Senator Randal Mangham (D–Stone Mountain) recently hosted members of the Divine Nine sororities and fraternities, alongside alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), at the Georgia State Capitol. Their goal: to gear up for Divine Nine and HBCU Day, set to make its mark on the 2026 legislative session.
The gathering, taking place on Tuesday, March 11, saw discussions that delved into strategies and objectives for the forthcoming event. "I’m honored to have met with representatives from the Divine Nine Greek-letter organizations and our HBCUs," Sen. Mangham, a Howard University alumnus himself, expressed his pride and discussed their historical and community significance. According to a statement obtained by Senate Press, "We had productive conversations about our goals and strategies for the upcoming Divine Nine and HBCU Day that will take place during the next legislative session." Sen. Mangham added, "As a proud Howard University graduate, I know firsthand that HBCUs are more than educational institutions; they are pillars of excellence, leadership and resilience in our communities."
The importance of the Divine Nine and HBCUs was heavily underscored during the meet-up. These esteemed organizations play a pivotal role in nourishing black students and carving out the leaders that will guide Georgia's future. It was a day when plans were stitched together for an event that aims to celebrate and advocate for the power of black academic and social fraternity.
While details about the 2026 Divine Nine and HBCU Day have yet to fully unravel – with networking sessions and panels likely to illuminate the docket – Sen. Mangham and company are set to come back to the drawing board. The group intends to reconvene after the wrap of the 2025 Legislative Session, ensuring the day’s festivities resonate well with their vision. "The Divine Nine and HBCUs are vital in supporting black students and fostering our state’s future leaders," Sen. Mangham mentioned, affirming his commitment, as Senate Press reported. "I look forward to continuing these important discussions in the months ahead."
