The seed of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., initially sown at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, has since flourished into a mighty tree. One of its significant branches took root in Columbia, SC, thanks to the vision of Brother Abram L. Simpson, former President of Allen University and composer to the fraternity’s national hymn. Recognizing the need for an Alpha chapter in the community, Brother Simpson rallied Alpha Brothers in the area, leading to the establishment of Alpha Psi Lambda on May 7, 1935.

As the first chartered Alumni Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in South Carolina, Alpha Psi Lambda has been an integral part of the community for over 87 years. The chapter has opened its doors to College and Alumni Brothers, as well as the wider Waverly and Greater Columbia, South Carolina communities. Alpha Psi Lambda has consistently played a pivotal role in the city's leadership. Through its various programs, Alpha Psi Lambda continues to support downtrodden humanity in their pursuit of elevated social, economic, and intellectual standing. Within our chapter, those whose lives we touch are transformed into individuals characterized by amicability, kindness, and fraternity.

Alpha Psi Lambda also provides valuable advisory support to the Gamma Pi (Benedict College) and Gamma Gamma (Allen University) chapters.

Over the years, Alpha Psi Lambda has garnered numerous accolades, including representing the SC District on the Regional Level countless times.  The chapter has been named South Carolina Chapter of the Year five times and has earned the Charles H. Wesley Award with College Chapters "Gamma Gamma and Gamma Pi" on eight occasions. Additionally, it has been home to five South Carolina District Directors, three Deputy District Directors, three Area Directors, two Chief Deans, a National Brother of the Year (Bro. Dr. Anthony Broughton), and has received countless other awards and recognitions.

Many of our chapter's members are also actively involved in various professional organizations, such as the 100 Black Men of America, Society for Human Resource Professionals, South Carolina Educators Association, and various Chambers of Commerce, and serve on numerous boards in Columbia and the surrounding areas. One has even been elected Mayor of The City of Irmo, South Carolina (Bro. Barry Walker), showcasing our commitment to civic engagement and leadership in our community.

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Charter Members:

• Rev. Eugene A. Adams

• Rev. J.R. Dungee

• Fredrick C. Hipp

• Dr. Robert W. Mance

• C.A. Burch

• Rollin P. Greene

• Rev. Andrew A. Hughey

• Thomas S. Martin

• Joseph D. McGhee

• Harry B. Rutherford

• Dr. Abram R. Webber, Jr.