National Pan-Hellenic Council Plaza Columbus, Ohio

Services Provided

Public Realm Design
Engagement
Documentation

People Involved

Karen McCoy
John Petrushka
Matthew McGrath
Benjamin Kern

Creating a space to celebrate and honor the history and heritage of The Divine Nine

The National Pan-Hellenic Council Plaza (NPHC) at The Ohio State University is intended to be a welcoming place for black students that celebrates the rich history and heritage of the sororities and fraternities that are represented beneath the umbrella of the NPHC, referred to as the The Divine Nine. This important and sacred space is sited in a prominent location outside of Hale Hall on the South Oval.

Envisioned to provide space for Black Cultural Center events, programming put on by NPHC affiliated organizations, and elevation of each of the nine organizations, the nine unique monuments standing together symbolize their unified strength as one National Council. a collaborative process, the design team realized an inspirational space that represents and celebrates each of these individual groups and recognizes their unique identities, traditions, and rich cultural histories to serve students for years to come.

The National Pan-Hellenic Council, sometimes referred to as The Divine Nine, are distinguished organizations formed at a time of racial upheaval with the mission of providing safe spaces and housing for Black students, contributing to the community, helping to shape formative leaders, and to support youth that are in pursuit of higher education. Many of these fraternities and sororities have been supporting this mission for over 100 years.