Phi Beta Sigma's Founders
Brotherhood - Scholarship - Service
"Culture for Service and Service for Humanity"
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. was founded on January 9, 1914, at Howard University by three visionary young men—A. Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse, and Charles I. Brown. At a time when African American students faced significant social and educational barriers, the founders envisioned a fraternity that would foster brotherhood, promote academic excellence, and uplift the Black community through purposeful action.
Each founder brought a unique strength to the organization. A. Langston Taylor served as the principal architect and first president, providing strategic direction and structure. Leonard F. Morse contributed strong organizational skills and helped solidify the fraternity’s administrative foundation, while Charles I. Brown offered intellectual insight and a deep commitment to scholarship. Together, they formed a leadership team grounded in unity, vision, and service.
Guided by the motto Culture for Service and Service for Humanity, the founders established Phi Beta Sigma as more than a social organization—it was designed to be a catalyst for social change. Their legacy lives on through the fraternity’s enduring commitment to education, social action, and community service, inspiring generations of Sigma men to lead with purpose, integrity, and compassion.
Hon. Abram Langston Taylor
Jan 29, 1890 - Aug 8, 1953
Hon. Leonard Francis Morse
Jan 12, 1891 - May 22, 1961
Hon. Charles Ignatius Brown
Aug 27, 1885 - Dec 21, 1981
Gamma Gamma Sigma
Chapter History
The Broward County Alumni Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., known as Gamma Gamma Sigma, was officially chartered on October 20, 1951. The chapter was established under the leadership and vision of several prominent African American leaders, including Dr. Von D. Mizell, William B. Edwards, Earl G. Mizell, Zeal H. Mizell, and Ivory W. Mizell. These founding brothers laid the groundwork for a chapter rooted in service, civic engagement, and the advancement of the African American community in Broward County.
From its inception, Gamma Gamma Sigma emerged as more than an alumni chapter—it became a hub for leadership, advocacy, and social progress. The chapter quickly aligned itself with the guiding principles of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., emphasizing brotherhood, scholarship, and service. During an era marked by segregation and systemic inequality, the chapter provided a structured mechanism through which educated African American men could collectively address community needs and advocate for equity and opportunity.
Throughout its storied history, Gamma Gamma Sigma has been home to many influential pioneers who helped shape both the chapter and Broward County at large. Among them was the legendary Dr. James F. Sistrunk, whose contributions to education and civil rights left an indelible mark on the region. Other notable members include Willie Latson, Boisy Waiters Sr., George Burrows Sr., Willy Gunn, Karl Weaver, James Wallace, Rev. George Weaver, Robert Gaddy, Willie London, and many others whose leadership extended into education, faith institutions, business, and public service.
Over the decades, Gamma Gamma Sigma has consistently served as a pillar within the African American community, responding to the changing social, economic, and educational needs of Broward County. The chapter has supported initiatives focused on youth mentorship, educational enrichment, voter education, social justice, and economic empowerment—often serving as a bridge between community members and critical resources. Through collaboration with local organizations, schools, churches, and civic leaders, the chapter has translated the fraternity’s motto, Culture for Service and Service for Humanity, into sustained and measurable impact.
For more than seventy-five years, Gamma Gamma Sigma has remained steadfast in its mission to build effective mechanisms for delivering service to the general community. While honoring the legacy of its founders and trailblazers, the chapter continues to evolve—embracing innovation, intergenerational leadership, and strategic partnerships to remain relevant and responsive. Today, Gamma Gamma Sigma stands as a testament to the enduring power of brotherhood and service, committed to shaping future leaders while preserving a proud and impactful history.
