Sigma Iota Zeta 2015 GLRC Chapter Report

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, Sigma Iota Zeta Chapter Reynoldsburg, OH Mary Breaux Wright

Michelle Porter Norman

LaVada Washington

24th International Grand Basileus

Great Lakes Regional Director

Chapter Basileus

2015 Regional Chapter Report Competition

Building On The Principles of Zeta While Blazing New Paths

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Table of Contents Scholarship

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Service Ronald McDonald House

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Mid-Ohio Food Bank

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Sisterhood

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National Programs Z-HOPE March of Dimes

Page 9 Page 10

National Observances Finer Womanhood

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National Military Appreciation Week

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Founders’ Day

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Rededication

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Centennial Launch

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International Grand Basileus Programmatic Thrusts Adopt-A-School

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Elder Care

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Conferences Boule 2014

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Great Lakes Regional Conference 2014

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Ohio State Conference

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Awards Greek Unity NPHC Organizations

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Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated

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Sponsorship of Gamma Epsilon Undergraduate Chapter

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Youth Auxiliaries

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Scholarship Annual Breakfast With the Artist Promotes Education, The Arts On March 14, 2015 at Monacos’ Palace, the Central Ohio community gathered

for Sigma Iota Zeta Chapter’s signature program, Breakfast with the Artist. Focusing on the youth of our community, this year, the Breakfast featured Urban Strings.

Urban

Strings is a Central Ohio-based community youth orchestra of serious, young, talented musicians from various public and private schools throughout the metropolitan Columbus area. Additionally, the crowd was entertained by various acts ranging from spoken word to dance to visual art. All of the performances occurred while the audience feasted on a delicious breakfast that fed the soul!

This was the 13th Annual Breakfast with the Artist celebration. The proceeds of the breakfast

benefit the Bessie K. Jackson Memorial Scholarship fund. This year, Sigma Iota Zeta chapter awarded 2 scholarships to Central Ohio High School seniors. One scholarship went to Claudia Owusu who is a student from SIZ’s Adopt-A-School partner, Mifflin High School. Our second scholarship recipient was our own Archonette, Janthel Davis who is a senior at Bishop Hartley High School.

This year’s first recipient, Claudia Owusu, has a 3.8 grade point average, volunteers at a local homeless shelter, is a published writer, and plans to attend Oberlin College or Otterbein University in the fall of 2015. Our second recipient, Janthel Davis, has a 3.3 grade point average and is an active member of Zeta’s youth group—The Archonettes. Janthel has been an Archonette for four year and has volunteered at the Mid-Ohio Foodbank and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio.

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Scholarship Annual Breakfast With the Artist Promotes Education, The Arts (cont.)

Janthel is looking forward to attending one of three possible colleges in the fall: University of Cincinnati, Theil College, or the University of Kentucky.

The concept of the Breakfast of the Artist program was originated by Soror Marian D. Hann. In her loving memory Sigma Iota Zeta chapter gives out the Distinguished Zeta award at the scholarship breakfast. This award is given to a Zeta, who like Soror Marian D. Hann exemplifies the highest aspirations of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. This year the Basileus of SIZ chapter, LaVada Washington awarded this honor to every soror in the chapter for their tireless work to uplift Zeta in the community!

Soror Washington was also honored for her six years of service as the President of SIZ chapter.

Shortly after she was elected as the 1st Vice President in 2009, the President of SIZ at that time encountered a very serious health complication that would not allow her to continue in the role. Soror Washington stepped in and has since pushed SIZ to be a premier organization for service in the Central Ohio community.

Thanks to the Central Ohio community, Sigma Iota Zeta chapter continues to support the educational aspirations of the local youth and members of our chapter for their extraordinary service.

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Service SIZ Continues Partnership With Ronald McDonald House Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio (RMHC-CO) has been making a difference in the lives of seriously ill children and their families for three decades. Many of the children living at RMHC-CO are being treated at Nationwide Children's Hospital and other hospitals in the Central Ohio area. Partnering with RMHC-CO of Central Ohio since 2011, Sigma Iota Zeta Chapter (SIZ) of Reynoldsburg, Ohio is committed to serving these families several times per year through a variety of volunteer opportunities.

One way SIZ helps families living at the RMHC-CO is by participating in the 2014 Hot Chocolate Run. SIZ volunteered to serve at the race day activities on November 16th for The Hot Chocolate 15/5K Run. Known as “America’s Sweetest Race”, the Hot Chocolate Run which raises funds for the RMHC-CO began in 2008 and features two races, a 15K (9.3 miles) and a 5K (3.1 miles) runs. This year, fourteen SIZ Sorors and 1 Archonette assisted thousands of runners and walkers as they ran “for chocolate” and Ronald McDonald House Charities. Additionally, Soror Isi Ikharebha and Soror Kim Johnson were registered runners in the 15K and 5K, respectively.

Another way SIZ Sorors and Archonettes made a difference at RMHC-CO was by serving lunch to sixty-five residences on February 7, 2015 at the house located at 711 E. Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205. The home-cooked meal that SIZ provided, prepared, and served offered a free hot lunch in an attempt to give families one less thing to worry about.

Every night, nearly 150 families heal together because of the efforts, compassion, and community at the four area Ronald McDonald Houses. Partnering with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio, through giving charitable donations and volunteering time, SIZ is steadfast about serving children and families through community service.

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Service

SIZ Serves Up Service With Mid-Ohio Food Bank Pretend for a moment, you are sitting on the couch thinking of what you could eat for

dinner. Then, you go into your pantry or refrigerator and there is no food. You are hungry and there is no meal to eat. There is no snack and no money. What would you do?

Since the 1980’s, the Mid-Ohio Foodbank has been working to end hunger one meal at a time. At Mid-Ohio Foodbank, they “believe it’s not acceptable for thousands of our neighbors—most of them children and seniors—to go hungry. Our aim is to provide efficient, effective ways for hungry people to meet their basic food and nutrition needs.”

On Saturday, January 10, 2015, Sigma Iota Zeta chapter (SIZ) joined Mid-Ohio Foodbank to

volunteer to work a 4-hour shift at their warehouse located at 3960 Brookham Drive in Grove City, Ohio. Eleven sorors and three youth sorted and packed grocery items for distribution to over 20 county service areas in Ohio. About 20 percent of the food from the Mid-Ohio Foodbank must be cleaned, sorted, and packed for dispersal before it can be delivered to families. SIZ volunteered from 8 am to 12 pm to pack boxes of snacks, canned food, and personal care items.

Through the efforts of volunteers like SIZ and other local partners giving over 62,000 hours of their time, in 2013, the Mid-Ohio Foodbank was able to distribute 53 million pounds of food and other items to many Ohioans in need.

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Sisterhood

SIZ Sorors Embrace Fitness, Fellowship At Retreat On August 6, 2014, the ladies of Sigma Iota Zeta Chapter gathered at 9 am for the kick off of our annual Chapter Retreat. We started the day with breakfast at McDonalds

where we greeted and conversed with one another before piling into our cars for a day filled with adventure!

Our first exciting stop was at Old Man's Cave in Logan, Ohio. We got quite the workout in with our hike! Along the way we came across some unforgettable moments; a lake that a few Sorors were so inclined to "test the waters"; the highest point of the cave that made us feel like we were overlooking the entire world; and finally the most refreshing of them all - an actual wedding taking place! We laughed, we talked, even helped each other across the rocks at times, overall a great bonding experience for our chapter.

When we finished our hike we

continued on our quest for adventure heading back to Columbus, Ohio to stay the night at Fort Rapids Water park and Resort. We changed into our swimsuits and headed for the water park! We went on slides, coasted thru the "lazy river", and even raced on our rafts!

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Sisterhood SIZ Sorors Embrace Fitness, Fellowship At Retreat (cont.)

After all that fun in the water it was time for food! We met at Applebee's enjoyed great food and conversation. The most disap-

pointing moment of the night was watching the Buckeyes lose their first game! After dinner we headed back to the hotel for games and strolling practice. We stayed up all night talking and laughing. The next morning we went to breakfast then headed back to the room to pack up and leave. This was another successful retreat for Sigma Iota Zeta Chapter.

SIZ Brings Two New Members Into the Sisterhood SIZ kicked off the 2014-2015 sorority year strong by initiating two new members into the organization.

On September 12, 2014, we welcomed new Sorors Shar i n a Ar m s t r o n g a n d Q u i a n a F e w i n t o t h e c h a p t e r . U p o n completion of their process, our new members enjoyed a celebration with the rest of the chapter.

Since becoming Sorors, both Armstrong and Few have taken an active interest in the organization and the chapter. Both Sorors served on committees at the Ohio State Organization Leadership Conference soon after becoming members. Furthermore, both Sorors have stepped up to take on leadership positions in the chapters, displaying an eagerness to work on various chapter initiatives.

We look forward to furthering their zeal and keeping their Zeta light shining.

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National Programs

SIZ Racks Up Z -HOPE Points With Service SIZ, a chapter with fewer than 25 financial Sorors, acquired more than 600 Z-points for the 2014-2015 fiscal year. This was an increase of more than 100

Z-points from the previous year. SIZ began their Z-HOPE programming with a bang by donating basic needs items to the 2014 NATIONAL Z-HOPE PROJECT at Boule’ in July. This community initiative was a collaboration of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., the Military Advisory Committee, and Social Action Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH-W) The Premier Retirement Community for America's Veterans. SIZ received 25 Z-points for their 20 item donation.

With a chapter focus on service, this year SIZ also donated more than 750 items towards other “Meeting Basic Needs” Community Initiatives and awarded $600 in scholarships. At Boule’ in Washington DC, SIZ was recognized for their participation in one Z-HOPE program—Adopt-A-School. For the second consecutive year, SIZ partnered with Mifflin High School in Columbus, Ohio to provide scholarships to deserving seniors.

Another reason for the increase in Z-points is the focus on national programming. For the first

time in SIZ history, the chapter participated in the following programs: Military Awareness Week, Prematurity Awareness Month in November, and Z-HOPE Global Day of Service—Get Engaged. The “Get Engaged” project was developed by Zeta to address the underlying issues that are contributing to the senseless killing of African Americans in the United States. On January 19, 2015 (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day), SIZ passed out 100 pamphlets made by the NAACP to youth participating in the MLK parade in Columbus, Ohio. To view a calendar of events including upcoming Z-HOPE programs, visit our website www.zphibsiz.org.

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National Programs

SIZ Participates in March of Dimes’ Night Moves The 34th Annual March of Dimes Night Moves 5K/5-Mile glow run and walk event was held on September 19, 2014 in Columbus, Ohio. For the fourth year in a row, SIZ was there volunteering their time. Sorors and Archonettes, led by team captain Soror Faith Miller, volunteered as route assistants passing out water and Gatorade at the finish line. Soror Isi Ikharebha was a runner in this event. All volunteers were given a T-shirt and a glow necklace. The race concluded with a block party which included free pizza and musical entertainment.

March of Dimes and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., have a long-standing partnership devoted to making sure all babies have a healthy start in life. Funds raised at Night Moves will support the March of Dimes’ mission of preventing infant mortality, premature births, and birth defects. Craig Schneider, Senior Community Director of Central Ohio March of Dimes, coordinated the event through The Arena District and Downtown Columbus.

SIZ Spreads Prematurity Awareness As an effort to support Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s partnership with the March of Dimes, Sigma Iota Zeta helped spread awareness for Zeta Prematurity Awareness Program on Sunday, November 30th 2014 at New Birth Christian Ministries. New Birth had over 1000 members that were in attendance that day, which included several SIZ sorors. Pastor Kenneth E. Moore, Sr. spoke to the congregations that morning on behalf of SIZ. The main objective for this program is to (1) raise public awareness of the problem of prematurity and (2) to decrease the rate of preterm births in the United States. SIZ was very grateful to Pastor Moore for allowing us to help spread our message by reaching out to those in our community.

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National Programs Blue & White Family Show Up For MOD Walk in Central Ohio SIZ’s March for Babies 2014 Campaign began when Soror Isi Ikharebha and Soror Natasha Smith attended the March for Babies Kick -Off Event February 19, 2014 at the Dublin Recreation Center. The reasons for participation, 15 million babies, worldwide, are born too soon each year and more than 1 in 6 Black infants are born premature when compared to 1 in 9 for all babies.

Since 1972, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and March of Dimes have been partnering

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National Programs Blue & White Family Show Up For MOD Walk in Central Ohio (cont.) to raise money to support programming and fund research to find answers to solve problems that threaten our babies. Several sorors worked diligently for more than eight weeks to help with this cause. Led by Soror Danita Taylor and social media

campaign Natasha

coordinator Smith,

SIZ

Soror raised

$570.64 which included a corporate match, submitted by Soror Deomi Smith, of $100 from Givaudan Flavors.

As the signature walk event for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., SIZ’s March for Babies Walk was April 27, 2014 at the Resolute Athletic Conference, Columbus, Ohio. Sorors Evone Pleasant, Marissa Mills, and Tennille Cooley led our team, Zeta Phi Beta -Sigma Iota Zeta Chapter, on race day. Sorors all wore the official March for Babies T -shirts, submitted

by Soror Ikharebha, ordered from The Exclusive Touch, LLC; a Greek Apparel Shop co-owned by Soror Jacqueline Remmer.

SIZ was featured in the Blue & White Unite Phamily Photos Presentation at the 2014 Boule’, in

celebration of Phi Beta Sigma’s Centennial, for their participation in the local walk. The phamily photo also featured sorors from Gamma Zeta Zeta Chapter from Columbus, Ohio.

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National Observances

Natural Hair Symposium Highlights Finer Womanhood On February 28, 2015, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Iota Zeta chapter, in partnership with the African American Male Initiative of the Columbus Urban League, presented “Naturally Healthy,

Naturally You�, a health and wellness symposium.

During this event, Sigma Iota Zeta offered valuable information to the Central Ohio community about natural hair care. More than 50 people were in attendance for the inaugural Finer Womanhood event held at the Columbus Urban League. Workshops provided at the symposium focused on such topics as transitioning to natural hair, myth busters about natural hair, natural hair design and natural hair maintenance. Demonstrations were offered on protective styles as well as natural hair products. Representatives from Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Gamma Zeta Zeta (Columbus)chapter (Chapter president (Charity Martin-Via), Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Psi Eta Omega chapter (Chapter president

Afrika Alsop, Rochane Fox), and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, Delta Omicron Sigma (Chapter president Yvonne Hunnicutt)

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National Observances Natural Hair Symposium Highlights Finer Womanhood (cont.) sat on the lunch panel focused on natural hair in the workplace where the panelists discussed their experiences in corporate America with their hair, moderated by event chair Tennille Cooley. The Divine Nine sisters rocked various natural styles from straight hair to locks so the audience was able to grasp a diverse perspective of styling options. Every symposium attendee walked away with a bag of natural hair products donated by over 10 sponsors including Curlisto and Shea Moisture. In addition, participants could purchase natural products from the events’ vendors as well.

The women of Sigma Iota Zeta chapter are looking forward to bringing this well-received event to the Central Ohio community again in 2016.

SIZ Recognizes Military Appreciation Week In November 2014, the Sigma Iota Zeta chapter collected over 340 items in their toiletry drive to benefit the Chalmers P. Wylie Ambulatory Care Center, a Veterans Affairs medical center. The Chalmers P. Wylie Ambulatory Care Center serves approximately 2,000 veterans each day.

Occasionally, there are homeless veterans or veterans going through a hardship who need toiletries. The Sigma Iota Zeta chapter’s donation will benefit those veterans who are most in need.

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National Observances SIZ Celebrates Founders’ Day With Weekend of Activities Founders’ Day 2015 marked the beginning of the countdown to the 2020 Centennial Celebration. Following the lead of the national Centennial Committee, Sigma Iota Zeta chapter, in partnership with Gamma Zeta

Zeta chapter of Columbus, OH, participated in a weekend of events that not only emphasized our core principles, but re-energized a spirit of collaboration between the two chapters.

Sorors planned a weekend of events that focused on Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood and the 2015 principle focus of Finer Womanhood that also included our brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Beta Omicron Sigma chapter. The events kicked off with the attendance of the local Columbus Education Association Awards dinner where Soror Cora Miller was honored with an award. On January 16, Sorors celebrated our Founders’ Day by fellowshipping at Paint, Sip and Soul where Sorors were honored with a painting and poem made just for them. The next day, Sorors had breakfast together as well as bowled together. That Sunday morning was filled with more fellowship as Sorors and frat worshipped at Southfield Community Church, then attended brunch. As we are part of a community conscious, action-oriented organization, Sigma Iota Zeta and Gamma Zeta Zeta Sorors dropped off much-needed professional clothing at Dress for Success Columbus, and then participated in the local MLK Walk

with our brothers of Beta Omicron Sigma chapter. During the walk, the Sorors passed out the NAACP’s “411-onthe- 5-0” pamphlets to youth as part of the national Get Engaged campaign in the wake of the unrest in Fergusion, Missouri. As is Sigma Iota Zeta Founders’ Day tradition, the chapter also served at the Mid-Ohio Food Bank and the chapter kicked off a book donation drive for the Hilltop YMCA Teen Library. The chapter collected more than 170 books through the donation drive.

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National Observances

SIZ Holds Annual Rededication With Gamma Epsilon On Sunday, April 12, the women of Sigma Iota Zeta chapter participated in our annual rededication ceremony. This year was very special as SIZ did a joint ceremony with our new undergraduate chapter, Gamma Epsilon at Wilberforce University! It is customary during our National observance of Finer Womanhood, for sorors active or inactive to recommit themselves to the principles of our beloved sorority…Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood and Finer Womanhood. Each sister contributes her part for the betterment of the whole.

SIZ, GZZ Blast Off Towards Centennial With Celebration In January 2015, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated officially launched the five-year Centennial countdown during the National Executive Board meeting in Houston. Sigma Iota Zeta and Gamma Zeta Zeta followed suit in bringing that celebratory energy to Central Ohio through the “Journey to Centennial” Central Ohio Re-Launch party held on February 6.

The event served as an opportunity to fellowship as well as inform. Sorors in attendance learned of the various contribution levels available to avoid an assessment for Centennial. For many Sorors, it was their first glance at everything that is being planned leading up to celebrating 100 years of our illustrious organization. Not only did Sorors hear the Centennial song, they also learned the Centennial stroll.

Amongst themselves, Sorors anxiously gathered signatures as they wanted to document their first Centennial event in their newly purchased Centennial Passports which were sold at the event.

The same committee that brought this great display of zeal to Ohio will collaborate in the future on raising funds for chapter pledges as well as fellowship opportunities to reclaim inactive Sorors.

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International Grand Basileus Programmatic Thrusts

SIZ Continues to Adopt Mifflin High School SIZ chapter is blessed to have a chapter full of educators. The chapter understands how important it is to elevate International Grand Basileus Mary Breaux Wright’s thrust for the Adopt A School Program.

SIZ began partnering with Mifflin High School in 2013 to assist students with resources particularly around colleges and universities.

In November 2014, SIZ Sorors participated in a college application work session at Mifflin High School. SIZ sorors worked with students for a half day helping them to complete college applications on line.

This opportunity was great as students leaned on sorors and asked important questions about the required documentation colleges were asking for to complete their application. Our brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, Beta Omicron Sigma Chapter.

In March 2015, SIZ presented Mifflin Senior Claudia Owusu with a $300 book scholarship for college!

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International Grand Basileus Programmatic Thrusts

SIZ Shows Love to Elder Population in Central Ohio For the second year in a row, Sigma Iota Zeta has participated in Elder Care. Sigma Iota Zeta’s Youth supported seniors by writing them “Thinking of You” cards. The cards were delivered to 20 seniors and disabled adults within

the Columbus area to express encouragement and attention to those that have little to no family or friends to care for them. The Archonettes and Amicettes of Sigma Iota Zeta chapter are leading the charge for making sure Zeta continues to be mindful about senior citizens in our community Elder Care, an initiative outlined by Madam Grand Basileus Mary Breaux Wright in 2012, provides education and awareness about men and women in their senior years. It is a comprehensive program that focuses on elder abuse awareness, financial peace, supporting the caregiver, and volunteering at senior care facilities. There are four ways Zeta’s, Amicae, and Youth can get involved. Volunteers can adopt-an-adult day health care center, adopt-a-home care agency, educate & inform, or care for caregivers.

SIZ Supports National Partner AARP on Local Level On Saturday, November 22, 2014, Sigma Iota Zeta attended a forum titled Because We Care, hosted by The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. in partnership with AARP. The Mistress of ceremonies for the forum was Tracy Townsend, nationally renowned TV Anchor at Channel 10, Columbus, Ohio.

The forum included a very informative panel discussion on being a Caregiver to family members, with panelists from the Columbus community. The panel discussion was moderated by Soror Olivia B. Johnson, J.D. The panelists were able to share their personal experiences being caregivers to family members, and advice as professionals who work with families providing guidance and counsel when they are embarking on the journey as a caregiver.

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Conferences

SIZ Sorors Attend Boule, Sigma Centennial in D.C. As the brothers of Phi Beta Sigma were celebrating their centennial weekend, SIZ Sorors showed up in Washington, DC for Boule ready to work…and work they did as sorors got through 121

amendments to the sorority’s constitution! SIZ donated items for the Boule Z-Hope Project.

Soror Isi Ikharebha and Soror Dantia Taylor hosted a round table at Boule to share information about SIZ’s signature program, “Breakfast with the Artist.” Soror Natasha Smith served as the Great Lakes representative on the national scrapbook committee. A highlight of the conference was the joint Zeta/Sigma rededication session led by the daughter of Founder Myrtle Tyler Faithful and the son of Founder Leonard F. Morse.

SIZ Soror Isi Ikharebha was one of over 400 sorors who received their ZOL certification at the conference. Our International Grand Basileus shared the news that OUR HOUSE was paid for in FULL and we celebrated by burning the mortgage!! We were entertained by the soulful sounds of Yolanda

Adams at our Prayer Breakfast and got to boogie with the Men of Soul during the evening concert.

After Zeta business ended, we joined our brothers at Howard University to witness the unveiling of the new Sigma monument. The week in DC was truly a time to remember!

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Conferences

SIZ Sorors Attend GLRC in Cleveland The ladies of Sigma I ota Zeta chapter and their youth attended the 80th Great Lakes Regional Conference in Cleveland, Ohio! Sorors listened intensely as our I nternational Grand Basileus shared an update on the status of National Headquarters.

SI Z sorors also chaired and served on conference committees. Basileus, Soror LaVada Washington serves as the Regional Scrapbook Committee Chair and her committee worked hard during the conference judging the plethora of scrapbooks submitted by chapters in the region. The chapter was also recognized for its participation in both the A d o p t - A- S c h o o l I n i t i a t i v e a n d t h e E l d e r C a r e I n i t i a t i v e . I n a d d i t i o n S I Z s o r o r s w e r e a b l e t o t a k e a d v a n t a g e o f t h e U n d e r g r a d u a t e , Y o u t h , a n d A m i c a e Ad v i s o r certification sessions offered during the conference. Soror I si I kharebha comp l e t e d t h e U n d e r g r a d u a t e Ad v i s o r C e r t i f i c a t i o n c o u r s e ! T o t o p o f t h e c o n f e r e n c e S I Z w o n 3 rd p l a c e i n t h e C h a p t e r R e p o r t c o m p e t i t i o n ! T h e w i n n i n g c h a p t e r report served as the chapter’s contribution to the Great Lakes Region’s 2020 time capsule.

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Conferences

SIZ Sorors Attend Ohio State Conference in Dayton October 2014 brought the Ohio State Leadership Conference held in Dayton, Ohio on the campus of University of Dayton. The hosts this year were Delta Phi Zeta (ΔΦZ) Graduate chapter, as

well as, the undergraduates from University of Dayton (UD). New Sorors, Quiana Few and Sharina Armstrong were amongst the 10 SIZ sorors that attended the conference. Sorors contributed toiletries to the state-appointed Z-HOPE project at the local YWCA battered women’s shelter. The Ohio State Organization elected SIZ’s PR/Historian Natasha Smith as the States PR/Historian. Madam Regional Director Michelle Porter Norman presented SIZ chapter with a certificate for participating in the National Finer Women Don’t Haze Campaign. Madam State Director, LaRita Smith recognized SIZ 1st Anti-Basileus and State of Ohio Grammateus Isi Ikharebha for working with her to organize the conference. In addition, the chapter received a 1st-place award for their chapter report!

The community service initiative recipient for the OSO conference was The Elizabeth New Life Center Stork’s Nest of Dayton, Ohio. The Ohio Z-HOPE Coordinator, Myrtis Holder, and ΔΦZ Chapter called for each Ohio chapter, including SIZ, to donate at least 20 baby items—diapers, wipes, cloth-

ing, baby toys, nursery needs, etc. SIZ donated 25 bibs and baby wipes. This Z-HOPE project was designed to meet the basic needs for the women and infants that would be served through The Elizabeth New Life Center’s Stork’s Nest.

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Awards SIZ Garners Awards, Recognition on State, Regional, National Level Sigma Iota Zeta continues to prove that hard work and a commitment to our founding principles yields not only results, but acknowledge-

ment.

In April 2014, SIZ sorors attended the Great Lakes Regional Conference in Cleveland. The chapter placed 3rd in the region’s chapter report competition.

Boule also proved to be a fruitful time for the chapter. SIZ was acknowledged as one of the Ohio chapters to participate in the March for Babies and the Blue & White Family Photo campaign. Furthermore, SIZ Soror Isi Ikharebha received her ZOL certification during the conference. During the 2014 Ohio State Organization conference, Madam Regional Director Michelle Porter-Norman presented SIZ chapter with a certificate for participation in the Finer Woman Don’t Haze Campaign. SIZ chapter was the only chapter in the state of Ohio to receive this recognition. Additionally SIZ took 1st place in the

Chapter report competition during the conference. Madam 1st Vice President Valerie Hollingsworth presented an award to SIZ for being the first chapter to submit a graduate membership intake packet for the 2014-2015 year. This recognition came with high compliments from Soror Hollingsworth on how well the chapter followed instructions on submitting a complete packet!

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Greek Unity

SIZ Supports Divine Nine in Central Ohio Sigma Iota Zeta could often be seen throughout the Metropolitan Columbus community showing love for our brothers and sisters of the Divine Nine.

Throughout the year, SIZ Sorors Amy McGrapth and Jennifer Fowler attended regular meetings of the Columbus Alumni NPHC as representatives as well as attended Greek mixers. The local NPHC held a monthly social event where canned goods and donations are accepted for the Mid-Ohio Food Bank and chapter members have contributed to this cause.

In 2014, SIZ Soror Tennille Cooley took the helm as chair of the NPHC Columbus Alumni Chapter’s Greek Unity Weekend held in June. For the first time, the weekend featured a Black & White Gala on June 27 where awards were distributed to members of the Divine Nine making a difference in the Columbus community. During the celebration, SIZ’s own Soror Cooley received the President’s Award for Outstanding Committee Chair. Two scholarships were given to area high school students and presented by SIZ Soror Fowler who served as scholarship committee chair. The 2015 NPHC Greek Unity weekend should be an exciting one for SIZ as Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated will serve as the host organization.

On Saturday, October 11, 2014 the ladies of the Sigma Iota Zeta chapter participated in the 3rd Annual Sisterhood Luncheon presented by Psi Eta Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. This event was open to the members of the four National Pan-Hellenic Sororities—Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta, and Sigma Gamma Rho—and was well attended by members of all four organizations. SIZ represented well with a lovely display table and slide show. Our First Vice-President, Isi Ikharebha gave a presentation detailing the highlights of our activities of the past year as well as information about our upcoming events. Being a health services professional, Soror Ikharebha gave an impassioned plea to the sorority members present to focus on infant mortaliPage 23

Greek Unity SIZ Supports Divine Nine in Central Ohio ty in the metropolitan Columbus area. The presidents of the other sororities present gave presentations as well.

On March 20, 2015, SIZ members attended the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, 75th (Diamond) Regional Conference in Columbus, OH. SIZ president LaVada Washington presented gifts to Central Region Syntaktes Tiffany Hightower and Yvonne Hunnicutt, president of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, Delta Omicron Sigma (Columbus) chapter. While in attendance, Sorors were informed of Sigma Gamma Rho’s activities throughout the region involving U.S. Swimming and Girl Scouts.

The ladies of SIZ also attended several social and civic functions presented by NPHC organizations this sorority year including the 50th anniversary celebration for the local Iota Phi Theta graduate chapter, the Alpha Phi

Alpha Mistletoe Party, the Kappa Alpha Psi Wine Sip, and Omega Psi Phi’s Talent Hunt.

SIZ Supports Our Brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity The past year has been about honoring our brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated who reached the 100-year milestone, particularly our local brothers of Beta Omicron Sigma chapter.

On Saturday, June 28, the ladies of Sigma Iota Zeta joined forces with our sorors of Gamma Zeta Zeta to present the brothers of Phi Beta Sigma, Beta Omicron Sigma chapter, with a cake at the Greek Unity weekend picnic in honor of their Centennial.

Centennial re-energized the bond between Zeta and Sigma in the local community. Over the past year, Blue & White has joined together for the March of Dimes Walk, the United Negro College Fund Walk, Founders’ Day activities, and the Martin Luther King Walk, Sigma Iota Zeta members have also contributed to Beta Omicron Sigma’s efforts as they breathe new life into their chapter with the introduction of a new Web site and new programming.

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Undergraduate Sponsorship SIZ Takes on Gamma Epsilon Undergraduate Chapter With Zeal After a 3 year hiatus, The GLAMAROUZ Gamma Epsilon Chapter of Wilberforce University is BACK!!! At the end of 2014, the women of Sigma Iota Zeta Chapter were approached by the Great Lakes Regional Director and Ohio State Director and asked to be the new sponsoring graduate chapter of Gamma Epsilon. The chapter had been suspended since 2012 and had only one remaining undergraduate. In accordance with our new sorority guidelines with sponsoring undergraduate chapters and MIP, SIZ had sorors trained and ready to take on this task.

In December of 2014, SIZ accepted this assignment and got right to work!!! In September of 2014, Wilberforce had just named a new President who is a Zeta! Soror Algeania Warren Freeman is Wilberforce University’s 20th President. In December of 2014 SIZ and Gamma Epsilon partnered with the State of Ohio, Xi Beta Zeta, and Delta Phi Zeta chapters to host a reception for Soror Freeman.

The reception was attended by the Mayor of Xenia and Wilberforce, Ohio. All welcomed Soror Freeman to Wilberforce!

With the daunting task of building chapter membership, SIZ Vice President Isi Ikharebha and now Gamma Epsilon Undergraduate Advisor began the MIP process with Undergraduate Soror Ayana Jones. At the beginning of February an Informational meeting was held for Zeta on the historic campus of Wilberforce University. Sorors were able to share with a captive audience the exciting work that Zeta was doing nationally, regionally, and on a local level that would soon involve eager undergraduates interested in Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. at Wilberforce University. By the end of FebPage 25

Undergraduate Sponsorship SIZ Takes on Gamma Epsilon Undergraduate Chapter With Zeal (Cont.) ruary, four young ladies were selected and began the MIP process. As the young interests began to learn about Zeta, SIZ invited the young ladies to participate in their two signature programs, Breakfast with the Artist and the Naturally Healthy, Naturally You Hair Symposium so that they could view programming in ACTION! On the beautiful evening of Friday, March 27, 2015, four new doves were inducted into our illustrious organization. Together with the Ohio State Director LaRita Smith, past Gamma Epsilon Alumni, Xi Beta Zeta Chapter President Alforetta Hughes, and Madam President Algeania Freeman, SIZ presented the 2015 Membership Intake Group B.L.U.E Beginnings (Soror Asia Moss, Soror Emani Lewis, Soror Deedee Brown, Soror Mija Martin)to the Wilberforce University Campus!

Not wasting any time and emulating their sponsoring chapter, Gamma Epsilon is making their mark on Wilberforce University. In the last two weeks the ladies participated in a Campus Clean Up, NPHC Volleyball Game (in which they won!!!), visited a senior home to do activities with their elders, and participated in the Adopt A Park program through their campus NPHC!!!

We are so proud of these young women and cannot wait to see what Fall 2015 will bring!

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Youth Auxiliaries SIZ Youth Focus on Zeta Principles During 2014-2015 Sorority Year The goal of the youth this year was to take a deeper look at the principles of Zeta. There were 2 months spent on each of the principles in

hopes that we could have an educational session and interactive session for all youth to participate in. All the lessons were geared toward engaging all the youth in the same activity regardless of age.

In December, the youth focused on service. The youth gathered to make Holiday cards for sick children at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and for local senior living facilities. The focus of the activity was to celebrate a new day of life and enjoyment for the season and not the status of their current situation.

During the months of January and February, the youth aimed their attention towards scholarship. The youth gathered for a facilitated (conversation about education in America. With a foundation of scholarship being connected to education the youth discussed how education was perceived in their communities in the country as a whole. We also looked at the U.S. constitution to determine what it states about the importance or laws

around education – as it is the law of the land. We were sad to discover that education is not mentioned at all in the U.S. Constitution. The ladies then learned if something is not mentioned in the constitution it is then left up to the states to determine what they feel is best. We then looked at what the Ohio Constitution says about education and we were all discouraged. The ladies were then given an opportunity (and they all did) to write letters to the Governor of Ohio stating how they feel education should be changed in Ohio. All letters were mailed that day and we were excited that on January 16th Governor Kasich responded to each student’s letter individually.

In addition, the youth gathered to play games that all had an educational undertone. They participated in vocabulary Pictionary. This required the ladies to pick a word out of a hat and draw it for the group. The youth who was able to determine the word had to provide the definition of the word and use it in a sentence. The first Page 27

Youth Auxiliaries SIZ Youth Focus on Zeta Principles During 2014-2015 Sorority Year (cont.) youth to correctly identify, define, and put 5 words in a sentence won the game. The ladies also learned about different types of poetry on Zeta’s principles. The ladies wrote poems in the form of a Limerick, Acrostic, and Haiku.

There were also games around math that required the ladies to find the answers to mental math problems that were posted on the walls of the room.

Like the women of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, our youth auxiliaries took an in-depth look at Finer Womanhood in March and April. The ladies attended and served at our annual Breakfast with the Artist and Natural Hair Symposium events. These events were chapter events for Finer Womanhood month. At the Breakfast with the Artist event the youth were able to perform the poems they wrote during the interactive scholarship session for all the attendees.

In an effort to encourage their own future Finer Womanhood, the ladies gathered to discuss branding.

After determining how business market and what their logos and brands look like. The topic transitioned into personal brand to determine what they hope to represent to others. The ladies were given an opportunity to create a logo for what they wanted their personal brand to exhibit. That logo was then transferred to a t-shirt that they were able to wear out as an opportunity to begin to market their brand and remain reminded of what they want to stand for.

On April 17 and April 18, Sigma Iota Zeta supported two of our Amicettes Jada Johnson and J’Anna Rogers as they participated in the YMCA Youth in Government mock legislation sessionwhere they presented legislation they created on topics of importance to them. Jada’s legislation focused on acquiring a license to drink while J’Anna’s focused on developing an online learning system for when children are unable to attend school

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