The journey of the Xi Tau Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is a testament to unyielding resolve, unwavering purpose, and a commitment to excellence that has endured for generations.

On July 12, 1980, the 703rd House of Alpha officially established its presence on the campus of Georgia Southern University. The road to chartering, however, was anything but easy. The vision of bringing Alpha to Statesboro was met with skepticism, institutional obstacles, and resistance from those who questioned the necessity or permanence of another Greek-letter organization. Yet, a visionary group of young men refused to be deterred.

Their efforts emerged during a pivotal period of Black student leadership at Georgia Southern. In 1979, one year before the chartering of Xi Tau, Pearl Brother Billy Ray Hightower founded the Black Student Alliance, helping establish a foundation for Black student advocacy, organization, and leadership on campus. The emergence of Xi Tau soon added another powerful institution through which Black students and brothers could pursue scholarship, leadership, service, and the advancement of the Black community.

What began as a collective of 13 ambitious aspirants was tested to its absolute limits, demanding extraordinary mental fortitude, perseverance, discipline, and unity. Through the crucible of adversity, 9 resilient brothers crossed the burning sands, emerging as the charter members who would bring the Xi Tau Chapter into the light of Alpha. Forever revered as our Pearls, these nine charter brothers, known collectively as Critical Mass, embodied the resolve necessary to transform a vision into a lasting legacy.

For 46 years, the Xi Tau Chapter has left an indelible mark on the campus of Georgia Southern University and throughout the greater Statesboro community. Building upon the standard of excellence established by our Pearls, the chapter has continued to elevate the bar in scholarship, leadership, mentorship, and selfless service.

What began as a contested dream championed by nine steadfast men has grown into a pillar of brotherhood, leadership, and cultural influence. Generation after generation, Xi Tau has cultivated scholars, civic leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and change-makers who continue to carry forward the torch first lit in 1980.

Our Pearls did more than establish a chapter; they laid a foundation.

Forty-six years later, that foundation remains strong. The Old Gold and Black continues to shine across Georgia Southern University, throughout Statesboro, and wherever Xi Tau men carry the legacy forward.