Chapter
History

The Eta Eta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was established at Western Illinois University (WIU) in 1970.

This chapter was founded during a period of racial tension and limited Black student representation on campus, with the Black student population at WIU being less than 5%. Despite these challenges, a group of determined students—including Randy Twilley, Silton Williams (now Kamal Rashid), Arnie C. Travis III, Ronald Parker, Dr. Robert E. Weems, and Melvin Funchess—along with graduate assistant Robert Thurston and Professor William R. Hayes Jr., petitioned for a charter from the fraternity's General Office.

Their efforts culminated in the granting of the charter on August 31, 1970, coinciding with a rare solar eclipse. Since its inception, the Eta Eta Chapter has initiated over 200 members and has remained committed to the fraternity's mission of developing leaders, promoting brotherhood and academic excellence, and providing service and advocacy for communities.