, present, and future NPHC members. As a proud member of the NPHC community, I look forward to the day when our current NPHC members and NPHC alumni are able to utilize this awesome space.”

Lamar Bryant, Associate Dean of Students

The monuments will be located on Pedestrian Walkway and are a symbol of the university’s commitment to celebrating diversity and inclusion. Each monument represents one of the nine historically African American sororities and fraternities within the NPHC.

“The NPHC Monument plaza will honor the contributions of the nine NPHC organizations to our campus community. The plaza will also offer an opportunity for NPHC organizations to gather, build community and promote campus engagement. We’re excited to kick off construction and look forward to  formally dedicating the plaza this fall. This project is part of our university efforts to improve campus climate and culture.”

Frank Cuevas, Vice Chancellor for Student Life

NPHC organizations have had a critical impact at UT, providing opportunities for students to be engaged on campus and develop the leadership skills needed for success following graduation.

“As historically Black Greek-lettered organizations at the University of Tennessee Knoxville, it is important to recognize/honor our contributions toward the advancement of the campus community. The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) has attracted underrepresented students, promoted a sense of belonging through community, volunteered countless hours nationally and locally, and has developed our finest student leaders. Championing the things that make us unique while celebrating the similarities of the collective whole empowers all the member organizations of the NPHC. These monuments will show the greater campus community that we are here and our unique experiences matter. This groundbreaking project acknowledges the trailblazing impact these organizations continue to cultivate on Rocky Top.”

Abigail Saulsberry, Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated & current NPHC President

The campus plans to unveil the monuments during the fall semester.