About

For more than 50 years, historically Black colleges and universities across the United States have developed a tradition of providing a gathering space for the National Pan-Hellenic Council or NPHC. With its NPHC Plots and Garden project, App State is among a very few predominantly white institutions (PWIs) that also pay tribute to the legacy of African American Greek life.

Like many Black Greek-letter organization traditions, the development of plots can be traced to the days of slavery, and later, the division of Confederate land after the end of the Civil War for homestead development. Plots are constructed to symbolically and physically represent each Black Greek-letter organization's presence on campus and to give alumni and current members a location for reflection and celebration.

Students, staff and NPHC alumni advocated for this project for nearly 10 years. It gained significant momentum in 2017–18, when former App State Chancellor Sheri Everts dedicated space for the NPHC during 2017 homecoming festivities and crews began construction in June 2018. The site is located next to the Veterans Memorial in front of I.G. Greer Hall, near the B.B. Dougherty Administration Building.

Status

Construction is complete. An unveiling was held Sept. 29, 2018, during homecoming festivities. Fundraising efforts surpassed $150,000 under the leadership of alumna Susan Branch '99, alumnus James Tolliver '96 and alumnus and Board of Trustees member James Reaves '93. Gifts are still being accepted under The Divine Nine Leadership Development Endowment, a newly created fund derived from the Plots and Garden project to provide leadership grants and awards to students within NPHC.

How is it funded?

The project was funded through institutional support as well as money raised by App State NPHC affiliated alumni, faculty, staff and other friends.

Who will benefit?

The entire campus community, and especially members of the seven NPHC fraternities and sororities with chapters at App State, benefit from this project. This space signifies yet another way that the University of North Carolina System and App State value diversity and inclusive excellence and the benefits these principles bring to campus and the community.

How does it support UNC System Goals and Metrics?

By demonstrating support of diversity and inclusive excellence, the university validates all members of the campus community. When underrepresented students, staff and faculty feel validated, they are more likely to succeed.