History was made at the 2025 Orange Blossom Classic in Miami Gardens, where, for the first time at the Classic, all nine international presidents of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) were together in one place. Throughout the weekend, NPHC leaders connected with alumni, students, and supporters, creating a rare opportunity for members to see all of their top leaders standing side by side.
Those in attendance included:
- General President Lucien J. Metellus, Jr. – Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated®
- International President Danette Anthony Reed – Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®
- Grand Polemarch Jimmy McMikle – Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated®
- Grand Basileus Ricky L. Lewis – Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated®
- National President Cheryl W. Turner – Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated®
- International President Chris V. Rey, J.D. – Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated®
- International President Dr. Stacie N.C. Grant – Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated®
- International Grand Basileus Marica Harris – Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated®
- International Grand Polaris Orlando Grant – Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated®
Miami Gardens Councilman Reggie Leon spearheaded the weekend’s programming, coordinating a Friday reception at Hard Rock Stadium that brought alumni, students, and community leaders together for fellowship and reflection.
In recognition of his leadership in making this historic moment possible — and for his broader work throughout Miami Gardens — Councilman Leon was honored by Congresswoman Frederica Wilson. His contributions were entered into the U.S. Congressional Record and are preserved in the Library of Congress, ensuring this milestone is documented for future generations.
“This recognition is a profound honor, and it is a humbling reminder that my work stands on the shoulders of giants,” Leon said. “The unwavering dedication of countless leaders, mentors, and community members built the foundation for our great city. Their vision and hard work inspired my own civic engagement, and I am committed to continuing their legacy of service.”
Congresswoman Wilson also announced a $1 million contribution to the Miami-Dade NPHC, a transformative investment that will strengthen programming, mentorship initiatives, and preserve Black Greek-letter history throughout the region.
In addition, each NPHC organization and its international president was presented with a Key to Miami-Dade County. The Keys were presented by Miami-Dade County Commissioners Kionne McGhee, Keon Hardemon, and Oliver Gilbert, highlighting the county and city’s appreciation for the organizations’ enduring service and impact.
Saturday included a special tour through the city, stopping along streets named in honor of each of the Divine Nine organizations. Miami Gardens is the only city in the nation with streets dedicated to every member of the NPHC, and the tour highlighted the significance of this distinction. Along the route, the presidents were warmly welcomed by members of their respective organizations, giving attendees a chance to connect with the local community. The tour offered a moment to reflect on the history, service, and cultural contributions of the NPHC, showing how their legacies are literally embedded in the city.
The weekend culminated in a historic on-field celebration during the Orange Blossom Classic football game between Florida A&M University and Howard University. The event provided a rare opportunity for NPHC leaders to connect with alumni, students, and supporters while publicly honoring the impact of the Divine Nine.
The 2025 Orange Blossom Classic will be remembered as far more than a football game. It became a landmark celebration of heritage, achievement, and community for the NPHC — a weekend that honored the past while inspiring the next generation of leaders.
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