WINTER 2021
KEZ CHRONICLES The latest news in Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. "Kaptivating" Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter In This Issue A Word From Our President
KEZ On the Move
KEZ Soror Spotlight Tis' The Season For The TreatZ
A Word From Our President My wish for the new year is for our chapter to provide opportunities to engage our community in what matters most: encouraging family and friends to partner with our community leaders as we all commit to
KEZ Makes STRIDES
service and community involvement. It is my pleasure to introduce the appointment of our new 2nd Vice President and Community Service Chair Ms. Diana Corneilson who will be taking the lead in fostering our community engagement for 2022! KEZ will continue to plant the seeds of awareness by connecting with our newly elected Mayor Eric Adams and our newly elected Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson to learn about available resources and steps that are needed to take action. Family and friends, prepare to add to your calendars as we share our community partners' upcoming events of fundraisers, meetings, workshops, food pantries, coat drives, and celebrations. My continued wish for 2022 is that we continue to strengthen the support and connections in our homes,
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter facebook.com/zphibkez
neighborhoods, and the broader community by providing meaningful service and community outreach. As we prepare for the new year, let us not forget all we learned over the past year. As a chapter, we had to redefine our priorities and adapt to the changes the global pandemic brought to the whole world. As we begin to socialize more and leave our homes to attend work and school, let us stay respectful of health and social guidelines, and most importantly, let us remember how important it is to cherish the simple things in
@zphibkez
life, like spending time with family and friends. These simple pleasures we have learned too painfully well, should not be taken for granted.
www.bronxzetas.org #KEZCares #KEZLoves #KEZServes
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KEZ CHRONICLES WINTER 2021
KAPPA EPSILON ZETA On the Move
Kappa Epsilon Zeta continued their tradition of assisting Thessalonia Worship Center on their Thanksgiving Day service initiative. KEZ members helped create meal kits that were distributed in the Foxhurst section of the Bronx.
KAPPA EPSILON ZETA On the Move
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Kappa Epsilon Zeta members are doing their part to ensure our community is safe by obtaining their vaccination shots. According to the CDC, Covid-19 vaccines help prevent serious illness in the event of Covid-19 contraction.
BRONX VACCINATION RESOURCES https://vax4nyc.nyc.gov/patient/s/ https://www.bronxcare.org/about-us/covid-19-vaccination-sites/ https://covid19.montefiore.org/covid-19-vaccine
Kez receives Regional awards!!!
KAPPA EPSILON ZETA RECEIVED THE 5 PEARL AWARD FOR SOCIAL ACTION AT ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY, INCORPORATED'S ATLANTIC REGION LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE!
KAPPA EPSILON ZETA'S ARCHONETTE YOUTH AUXILIARY GROUP RECEIVED RECOGNITION FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE!
KEZ is on the move!!!!!
Kappa Epsilon Zeta W lks to Make Strides Against Breast Cancer Members of KEZ and their Youth Auxiliary Groups participated in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Orchard Beach on October 17, 2021.
October 17 was a picture perfect day to walk for a worthwhile cause.
Members of Kappa Epsilon Zeta, along with our Youth Auxiliary groups, met on a cool Sunday morning to participate in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Orchard Beach. KEZ member Jennifer Jackson was honored to walk in support of the many individuals who have been impacted by breast cancer. "We proudly walked in memory of our family and friends that lost their battle with breast cancer and in honor and support of our loved ones that are breast cancer survivors. They are our superheroes." In total, KEZ raised over $1,600.00.
KEZ w/ Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson
KEZ w/ Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated Rho Psi Lambda Chapter
KEZ w/ Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark
' T I S
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S E A S O N
F O R
T H E
TREATZ The Makings Of A Holiday Event
By Janay Phillips-Wilson
Happy New Year to all and best wishes as you start your new year’s journey! As I look back on all that was accomplished in 2021, I am particularly fond of being part of the planning committee for the 2021 KEZ Sweet TreatZ Holiday Event. The original idea of the holiday event was to allow the chapter an opportunity to network and build on its community relationships in the Bronx. On December 11, 2021, the Finer Women of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated., Kappa Epsilon Zeta (KEZ) Chapter co-hosted a holiday event with Phipps Neighborhoods Cornerstone Center at Soundview Houses at the Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community Center in the Bronx. The Sweet TreatZ Holiday Event provided an opportunity for the Soundview, and local Bronx community to join in and celebrate the holiday season with some tasty desserts, small chocolates and candies, warm apple-cider, and hot cocoa. I remember when I first came up with the event idea. I had just taken office as the newly elected 1st Vice President of KEZ back in July 2020. As 1st Vice President in charge of membership for KEZ, I wanted to create a networking event that will allow my 70+ chapter members an opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with their families, our auxiliary groups and our community partners. I was excited, nervous, anxious, and hopeful that this event would help KEZ continue its mission to be change agents for the Bronx community.
But alas, COVID-
19 put a halt to so many ‘original’ plans for so many in our community and world-wide. Back in December 2020, instead of hosting this event in-person, the chapter was left to the devices of online meeting options only. Although the event did not happen with its original intent, our online attendees were gracious and ready to share in the holiday spirit. In 2021, with a little bit of determination and a whole lot of prayer, the ladies of KEZ were finally able to offer the holiday event to the Bronx community in-person.
Working together with Mr. Edwin
Scott, Director and Jamal White, Assistant Director at the community center, the ladies of KEZ provided a community-centered event where members of the neighborhood were served. KEZ Chapter member, Kechea Brown, spearheaded the Coat/Clothing Drive and managed the donations which were packed and delivered to PATHHSEO, Inc. Even after the delivery of donated items, we received additional donations and were enthusiastic to make them available to the holiday event attendees. Additionally, tables were set up to provide information and resources. KEZ Chapter members, Jennifer Jackson, Veronica StrawsMalone and Nyahalay Tucker hosted tables which provided information, resources and gift ideas to attendees! While all of this was going on, the Snowman Building Race and Ugly Holiday Sweater contests, led by KEZ chapter members Dana Middleton and Nicole Robertson-Scruggs respectively, kept everyone in the holiday spirit along with holiday music provided by KEZ chapter member Nicole Oestricher. Congratulations to all of the winners and participants!! Even though the original idea went through several tweaks and modifications, in the end, the women of KEZ were elated with the support, donations, treatz, and holiday spirit shown at the holiday event.
Members of KEZ, the KEZ Amicette Youth Group, and the Middle School 180 Steppers pose for the camera as the event came to a close.
' T I S
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S E A S O N
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KEZ member Nyahalay Tucker at the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. information table.
The youth enjoying a friendly snowman building competition.
KEZ member Kechea Brown distributing free coats for the community via The Finer Closet.
KEZ member Veronica Straws-Malone showcasing jewelry.
KEZ member Dana Middleton during the snowman building competition.
KEZ 1st Vice-President Janay Phillips-Wilson with the winner of the Ugly Sweater Contest.
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KEZ members J. Jackson, P. Shand, K. Bell-Cole, K. Brown, and N. Oestricher posing for the camera.
Middle School 180 Steppers entertaining the crowd.
KEZ member Jennifer Jackson with mental wellness materials for attendees..
KAPPA EPSILON ZETA SOROR SPOTLIGHT
Soror Dana Middleton Soror Dana Middleton is a native of Brooklyn, NY. She attended SUNY Oswego as an undergrad and was initiated into the Sisterhood of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated in the Fall of 1989. Later on, she completed her undergraduate degree at the College of New Rochelle with the support of her husband and four children. Soror Middleton has worked for the New York City Department Of Education for over 12 years as a Family-worker helping families caring for children with special needs. NT: Congratulations on recently celebrating 32 years in the Sisterhood. Please tell me, what initially attracted you to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated? What was the climate on campus? DM: Thank you Soror Tucker! What attracted me to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was the hard work and dedication exhibited by the five young ladies on the campus of SUNY Oswego. In comparison to the other Non-Divine Nine Sororities who were larger in number, the Zetas supported the community with so much service. Community service is important to me as it is greatly valued in my family. Unfortunately, the campus climate was culturally immature. In those days Oswego was predominately white, and the Zetas were the first Black Sorority on the yard. So the campus never saw pledges as focused and disciplined as the Archonians (the Archonian Club is the historical pledge club of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated). They didn't understand and so they attempted to denigrate and mock them. Thank God we had a strong Black Student Union who supported the Zetas and together we educated the campus on respect in diversity. NT: Wait, wow. DM: Yeah.
NT: That is disheartening, but I'd really like to know more. Could you please expound on this? DM: Sure. Due to the Educational Opportunity Program, SUNY campuses that were predominately white were beginning to see an influx of students of color. The students on campus were not used to seeing us and definitely not used to seeing BGLO pledges. I'll never forget when my eventual big sisters were going through their process. They would get stares, be laughed at, and in one incident, someone even threw water on them from above. NT: I cannot imagine. DM: Yes. We could see how upset they were, but they managed to keep their composure and exhibit Finer Womanhood. I just remember being so impressed. Of course, the black students who witnessed the incident felt offended and the Black Student Union made it a topic of discussion. It was the catalyst for us to state aloud that we matter, we will not be disrespected, and we will not be mistreated. Eventually, subtle changes came about. It went from "what are they doing?" to "Oh, the Zetas have a line." Then eventually, the predominately white organizations began dressing alike during their process and giving customary greetings too. NT: Amazing. DM: I recently had the opportunity to return to campus and I was pleased to see a large "Black Lives Matter" sign. I'm happy to see the growth and increased understanding. NT: I love it. So, I know you took some time off. If you don't mind, could you speak to that a bit? What motivated you to return as an active member? DM: Towards the end of my junior year, my family was experiencing financial difficulties. I made the decision to return home, work, accumulate the funds to complete my education, and return later. I told myself my situation is simply being delayed, not denied. However, during my time home, my mother became ill and that changed priorities for me once again. The importance of education was always stressed within my family. I promised my mother that I would obtain my undergraduate degree and I did eventually. I returned and completed my B.A. at The College of New Rochelle. Although my mother passed before I graduated, I like to believe she saw me walk across the stage at Carnegie Hall on graduation day. My motivation to return as an active member came from my love and belief in what Zeta stands for. Personally, Zeta has given so much to me in the way of lifelong friendships, a standard of excellence, and the fundamental belief that my actions are a reflection on the Sisterhood. I always wanted to return to the fold and stay. I am so happy it is with KEZ. NT: Since returning, you have been a rock star. You have been involved in numerous committees, including serving as our public relations co-chair. Do you find it challenging? How do you manage to do it? DM: Thank you so much for your kind words. Yes, it can be challenging at times, but I love learning and helping. My respect for the work done by Kappa Epsilon Zeta is tremendous. This is motivating for me. That and my need for keeping a "To do List." It is an honor to serve on each of the committees and I find happiness in doing so. As they say, "When you find something you love, you'll never work a day in your life." I find the committee work fulfilling. NT: You've mentioned in the past how your family has been a major source of support. Can you tell me a little more about that please? DM: When I made the choice to return and complete my undergraduate degree, I was married and raising my family. At the time, I reclaimed through Sigma Kappa Zeta Chapter (Brooklyn, NY) and was comfortably living. I wasn't certain on when I should return to college but, the Sorors of Sigma Kappa Zeta Chapter gave me the encouragement to be a person of completion and finish what I started. My husband took on extra shifts to cover the cost of my tuition. My eldest daughter was my study-buddy. My big sister proofread my papers. My SandZ, Lillian Pyatt-Castro (current member of KEZ), always my supporter, cheered me on and said the words I longed to hear, "Your mother is so proud of you." Background information, my mother valued higher education and was in the middle of obtaining her degree when she placed the needs of her family over her academic pursuits. For me, I didn't just walk across the stage for myself, I walked for the both of us.
NT: That you certainly did. What are your hopes for your journey in Zeta from this point forward? If you could go back to the fall of 1989, what would you say to a newly initiated Dana? DM: In my Zeta journey, I hope to continue being happy in the work that KEZ is doing. As a woman of faith, Jesus said to love your neighbor as you love yourself. I see KEZ holding true to this as they work to meet the needs of the Bronx community, and this aligns with my core values. If I could return to the Fall of '89 after crossing, I would tell myself, "To serve the Sisterhood well! During some of the most challenging times of your life, they will hold you up without a second thought. Walk the walk." NT: What would you say to Sorors who have thought about reclaiming but may be hesitant to make the leap? DM: I would say to them, "Your seat at the table is here for you, come on home! Sorors will help your transition back into the fold well established. They will advise you of trainings and provide workshops so you will be equipped to do the work of Zeta effectively. Things are not perfect, but your timing is, you are what is needed in this moment. Your talent and gifts will be appreciated, and your presence is needed for the upliftment of our Sisterhood. I welcome the opportunity to work alongside you, making things better for our community. Let's get to know each other better through the ties that bind us. Come on home Soror!" NT: I love it. Well said. Thank you so much for your time. DM: Thank you.
Our Youth Exhibiting
SCHOLARSHIP ARCHONETTE NYLA SLATER
Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter would like to extend a resounding congratulations to our Archonette Nyla Slater for receiving a $34,000 scholarship to Delaware State University. Nyla was overcome with emotion after receiving the news. "My first major scholarship was really exciting. My mom and I cried tears of joy when we found out. It is a blessing to have received this award and pray it is the first of many!" Nyla's mother Nikita Slater, a Kappa Epsilon Zeta Spring 17' initiate, could not be any prouder. "Nyla has worked so hard throughout high school. I am so proud to know that all of her hard work is paying off. I am elated to see where God will lead her on her next path."
We are so proud of you Nyla!!!
Celebrating Our
Member Milestones
Happy 30th Zetaversary Soror Renell Grant and Soror Shanie Johnson Smith-Baugh Syracuse University 12/7/1991
Happy 25th Zetaversary Soror Patrice Shand SUNY Oswego 11/2/1996
Recognizing
KEZ EXCELLENCE
ACKNOWLEDGING KEZ SORORS EXEMPLIFYING SCHOLARSHIP, SERVICE, SISTERHOOD, AND FINER WOMANHOOD.
Congratulations to Soror Nikita Slater for obtaining a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education from Grand Canyon University. Soror Slater graduated with a 4.0 GPA.
Congratulations to Soror Kechea Brown for receiving the the Award of Excellence from the New York City Police Department Patrol Services Bureau.
Congratulations to Soror Nicole Oestricher for releasing her first book of poetry, Butterfly Speaks. Preorder at http://bit.ly/ButterflySpeaksPre
Congratulations to Soror Nyahalay Tucker, whose article "Backyard Boulé In The Bronx" was recently featured in Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated's official international publication, The Archon.
Congratulations Sorors and thank you for your excellence! EXPO PAVILLION, 31ST LOWER MANHATTAN
KEZ CHRONICLES WINTER 2021
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR DOVE
Dr. Gloria Hobbs WE LOVE YOU AND WISH YOU CONTINUED HEALTH AND HAPPINESS
WITH SWEET ZETA LOVE, YOUR SORORS OF KAPPA EPSILON ZETA
COMMUNITY RESOURCES Phipps Neighborhoods "Phipps Houses is the oldest and largest not-for-profit developer, owner, and manager of affordable housing in New York City. Its social services affiliate, Phipps Neighborhoods, provides children, youth and families in low-income neighborhoods the opportunities they need to thrive through comprehensive workforce and education programs, and access to community and economic empowerment services. Together they are changing lives in New York City." Phipps Houses Phipps Houses Services, Inc. Phipps Neighborhoods, Inc. 902 Broadway, 13th Floor New York, NY 10010 Phone: 212.243.9090
PATHHSEO, Inc. PATHHSEO @ Caldwell Temple "PATHHSEO devotes and engages various programs and services to help in the fight against hunger, the dependency of services and the many social repercussions of poverty." Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pathhseo.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/pathhseo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/334941698/pathhseo-at-caldwell-temple?hl=en
BronxWorks "BronxWorks helps individuals and families improve their economic and social well-being. From toddlers to seniors, we feed, shelter, teach, and support our neighbors to build a stronger community." Administration Office BronxWorks 60 E. Tremont Ave Bronx, NY 10453 (646) 393-4000 info@bronxworks.org To donate: http://www.bronxworks.org/donate-to-bronxworks Assistance Hotline: (718) 731-3114
HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM KAPPA EPSILON ZETA CHAPTER
2022 WISHING YOU ALL A PROSPEROUS YEAR. SEE YOU SOON!
www.bronxzetas.org
WE INVITE YOU TO ATTEND OUR
UPCOMING EVENTS
January 15, 2022
Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter Membership Informational Meeting Are you interested in learning more about Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated? Would you like to have more information on the mission of Kappa Epsilon Zeta chapter and our work in the Bronx? We welcome all interested women to attend our 2022 Informational. Come meet the ladies of Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter. Light refreshments will be served.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT! About the Editor Nyahalay Tucker was initiated into Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated in December 2009 via Kappa Epsilon Zeta. She currently serves as Editor of KEZ Chronicles and chapter journalist. Please send all inquires to ntucker@kezsf.org