ULM’s Greek life hosts several different events throughout the year. One of the biggest events is the step show featuring “The Divine Nine.” ULM’s National Pan-Hellenic Council held its 11th annual step show Saturday.
“The Divine Nine” consists of the nine historically Black Greek letter organizations. They include Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity.
The step show began with performances by local youth groups. The Primetime Steppers, Cypress Point, Caroline’s Danceline and the MLK Pantherettes showcased their talents.
The panel of judges included nine members from each of “The Divine Nine.” They tallied scores from everyone’s performance so the judging was fair.
Kendrick Farris was the main host of the show. He is an Olympic weightlifter from Shreveport, La. Farris set two U.S. records in the 2008 Olympic Games. He also is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.
Many students came to support the NPHC step show. “I came to the step show because it seemed like a big event on campus and it seemed like it was going to be interesting. My sister-in-law is in the show, so I came to support her,” said Chantalyn Jackson, a freshman nursing major.
Preparing for this step show takes time and dedication. Troy Morris, a senior vocal performance major and a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity said the practices he and his brothers held were long. They started practicing about four weeks ago, but for the last nine days, they really kicked it into high gear. Their practices were long and rigorous.
“We, as Alphas, have a lot to prove in this step show, being that people hold us to a higher standard. They expect us to deliver a great show every time. Our job with this show is to satisfy the people,” Morris said.
The Alphas stayed true to their word by winning first place for the fraternities. The ladies of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority won first place for the third consecutive time.
