3 Frats, Sororities Creating Spaces For Black Students In Essex

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ -- New Jersey Assemblywoman Britnee Timberlake recently honored three Essex County chapters of the “Divine Nine” for Black History Month: Omega Psi Phi, Delta Sigma Theta and Phi Beta Sigma.

Timberlake, who represents the state’s 34th District, praised the fraternities and sorority for creating opportunities and spaces for African-American students on college campuses.

The honorees are three local chapters that serve District 34 (East Orange, Montclair, Orange, Clifton):

• Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. – “The Montclair Eta Pi Chapter, led by President Barry Devone, focuses on social action programs including youth mentoring, food distribution and holiday giveaways.”
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – “The Montclair Alumnae Chapter, led by President Paquita Mason, awards thousands of dollars in educational scholarships to young women in Essex County every year.”
• Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. – “The Chi Sigma Alumni Chapter, led by President George Darby, focuses on community service, scholarship and brotherhood.”

“These local chapters of Greek letter organizations continuously make a difference in countless lives by uplifting their fellow community members,” Timberlake said. “From helping hard-working students acquire higher education to mentoring young people and providing them with the support they need, their exemplary contributions to our communities deserve recognition. My goal will be to recognize each organization from the Divine Nine throughout my term. This is just the start.”

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