Council proclaims May 10 as National Pan Hellenic Council Day after public testimony

The Anne Arundel County Council unanimously adopted Resolution 13-25 on Monday designating May 10, 2025, as National Pan Hellenic Council Day following public testimony from members of the local alumni councils and affiliated fraternities and sororities.

Council Member Pete Smith introduced the item and invited members of the National Pan Hellenic Council (the so-called "Divine 9") to address the council. Community leaders and chapter representatives provided in-person testimony about mentoring, scholarship programs and local partnerships. "These organizations were created at a time when African Americans were denied access to many educational, economic, and social institutions," Dr. Sean Ashworth told the council, asking members to support the designation. Testimony cited volunteer hours, scholarships and local donations to charities including the Anne Arundel County Food Bank, Sarah's House and the Lighthouse Shelter.

Council members added themselves as cosponsors during the meeting; several praised the groups' community presence and mentorship work. The roll-call vote was recorded as seven ayes, none opposed; the secretary announced adoption and that May 10 will be observed as National Pan Hellenic Council Day in Anne Arundel County.

Why it matters: Members of the local National Pan Hellenic Council described sustained volunteerism, scholarships and partnerships with county nonprofits and schools, and the council'level recognition makes the date an official observance in county government.

What to expect next: The resolution is an honorary county designation; no regulatory or budgetary change was attached to the proclamation.