Nine Decades of Noble Achievement

History of Beta Epsilon

Under the direction of Founder Marcus P Blackmore and the Pittsburgh Alumni Chapter, four young men were initiated into Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity on March 27. 1937 in Pittsburgh, PA. Three students Benjamin F. Duncan, Lorenzo A Hill, and Russell T. Washington were enrolled at Duquesne University. The fourth initiate was Ralph O. Barnett, who was enrolled at Carnegie Tech. In order for the group to secure an official chapter charter, they needed a fifth member which they found in Walter L. Roberts, an architect student at Carnegie Tech, who was already members of the Fraternity via Chi Chapter (Boston University).

Together the five young men chartered the Beta Epsilon Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Inc. The official chartering date was September 19. 1937-

These men perpetuated the history and traditions of Kappa Alpha Psi in the colleges and universities in Pittsburgh, throughout Western Pennsylvania and in the state of West Virginia. The Fraternity's goal has been to install a sense of achievement and pride while promoting the social, spiritual, intellectual and moral welfare of its members. The current schools in which the chapter has members are: The University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and Duquesne University. The members of the Beta Epsilon Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi have been positive, productive members of their respective institutions while maintaining strong ties within the greater community of Pittsburgh.

Since the chartering of the chapter in 1937, over 80 pledge classes, and over 400 men have been initiated into the Beta Epsilon Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi. The chapter has also been instrumental in the establishment of several undergraduate chapters in the East Central Province including - The Epsilon Chi Chapter at West Virginia University (1970), The Zeta Eta Chapter at California State University (PA) (1971), The Lambda Upsilon Chapter at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (1983). The Mu Phi Chapter at Clarion State University (PA) (1986), and The Nu Zeta Chapter at Edinburg State University (1987). Before each of these chapters were chartered their members were initiated into the Beta Epsilon Chapter.

On September 19, 1937, the Beta Epsilon Chapter was chartered at the University of Pittsburgh, laying the foundation for a legacy of leadership and service. Our founders established a beacon of brotherhood and academic excellence.

From these humble beginnings, the Pitt Nupes have grown into a pillar of the Divine Nine, shaping generations of men who embody the Krimson standard.

Training for Leadership, Achievement in Every Field

For ninety years, Beta Epsilon has cultivated leaders who excel across professions, communities, and the world, upholding the sacred principles of Kappa Alpha Psi.

Visual Chronicle

A Legacy in Pictures

Journey through decades of brotherhood, campus life, and celebratory events, capturing the spirit of Beta Epsilon from 1937 to present day.