Archon Magazine - Summer 2021

Greetings from GRAND VAL Greetings Sorors and Auxiliaries, Welcome to the first Archon magazine of the Members’ Administration!

As I’ve said before, this is our sorority, and it would not be great without your vision and voices. The Archon has been a reflection of Zeta excellence since 1929 under the leadership of Triumphant Past Grand Ruth Tappe Scruggs. This publication is meant to embody the legacy of teamwork and cooperation across the Sisterhood and has grown in design, delivery, and devotion to detail every year since.

It is with pride that we present to you this first of its kind, double-sided edition that not only highlights our dynamic sorors, but also commemorates our unforgettable 2020 Centennial year. Be inspired by the best practices and engaging stories from our undergraduate and graduate sorors as we continue to become accustomed to our new reality.

Get lost in nostalgia as your past International Grand Basilei share their thoughts and reflections.

Another Zeta first is the inclusion of advertisements from soror entrepreneurs, sponsors, partners, and vendors, many of whom have worked tirelessly with and alongside Zeta. We take pride in supporting these great organizations.

We are zealous, phenomenal, and becoming even better every day. The Zeta Train is still moving forward, and we are so glad to have you as part of that forward movement. We hope you enjoy this edition of the Archon, and yes, there is still more to come! And as always, continue moving forward as One Zeta…Unified…MobiliZed …ZetariZed! Yours in Sisterhood,

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National Publications & Communications Team Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Founders Arizona Cleaver Stemons • Pearl Anna Neal • Myrtle Tyler Faithful • Viola Tyler Goings • Fannie Pettie Watts

Rhonda Lawson Archon Editor in Chief

International Centennial Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth Baker Archon Editor in Chief Dr. Rhonda M. Lawson Cover Designer Jessica Elmore, National Director of Graphics

Graphic Designer the Ink Studio • danielb@theInkStudio.net

International Centennial Executive Board International Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth Baker International First Anti-Basileus Tamara Manning Gordon International Second Anti-Basileus Chrislyn Turner International Third Anti-Basileus Ivy K. Arnold International Grammateus La’Kitha Bledsoe Hughes International Tamias Melissa Walton Jones International Phylacter Saniah Johnson International Chairman, National Executive Board Vanessa Elkins-Rogers International Chair of Trustees Tanya T. Lynn Harrison International Graduate Member at Large Dr. Taneen Brinson International Undergraduate Member to International Nominating Committee Tanda Lamb International Graduate Member to International Executive Committee LaKeshia Holley Neal International Undergraduate Member at Large Leshan Pratt International Undergraduate Member Desiré Davis International Executive Committee 24th International Grand Basileus Dr. Mary Breaux Wright Atlantic Regional Director Gina Merritt-Epps, Esq. Eastern Regional Director Dr. Donna W. Jordan Great Lakes Regional Director Elner Bailey Taylor Midwestern Regional Director Akella Wicker Pacific Regional Director Zakkiyyah Nazeeh South Central Regional Director Kathy R. Tatum Southeastern Regional Director LaWanda Harper Southern Regional Director, Chair of the Regional Directors Keisha Beasley

The Archon is the official publication of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. First published in 1929, the Archon is one of the oldest continuously published African-American magazines in circulation today.

The Archon is published every two years and communicates the sorority’s programmatic thrusts, articulates partnerships, outlines Zeta’s position on public policies and social issues, features individual members, and publishes stories of interest to women. The Archon is a long-standing source of pride for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and its members.

It is preserved in libraries and archives around the world as a historical record of occurrences in the African Diaspora.

Publisher Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated 1734 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20009 Phone: (202) 387-3103 www.zphib1920.org Editorial The Archon reserves the right to edit submitted articles or ads to ensure they adhere to the publication’s design, editorial standards, and requirements of the publication. Articles submitted for inclusion may appear in any Zeta publication as deemed appropriate by the Editor in Chief. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the submitted content. Inaccuracies or corrections should be submitted in writing.

Front cover: Lea Kerice McCray, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Omicron Theta Zeta Chapter, Fairfax, VA, marches in a Black Lives Matter demonstration.

Shaunita Grase

TJ Hendrix

Renea Lyles

Earlene McMichael

Ruthie Pickens

Jennifer Sharp

Izetta N. Thomas

Nui Brown

Message from the Editor I picked up my first copy of the Archon in the summer of 1993.

I was an incoming junior at Loyola University in New Orleans and had just joined this beautiful sisterhood. While visiting my big sisters, I spotted the Archon sitting on the coffee table.

I was intrigued because although I had learned about the magazine in my course of study, this was my first time seeing the publication. I excitedly picked it up and flipped through it. It was beautifully written and designed. An article about Comedienne Soror Sheryl Underwood caught my attention. I smiled when I read about how much she loved Zeta and dreamed of being the international president one day.

Never did I imagine that nearly 28 years later, I would edit this important piece of Zeta history. Even after joining the U.S. Army and writing for and editing numerous military publications, never did I think that I would be in the position to present entertaining and informative articles that inspire my sorors the same way I was inspired when I happened upon that Archon in my soror’s home. Yet here I am, leading a team of outstanding sorors in presenting the Centennial edition of the Archon to the greatest sisterhood in the land. This is an honor and a privilege that no one on my team takes lightly.

ate an Archon that would allow sorors to not only share accomplishments, but present best practices and highlight key programming. We wanted to treat you to vivid photos, entertaining articles, and fun features. In short, we worked hard to bring you the top-notch quality that you have grown accustomed to in the Archon but packaged in a new and innovative way.

Another aspect that makes this issue unique is that it is double-sided. There was no way that we could fit all of Zeta’s achievements into one magazine. We had to make two! So the first side of the Archon is filled with informative articles highlighting our members and programming. The second side is a timeline of sorts that will allow you to relive the historic Centennial moments that took place throughout the year. The year 2020 wasn’t easy for any of us, but it was still our Centennial, and Zeta shined! You will see that reflected on each and every page.

Thank you to each soror, chapter, state, region, and international leader who submitted an article or photo. I truly wish we could have fit in everything we received. Thank you also to the Zeta entrepreneurs and partners who submitted ads, which was another first for Zeta. Thanks to the International Publications and Communications Team for their dedication and professionalism, and a special thanks to International Centennial Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth Baker for her support and leadership.

This is your Archon, Sorors. Enjoy it. It is a celebration of you!

Dr. Rhonda M. Lawson

Many of you may notice that this Archon is a little different from publications of the past, but with a new centennial year comes change. We strove to creGREETINGS

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Contents 3

Greetings

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3 5 8 12 14

Adopt-A-School

16 23 25 28 32

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Social Action

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34 36

Africa

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COVID-19 Pandemic

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England

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Zetas on the Move

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Autism Awareness

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Greetings from GRAND VAL Message from the Editor Get and Stay Engaged True Support Addressing the Community in Crisis Georgia Turnz Blue Pennsylvania Gets Engaged to Elect a New President My Political Journey The COVID-19 Vaccination Meeting the Basic Needs of the Navajo Nation During COVID-19 Zetas Have Heart Major Pandemic Leads to Major Action Cooking with the Zetas During COVID-19 Zetas Use “Finer Conversations” to Get the Word Out During COVID-19 Zetas on the Move During the COVID-19 Pandemic L.A. Elementary School Honors Trailblazing Zeta OOZ Pivots for Evergreen Avenue Elementary School

Finer Service

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98 56 58 60 66 72 76 78 80 82 84 86 88 90 92 94

Money Management The Zeal Institute: Women’s Academy of Excellence Answering the Call Ghana Chapter Chartered on August 29, 2020, in Africa Zeta’s First African Chapter Returns After 40 Years Zeta Continues Blazing Trails in England Autism Awareness A Mother’s Love Maryland Makes Major Impact 101 Years of Service: Nobody Does It Better Tau Psi Zeta Steps Up for Moms and Babies C-A-N-C-E-R: That Six-Letter Word Sigma Kappa Zeta Fights Against Domestic Violence Finer Women Always Weather the Storm DBZ Makes Service a Way of Life Omega Omicron Zeta Celebrates Year of Service CONTENTS

106 Zeta Management 97 98 101 104 106

110 114 116 118 120 134 138 139 140 142 144 146

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Shopping With Licensed Vendors: The Reasons Why Financial Freedom Intentional Money Management Finding Funds for Our Philanthropy Zeta Implements New Association Management System Chartering a New Zeta Chapter From Girls to Pearls Zeta Youth Continue to Strive for Excellence Zeta Male Network on the Rise 2020 Zeta Amicae Maintaining a Successful Step Team How to Develop a Publicity Campaign The Art of Planning LEGACY Embracing Our Crowns Saluting Our Honorary Members Regional Roundup

Social Justice

114 Zeta Auxiliaries

134 Zeta Development

140 Zeta Spotlights

146 Regional Roundup

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Get and Stay Engaged “Let us remember we are all part of one American family. We are united in common values, and that includes belief in equality under the law, basic respect for public order, and the right of peaceful protest.”

– Barack Obama

Organizational Activism

By Nicole A. Butler International Director of Social Action

The 44th president of the United States said it best. We are all part of one American family. As such, we must be diligent in ensuring equity in every aspect of our society. Zeta, as an organization, made the declaration 100 years ago, seeking to improve the human condition. Having a mission to improve communities and make our lives examples for others to follow is how we stand out among our peers.

Being a part of an organization has many merits, such as sisterhood, working as a collective of like-minded people, and being a contributor to society through service projects. Being able to say that more 8

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than 20,000 women are fighting all injustices that they face has a greater impact than a select few. By uniting under One Zeta, we make sure our voices are heard on pertinent issues such as birth equity, domestic violence, police brutality, and human trafficking, to name a few.

We have promoted the slogan Community-Conscious, Action-Oriented for many years; we must continue to use this as our rallying cry and use it as our foundation to serve our social action efforts. We are tasked to ensure that we are utilizing all resources to make our communities better than they are and to increase our actions in doing so.

We are the only sorority that has a designated program for social action. Get Engaged is where we are intentional in addressing current issues, resolving conflict on the local level, and encouraging the blue and white family to be visible when seeking political office. Get Engaged is not just a slogan or catchphrase but a verb that should motivate you to make change in your communities, seek support from your public officials, and demand that engagement is ongoing within our organization.

As with any program, Get Engaged can always improve, yet improvement comes from being involved and having your voice heard. Serving on multiple levels of social action, it is invigorating that many Zetas are leading the way in making sure social action is being done on the local level.

With over 900 active chapters, we have impacted over 75,000 people in the last two years. Let’s strive to impact more by 2022.

Serving as the director of this program has allowed me to assess what is important to the sisterhood and how we can impact our communities through our various Z-

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HOPE programs. It is gratifying to say to a partner that we have more than 20,000 Zetas who are ready to implement programs related to the Census, Election 2020, and supporting the families of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, and Soror Pheonecia Ratliff. We must continue to say their names and continue to do the work to prevent further injustices in our chartered areas of service.

I charge you all with rolling up your sleeves and getting in the trenches to make sure that we are truly being a service to our communities. Our theme for this administration: Robust Civic Engagement. We must demand to be in the room where decisions are made. We must demand that we receive funding to support our programs that will help families thrive.

We must demand accountability from all who have been elected. We must demand transparency from all who pledged to serve.

In closing, I am grateful to the Zetas who blazed the path for me to walk on, who were a friend to man and continued to lead the fight for the improvement of our communities.

As We Move Forth The year 2020 was a year of many changes. We have experienced a pandemic, a rise in violence against women, our nation’s capital being breeched, police brutality, virtual education, and much more.

Zeta has embraced the many changes we faced as a country. What would have (Continued on page 10) SOCIAL JUSTICE

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been a glorious and finer centennial celebration was abruptly cut short. Yet we pressed on. We learned that our country was going through the ultimate test of strength when the pandemic hit. It was not just a problem in certain communities or among certain people; it was a problem across the globe. Beyond the pandemic, we were fighting for equality and justice in our communities. The fight was intensified when the unjust murders of Breonna, George, and Ahmaud happened only months apart. We were already fighting for justice for Trayvon, Tamir, Sandra, Philando, and countless others who had fallen at the hands of the police.

When does it stop? Where does it end?

Whom do we speak to about this? Zetas have stepped up and started taking it to the streets. Since the inception of the Get Engaged program, Zeta was the only sorority to showcase our letters during peaceful protests. This small action shows our

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dedication to social change. We marched for all those who have been victimized and couldn’t speak for themselves.

This past year wasn’t any different; Zetas were on the front lines with protests in our local areas and traveling to support our peers to demand change. We made phone calls and public service announcements, and we hosted town halls to show our discontent with the issues in our communities. With the coronavirus at its height during the summer, it was apparent that we had to pivot our method of engagement.

Yet, we did not stop nor did we waver. We used social media as our main platform to spread the message of making change at the ballot box and making change in the halls of Congress. We showed up to board meeting via Zoom, and we emailed our elected officials to make our voices known.

Lastly, we created campaigns to bring awareness to all the ills that are plaguing our communities.

We had to adjust to a virtual society. We did it quickly and with finer finesse. As a

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trailblazing organization, we are making sure we are in the room to continue the fight for equity in our society.

Sorors, our work is not done! We may get weary, yet we must march on.

Now that the election is over, we must push to get our needs met.

VIRTUALLY, WE CAN: 1. Continue to create social media campaigns to bring awareness to an issue 2. Host forums to educate all on the issues 3. Organize communities to testify in front of city councils, state legislatures, and/ or Congress.

4. Utilize our partners to maximize our reach.

The summer of 2020 taught us that the road to freedom is not easy nor is it free.

Yet we must be willing to pay the cost to see that our children do not experience what we are fighting against.

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True Support

Eta Gamma Zeta Basileus Darleen Smith embraces a former coworker at the initial community support rally for Ahmaud Arbery.

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Ahmaud Arbery Case Spurs Eta Gamma Zeta to Action wick’s residents were Black, which gave them economic power that could not be ignored.

In February 2020, Ahmaud Arbery was jogging in a neighborhood outside Brunswick when white men confronted and shot him. He quickly became a household name after the graphic video of his murder became public.

There was anger, anguish, and cries of “No justice, no peace!” Nobody would expect something like this to happen in this community. It seemed to shock everybody, including many of the white residents. Once they fought past segregation, residents of the region lived a relatively harmonious racial existence, which is why it was so surprising to see such a racially explosive killing.

As outrage over Mr. Arbery’s case swept through Brunswick and beyond, most people recognized that race could have factored into the confrontation and shooting of Mr. Arbery.

Activists also noted that the Glynn County Police Department had a history of recurring allegations of police officials shielding officers accused of wrongdoing. A collective of civic

By Chriscilia L. Cox Eta Gamma Zeta In 2020, cities nationwide marked the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington and celebrated leaders who were soldiers in the crusade for non-violent change. Though the Civil Rights Movement first made national headlines in the 1950s and 1960s, the struggle for racial equality in America continues.

Along Georgia’s coast, in historic Brunswick, the major urban and economic center in the southeast corner of Georgia, local leaders made national headlines in the 1960s by embracing cooperative change early and quickly, making it the “model Southern city.” Its reputation was shaped by national attention and praise decades ago because black and white leaders worked together to integrate with far less acrimony, which boiled over in desegregation efforts in other southern cities. In the 1960s, the racial tyranny of Jim Crow was plain to see; however, nearly half of Bruns-

leaders, including elected officials, pastors, and activists, both Black and white, have been trying to follow a mold established during the days of desegregation.They believed that their efforts pressured law enforcement officials to take the case seriously and maintained order in the community. Eta Gamma Zeta Basileus Darleen Smith said, “I don’t know how to process this, but Eta Gamma Zeta will do something.”

Eta Gamma Zeta Chapter, which was chartered in Brunswick in 1965, broadened their focus to change the criminal justice system in Mr. Arbery’s name. The 16-member chapter rendered a situation brief to both the International Social Action and Get Engaged Directors, Nicole Butler and Wanda CromartieJones, which went up the Zeta chain. The chapter galvanized boots on the ground, and their initial “Get Engaged” efforts reached 5,182. A legislative template to challenge all state hate crime bills was created for the sisterhood and led to passing Georgia House Bill 426 (Hate Crime Bill) and the removal of the local District Attorney, Linda Johnson. These actions also led to an establishment of a day of recognition and an Ahmaud Arbery monument. From these experiences, the work of Zeta is truly appreciated in the trenches and to the community while being a friend to man, and Eta Gamma Zeta Chapter did its part to create lasting change.

(LEFT) Eta Gamma Zeta Basileus Darleen Smith smiles at the 1,000-Men Rally at the chapter’s voters’ table, happy to see her male student released from prison and registering to vote.

(RIGHT) Eta Gamma Zeta Chapter with Zeta Sigma Sigma Chapter members talk with Rev. John Perry, president of the Brunswick NAACP, at one of the many local voter registration drives.

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Addressing the Community in Crisis Eta Pi Zeta Protects Its Citizens

By Nanyamka Hales Eta Pi Zeta Chapter Social Action Chair When injustice and racism showed their true colors, Eta Pi Zeta stepped out front with dialogue regarding protecting its community citizens, preserving the voice of the people, and serving the community when and where it was needed the most.

In September 2016, in response to heightened incidents of police brutality, Eta Pi Zeta hosted a police and community relations forum, which was attended by over 100 people. Eta Pi Zeta collaborated with its community partners: the Montgomery County Office of Human Rights, the Montgomery County Police Department, and the NAACP. The forum focused on educating the community and its youth about their rights, rights of the police, and how to advance legislative initiatives that serve to reduce conflict in the community. In March 2017 Eta Pi Zeta co-sponsored a follow-up event, Montgomery College’s Presidential Dialogue Series 2017 – Civility in Action: Dialogues Across Difference. In an effort to identify ways to reduce com-

munity tension, this event consisted of a conversation about police integration in the Montgomery County community.

Recognizing the need to strategically enforce its efforts by empowering women in the fight for justice and racial equity, Eta Pi Zeta annually partners with the Montgomery County Commission for Women at its Women’s Legislative Briefing events to assist with planning, networking, and programming to inform the residents of the county and Maryland at large about legislative proposals before local, state, and national legislative bodies that address issues of specific concern to women. Additionally, in March 2019 the Chapter held an all-women’s diversity panel discussion, entitled Changing the Narrative of Diversity Challenges, to address racial injustice situations and create common ground to address the atrocities brought on by racial injustice. The Chapter joined forces with several organizations for this event: the Montgomery County Office of Human Rights; the United Methodist Women of Goshen United Methodist Church; the NAACP; Montgomery College; Durham County Department of Public Health; International Black Women’s Public Policy Institute; Alpha Kappa

Alpha Sorority, Incorporated; and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

In the sorority’s “Centennial Year,” the Chapter would face its hardest mountain to climb in the war on racial justice. As the pandemic hit, there was also a rise in racial injustice incidents across minority communities. With the combination intensifying the mental health conditions of the citizens of our community, the Chapter saw the importance in assisting the community with mental health information. In May 2020 the Chapter held a mental health webinar entitled Surviving the Pandemic – A Mental Health Perspective that addressed mental health conditions exacerbated by our current social, economic, and racial divide that exists today. Each panelist shared their professional talent to provide vital information on topics that included the effect of social isolation on families, stress management, and self-care.

As 2020 comes to a close, Eta Pi Zeta will continue to be trailblazers in the fight for social justice with dynamic programming and county partnerships to enhance the lives of the residents of Montgomery County, MD.

Soror Alesha Tyson and Soror Arlinda Clark in picture together at 2019 Women’s Legislative Briefing Event and Soror Arlinda Clark at Women’s Legislative Briefing 40th Anniversary Event in 2020. In October 2020, Soror Arlinda Clark was appointed as a Commissioner to the Montgomery County Commission for Women.

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Georgia Turnz Blue

Jackson Street Bridge, Atlanta, Georgia, United States Photo by Joey Kyber on Unsplash

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By Chriscilia L. Cox National Strategic Director The world watched as Georgia turned BLUE when the U.S. presidential election results were announced on Nov. 3, 2020.

This event had not occurred since 1992 and ultimately changed the direction of the 2020 elections. It was a nail-biter across the nation as Democratic candidates former Vice President Joe Biden and Senator Kamala Harris defeated President Donald Trump, a Republican. Yet in the very late night until past dawn, all eyes were, again, on Georgia to see a potential Senate runoff, and on Jan 5, 2021, Pastor Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff were elected to the Senate, leaving the Democratic Party with control of the House and Senate, thanks, in part, to Zeta’s Get Engaged initiative.

What did we learn during this recent election season? We learned that voter mobilization matters; we learned that our voice and our vote matters. Every vote counts! It made us realize how powerful we are when we mobilize and execute together. Zeta focuses on partnerships and opportunities with When We All Vote, Black Voters Matter, and the NAACP. Our Social Action and Get Engaged Directors (Sorors Nicole Butler and Wanda Cromartie-Jones) loaded the sisterhood with webinars, training, PSAs, and any other resources needed to assist in this massive effort.

In Georgia, registered voters can request a mail-in ballot or vote early in person. In 2016, 59 percent of the total votes were cast early.

In the 2020 election, due to the pandemic, 74.1 percent took advantage and mailed

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in their ballots with a 1-percent return rate.

All over Georgia, precincts have had record turnouts. More than 3.9 million ballots were cast in Georgia. That’s 1.5 million votes more than were cast in early voting in the 2016 presidential election.

With one day of voting left to go, Georgia had already shattered voting records from 2016. By the end of the 2020 campaign, when polls suggested Georgia was close, Democrats went all in on the state, as Stacy Abrams had been calling for. The Democratic super PAC, Priorities USA, which focused only on Arizona, Florida, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, expanded its operations to Georgia. Initially, NAACP guidance was pretty simple: The Atlanta area turned really blue in the Trump era. Definitions differ about the exact parameters of the Atlanta metropolitan area, but 10 counties are part of a governing collaborative called the Atlanta Regional Commission.

Almost 4.7 million people live in those 10 counties, or about 45 percent of the state’s population.

Until very recently, the Atlanta area wasn’t a liberal citadel. There was a Democratic bloc that long controlled the government within the city limits of Atlanta and a Republican bloc that once dominated the suburbs and whose rise was chronicled in historian Kevin Kruse’s 2005 book, White Flight: Atlanta and the Making of Modern Conservatism. In 2012, Obama and Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney each won five of the 10 counties in the Atlanta Regional Commission. But in 2016, Clinton won eight (Continued on page 18)

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of the 10 counties. In 2018 Abrams won those eight counties by larger margins than Clinton. Biden then improved on Abrams’s margins in most of them.

For example, Romney carried Gwinnett—an Atlanta-area suburban county that is the second-largest county in the state—by nine percentage points in 2012. In 2020 Ossoff won by 16 and Biden won by 18. Likewise, in Cobb County, another large Atlanta-area suburban county, Romney won by 12 points in 2012, but then Clinton carried it by 2, Abrams by 10, Ossoff by 11, and Biden by 14. All eyes were initially on metro Atlanta’s Fulton and DeKalb counties. However, Savannah’s Chatham County, Clayton County, and any number of smaller Democratic strongholds throughout the Peach State turning red counties to purple played a huge part.

For instance, 1st District’s Glynn County was in the heat of both election and runoff and fighting social injustices like the Ahmaud Arbery trial. Educating voters on their rights and registration was the main focus from chapters like the Eta Gamma Zeta chapter of Brunswick as well as other coastal chapters like Chi Pi Zeta of Hinesville. They specifically targeted the 23,000 young voters who became eligible during the runoff. Their efforts led to more than 100 registrations within a three-county radius. On Jan. 2, 2021, the Glynn County Democratic, This Is What Voting Looks Like, and Eta Gamma Zeta Chapter hosted a meet the candidates forum, where Rev. Warnock shared his campaign vision. This resulted in 400+ constituents and an increase of more than 13,000 voters with efforts from

Eta Gamma Zeta Chapter and Lambda Beta Sigma Chapter of Brunswick, Georgia, at the Meet the Candidates forum January 2, 2021, at Lanier Plaza, with president of Eta Gamma Zeta Chapter Soror Darleen Smith and president of Lambda Beta Sigma Chapter Frater Johnny Davis.

National Strategic Director and Eta Gamma Zeta member Soror Chriscilia L. Cox with Marcus Arbery Sr.at the meet the candidates forum at Lanier Plaza on Jan. 2, 2021.

Chi Pi Zeta and Eta Gamma Zeta chapters registering high school eligible voters at local county high schools.

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late results from Clayton and Chatham counties, the latter of which sparked a lawsuit from the Trump campaign.

Regional Director LaWanda Harper, State Director Vicki Pearson, and Georgia Zetas, Sigmas, Amicae, and Youth played another pivotal role. With a $40,000 grant from Black Voters Matter, chapters moved with full force and creativity. Some chapters, like Alpha Alpha Kappa Zeta of Newman, Georgia, creatively found other funding resources to actively engage with

the Party at the Box campaign. Other chapter efforts included providing meals and snacks for workers, distributing snacks, rides to the polls for the general election, sponsoring billboards for the Senate runoff election, Get Out the Vote parades, voter motorcades, certified runners between voting precincts, Public Service Announcements, and distributing yard signs and banners. Their culminating event was the Blue Boots on the Ground neighborhood canvassing with our state Sigma brothers on Jan. 2, 2021.

State of Georgia participating chapters: Alpha Alpha Kappa Zeta Alpha Theta Zeta Beta Alpha Chi Zeta Beta Rho Zeta Chi Pi Zeta Epsilon Tau Zeta Epsilon Zeta Eta Gamma Zeta Eta Rho Zeta Eta Theta Zeta Iota Eta Zeta Kappa Iota Zeta Omicron Alpha Zeta Omicron Kappa Zeta Phi Omicron Zeta Psi Rho Zeta Rho Epsilon Zeta Rho Xi Zeta Sigma Mu Zeta Sigma Omega Zeta Sigma Omicron Zeta Sigma Rho (ONLY UNDERGRAD) Theta Chi Zeta Theta Xi Zeta SOCIAL ACTION

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PHILADELPHIA WAS LISTED as one of the major cities in the United States that struggled to get communities of color to the polls.

Alpha Alpha Omicron Zeta (Northeast Philadelphia and Bucks County, PA) knew that they needed to be a voice of hope and change for their community.

The sorors of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania were relentless in educating the community and making sure their voices would be heard in this election.

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Pennsylvania Gets Engaged to Elect a New President organization dedicated to increasing voter turnout in the Greater Pittsburgh area.

Lambda Lambda Zeta (Pittsburgh, PA) worked diligently to get out the vote! They canvassed low-income minority communities, provided voter education, reiterated the importance of the election, and encouraged citizens to register to vote. LLZ also partnered with the organization PA Black Votes Matter along with PA State Representative Jake Wheatley to assist people with mail-in ballots and in-person voting.

Philadelphia was listed as one of the major cities in the United States that struggled to get communities of color to the polls. Alpha Alpha Omicron Zeta (Northeast Philadelphia and Bucks County, PA) knew that they needed to be a voice of hope and change for their community. The chapter participated in the 2020 Census Zeta Text-A-Thon and a Voter Registration Email Campaign. The chapter hosted a Vice Presidential Watch Party and partnered with When We All Vote to host an Early Voter Activation celebration. Sorors canvassed the community by providing PPE and early voting location and ballot information.

By Diane Wilson Gamma Alpha Tau Zeta

Sorors in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania take the GET ENGAGED initiative very seriously. During last year’s presidential election, Pennsylvania was considered one of the key battleground states. Understanding that the 2020 election was too important to sit and watch, sorors across the state planned a variety of activities to Encourage, Educate, and Ensure that the residents in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania had everything that they needed for the election.

Gamma Alpha Tau Zeta (Allegheny Valley, PA) educated and empowered voters by supporting voter registration with members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. at a local Pittsburgh voter registration event.

The three southwestern Pennsylvania chapters, Gamma Alpha Tau Zeta, Lambda Lambda Zeta, and Upsilon Eta Zeta partnered with VEEEM Pittsburgh (Voter Empowerment Education & Enrichment Movement) and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. to “Turn Up The VOTE!” VEEEM Pittsburgh, founded by Soror Maryn Formley, is a faith-based, nonpartisan community SOCIAL ACTION

elections. They hosted a two-day voterregistration drive to provide information and assist with voter registration. They helped residents check their registration status, encouraged voters to visit satellite mail-in ballot locations, and encouraged them to have a voting plan.

Sorors, along with brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, canvassed the community, providing resources and holding important conversations about having a successful voting plan. They hosted a Trunk O’ Treat event to ensure that the members of the community had a voting plan. They decorated trunks and provided pre-wrapped treat bags, voting giveaways, personal protection equipment (PPE), music, activities, contests, and dancing.

The Sorors of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania were relentless in educating the community and making sure their voices would be heard in this election. Their efforts resulted in returning Pennsylvania to its original blue state.

The Social Action Team of Beta Delta Zeta (Philadelphia, PA) encouraged the citizens of Philadelphia to register to vote for the 2020 presidential election and local

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I BECAME A MEMBER of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Omega Kappa Chapter in 1995. The women who were a part of bringing us through the organization taught us the fundamentals of working hard, not taking any shortcuts, and being action-oriented. This has been the theme of my activism, leadership and political aspirations.

Tonya McKenzie, Los Angeles County Commissioner

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My Political Journey “I was appointed to a position that is charged with promoting better human relations in Los Angeles County by working to transform prejudice into acceptance, inequity into justice, and hostility into peace.” body Senator. After college, I worked to become the Associate Executive Director of the Mt. Diablo Region YMCA and was elected as the first African American to the Board of Directors for the Oakley Chamber of Commerce. Living and working in Contra Costa County gave me a platform to advocate for what I was truly passionate about. Being a gun violence and sexual assault survivor lit a fire in me for the advocacy of our youth. I was appointed in 2007 to the Contra Costa County Youth Council for District 5 by Supervisor Federal Glover.

In 2016 I founded my company, Sand & Shores, a public relations and leadership firm. Being active in the business community here in Redondo Beach, California, I was elected as the first African-American president of the North Redondo Beach Business Association. In 2017, I was appointed to the City of Redondo Beach GPAC (General Plan Advisory Committee)

by City Councilwoman Laura Emdee. We work to send zoning and other recommendations to the Planning Commission to enact for the future of the city. In June 2018, I was awarded the Ambassador of the Year for the Redondo Beach Chamber of Commerce and sworn in by Assembly member Al Muratsuchi as the first African-American woman to serve on the Chamber of Com-

By Tonya McKenzie Los Angeles County Commissioner On March 1, 2021, I started my four-year tenure as a Los Angeles County Commissioner. It is an appointed position, delegated by an L.A. County Supervisor, and voted on by the people. When I got the call, I had to step back and analyze how I even got to this place. I was appointed to a position that is charged with promoting better human relations in Los Angeles County by working to transform prejudice into acceptance, inequity into justice, and hostility into peace. This important position says a lot about my leadership and capabilities. It also says a lot about the work that I have done in the past to get me to this point.

I became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Omega Kappa Chapter in 1995. The women who were a part of bringing us through the organization taught us the fundamentals of working hard, not taking any shortcuts, and being action-oriented. This has been the theme of my activism, leadership, and political aspirations. In 2010, I chartered the Omega Kappa Zeta grad chapter in Northern California.

At California State University, Northridge, I ran and was elected as a student SOCIAL ACTION

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merce Board of Directors. Early 2020, I cochaired the very first Dr. MLK Jr. Celebration in Redondo Beach’s history, and my firm handled the public relations and marketing efforts. It was an amazing event and a highlight of my career. The COVID-19 shutdown of 2020 prompted my appointment to the City of Redondo Beach’s Crisis Council. Recently, I was awarded a fellowship from Everytown, where I will serve as a national spokesperson and policy advocate for commonsense gun laws.

So how did I get to a place where Supervisor Janice Hahn appointed me to an L.A. Commission position? I would say that it has been a lot of hard work, dedication, many firsts, and the willingness to serve the communities in which I live to improve the quality of life for our youth and residents alike. My motto: Leave this world better than you got it.

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The COVID-19 Vaccination

THE NUMBER ONE GOAL of vaccinations is to save lives, save families, and protect communities against disease spread, as well as provide meaningful protection to our future generations.

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5 Things You Need to Know NOW as provide meaningful protection to our future generations.

As we know, vaccines help our bodies’ immune systems fight infections faster and more effectively by protecting us from serious and life-threatening diseases. Vaccines trigger a response from our immune system that helps our body fight off certain germs and then remembers these germs so that it can attack if it comes back again, thus providing long-term immunity overall.

Now that COVID-19 vaccines are here, it is important to keep sharing trusted information with our friends, families, and communities.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a highly recommended site to visit for accurate and the most up-to-date information on all things COVID-19 and vaccinations.

By Dr. Raina E. Groover National Medical Emergency Response Team Director

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/ index.html As you are aware, Pfizer currently has a vaccination called Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 that was granted on Dec. 13, 2020, by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). This vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective for use in persons older than 5 years of age. Findings from studies on this vaccine have demonstrated that the known and potential benefits of this vaccine outweigh the known and potential harms of becoming infected with the coronavirus disease COVID-19.

Given there is great hesitation by some on taking any vaccination at this time, especially in our African-American communities, it is vital to provide current information and awareness on what vaccinations are available to help make informed decisions on what is right for you.

General understanding about vaccines is that they are primarily created to help protect and provide immunity against infectious diseases. The number one goal of vaccinations is to save lives, save families, and protect communities against disease spread, as well COVID-19

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HERE ARE FIVE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS VACCINATION: 1. This vaccination is preservative-free made with 0.9% sodium chloride (normal saline).

Multi-dose vial. 5 doses per vial. Dosage is 0.3ml. Mix before use.

2. Approved for use of persons 5 years of age and older.

3. Scheduled dosing is a two-dose series separated by 21 days. Both dose administration must be a Pfizer vaccine product.

4. The vaccination is administered as an intramuscular (IM) injection in the deltoid muscle (upper arm/top of shoulder).

For more information on the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, please visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/ info-by-product/pfizer/index.html On Dec. 18, 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) furnished an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for a second vaccine, called the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, for use of the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019, which is caused by a severe acute respiratory syndrome, coronavirus 2 (SARCoV-2) (coronavirus that caused COVID-19).

This EUA permits this vaccination to be distributed in the U.S. for use in persons 5 years of age and older.

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FOUR KEY FACTS ON THE MODERNA COVID-19 VACCINE: 1. Scheduled dosing is a 2-dose series separated by 28 days. All series started with a a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine should be completed with the same Moderna vaccine product.

2. The vaccine is an intramuscular (IM) injection administered in the deltoid muscle (upper arm/top of shoulder) 3. Multidose vial. 10 doses per vial. Dosage is 0.5ml.

4. Approved for use of persons 18 years of age and older.

For more information on the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, please visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/ info-by-product/moderna/index.html Johnson and Johnson’s Janssen (J&J/Janssen) has a single dose COVID-19 vaccination for administration. Reported risks of rare blood clots in women younger than 50 years old with low platelet count after the vaccination was reported, and administration was briefly halted. After further careful evaluation and review, the CDC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has resumed the use of Johnson and Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 vaccination in the United States as of April 23 2021.

For further Johnson & Johnson Janssen COVID-19 vaccination information and updates, please visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/vaccines/safety/JJUpdate.html# symptoms-list-question Other vaccinations, such as the COVID-19 AstraZeneca vaccine, are additionally on the horizon; however, product information and a full fact sheet is not yet available. Please continue to check the CDC website for updates and vaccine education.

Currently, clinical trials are being conducted to evaluate additional COVID-19 vaccines in many thousands of study participants. It is important to have a diverse study group to offer a true reflection of vaccination outcomes in various ethnic groups because these trials will generate scientific data and other information 30

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that will be used by the FDA to determine vaccine safety and effectiveness for all. Clinical trials on all COVID-19 vaccine participants are conducted according to a rigorous standard set forth by FDA guidelines and protocols. We can be assured, if the FDA determines that a vaccine meets its safety and effectiveness standards, it can make these vaccines available for use in the United States by approval through an EUA. After the FDA determines that a COVID-19 vaccine participant is safe and effective, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which is a committee composed of medical and public health experts, reviews available data before making vaccine recommendations to the CDC. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that the COVID-19 vaccine be administered to health care personnel and residents of long-term care facilities in the initial phase of this COVID-19 vaccination program process.

Vaccination of COVID-19 is offered to persons regardless of history of prior symptomatic or asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. If a person has a current SARS-CoV-2 infection, vaccination should be deferred until recovery from acute illness and criteria have been met to discontinue isolation. There is no minimal interval between infection and vaccination.

Current evidence suggests that reinfection is uncommon in the 90 days after initial infection, and persons with documented acute infection in the preceding 90 days may defer vaccination until the end of this period. Persons with known SARS-CoV-2 exposure should defer vaccination until the quarantine period has ended to avoid exposing healthcare personnel or other persons during vaccination visits.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/hcp/dispoistion-in-home-patients. html https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/hcp/duration-isolation.html As it pertains to persons with underlying medical conditions, vaccines may be administered as long as there are no noted contraindications to vaccinations. Persons with HIV infection, and those who have other immunocompromising conditions or who take immunosuppressive medications, might be at increased risk for severe COVID-19. Data is not currently available to establish the safety and effectiveThe Archon Magazine • Spring & Summer 2021

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ness of vaccines in these groups. These individuals may still receive a COVID-19 vaccine unless otherwise contraindicated. However, this group should be counseled on vaccine safety and efficacy in immunocompromised persons, potential for reduced immune responses, and the need to follow all current guidelines to protect themselves against COVID-19.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-withmedical-conditions.html There is no data on the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnant women. If a woman is part of a group who is recommended to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and is pregnant, she may choose to be vaccinated. A discussion with your healthcare provider is recommended to help make an informed decision.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/need-extra-precautions/pregnancybreastfeeding.html Before any vaccination, it is recommended providers should counsel vaccine recipients about expected local and systemic post-vaccination symptoms. Unless a person develops a contraindication to vaccination, they should be encouraged to complete the vaccine series even if they develop post-vaccination symptoms in order to optimize protection against COVID-19.

Given the current limited information on such information as to how well the vaccine works in the general population; how much it may reduce disease, severity, or transmission; and how long protection lasts, vaccinated persons should continue to follow all current guidelines to protect themselves and others, which include:

BEFORE ANY VACCINATION, it is recommended providers should counsel vaccine recipients about expected local and systemic post-vaccination symptoms.

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This information provided is to dispense further insight and awareness on COVID-19 vaccinations according to the CDC. It is highly advised to consult with your healthcare provider regarding vaccination and whether it is a good fit for you. Presentation of vaccination provides hope for future vaccination administration and a means to address this still ongoing pandemic in the midst of unknowns.

Moreover, having a strategic plan to conduct a culturally tailored vaccination that addresses widespread issues of historical disadvantage, low health literacy, and mistrust is really crucial in this time of need in our country. It allows not only for building the type of trust that is so warranted but sets a framework for belief to move forward with our current research and treatment, not just for COVID-19 but for all future advances in medicine to come forth.

For additional and more in-depth information and resources on COVID-19 and vaccinations, please visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/ hcp/engaging-patients.htm https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/ health-systems-communication-toolkit. html

FDA EUA RESOURCES: https://www.fda.gov/media/144412/down load https://www.fda.gov/emergency-prepard ness-and-response/counterterrorism-andemerging-threats/coronavirus-disease2019-covid-19 https://www.fda.gov/emergency-prepared ness-and-response/mcm-legal-regulatoryand-policy-framework/emergency-useauthorization#covid19euas

• • • • • •

Wearing a face mask Staying at least six feet away from others Avoiding large crowds Handwashing frequently Following CDC guidelines Following quarantine guidance after an exposure to someone with COVID-19 • Following any applicable workplace or school guidance

NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH COVID-19 INFORMATION:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/index.html

https://www.facebook.com/87057506193/ videos/2898845167049112

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https://obssr.od.nih.gov/wp-content/up loads/2020/12/OBSSR_VaccineWhite Paper_FINAL_508.pdf https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2020/com munity-engagement-builds-needed-trustscience-and-scientists

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Meeting the Basic Needs of the Navajo Nation During COVID-19

Coal Mine Canyon, Navajo Indian Reservation, about 15 miles southeast of Tuba City, Arizona Photo by John Fowler on Unsplash

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Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter

Operation Restoring Veteran Hope CoFounder & President Mr. Ray Perez (Left) and Soror Yvonne Childress, Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter, Social Action Coordinator (Right).

The Navajo Nation is suffering one of the highest COVID-19 infection rates per capita in the United States. Residents are isolated and must often travel many miles to obtain basic items such as groceries and fuel. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter located in Surprise, AZ, partnered with non-profit veteran organization Operation Restoring Veteran Hope to bring much needed supplies to the Navajo Nation. Mr. Ray Perez, Cofounder and President, requested Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter’s assistance.

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Soror Yvonne Childress, Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter’s Social Action Coordinator, and Soror Jaynene Smith, Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter’s Z-HOPE Committee Chair, organized chapter donation drives with Operation Restoring Veteran Hope to provide non-perishable goods, water, and hygiene items to assist the Navajo Nation during this crisis.

Soror Childress stated, “Mr. Perez and I work together at the Phoenix Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center. He informed me his organization was organizing a donation drive for the Navajo Nation and requested our assistance. Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter was more than willing to assist. Our chapter has been able to establish a wonderful working relationship with Operation Restoring Veteran Hope.”

The first donation drive, organized in May 2020, was such a success, and the need for support was still so great, that Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter recommended that Arizona State identify the Navajo Nation as the focus of the sorority’s ZHOPE Centennial Global Day of Service in June 2020. Each time, Operation Restoring Veterans Hope provided the logistic coordination to transport the thousands of items onto Navajo Nation reservations, where a quarantine was and currently remains to protect the Navajo people.

Mr. Perez further elaborated, “As you all know, this has been a difficult year

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that has impacted all of us in one way or another, especially those of the Navajo Nation.” Operation Restoring Veteran Hope and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter saw the need and collaborated to be of service to those struggling. We have since been blessed to help well over 500 struggling families in the Navajo Nation, and we look forward to working together in the future as well.

In November 2020, Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter again partnered with Operation Restoring Veteran Hope and the Veterans Administration Hospital – Phoenix, AZ. The chapter assisted 140 Navajo women military veterans by providing these women with various personal hygiene items.

“Our sorority has a long-standing reputation for assisting those in need, especially in this case, where our veterans and their families are impacted.

Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter has been instrumental in providing much needed assistance to women veterans in the Navajo Nation during this pandemic,” said Soror Smith, who also serves as the Arizona State and Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter Military Coordinator.

The chapter motto, “Dare to be Different” definitely resonates with communities they serve. When the community calls, the Sorors of Chi Alpha Zeta Chapter answer one and all!

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Zetas Have Heart followed for life. Below is advice to help you and your family stay healthy at home during this period of confinement.

Here are 5 New Year’s resolutions you can keep.

1. Sit Less and Move More Whether we have a sedentary job or are simply just inactive, many of us sit more than we should. It can have negative effects on our health. Actually, it can be linked to an increased risk of overall mortality.

Make a resolution to sit less and move more. To get started, choose an activity based on enjoyment and whether it fits into your schedule. It is an easy and attainable resolution that can be tailored to fit your lifestyle.

For example, if you have a desk job that requires long periods of sitting, make a resolution to go for a 15-minute walk at lunch or to get up and walk for 5 minutes every hour. Also, taking a half-hour walk, jog, or bike ride before work or swimming at a gym that is on your way home are simple and sustainable exercise resolutions.

By Kimberly Morris Dove Director of Zetas Have Heart

By Janet Banks-McElrath Co-Director of Zetas Have Heart During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are staying at home and doing less in terms of social interactions and exercise.

This can have a negative effect on your physical and mental health.

However, with a new year, it often signifies a fresh start for many of us. It means setting new health goals, such as losing weight, following a healthier diet, and starting an exercise routine.

But often the health and wellness resolutions chosen are highly limited and unattainable, leading most of us to break our resolutions within a few weeks. Nevertheless, many of us continue to make the same resolutions year after year.

To break that cycle, it is important to make resolutions that can not only improve our health but are something that can be 34

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Research shows that following a wholefoods-based diet may significantly reduce heart disease risk factors, body weight, and blood sugar levels as well as decrease your risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes. Also, research shows that people who cook more meals at home have better diet quality and less body fat than people who eat more meals on the go.

Start by making one meal a day; then increase the frequency over time until you are making most of your meals and snacks at home. What is more, adding more whole foods to your diet can be done slowly and consistently.

2. Eat More Whole Foods and Cook More Meals at Home Eating whole foods is one of the easiest and most sustainable ways to improve overall health.

Whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish, contain a plethora of nutrients that your body needs to function at an optimal level.

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Self-care does not have to be elaborate or time consuming. It can simply mean taking a relaxing bubble bath in the candlelight once a week, attending your favorite weekly yoga class, preparing a healthy meal for one, going on a nature walk, or getting an extra hour of sleep. Meditation is an evidence-based way to promote mental well-being. It can be particularly helpful for people who have anxiety or depression.

4. Get More Quality Sleep Sleep is an essential part of your overall health, and sleep deprivation can lead to serious effects. For instance, lack of sleep may increase your risk of weight gain, heart disease, and depression.

There are many reasons why you do not get enough sleep, so it is important to focus on your schedule and lifestyle to determine the best ways to improve sleep quantity and quality.

Decreasing screen time before bed, reducing light pollution in your bedroom, cutting back on caffeine, and getting to bed at a reasonable hour are some simple ways to improve sleep hygiene.

3. Take “More Me” Time and Practice More Self-Care Taking time for yourself is not being selfish. In fact, it is imperative for your optimal health and wellbeing. This is especially true for those who are caretakers and healthcare workers.

With our busy schedules and limited time, making a resolution to participate in self-care may take some planning on our part. However, it is well worth our investment.

The Bottom Line 5. Be More Present Research shows that being more present may improve your quality of life by decreasing negative thoughts, which may thereby improve mental health.

Make a New Year’s resolution to be more mindful and present. It can help you feel more content in your everyday life.

Spending less time on your phone, stopping to notice your surroundings, and listening intently to others are simple ways to be more present.

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Though most New Year’s resolutions are only kept for a short period, these healthy tips are sustainable ways to improve your physical and mental health that can be followed for life.

By creating a healthier relationship with food and taking better care of your body, mind, and spirit, you can significantly improve your overall health.

This New Year try out a few of these tips to help make this year—and the years that follow—the healthiest and happiest possible.

Reference: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ realistic-new-years-resolutions#3.-Cut-back-onsweetened-beverages

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Major Pandemic Leads to Major Action

By Diana Hilaire Delta Beta Zeta Chapter Did you ever have an idea that rested on your heart in such a way that no matter what you did to shake it, no matter the doubts, the naysayers, or the chest rattling fear, it wouldn’t go away? When the fire of inspiration and passion fuse together to create a blazing fire of an idea inside of you, there is no ignoring it, no putting it out.

This was my November 2019.

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One fated day, during a business lunch with a partner, we shed the formality of our business hats in exchange for the comfort of our great girlfriend hats to check in with each other. As if smoke were seeping from my chest and out through the corners of my lips, I mentioned the burning plan inside of my heart. Her five-word response was the match on a tinderbox deep in my gut: “How can I support you?”

From that day, For Her, now called When She Comes Home, arose. I thought I was just going to purchase a few boxes, reThe Archon Magazine • Spring & Summer 2021

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search some products, put them all together, and sell. Yes, in a simplified description, that was the reality, but on an entirely elevated level. Never in my wildest dreams did I conjure what that level would entail: entering a business competition; enrolling in a 10-week business plan class; hosting a fundraiser, where I not only reached but exceeded my goal; signing up for my first pitch competition and winning it; receiving a significant grant from a major company; and ultimately partnering with Zeta’s (Continued on page 37) COVID-19

pour into me so that I can be the best and healthiest version of myself for my own benefit, as well as the benefit of my children, family, friends, and business.

One ordained, seemingly mundane and usual workday. A call. A meeting. A 72-hour notice following seven years of your life. A month later, a global pandemic and nationwide shutdown. This was my early 2020. It came with some great highs and some terrible lows. People see your glory but don’t know your story! Through it all, God was right next to me while I celebrated my wins or cried due to my losses.

I say this all to say, never ignore the fire that is burning inside of you, pushing you to pursue something that will ultimately have great impact and change lives. There will definitely be bumps in the road, but if

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Stork’s Nest! WHAT?!? Can I say God is GREAT????

The framework behind When She Comes Home is rooted in the shadow side of motherhood and the toll it takes on women both physically and emotionally. “She matters too,” our tag line, encompasses a declarative statement that includes the importance of 50 percent of the global population, a percentage of people whose identity changes the second their body undergoes the phenomenon of childbirth but then is just as quickly forgotten about.

As a mother of twins, I have survived the shadow side of motherhood through the actions of my loved ones and their ability and effort to see me, assist me, and

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you have your trust and faith in God, there will be sunshine after a cloudy day. I leave you with this great quote by Adidas: “Today is the chance to do something and be remembered. Or do nothing and be forgotten. Take today.”

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Cooking with the Zetas During COVID-19 Finer Fundraising

By Dr. Dorothy Theogene Tau Pi Zeta Chapter Antapokritis With the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the normal functions of the entire world has changed. The world has had to learn to adapt to the new changes that this virus has brought forth. Of course, this has changed how Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

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functions on an international level, which, of course, trickled down to the local chapters. With the newfound changes of social distancing and mandated face masks, Tau Pi Zeta Chapter of the Sorority located in Riverview, Florida, has been left with finding new Center for Disease Control (CDC) safe modalities to continue the activities that facilitate the mission of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood and Finer Womanhood.

With this in mind, the chapter decided to find a creative activity that would not only generate the funds needed to service the community, but also enrich those involved.

The Tau Pi Zeta Chapter created a fundraiser in collaboration with a mental health workshop that was safe, fun, informative and very profitable for the chapter.

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The Riverview Zetas invited Chef Lennise Germany from LivyO’s Catering Company to teach a live virtual cooking class and also incorporated a “Zeta Sings the Blues” workshop to expose participants to tools that would benefit their mental and physical health. The participants were given a shopping list prior to the event in order to purchase all the necessary ingredients to create Chicken Florentine along with vegetarian and pescatarian substitutions. As an incentive for participation, each $20 ticket purchased also entered the participants in a raffle for the chance to win some amazing prizes. After months of quarantine and social distancing, this fundraiser not only raised funds, but also raised the spirits of the participants.

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Zetas Use “Finer Conversations” to Get the Word Out During COVID-19

Photos by Clarke Sanders and Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash

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AEZ Chapter’s Four Social Media Events

By Helen Beteet Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter The Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter of Greater Kansas City, KS, identified “Finer Conversations” as a novel means to engage their surrounding counties using meaningful discussions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning with brainstorming led by member Carolyn Weatherspoon, the chapter went on to create four social media events touching on areas from mental health and social unrest to nutrition and physical health. Each presentation featured both active and inactive members as well as other community experts to create an hour-long forum shared on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Our first “Finer Conversation,” titled “Protecting Your Mental Health in the Midst of Injustice,” followed the anguish of our citizens watching the injustice surrounding George Floyd and Breonna Taylor’s deaths. Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter pulled in professionals within the sisterhood and from our partnership with a local mental health organization. Three of our own members with professional backgrounds in mental health served as presenters: Sorors April Jackson, BSP; Falicia Hooks, CRAADC; and Eric Handley, BSW. The chapter has had almost 800 views for its first program, which also provided community resources for attendees.

Our second “Finer Conversation,” “Back to School Success in a Virtual Environment,” was held in August 2020. This topic arose from concerns about community children not being able to attend school in person due to COVID-19; parents and guardians wanted to ensure that their children received proper education while

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at home. This conversation focused on utilizing assistance that public schools offer, such as tutors, mentors, teachers and teachers’ aides. The panel featured sorors who are educators and administrators and the community leaders in elementary, junior, and high school.

Our third and fourth “Finer Conversations” were selected to focus on two health consequences of COVID-19 isolation: excessive weight gain and lack of exercise. With coordination by our Zetas Have Heart Committee, Chef and Soror Lisa Givens of Denver, Colorado, led an informative session entitled “Healthy Sides and Healthy Alternatives to Cooking Your Favorite Meals.” To date, this presentation, which was first launched in November, has reached almost 1,000 people. The final “Finer Conversation” delved into fitness.

Certified Personal Fitness Trainer Soror Janiece Walker was on board to educate members and friends on how to stay in shape while at home and precautions on venturing into fitness centers for workouts.

The numbers (and pounds lost) are still being recorded.

The chapter has had a combined total of 3,000 views on Facebook at the time of this article. This new presentation method has widened our scope in areas of Z-HOPE, women’s health, mental health, and Zetas Have Heart. We hope Sorors and Amicae will tune in to our future “Finer Conversations.” Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter of KCK serves communities in Wyandotte, Johnson, and Leavenworth Counties. The chapter has active Amicae, Youth, and Male Network auxiliaries. Soror Monica Green serves as Basileus of AEZ, which celebrated 82 years on Feb. 4, 2021.

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Zetas on the Move During the COVID-19 Pandemic Meet some of the heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic! The year 2020 wasn’t an easy one, but these Zetas remained on the front lines, saving lives and serving their communities. Despite the unique challenges and everchanging dynamics of healthcare, specifically COVID-19, dedicated professionals must stay rooted in their commitment to leading through the act of service and improving the course of people’s lives. We salute these finer women for their selflessness and pray for their continued safety.

Susie King Taylor, known as the first African-American Army nurse.

Frontispiece of book published in 1902. Library of Congress Prints & Photographs Division • https://www.loc.gov/item/2003653538/

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ARICA

NORTON Chapter: Epsilon Omega Zeta, Chester County, PA Region: Atlantic Region Induction date: March 12, 2016 What do you do? I have been a registered nurse since 2018. My areas of clinical experience include medical-surgical and acute rehabilitation. When COVID-19 first hit our communities, admittedly, I was feeling overwhelmed with pressure and unpreparedness. There was and continues to be a lot of unknowns about this virus. At least two months after the start of COVID-19, the health care communities I work within started making strides in the right direction. We are consistently working to ensure the safety and care of our patients. Being an essential employee during these extraordinary times has been a beneficial learning experience.

What is your proudest moment? I have been a witness to how well nursing communities come together during tribulations that we could not have imagined. Not only are nurses going above and

beyond but the personal sacrifices being made are commendable. Being able to help patients recover, complete rehabilitation, and return home is most rewarding.

What are you most thankful for? Having support from family has been most helpful to get me through the mental and physical stress. I am also grateful to my sorors who continuously check on and have been praying for me. Being a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, I am familiar with hard work and resilience, and I have been able to use both to my advantage in my career. I am not sure what the future holds with COVID-19, but with the resources I have, I will continue to give my best through patient-centered care and teamwork.

Being an essential employee during these extraordinary times has been a beneficial learning experience.

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CATRINA TRAVERS

Chapter: Psi Beta Zeta, Southaven, MS Region: South Central Region Induction date: May 27, 1996 What do you do? Registered Nurse What was your proudest professional moment? It was outside the hospital when I was an RN for about 6 months, and while visiting a church for Sunday school, a former patient recognized me. She stopped the class and publicly gave me praise and said God handpicked me to be a nurse. I will never forget that moment.

How long have you been doing this? I have been a Registered Nurse for 20 years.

What is your goal? My goal is to always keep my passion in not only substantiating life but making a difference in the lives of others.

What advice would you give a soror who is trying to make their mark in your field? You will not find fulfillment in the actual duties you perform, but fulfillment comes in being involved in the healing process of others. It is such a noble and self-gratifying job that requires true compassion and commitment to serve strangers in a compromised time of their life.

My goal is to always keep my passion in not only substantiating life but making a difference in the lives of others.

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CHANELL ELSTON

Chapter: Nu Theta Zeta, Warrensville Heights, OH Region: Great Lakes Region Induction date: Oct. 11, 2014 What do you do? In my current role, I am the social worker for the homeless primary care team for the Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VA) in Cleveland, Ohio. I am the entry point into the medical system for veterans. I provide comprehensive case management to homeless and at-risk veterans throughout Cuyahoga, Lake, and Geauga counties. I am responsible for providing assessments and treatment interventions that help veterans and families in resolving emotional, economic, and social crises that are associated with the stresses of illness, disability, and mental health conditions. Aside from assisting with housing resources, these veterans have various other challenges, such as legal, financial, mental health and substance abuse needs that require linkage to services.

cellent care they deserve. I assist with the transition back to civilian life, making a lasting impact and creating positive outcomes.

I will continue to do my part and contribute toward the goal of ending veterans’ homelessness.

What advice would you give a soror who is trying to make their mark in your field? To any aspiring social workers, my biggest piece of advice is to be the social worker you would want to have. Imagine the patient/client as your child, parent, or friend.

Think about the interactions you have, and realize sometimes you will be hated and resented. You will not often be thanked, but if you leave at the end of the day knowing you did your best and treated people as you would want to be treated, the job becomes infinitely more rewarding.

What was your proudest professional moment? My proudest professional moment was while working in the mental health clinic. I received my first call from a veteran who was contemplating suicide. I was able to listen and help with a focus on their reasons for living while assessing for lethal weapons. During the call, I was able to get a coworker to contact the VA police and psychiatric emergency room provider. The police arrived and were able to safely transport the veteran to the hospital for care. That day I realized how important my services are and the fragility of life.

How long have you been doing this? I have been in my current role since 2017. In total, I have been with the VA since 2006 (14 years).

What is your goal? My goal is to continue to work and serve those who have served their country, providing them with the exCOVID-19

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LAKEISHA NACOSTE

Chapter: Mu Sigma Zeta, San Diego, CA Region: Pacific Region Induction date: March 11, 2007

What do you do? I am an Oncology Nurse Practitioner (NP) currently working at the UC San Diego Health Moores Cancer Center in sunny San Diego, California. I care for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other treatments for various forms of cancers. In my role, I prescribe medications, order diagnostic imaging tests, manage acute infusion reactions, determine when patients require transfer to the emergency room for further urgent evaluation, and so much more. Being a nurse practitioner is an amazing career with abundant opportunities.

What was your proudest professional moment? My proudest professional moment was moving from San Diego to New York City to pursue my Master in Nursing at New York University (NYU). It was an important goal of mine to attend a highly ranked Nurse Practitioner program, so after I was accepted into NYU’s program, I made the long trek across the country to embark upon an incredible journey. After successfully graduating and completing the program, I then worked as a Nurse Practitioner at NYU’s Perlmutter Cancer Center in Manhattan for four years. My educational and working experiences at NYU were extremely enriching.

To be able to practice healthcare in such a diverse and exciting place as New York City was invaluable and life changing, both professionally and personally.

How long have you been doing this? I have been a Registered Nurse for eleven years and a Nurse Practitioner for six years. I have been working specifically with cancer patients my entire

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professional career, and it is something that I truly love and am passionate about. My patients are courageous and inspiring; it is a rewarding specialty in every way possible.

What is your goal? I have already achieved several professional certifications, with the latest being an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP®) certification, noting my expertise in the oncology field. My goal is to continue providing direct patient care and also to work on performance improvement projects and policies surrounding the delivery of patient care. In the future, I would also like to continue my support of future nurses and NPs by teaching in an academic role at a university.

What advice would you give a soror who is trying to make their mark in your field? The advice I would give a soror trying to make their mark in the healthcare field would be to try to stay as current as possible on updated guideline recommendations on the diagnosis of various diseases, new treatments, and other recent medical advancements. There are great strides being made in medicine and in drug development, so staying up to date is extremely important. Also, NETWORK whenever possible! The chances of being successful in one’s desired career path grows exponentially when you are able to network with others. Lastly, follow your dreams, never let anyone discourage you from pursuing what your heart desires, and work hard every step of the way.

Before you know it, your goal will soon be a reality.

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RHONDA RUBEN

Chapter: Alpha Chi Zeta, Beaumont, Texas Region: Southern Region Induction date: Feb. 10, 2016 What do you do? I am a geriatrics nurse currently working with COVID-19 patients. I am able to see firsthand how the COVID-19 virus is affecting our population and seeing what effects that the virus is having on the human body while being able to treat our patients with this virus. I also get to see firsthand what treatments are most effective versus treatments that are not as effective. One of the things that I find difficult is trying to explain to patients and family members why visitation is not allowed during this pandemic while knowing that not all cases are successful, and that if our patients expire, they will be alone. I also struggle with the PPE. I am very thankful and grateful that I have been provided with the proper PPE, yet wearing a half-face mask respirator and a space suit for 12+ hours of the day can be particularly challenging.

What is your goal? My goal is to open a nursing school soon, where I can groom and mentor the next generation of nurses.

Also, I want to expand my nursing to a Health and Wellness Consultant.

What advice would you give a soror who is trying to make their mark in your field? My advice would be to be the best nurse possible, love what you do, and it will not seem like a job but your calling. It has afforded me an opportunity to live a comfortable life and service to others. Also remember that all patients deserve quality healthcare no matter their economic status. Make a difference in another’s life and have compassion.

What was your proudest professional moment? I have several proudest moments in nursing. Each day I take care of a patient and do my best, that is great. Another proud moment was when I received the Staff Nurse of the Year from the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA), being elected as National Board of Director member of NBNA. My Zeta proudest moment was when I was appointed by Southern Regional Director Keisha M. Beasley to the Southern Region Medical Response Team as the Chair, which led to being a member of the International Medical Response Team. Attending conferences worldwide and meeting some amazing nurses has been rewarding. Also presenting essential First Responders at five hospitals a snack bag during National Nursing Week has been a proudest moment.

How long have you been doing this? I have been in the nursing and health care field for twenty-five years.

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CHAR-NEQUA“SHAY” SMITH, DNP, WHNP-BC, ANP-C Chapter: Eta Alpha Zeta, Fort Myers, FL Region: Southeastern Induction date: April 4, 2010 What do you do? I am currently the Executive Community Health Nursing Director of a county health department in Florida. I am also a dual certified Nurse Practitioner with a focus on women’s health and adult primary care, a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), and owner of Powerhouse Potential.

What was your proudest professional moment? Thus far, my proudest professional moment was when I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with 4.0 GPA from the University of Miami. I was able to go to school full-time while simultaneously continuing to deliver quality patient care at my full-time and parttime jobs.

How long have you been doing this? I have been a nurse for 10 years and a nurse practitioner since 2013. I transitioned into my leadership role in 2018.

What is your goal? My ultimate goal is to own a mobile clinic

that provides care and guidance to women and adolescents in underserved, underprivileged areas. I also want to have a line of products that help women maintain an optimal level of health so that they are able to prosper in life.

What advice would you give a soror who is trying to make their mark in your field? If a soror is trying to make their mark in the nursing field, I advise them to always follow their passion and remember their reason for becoming a nurse. There will be tough days that may make you question if you are in the right field, but remembering your “WHY” will help you push through challenging situations. When you follow your passion, you become more engaged in your specialty, continue to grow, and become an advocate of change for both your patients and the profession.

You also need to find a nursing mentor. A mentor can offer valuable advice and share experiences that will help you unlock your powerhouse potential.

When you follow your passion, you become more engaged in your specialty.

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SYLVIA YATES

Chapter: Delta Nu Zeta, Meridian, MS Region: South Central Region Induction date: May 16, 2020 What do you do? I am a cytotechnologist and histotechnician.

How long have you been doing this? I have been a certified cytotechnologist since 1999 and a certified histotechnician since 2017.

My job consists of checking for cancer cells at the cellular level as well as the tissue level under the supervision of a board-certified pathologist. My area of specialty is the pap smear. Within the scope of my profession, I also check for different infectious entities in the lung, urinary tract, stomach cavity, and other areas of the body that fluid can be drawn from, such as a cyst, nodule, or biopsy.

What advice would you give a soror who is trying to make their mark in your field? My advice I would give others is to always show up with a positive attitude and work in a spirit of excellence. It may seem like sometimes your efforts may not be noticed, but there is always someone watching, and when you least expect it, a door of opportunity may open for you.

What was your proudest professional moment? My most accomplished moment on my job was being selected to serve as the clinical liaison for Indiana University’s Histology program for a young lady I helped train on my job.

Always show up with a positive attitude and work in a spirit of excellence.

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DR. TANSHANICKA HELEM, DNP, FNP-BC

Chapter: Delta Zeta Zeta, Prince George’s County, MD Region: Atlantic Region Induction date: Fall 2019 What do you do? I am a Family Nurse Practitioner.

What was your proudest professional moment? My proudest professional moment was working in a free clinic for the underserved population and being able to teach about cervical cancer awareness. I was also selected by a committee of faculty and staff at George Mason University to receive the 2020 Family Nurse Practitioner Award for Excellence in Primary Care. The purpose of this award is to recognize excellence in the area of Primary Care, Nurse Practitioner by a graduate-level student in the School of Nursing.

What is your goal? My goal is to open my own nurse-led private practice in Southern Maryland with a focus on primary care and women’s health.

What advice would you give a soror who is trying to make her mark in your field? My advice to those who want to make a mark in my field is to find a nurse who mentors and will guide them through the process of how to become a nurse. Most importantly, have a kind heart and a passion to make others well. I do have my own mentorship for nurses of color at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/qccommunity1

How long have you been doing this? I have been in the nursing profession for more than 20 years.

When you follow your passion, you become more engaged in your specialty.

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TONIA ALSTON

Chapter: Beta Beta Zeta, Columbia, SC Region: Southeastern Induction date: Feb. 28, 2004 What do you do? Chief of Police.

What was your proudest professional moment? I am the only African-American Female Chief of Police promoted in my organization. I also planned the logistics and assisted with the US Secret Service to include providing security for Vice President Joe Biden, and I’m the COVID-19 Task Force Co-Committee Chair.

What advice would you give a soror who is trying to make her mark in your field? My advice would be to pursue a degree in criminal justice, enroll in an intern program, check into a reserve officer program, interview a local law enforcement officer who is a Soror and enroll in a police citizen academy.

How long have you been doing this? 30 years.

What is your goal? My goal is to one day start my own security company and pursue a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice.

I am the only African American Female Chief of Police promoted in my organization.

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L.A. Elementary School Honors Trailblazing Zeta

On Feb. 5, 1980, 37th Street Elementary School was officially renamed the Lenicia B. Weemes Elementary School.

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The Lenicia B. Weemes Elementary School

By Jacqueline Sparrow Alpha Psi Zeta Chapter Adopt-A-School Chair Legacy and legend intersect at 1260 West 36th Place in Los Angeles, CA, where the Lenicia B. Weemes Elementary School is currently located. This school is a celebration of the incredible foresight, unmistakable determination, genuine compassion, and history-making impact of the community legend it honors.

Soror Lenicia B. Weemes transformed the 37th Street Elementary School into her legacy from the moment she became principal in 1969. She changed the trajectory of the school immediately by taking on the responsibility of raising test scores at the small elementary campus near the University of Southern California (USC). She accomplished her initial goal by not just improving reading scores of the first through third grade classes above their average but also raising them from the lowest in the Los Angeles Unified School District to the highest of Title I schools in the nation.

Soror Weemes, a legend, lovingly exemplified and demanded excellence from staff and students.

On Feb. 5, 1980, 37th Street Elementary School was officially renamed the Lenicia B. Weemes Elementary School. County Supervisor Yvonne Braithwaite Burke was the keynote speaker at the dedication ceremony. The Los Angeles Board of Education unanimously approved the name change to honor the school and commuADOPT-A-SCHOOL

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nity leader who served as principal from 1969 until her passing in 1980.

Soror Weemes was a charter member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Alpha Psi Zeta Chapter, Los Angeles, and held several leadership positions, including Basileus, Pacific Regional Director, Zetalites Co-Chair, and Associate Chair of Amicae Rededication. In her honor, the Los Angeles Zetas adopted Lenicia B. Weemes Elementary School and is devoted to working with school administration to develop programs and activities that fall in line with the school’s current needs.

Members of Alpha Psi Zeta chapter, Sorors Bettye Gomez and Dr. Sonya Davenport, serve as faculty members at the elementary school and, along with the other Weemes teaching staff, provide a rich and rigorous academic program. The chapter consists of many educators with direct knowledge of the strengths and needs within contemporary education. Along with Assistant Principal David Owens, a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., the chapter is focused on three objectives: 1. LAUSD Black Students Matter Initiative – A series of live discussions with parents and Black educators to improve curriculum and instruction despite systemic racism in our schools 2. Zeta Reading Round-Up – A service campaign with sorors paired with teachers to read virtually to students weekly 3. Memorial Plaque Placement – A plan to dedicate the school’s garden as a memorial in honor of Soror Weemes Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Alpha Psi Zeta honors Soror Weemes for her innovative work in education and proudly embraces the learning community that was so dear to her. Alpha Psi Zeta commits themselves as friends, partners, and servants of the Lenicia B. Weemes Elementary School. The legacy of excellence that Soror Weemes created will continue with the work of the chapter in partnership with the staff and students of the Lenicia B. Weemes Elementary School.

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OOZ Pivots for Evergreen Avenue Elementary School Omicron Omicron Zeta Chapter

By Vanessa Hamilton Omicron Omicron Zeta Chapter Pandemic or no pandemic, Omicron Omicron Zeta chapter was ready! They made a pivot and focused on how they could get engaged with the sorority’s service and social action initiatives but still remain “socially distanced.”

They took to social media and continued to support their community partners with so-

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cial media campaigns via Facebook for social matters such as the 2020 Census, voter registration, domestic violence awareness, and World AIDS Day. OOZ held virtual walks for breast cancer and autism awareness. They were able to paint the church pink by attending a church service online in their royal blue and pink. They thought it was important to help prevent college students from going hungry, so they organized socially distanced food delivery to “The Shop” at Rowan University in Glassboro, not once but three times.

Their Adopt-A-School, Evergreen Avenue Elementary School in Woodbury, NJ, pivoted to remote learning, and OOZ was right there, ready to donate funds to support their scholarship efforts and recognize scholars for academic excellence. They even sup-

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ported the school’s PTO by providing incentives for parents to join the monthly Zoom PTO meeting.

They did not stop there. During the week of Nov. 8, 2020, they honored the military with a week of acknowledgments from thank you cards to a Zoom presentation of the documentary of the Women of the Six Triple 8. Finally, during the season of giving, it was important to continue to partner with New Birth Missionary Baptist Church to help provide families turkeys and other staples needed to have a Thanksgiving dinner.

Pandemic or no pandemic, Omicron Omicron Zeta will find a safe and socially distant way to uphold the principles of Scholarship & Service.

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The Zeal Institute: Women’s Academy of Excellence Alpha Alpha Omega Zeta Chapter, Westchester/Bronx, New York In 2016 Alpha Alpha Omega Zeta Chapter adopted the Women’s Academy of Excellence, an all-girls high school located in the Bronx, NY. Affectionately known as WAE, the Women’s Academy of Excellence was founded and operated by one of Zeta’s finest, Dr. Arnette Crocker.

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healthy relationships, and life after high school.

On occasion, the chapter has brought in prominent Black women to hold workshops in their areas of expertise, from licensed clinical social workers addressing the importance of mental health to vetADOPT-A-SCHOOL

• Ms. Akira Armstrong, an accomplished dancer, founder, and CEO of Pretty Big Movement, a plus-sized professional dance company, graced the stage at WAE in 2018 with an unforgettable and inspiring performance. She returned in 2019 to lead dance workshops for juniors and seniors.

As the workshops quickly picked up traction, the chapter saw an opportunity to develop a program that would serve as a staple in the school community, hence the birth of “The Zeal Institute” in 2018.

The Zeal Institute is a workshop series of six sessions designed specifically to meet the needs of WAE. Some titles include College Roundtable, Needs vs. Wants, and Things I Wish My Parents Told Me. The chapter’s most recent achievement was the procurement of a $1,000 scholarship through the Alpha Alpha Omega Zeta Foundation Inc., to be awarded annually to a WAE senior. In addition to the scholarship, every year, upon graduating, the

LEFT TO RIGHT: ΑΑΩΖ Sorors 1st VP, Mary Ademola; Francis Chisolm, Chaplin; Theresa Umstead; Dr. Arnette Crocker, Founder and Principal of Women’s Academy of Excellence (WAE); 3rd VP, Desiree Campbell; Tiffany Anderson; Judith Slowly; and President Ryushique Bonner.

school’s valedictorian is presented with a gift from the chapter.

During the coronavirus pandemic, Alpha Alpha Omega Zeta will continue to serve the young women of WAE and hopes to inspire them to serve other young women in the future.

Women’s Academy of Excellence Students along with Soror Gigi Gillard - Workshop Leader and Alpha Alpha Omega Zeta Chapter members: Sorors Tiffany Anderson, Theresa Umstead, Mary Ademola, and Judith Slowly.

eran college advisors exposing secrets to accessing college funds.

• Soror Monica Britton, member-at-large and founder of Black Girl On Campus, hosted two sessions. The first, Why College?, discussed what it means and looks like to be in college, college terms students should know, how to submit a successful application, and finding your passion in college. The second, Standing out from the Crowd, focused on the tools needed to present your best self when applying to college or to a job and when in networking spaces.

• Soror Gigi Gilliard, member-at-large, author, and founder and CEO of Gigi Gilliard Development, helped prepare high school seniors for their collegiate interviews with a seminar on interviewing with confidence.

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Answering the Call Beta Alpha Sigma Zeta Chapter Adopts West Frederick Middle School

By Sandra Belcher Beta Alpha Sigma Zeta Beta Alpha Sigma Zeta chapter (Frederick, Maryland) is participating in the National Adopt-A-School Initiative and adopted West Frederick Middle School, Frederick County, Maryland, SY 2020-2021.

West Frederick Middle School meets select criteria for participation in the Adopt-aSchool program. Criteria include students of multiple races with at least a 50% minority. West Frederick Middle School, at a glance, indicates that during the 2018-2019 school year 853 students were enrolled. Of the students enrolled, 25.4% were Black/ African American, 37.9% were Hispanic/ Latino, and 10.8% had special needs.

At the start of the 2020-2021 school year, Beta Alpha Sigma Zeta donated much needed supplies, including earbuds, notebooks, pens, pencils, colored pencils, and index cards. We are excited for our next donation, supporting a healthy and safe environment for the staff and students of West Frederick Middle School with a donation of cold and flu products, which will include items such as personal protective masks, boxes/packets of Kleenex, and hand sanitizer.

The 2020-2021 school year presents novel challenges as we, the community, learn to navigate in this new environment of social distancing and online learning.

The Finer Women of Beta Alpha Sigma Zeta are committed to working alongside West Frederick Middle School staff and students to embrace the future and, together, continue to strive for excellence in education.

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Ghana Chapter Chartered on August 29, 2020, in Africa

National Theatre • Accra, Ghana • Photo by kojo nana on Unsplash

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AFRICA

Chapter Is Believed to Be the First D9 Sorority in Ghana

By Earlene McMichael National Publications and Communications Team Member

AS IT TURNED OUT, two of the Sorors involved in the original plan to revive the Liberia chapter—Mekisha Hugh-Abban and Shannan Akosua Magee—actually lived in Ghana and expressed interest in chartering a chapter there.

When it comes to planting chapters in Africa, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated has been a trendsetter for sororities. It had the first chapter on the continent when it expanded into Liberia 71 years ago. Now our Sisterhood has achieved another first in the Motherland with the launch of our chapter in the city of Accra in Ghana.

“It is the first sorority in the Divine Nine that I am aware of in Accra, Ghana,” said Atlantic Regional International Area Director Salaine Atkins-little, who oversaw the chartering of Gamma Alpha Sigma Zeta Chapter. A chartering ceremony and new member induction were held Aug. 29, 2020.

“This is simply amazing. This historic achievement is inspirational to witness, and to see the hard work finally give birth leaves me speechless.”

The expansion into Ghana has an interesting backstory. The Sorority received an email from Brooklyn, NY-born Soror Freda Koomson, of Liberian descent, about wanting to reactivate the Liberia chapter that had fallen dormant in the late 1980s after four decades of continuous operation because a civil war had hit that country. She made the inquiry in 2017, a year after moving to Liberia.

That culminated in a meeting between Soror Atkins-little, Atlantic Regional Director Gina Merritt-Epps and International Chapter Expansion Director Melissa J. Barnes, Ed.D., on April 28, 2019. Atkins-little says that meeting led into exploring the idea of having a regional chapter to serve all of West Africa, not just Liberia. A feasibility (Continued on page 63)

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Ghana and expressed interest in chartering a chapter there, Atkins-little says.

More planning meetings would be held over the next few months about chartering a Ghana chapter. Atkins-little then submitted a formal request for a Ghana charter to Atlantic Regional Director Gina Merritt-Epps.

Merritt-Epps, in turn, forwarded the request to the chapter expansion director. The expansion team liked the idea and, on March 10, 2020, recommended to Centennial International Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth Baker to approve the Ghana charter.

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study examining the proposal was completed by June 1, 2019.

The findings were reviewed later that month and the recommendation made to pursue, instead, two chapters: one in Liberia and one in Ghana.

GETTING APPROVAL As it would turn out, two of the Sorors involved in the original plan to revive the Liberia chapter—Mekisha Hugh-Abban and Shannan Akosua Magee—actually lived in

Next steps were developed at a May 13, 2020, meeting attended by Grand Val and Sorors Barnes, Merritt-Epps and Atkins-little, according to Atkins-little. It was ultimately decided that the chartering ceremony would occur on Aug. 29, 2020.

“We had several conference calls to plan out the sustainability,” Atkins-little says. “We wanted to make sure the chapters were longlived. We also wanted to make sure that Zeta was needed and we would be able to help (Continued on page 64)

TOP LEFT AND RIGHT PHOTOS: Soror Shannan “Akosua” Magee speaks at a Ghana Zetas sponsored panel discussion on anxiety and stress at Academic City University College. Magee is Director of Admissions there. CENTER PHOTO: Sorors Shannan “Akosua” Magee and Mekisha Hugh-Abban recruited members for the new Ghana chapter at a Dec. 18, 2019, Informational Meeting. BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO: Soror Mekisha Hugh-Abban talks to women interested in learning more about Zeta at an informational held on Dec. 18, 2019. BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO: Sorors Shannan “Akosua” Magee, who’ll be a member of the new Ghana chapter, addresses the crowd at a Dec. 18, 2019, Informational Meeting.

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that population because service is what we do.”

GOOD TIMING As the Ghana Zetas waited for the approval process to be completed, they kept volunteering, hosting a holiday toy drive, hosting a panel discussion on anxiety and stress and lunch for the local police, and participating in a joint Divine Nine service project.

And they held an Informational Meeting to start themselves out on strong footing in terms of membership, according to Atkinslittle. The result is an induction ceremony of three new members took place at the same time as the Ghana chapter chartering.

The timing for launching the chapter couldn’t have been better. There was a “Year of the Return” initiative underway in Ghana to encourage Blacks worldwide to consider making that country home.

It had brought thousands of them to their shores since the campaign began in 2019, timed to coincide with the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first recorded enslaved Africans in Jamestown, VA, in 1619.

The Zetas who were already in Accra, the capital and largest city in Ghana, are themselves transplanted Black Americans, so they weaved the “Year of the Return,” a profoundly culturally significant moment, into some of their service work in the months leading up to Gamma Alpha Sigma Zeta’s chartering.

Namely, they partnered with the local Phi Beta Sigma chapter and Academic City College to start a four-year $40,000 scholarship for a recent Black high school graduate from the United States or West Indies, for which applications were due last year.

It is for study at that college, where prospective charter member and Soror Shannan Magee is Director of Admissions.

“We hope to offer this scholarship annually to encourage Black Americans and West Indian students to consider higher education in Africa,” says Soror Mekisha Hugh-Abban, one of the charter members of the Ghana chapter.

Hugh-Abban, a Jamaican American who was born and raised in the Bronx, NY, herself moved to Ghana and married a native from there.

“For many of our people, the concept of Africa is so far-fetched that it seems impossible to attain for themselves,” she says.

“We wanted the diaspora to know that living on the continent is possible, and you can have an incredible quality of life.”

Joining Sorors Shannan Magee and Mekisha Hugh-Abban as charter members are Sorors Shermaine Moore-Boakye and Soror Lorna JnBaptiste and new members Johnetta Nzali Abraham, Michelle Spears, and Soror Tonya Saafir-Ankomah.

(Continued with photo collage on page 65)

TOP LEFT, RIGHT, AND BOTTOM RIGHT: Ghana Zetas’ holiday toy drive was held on Dec. 26, 2019, where they collected books, clothing, and school supplies in addition to toys. BOTTOM LEFT: The Ghana Zetas provided lunch to the Kwabenya police force as part of the International Day of Service.

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TOP LEFT: The Ghana Zetas participated in Ghana’s Black Greek Week, doing a service project in the Jamestown area of Accra, that country’s largest city, where their chapter will be chartered. TOP RIGHT, BOTTOM RIGHT: Sorors who visited Ghana for the Year of Return/Afrochella were treated to a sisterly breakfast in December 2019, courtesy of the Ghana Zetas. BOTTOM LEFT: In celebration of Zeta’s Centennial celebration and the Ghana Zetas’ upcoming chartering, they have partnered with the Ghana Sigma and Academic City University College to offer a four-year $40,000 scholarship to encourage a Black American or West Indian to study in Ghana.

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Zeta’s First African Chapter Returns After 40 Years

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Liberia Chapter Reactivates on Final Day of Centennial

By Earlene McMichael National Publications and Communications Team Member IN PREPARATION FOR REACTIVATION, the Liberia Zetas facilitated numerous service projects to raise the profile of the Sorority, some involving partnering with a local nonprofit, L.I.T.E. (Lifting Individuals Through Education), founded by Soror Monigo Saygbay-Hallie, who is Liberian.

At its height, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s historic Monrovia, Liberia, chapter skyrocketed to nearly 75 members, but civil war broke out and Africa’s first sorority chapter ever was forced to go dormant after four decades of providing extensive, free programs aiding single mothers, their children, and schoolgirls that garnered major respect in the community.

Now comes the good news: Delta Iota Zeta Chapter is active once again! It was reactivated on Jan. 15, 2021, bringing our Centennial year to a fulfilling close.

It was originally chartered in 1949. “I cannot be more proud, stick my chest out any farther than I already can, knowing that, under my leadership, under the Members’ Administration, we reactivated a part of history, the history that is not forgotten,” says International Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth Baker.

“And it was about time we did that. We made that happen, and we’re going to have your backs. We’re going to be there to help you sustain, and to help you grow, and to help you flourish.”

Soror Mabel Fagans-Hill, 89, one of the chapter’s charter members who now lives in Bessemer, AL, is ecstatic.

“I am so pleased at this time,” FagansHill says. “Thank God I am alive to see this reformation.”

THE REBIRTH Talk of reviving the Liberia chapter began in June 2017 when Brooklyn, NY-born and-raised Soror Freda Koomson, of Liberian descent on her mother’s side and of Ghanaian descent on her father’s side, (Continued on page 68) AFRICA

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“There’s so much work to be done.

We’ve always been a pioneering organization, and it’s time to reblaze this particular path.”

(Continued from page 67)

first broached the idea in an email to then Atlantic Regional Director Janet Y. Bivins, Esq. Plans were finalized with her successor, Gina Merritt-Epps.

Soror Koomson says the Liberia chapter has always held a special place in her heart since she learned of it from her Zeta history prior to joining Mu Iota Chapter at the University of Pennsylvania. She made its reactivation a priority upon her relocation four years ago to Liberia, where she currently works as a global healthcare management specialist for Yale University at Redemption Hospital, a public facility in an impoverished neighborhood in outer Monrovia.

“So beginning the conversation when I finally got here on the ground was never a question for me,” says Koomson, adding that she wanted to help rebuild Liberia and believes the revived chapter can make a difference, much like the original one did in its heyday. “There’s so much work to be done. We’ve always been a pioneering organization, and it’s time to reblaze this particular path.”

Her passion for the chapter’s resurgence is not unlike the passion that led to its birth.

GETTING READY

HOW IT BEGAN The chapter was the brainchild of Soror Rachel Townsend, a Monrovia, Liberia, native who was initiated at Howard University. She desired to see her beloved sorority in her homeland and recruited Zetas in Africa to make her dream a reality.

Others assisted her, including Soror Esther C. Peyton, a former regional director.

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ity’s official history book, Torchbearers of a Legacy. Some, like Townsend, returned to Africa after getting their degrees.

Approval was granted at the December 1948 boule in Philadelphia for Delta Iota Zeta Chapter in Liberia, making it the first chapter of a sorority in Africa. The following year, the chartering ceremony was held with a very special guest as the officiant: Dr. Nancy B. Woolridge McGee, who had just become Grand Basileus.

The chapter grew considerably in size, and some sorors from those early years credit Liberian teacher Doris Banks-Henries’ strong recruiting skills as instrumental in that growth. Many of her students became members, at her invitation.

The significance of the chapter’s return during Zeta’s Centennial year is not lost on Soror Salaine Atkins-little, who works under current Atlantic Regional Director Gina Merritt-Epps.

Atkins-little oversaw the revitalization project in the newly created role of Atlantic Regional International Area Director.

“It is something that will be engraved in our history forever,” she says. “It’s just priceless. To revisit something that was instrumental in our expansion and growth is inspirational.”

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In preparation for reactivation, the Liberia Zetas facilitated numerous service projects to raise the profile of the sorority, some involving partnering with a local nonprofit, L.I.T.E. (Lifting Individuals Through Education), founded by Soror Monigo Saygbay-Hallie, who is Liberian.

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received hand sanitizer and 40 kilograms of rice.

But another undertaking, a huge one, was finding out more about Delta Iota Zeta’s history. Soror Freda Koomson, who pushed for the chapter’s rebirth, says its records got lost when many of the longago sorors fled the country once the civil war started in 1989; the conflict lasted for 14 years.

One big breakthrough came last summer with the discovery that at least two of the early members were alive. Soror Mabel Fagans-Hill was a charter member. Also living was Soror Tidi SpeareStewart, 85, who was active during the chapter’s beginning years. She resides in Germantown, MD.

REUNITING THE ELDERS

TOP LEFT: Soror Freda Koomson, a Brooklyn, NY, native of Liberian descent, sent an email to the Sorority in 2017 that got the ball rolling to revive the Liberia chapter. Two informationals have been held to date.

TOP RIGHT: Soror Freda Koomson tried to keep the Black Lives Matter movement alive in Liberia, where she helped reactivate the Zeta chapter there.

BOTTOM: Soror Freda Koomson, the driving force behind the reactivation of the chapter in Liberia, runs into a Delta and an AKA in that country.

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In a deeply emotional Zoom call with Grand Val and a small group of Zetas on the late afternoon of Sunday, Aug. 9, 2020, Sorors Fagans-Hill and SpeareStewart recalled providing struggling single mothers with newborn supplies, food, medication, furniture, and more at no charge, plus undying moral support. They said they did all this and then some with chapter dues of only 50 cents per soror.

“Whether they are Zetas or not, if a woman is in need, she is our sister,” Fagans-Hill remembered. “And we feel an obligation to help them in every way that we can.”

They both had fond memories of empowering young girls. They handed out notebooks and pencils to them in order to attend school and exposed them to trades and other ways to make a living so they could support themselves.

Said Soror Speare-Stewart, “They thought their lives were over because they dropped out of school. We encouraged them that it was not over. We made them pick up from where they were.”

Thanks to the reactivation of Delta Iota Zeta Chapter, the kind of burden that these Zeta women possessed for the people of Libera will resume.

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(Continued from pages 69)

The current chapter members are Freda Koomson, President; Fredical Mars Mulbah, First Vice President; Victoria Cooper-Enchia, Second Vice President; Korbalagae Kuawogai, Treasurer; and Jobila Sy, Secretary and Parliamentarian.

PHOTO CAPTIONS Top Left: Soror Freda Koomson talks to female students at Hilltop Schools in Monrovia, Liberia, about the healthcare field. She also partnered with a soror’s nonprofit to present a health workshop to 25 market women to increase awareness of COVID-19 and wellness exams.

Top Right: Zeta Phi Beta’s mental health initiative got a boost through this social media campaign in Liberia.

Middle Left: Members of Monrovia, Liberia’s Delta Iota Zeta posed for this photograph in 1950, one year after the chapter was chartered. It was published in the Torchbearers of a Legacy, the official history book of Zeta Phi Beta. Among those pictured are Dr. Rachel Townsend, whose idea it was to expand into Liberia, and Soror Mabel Fagans (now FagansHill), one of the charter members still alive at age 89.

Middle Right: This is an older photo of Soror Mabel Fagans-Hill, 89, a chapter member of the Liberia chapter.

Bottom: Commemorating the International Day of the African Child was another way to promote the image of Zeta Phi Beta in Liberia.

PHOTO CAPTIONS OPPOSITE PAGE Top Left: Soror Tidi Speare-Stewart, 85, active in the early days of the Liberia chapter, is one of the only two known living members of Delta Iota Zeta. She resides in Germantown, MD. Top Right: Soror Mabel Fagans-Hill, 89, is one of two known living Zetas to be part of the Liberia chapter. She’s a charter member.

Bottom: A recent discovery was that Soror Mabel Fagans-Hill, 89, who helped charter the Liberia chapter in 1949, was alive. She’s here with one of her grandchildren. She lives in Bessemer, Ala. 70

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Zeta Continues Blazing Trails in England

Tower Bridge • London, England • Photo by Magda V on Unsplash

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Greetings from Across the Pond!

By Dr. Romanda Dillon Alpha Alpha Eta Zeta President Since 2014, Alpha Alpha Eta Zeta Chapter has been bringing Finer Womanhood to England. As the only Black Greek Letter Sorority located in England, Alpha Alpha Eta Zeta has introduced Zeta to not only the people of their area but also the concept of sororities in general.

Through community service projects, socials events, and fundraisers, AAHZ has continued to make their presence felt throughout England. One way the chapter has reached out to their local community is through their yearly Finer Womanhood event. Each year the chapter selects a local woman to be honored through this event.

The chosen women have shown to be exceptional leaders of the local community and exemplify Finer Womanhood throughout their daily lives.

This year, with the presence of COVID19, Alpha Alpha Eta Zeta has continued to reach out to their community by honoring essential workers. In March 2020, the chapter presented gift vouchers to those who serve on the front line and continue to help the country run smoothly despite the virus.

Both the chapter and the chapter’s Zeta Male Network auxiliary have continued to build on the principle of service while in England by working with different “feed the needy” programs or providing warm clothes for the homeless during the winter months.

While the members of Alpha Alpha Eta Zeta love to reach out to the British community, there is also nothing better than to welcome their sorors who might be stopping in for a vacation or moving to England for a short time.

Being the only Black Greek Letter Sorority in England has not been without its challenges. However, Alpha Alpha Eta Zeta Chapter continues to rise above anything that has come its way. While the chapter may be small in size, the impact in England continues to be mighty.

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Members of AAHZ at their Finer Womanhood Luncheon in March 2020. (From L to R) Liz Lassiter, Vernita Beach, Imani Prince, Kim Cook, and Romanda Dillon.

AAHZ ZMN Member Joel Dillon helping out at a Feed the Homeless Event Soror Liz Lassiter (R) presenting essential worker Donna Smith (L) with a gift voucher in appreciation of her hard work during the pandemic

Soror Romanda Dillon celebrating Founders Day atop an iconic London Double Decker Bus.

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Autism Awareness

Photo by Steve Huntington on Unsplash

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AUTISM AWARENESS

During 2020 Zeta took our fight for autism awareness to a new level by partnering with Micah’s Voice, which was founded by Shawn Stockman, one of the lead singers and founders of the R&B group Boyz II Men, and his wife, Sharhonda. The Stockman’s Foundation was inspired by one of their twin sons, Micah, who is autistic, and was created to ease the financial burden that families experience when dealing with autism. Through these partnerships with Autism Speaks and Micah’s Voice, Zetas across the world continue to increase autism awareness. Check out the State of Maryland and their efforts to increase awareness in the Atlantic Region.

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A Mother’s Love

By LaTonya Ward Rho Eta Zeta Chapter

Miles at two years old, two years before being formally diagnosed with autism.

When Miles was diagnosed with autism, Soror LaTonya Ward sought local resources for support in her community. She also wanted to impact policy and advocate for children like her son. Autism Speaks had what she was looking for; shortly after joining the organization, she invited sorors to help in supporting the cause. In an interview with WMAR 2 Baltimore News, LaTonya highlighted her advocacy efforts and work with Autism Speaks.

“We wanted to raise awareness, particularly in our community. Typically, those in the Black and Brown communities are diagnosed much later than those of other races. And that’s usually what makes all the difference in a child or a person on the autism spectrum: getting those services and getting that diagnosis much earlier

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in the game so they can live a productive life,” said Soror Ward.

Raising a son on the spectrum and being a member of a service organization made Soror Ward an impassioned advocate. “If I’m not his biggest voice, who will be? I advocate for those programs that will assist him in being independent, and I tell him you have a superpower. You have different abilities than others, you have to use them to your advantage, and you’re capable.

You’re a little different, you do things differently; you’re not less,” said Soror Ward.

On Oct. 31, after participating in the 2020 Autism Speaks virtual walk, Soror Ward and her son achieved the Grand Club honor by raising more than $1,100.

What was a team of two and a $25 donation a few years ago has blossomed into a strong push for Zeta and community support. Soror Ward’s goal helped push her chapter’s team, Rho Eta Zeta, to raise the most out of all the chapters in the state of Maryland.

When Soror Ward is not actively fundraising and advocating, she uses these tips to help her balance in life as an autism mom: 1. Focus on the positive: Use positive reinforcement to correct or model particular behaviors that may need improvement.

Reward good behavior, of course, but she recommends not going overboard as it will become expected for everything.

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2. Stay consistent and on schedule: This may be a challenge, but try to adhere to a consistent schedule for yourself and your child. Autistic children need consistency, and a chaotic schedule can invite anxiety for you both. If you anticipate a transition in your schedules, be sure to prep your child on what is going to happen and explain the transition to ease any fears or concerns.

3. Give yourselves some grace: Everything does not have to be perfect! If one parenting technique, therapy, or learning approach doesn’t work, don’t beat yourself up! It takes time to figure out what is best for you and your child.

4. Get support and seek out respite care: Being a caregiver of a child or person on the autism spectrum is exhausting! Schedule breaks for yourself as well as for your child or loved one. Support groups are necessary from time to time to help build healthy coping mechanisms and maintain a positive mental outlook.

PHOTO CAPTIONS Top left and right: The face of autism: Miles at age 13, enjoying life! He loves traveling and going to the circus.

Bottom left: Soror Perenda Isom and Soror LaTonya Ward, Atlantic Region Autism Awareness Co-Coordinators Bottom right: Soror LaTonya Ward and State of Maryland Sorors at the Autism Speaks Walk Baltimore 2019

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Maryland Makes Major Impact The Magnificent and Matchless State of Maryland

By Natasha Wedderburn MD State Autism Awareness Coordinator Autism awareness in the state of Maryland has grown over the years. The Maryland State Autism Awareness Coordinator, Natasha Wedderburn (Tau Eta Zeta Chapter) knew that she wanted to put the efforts and stories of her beloved autism chairwomen in the forefront as many of them passionately serve as their chapter’s chair and have children and stepchildren on the autism spectrum.

The team got to work even before the sorority year started and wanted to work on branding, nurturing their relationship with their local autism agencies, and really using the power of storytelling to shed light on the fact that autism does impact the African-American community. In a

few short months, the Autism Awareness team was able to agree that a T-shirt Wrap Around Fundraiser would be great for April Autism Awareness Month branding and created shirt designs for both Sorors and Amicae. With the support and leadership of the Maryland State Director, Tamara D. Harris, the shirts were a hit in the state of Maryland, and they collected over $3,800 in T-shirt sales.

In addition to the T-shirt fundraiser, Soror Wedderburn was able to leverage her relationship with Autism Speaks to coordinate a live interview with WMAR. This interview highlighted Soror LaTonya Ward (Atlantic Region Autism Awareness Coordinator) and her son Miles along with her experience with autism. The interview also highlighted the work that Zeta does with Autism Awareness and the efforts of the state of Maryland to raise money for the Autism Speaks Walk.

In the past years, chapters across the state of Maryland have supported Autism Speaks. This year, the goal was to coordinate all efforts and make a big impact. The state raised $5,484.26 for the Baltimore Autism Speaks Walk, coming in at number two under the top companies and right under their national partner, Alpha Xi Delta women’s fraternity.

Fourteen Zeta chapters in Maryland participated in the fundraising efforts. Congratulations to Rho Eta Zeta and Tau Delta Zeta for raising well over $1,500 and to Rho Eta Zeta’s auxiliaries for raising $125.

Congratulations to Soror LaTonya Ward for raising $1,158. On Saturday, Oct. 31, 2020, sorors from across the state of Maryland participated in the Virtual Baltimore Speaks Walk by walking 1.54 miles.

The state of Maryland is looking forward to continuing the work as they plan for their robust social media campaign and webinar series for Autism Awareness Month in April.

Iota Chi Zeta Chapter

(Left to Right): MD State Autism Awareness Coordinator, Natasha Wedderburn; Soror Latoya Waddell, Tau Eta Zeta Chapter; Soror Brandi Smith, Tau Eta Zeta Chapter.

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Tau Delta Zeta Chapter

Gamma Alpha Eta Zeta Chapter (GAHZ)

Beta Alpha Beta Zeta

Rho Eta Zeta AUTISM AWARENESS

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101 Years of Service: Nobody Does It Better

PHOTO ON THIS PAGE: Omicron Theta Zeta — A Christmas tree in Alexandria, Virginia, is lit up purple.

PHOTO ON NEXT PAGE: (MIDDLE LEFT) The Rockford, Illinois, City Hall; the Embassy Suites Hotel; and the Tivoli Lights lit up purple for healthy babies.

PHOTO ON NEXT PAGE: (BOTTOM LEFT) Purple Reign Light — The city of Rock Hill, SC, lights up the city water tower and lights at the city fountain in observance of Delta Xi Zeta, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Prematurity Awareness.

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FINER SERVICE

Together with the March of Dimes, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority recognizes that progress cannot be made in isolation and certainly not by standing still or going in reverse.

With years of success and accomplishments, it is easy for us as members and auxiliaries of Zeta Phi Beta to sit back and rest on our laurels. However, we were challenged to do one step better than last year, and what a record-breaking year it has been! The Members Administration made history, raising $820,390 and winning the Alpha Phi Alpha Challenge for the fourth consecutive time!

As we celebrate our 50-year partnership with the March of Dimes, we ask our

By Dr. Irish Spencer Zeta National March of Dimes Director Members and auxiliaries of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., recognize clearly that in Zeta’s 100-plus years of being communityconscious and action-oriented, we must continue to lead the way to end a difficult situation or task or be the solution to a challenging problem.

With regards to birth outcomes for moms and babies, challenging problems like health threats exist. And because we have one-too-many babies suffering and families hurting, there is much more for us to do to find solutions.

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members to contribute one more dollar, one more visit to the NICU, one more opportunity to encourage a first-time mom or dad and continue to celebrate 100-plus years of scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood to break even more records!

So, let us challenge ourselves to make this March for Babies EPIC!! The goal has been set and we will bring home the Alpha / Zeta plaque once again and do what we do for all the babies and moms!!

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Tau Psi Zeta Steps Up for Moms and Babies Affiliates raised $866 (second place). The funds raised will go toward helping provide resources and programs to educate and empower moms so every baby can have the best possible start.

By Dawn White Tau Psi Zeta Chapter

While COVID-19 has presented many challenges around the world, it has also given Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, the opportunity to trailblaze and continue to progress in providing service for the community. The world is a little different now, and the truth is, many pregnant women and babies who are at risk of becoming sick and not receiving the care they need are now an even greater concern with the spread of the unprecedented COVID-19 virus. As a result, March of Dimes transformed their March for Babies StepUp Campaign into a virtual event, allowing individuals to participate from anywhere.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Tau Psi Zeta Chapter, Alsip, IL, joined the March for Babies StepUp Campaign by safely marching in their homes or walking in their neighborhoods, parks, etc., with their children, family, and friends or a soror.

In May 2020, Tau Psi Zeta Chapter raised $13,192 and placed fourth place overall, while the Amicae of Alsip raised $1,861 (second place) and Tau Psi Zeta Youth 84

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Soror Dicks shared her inspiration for raising money and bringing awareness to this cause.

“I was born prematurely at 28 weeks gestation (7 months), weighing only 3lbs 7oz. I lived in an incubator for a month until I gained at least 5 lbs before I could go home,” she said.

Soror Dicks added that she participates to help all moms and families experience the joy of a healthy baby. She believes that sharing her personal story inspired many family and friends to donate and support the March for Babies StepUp Campaign.

This was TPZ’s 15th year with March of Dimes, and this was the best year, showing that COVID-19 could not stop the flow of fundraising.

TPZ encouraged friends, family, and supporters to join and help raise funds to tackle the biggest health threat toward mothers and babies. TPZ set a goal, which was exceeded, asked for personal and professional support, and reminded everyone why this campaign was so important. Tau Psi Zeta President Soror Darcell NorwoodBaugh encouraged chapter members to post their pictures with a March of Babies message to social media to get the word out.

Sorors, Amicae, and youth used social media, text messaging, and emailing as their fundraising platform, creating personalized messages to encourage family, friends, and business partners to support this worthy cause.

Tau Psi Zeta Chapter Soror Tasha Dicks was the top fundraiser, raising $2,333.

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FINER SERVICE

C-A-N-C-E-R: That Six-Letter Word “Everyone I knew who had cancer died, and I wasn’t ready to die,” Soror Reed said.

By Kathleen Turman Zeta National American Cancer Society Director

doctor you can that will not only listen to you but will also care about you. The best doctor can make the difference.”

At 81, Soror Brenda Reed is a 31-year survivor whose beautiful spirit, continued positivity, and strength give confirmation that cancer is not a death sentence.

So whether you Stride, Relay, or give Hope, the donations made to the American Cancer Society focus on advocacy in the fight against cancer by providing education, cancer treatment transportation, lodging for cancer patients and their families, and cancer screenings, to name just a few things. If you are a survivor, a newly diagnosed cancer patient, or even a caregiver, the American Cancer Society has resources to help you through your journey.

The American Cancer Society provides 24/7 resources to help support and fill in the gaps for patients and their families at cancer.org. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated continues to join the fight to save lives, celebrate lives, and help to lead the fight for a world without cancer.

CANCER. Most of us think that being diagnosed with that six-letter word is an automatic death sentence, but there is an eight-letter word that changes all of that: SURVIVOR.

When diagnosed with cancer, some people choose hope over despair. That’s what Soror Brenda Reed, National Zeta Dove Director, matriarch and chapter member of Kappa Rho Zeta Chapter in Metro Detroit, charter member of Sigma Alpha Zeta in Milwaukee, and two-time breast cancer survivor did.

After making a solo move to Milwaukee at the age of 50 for a new job, Soror Reed did her due diligence and checked herself for lumps. Unfortunately, she felt something and was diagnosed with Stage 3 Breast Cancer in her left breast shortly after, in October 1989.

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There’s that hope. Upon being diagnosed, she was given two options – a mastectomy or a lumpectomy. Although a hard decision, she chose the mastectomy and removed her left breast. During her treatment, she also faced five weeks of chemotherapy and radiation due to the advanced stage of her cancer. All the while, she remained prayerful and positive that her life was not over. She still has the burn marks to prove it.

Years later, after moving back to Detroit in 2018, Soror Reed got a call from her doctor that she was yet again diagnosed, this time with Stage 0 Breast Cancer in her right breast. She decided at that point that another mastectomy was in order.

“When you say Big C, you cut it all off,” Soror Reed said with seriousness but a light-hearted tone. “The Big C kills you. I came into the world without any boobs, and I’m leaving the world without any boobs.”

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Sigma Kappa Zeta Fights Against Domestic Violence “What’s happening? What are we going to do?”

Photo by Alex Green from Pexels

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By Sigma Kappa Zeta Chapter These questions floated throughout daily conversations among many at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, which had the world in its grip almost immediately. After our wonderful Centennial Celebration at the start of 2020, New York City suddenly became the epicenter of the health crisis. That year tested sorors’ resilience but ultimately strengthened new ways to empower their Brooklyn community as well as themselves. Sigma Kappa Zeta kicked their efforts into high gear and immediately went into action, living up to their motto of “extolling excellence and discouraging satisfaction with the second rate.” Leading the way for change, SKZ continued to rally behind their community and give vision for others to be informed, inspired, and involved despite the loss and upheaval that occurred throughout the country.

A serious concern since the beginning of the pandemic has been the rise in domestic violence cases due to many people being stuck at home with their abusers. In our organization, we know of three sorors who were recently lost to domestic violence. There are surely many more whose names and situations we do not know of. In light of this, Centennial International Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth Baker appointed SKZ’s very own charter member, Soror Karen Gooden, to the position of Director of the International Domestic Violence Programmatic Initiative (DVPI). Soror Gooden has been a leading advocate shining light on an issue that affects so many individuals in our immediate circles. With this new initiative, SKZ was guided by their chapter DVPI coordinators, Soror Mychelle Edwards (Chair), Soror Naomi Hayes (Co-Chair), and Soror Shirley Caro, Esq. (Atlantic Region DVPI Coordinator), who have played a pivotal role in addressing this matter by hosting virtual events to bring awareness.

Their first event was “That’s Not Ok, That’s Abuse,” which created a safe space to learn and talk about domestic violence. Their participants were able to openly talk about their experiences and share their survival stories. The second event, “Kick Away Domestic Violence,” was a virtual kickboxing class where SKZ and participants learned techniques on how to protect themselves. All programs were geared to empowering and giving participants the tools to stand up against domestic violence.

While celebrating the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Centennial year, Sigma Kappa Zeta Chapter has displayed a newfound strength and purpose while being faced with the uncertainties of the pandemic and racial injustices in the country. The chapter has remained steadfast in supporting the collective “Call to Action” and will continue in their efforts to assist in supporting the Brooklyn community.

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Finer Women Always Weather the Storm

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Hurricane Zeta • Have at least a one-week supply of medication, nonperishable food items, water, clothing, shoes, and activities per household member.

• Have a full tank of gas in case of having to leave unexpectedly.

• Understand how to safely use a generator.

• Keep an emergency cash reserve in the home for purchasing items if ATMs and electronic purchasing devices are not in service.

• Have household identifications and financial, legal, and medical documents in weather-resistant storage and accessible.

• Have emergency kits with first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, radio, and hygiene items.

• Create a plan for family members with special needs, the elderly, children, and pets.

• Make individual sleeping arrangements for each household member.

• Familiarize yourself with emergency contacts (e.g., hospital, police, utility companies, etc.).

• Have an evacuation route and a backup route.

• Pay attention to local government updates, warnings, and mandates.

By Shannan Smith, MPA Alpha Alpha Beta Zeta Chapter Hurricane season occurs annually, and no amount of preparation could have prepared the chapters of Southwest Louisiana for this historically active season. Louisiana had a record-breaking hurricane season with five named storms making landfall: Hurricane Cristobal, Tropical Storm Marco, Hurricane Laura, Hurricane Delta, and Hurricane Zeta. Hurricane Laura wreaked havoc on Southwest Louisiana, and the chapters in the area had to deal with a lack of running water and electricity for over three weeks.

During recovery, Hurricane Delta made landfall 14 miles east of where Hurricane Laura made landfall 40 days prior.

Alpha Alpha Beta Zeta Chapter, located in DeRidder, LA, is one of a few chapters located in Southwest Louisiana. Constant preparation was necessary due to being in the “cone of uncertainty” all hurricane season long. Utilizing the following preparation tips have been instrumental in weathering the storm. Louisiana was not the only state to experience an active hurricane season as many states in the Gulf and East Coast areas have had direct landfalls. While some of these states did not experience direct storm surges, they did experience devasting winds, rain, tornadoes, and extended power outages. The tips apply to any inclement weather situation in any state.

These tips will greatly assist with recovery efforts once the storm has passed.

Restoring areas and cleaning up debris does account for many hurricane-related injuries. Seek out professional help regarding downed power lines, fallen trees, stump removal, roof repairs, gutting of flooded structures, etc. After facing many hurricanes this season, Louisiana is resilient and will continue to stay prepared in all-weather events. A season of rebuilding is upon all affected states, but it is easier to manage with the support of the Zeta S.O.S. program, which provides support and assistance from the entire sisterhood to affected areas.

• Take pictures of belongings, housing structures, and vehicles to assist with insurance companies conducting adjustments.

• Keep all damage-related repair and expense receipts for filing claims.

• Ensure proper insurance coverage for potential hazards for the area (flood, wind/hail, contents, liability, etc.).

• Familiarize yourself with Federal assistance programs should your parish/ county be declared a disaster.

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DBZ Makes Service a Way of Life by always staying above the line and being awesome team players, thanking God every step of the way for provision. Let’s see what they did during the pandemic!

They are fundraising with a cause. This 50/50 Raffle for Breast Cancer Awareness! Who doesn’t want extra money while showing support for others? “Helping others while helping yourselves!”

The Breast Cancer Wheel of HOPE—Is your name listed to win the raffle prize?

Let’s check it out! The lucky winner was Tina Barfield—look at her winning smile.

The chapter still managed to walk for Breast Cancer Awareness. They have to get those steps in.

Another great idea was Fashionable Pin Fundraising. They wanted to promote a pin that’s suitable for everyone. This “LOVE

By Dr. Carol M. Grant, DBH, LMSW President, Delta Beta Zeta Chapter Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Delta Beta Zeta Chapter located in Rochdale, Queens, New York, under the leadership of Dr. Carol Grant, is doing their thing in spite of COVID-19. They’re not letting anything stop them from community service and bringing joy to others. These sorors have a winning attitude of “It’s not can we get it done but how we get it done” because they are strong Zeta women. They are maintaining their success as a chapter

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PIN” is needed in these times. Let’s share the LOVE and be happy.

Our veterans are an important piece to the puzzle. It was a must to celebrate our proud, strong, brave, and resilient service members with love and gratitude. Delta Beta Zeta followed the CDC’s guidelines, marched in the parade, and helped to serve hot meals.

Delta Beta Zeta Chapter enjoys community service and upholding the principles of Zeta, but they also love taking care of their own family. The group, “My Sister’s Keeper,” held a Trunk or Treat Halloween for their chapter members’ children. Such joy of showing your family appreciation.

Our seniors are important too. The Youth Group and the Elder Care Committee provided Thanksgiving baskets to the seniors in the community. Showing more Love!

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Omega Omicron Zeta Celebrates Year of Service

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Chapter Hosts Women’s Seminar

By Gloria L. Weatherspoon Omega Omicron Zeta Chapter

THE WOMEN WHO PARTICIPATED in this event met as strangers but departed as friends.

They supported each other while being supported by more than 100 community members throughout the afternoon.

During Finer Womanhood Observance Month, Omega Omicron Zeta Chapter, located in beautiful Brevard County, FL, hosted a free Women’s Entrepreneur Networking Fair at the Pink Earth event center in Eau Galle, FL. The networking fair was the first of its kind in the Brevard County area. Women from across central Florida came to showcase their women-owned and operated small businesses, and participating vendors donated an item for auction. “What an awesome networking event for women entrepreneurs,” stated vendor Grenita Cabbi Brooks, owner and operator of Lady Boss Boutique. Together these phenomenal women networked and marketed their small businesses at the fair.

Some vendors used this opportunity as a mentorship moment for their daughters.

Mothers worked side by side, showing their daughters how to conduct business, share information, and support women.

Soror Jessica Nater, owner and operator of Play Smart Learning Center, provided words of encouragement and wisdom to our women entrepreneurs in attendance.

She discussed her journey and the pitfalls of starting a business and expressed her sheer willpower to never give up.

“This was a great way to get women entrepreneurs in our local area to come together and showcase their businesses,” said Soror Jamara Frazier, the event coordinator. This event was also a way to (Continued on page 96)

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share vital information on becoming an entrepreneur and having a successful business, this displays the true meaning of sisterhood. There is power in showing the transparency of experience and knowledge for the expressed benefit of women,” said Soror Yolanda Martinez, President of Omega Omicron Zeta Chapter.

The diverse group of women-owned businesses featured at this event provided everything from clothing retail, books, cookware, and travel companies to beau-

show young girls that they can be entrepreneurs and to raise money for our Annual Scholarship.”

The women who participated in this event met as strangers but departed as friends. They supported each other while being supported by more than 100 community members throughout the afternoon.

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ty, event planning, personal wellness, and professional brand consulting.

“What started as an opportunity for marketing turned into so much more. To have everyone come and support these women was the goal, and this event achieved that goal,” said Soror Frazier.

The partnership with the community made this event a success, and the Finer Women of Brevard County community is looking forward to expanding the Omega Omicron Zeta Women’s Entrepreneur Networking Fair in the years to come.

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Shopping With Licensed Vendors: The Reasons Why

By Portia E. Ellis National Vendor Director The year 2020 was a historic year for us for more reasons than being our Centennial celebration year.

For the first time in our lives, we were faced with a global public health emergency that would alter our daily routines beyond our control. This included the inperson manner that we were accustomed to when shopping for merchandise that represents our beloved sisterhood.

With stay-at-home orders, conference cancelations, and the common goal of remaining safe and healthy, an alternative way of “visiting the vendor halls” prevailed through online shopping and virtual exhibitor shops. This method also included the convenience of access to vendors all across the country from the comfort of our homes. At the click of a button, we can have products delivered right to our doorsteps.

As we continue to explore the world of a virtual way of living, which will include virtual shopping, it is very important to ensure that we are only purchasing items from licensed vendors who have entered a business agreement with the sorority.

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There are several reasons why it is important to only shop with licensed vendors.

First, licensed vendors undergo a specialized process to become licensed and have every item of merchandise reviewed before it is placed on the market. Our licensing company, headquarters staff, and national vendor director work as a team to review the intricate details of every design submission to ensure that it protects and promotes our brand in the public eye. This process has various steps, including verifying that our shield is correct, our colors are correct, the names of our Five Pearls are spelled correctly, our principles are listed in the correct order, and even if the product itself represents us in a Finer way.

Our licensed vendors take the time to submit each product so that it can be approved, denied, or resubmitted if modifications are needed. Companies that have not completed the licensing process are not providing the organization with this same courtesy to preview merchandise.

As a result, they often release items that are subpar to our expectations as an organization.

Secondly, with increased online shopping worldwide, there are often shipping delays for orders. With licensed vendors, The Archon Magazine • Spring & Summer 2021

we are able to assist with vendor contact information and order statuses or even assist with connecting you to vendors when looking for specific items. When orders are placed or inquiries are made regarding non-licensed vendors, there is no assistance that the sorority is able to provide.

Finally, the most beneficial and lucrative reason to buy from licensed vendors is because of the royalties that the sorority now receives as an additional revenue source from our licensees. As members of this organization, we should only patronize those vendors who are committed to returning a portion of their profits to the sisterhood as a part of their license agreement.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and the Vendors Affairs appreciate your support of our official, licensed vendors. For the most current listing of our licensed vendors, please visit: https://zphib1920.org/ certified-licensed-vendors/.

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Financial Freedom Fr

By Tasha Garcia Delta Mu Zeta Chapter Courtesy of: Tasha García, Financial Advisor, Pacesetter’s Club Since 2021 Branch Name: Morgan Stanley, Short Hills, NJ Phone Number: 973.921.6519 Web Address: https://advisor. morganstanley.com/tasha.garcia

What does financial freedom mean to you? For some, it is synonymous with financial security. But, for others, the definition of financial freedom goes beyond money to include living with purpose, cultivating a healthy mind and spirit or being able to pursue their dreams without fear of the unknown or unexpected.

No matter how you define it, the fundamental steps of mapping a path to the opportunities that financial freedom offer are the same.

THE FEARLESS GIRL This four-foot bronze statue of a girl sporting a defiant look on her face appeared in Lower Manhattan on the eve of International Women’s Day in March 2017. The sculpture soon became known as the Fearless Girl, captivating New Yorkers and tourists alike. The statue was designed by artist Kristen Visbal and was initially opposite Wall Street’s famed Charging Bull. She moved to more permanent digs, several blocks north, opposite the New York Stock Exchange.

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The Path to Financial Freedom 1. DEFINE YOUR GOALS. What is your vision of a successful life?

Defining your goals as specifically as possible helps you begin to establish priorities and distinguish between needs and wants. Once you have clearly identified your priorities, you can start thinking about what types of financial trade-offs or lifestyle compromises you’re willing

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Building Wealth to Live the Life You Love to make to achieve your version on success, on your own terms.

2. SET A BUDGET. Living on a budget may sound limiting, but in reality, a budget is a valuable tool for helping you do the things you really want by showing you how much money you will need to do them. Start by calculating your income and tracking your current expenses. Then, separate your needs from your wants in the context of your overall goals. Once you set your budget, the most important thing is to stick to it, monitor how you’re doing and then adjust if necessary.

3. MAKE A HABIT OF SAVING. Saving early, automatically and often is the cornerstone of an effective wealth creation strategy as it allows you to take advantage of the power of compound interest. Prioritize saving over optional expenses and make automatic deposits to your savings, investment or retirement account, if your company enables you to do so. In addition, contributing to a flexible spending account, health savings account, retirement plan or education savings account enables you to take advantage of tax benefits. You can also trim spending by changing your habits— for example, bringing, instead of buying, lunch or unsubscribing from retailer email lists to avoid the temptation to buy things you don’t really need.

4. ALIGN YOUR INVESTMENT STRATEGY WITH YOUR GOALS. If you’re thinking about investing, you’ll want to formulate an investment strategy that helps you achieve your goals.

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This article has been prepared for informational purposes only. The information and data in the article has been obtained from sources outside of Morgan Stanley. Morgan Stanley makes no representations or guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of the information or data from sources outside of Morgan Stanley. It does not provide individually tailored investment advice and has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it. The strategies and/ or investments discussed in this article may not be appropriate for all investors. Morgan Stanley recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice.

Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for legal matters.

Asset Allocation does not assure a profit or protect against loss in declining financial markets. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement with/of the third party or that any monitoring is being done by Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”) of any information contained within the website. Morgan Stanley is not responsible for the information contained on the third party website or the use of or inability to use such site. Nor do we guarantee their accuracy or completeness.

Tasha García may only transact business, follow-up with individualized responses, or render personalized investment advice for compensation, in states where she is registered or excluded or exempted from registration, https://advisor.morganstanley.com/ tasha.garcia

Begin by figuring out how much you’ll need (your target), when you’ll need it (your time frame) and how much risk you can live with (your risk tolerance). These inputs help to define your asset allocation—the mix of asset classes (stocks, bonds, cash equivalents and other investments) in your portfolio. Since different asset classes tend to behave differently under different market conditions, the goal is to find the mix of investments that has the highest probability of helping you reach your goals.

5. ESTABLISH GOOD CREDIT. Don’t underestimate the value of a high credit score. Your credit score is how people assess the level of financial risk associated with giving you a loan or conducting any kind of business with you, including renting an apartment or buying a cell phone. To improve your credit score, pay your bills on time, borrow (but don’t over-borrow) and monitor your credit reports from each of the three main credit score suppliers—Equifax, Experian and TransUnion—on a regular basis.

GETTING STARTED No matter how old you are or where you are in life, the future you envision begins with a comprehensive plan and a Financial Advisor who cares about you and your unique definition of financial freedom.

Disclosures Article by Morgan Stanley and provided courtesy of Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor.

Tasha García is a Financial Advisor in Short Hills, NJ at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”). She can be reached by email at Tasha.Garcia@morganstanley.com or by telephone at (973) 921-6519.Her website is https://advisor.morganstanley.com/tasha.garcia The Archon Magazine • Spring & Summer 2021

©2021 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 3420968 Exp. 02/02/2022

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Money For Nothing • Photo by Sahand Hoseini on Unsplash

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Intentional Money Management “IN THE BLACK” The global pandemic and social justice unrest in 2020 have heightened understanding of financial disparities for African Americans. Being “In the Black” and intentional about money management, savings and debt reduction, legacy building, wealth creation, and all facets of financial wellness and its intersection to every part of our lives and communities are paramount for all.

Under the leadership and support of the Atlantic Regional Director, Gina Merritt Epps, Esq., and the Atlantic Region dfree® Coordinator, Tanetha Ross-Johnson, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Atlantic Region has embarked on year two of a partnership with the dfree® Global Foundation, Incorporated. The region is working closely with the dedicated dfree® team, and the dfree® Church, Greek, and Young Money Relationship Manager, Shaunda Sutton, also a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, to bring increased financial awareness, tools, and strategies to Sorority members, Amicae, and the communities they serve. dfree® is a financial freedom movement and non-profit organization founded in 2005 by Dr. DeForest B. Soaries Jr. The dfree® Global Foundation, Inc. leads individuals, organizations, and communities of color by providing tools, resources, and a framework toward financial freedom. This is done through a series of workshops, webinars, training, and digital tools while promoting values-based, lasting change and overall self-accountability.

The Billion Dollar Challenge (BDC), as a dfree® Global Foundation Inc. tool, created by Dr. Soaries, continues the legacy started by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. of fiMONEY MANAGEMENT

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nancial wellness and empowerment for all.

BDC helps to tackle debt and build savings with a free and confidential online planning and tracking system.

As a sisterhood, the Atlantic Region Sorors are reimagining how they see, feel, and think about their finances, with a strong commitment to elevating financial freedom journeys through the dfree® Online Training Academy, weekly webinars, and participation on the Billion Dollar Challenge. To date, a total of 76 participating sorors have paid down $121,932.62 and logged $35,422.88 in savings.

To learn more about dfree® Global Foundation, Incorporated, visit: www.mydfree.org.

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Finding Funds for Our Philanthropy

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The Next 100 Years Will Require a More Sophisticated Approach accomplishing chapter goals. A chapter’s fund development goals should consider the comfort level of their members.

Create the Framework – Consider a fund development committee versus a fundraising committee. One should facilitate ways for people to give the organization money, namely, sponsorships and grants, based on their impact and the marketing opportunities they can provide. If a chapter holds an event, they should be clear on the profit per ticket based on a realistic account of expenses. They should also include the cost of labor that their members are donating to the chapter. Many times the cost of the event is higher or equal to the income they receive. Therefore, sponsorships should be acquired. A chapter should analyze their personal and professional networks to determine potential sponsors.

Do the Work – After one has accounted for personal issues and recruited a committee, a fund development plan that is integrated into your strategic plan is essential. It may take several years to reach your goals, and the first step should be understanding the donor cultivation process.

Fund Development in a Pandemic – There are many innovative models for virtual events, including the Zeta National Educational Foundation virtual fundraiser, a virtual dinner and cooking demo with guests, and virtual silent auctions. It is often easier to minimize expenses for a virtual event, yet one should still secure sponsorships. While you should be sensitive to different financial situations, not everyone is going through a financial hardship. Some corporations are seeking organizations like Zeta in which to invest for their racial diversity efforts.

Zeta has been a stalwart in many communities across the world for 100 years. In 2021 and beyond, circumstances dictate that they re-envision their role and become more sophisticated about the best way to transform communities and take their community-conscious, action-oriented work to the next level.

ZETA HAS BEEN A STALWART in many communities across the world for 100 years. In 2021 and beyond, circumstances dictate that they reenvision their role, and become more sophisticated about the best way to transform communities and take their community-conscious, action-oriented work to the next level.

MONEY MANAGEMENT

By Krysta Jones Delta Sigma Zeta Chapter The members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., are well known for their service to the community. For more than 100 years, they have built partnerships, staffed Stork’s Nests, marched for babies, and registered voters.

In order to truly transform communities, money should be a part of the service equation, but for the last several years, there has been a movement away from event-based fundraising. In March 2020, anyone who had an in-person fundraising event planned for 2020 knew at least one of the reasons why.

Many people manage money poorly or have deep-seated issues stemming from their upbringing. This can directly affect how they see people who have financial resources, how they ask for financial support for their programs, and how they manage organizational funds.

In order to take the first steps toward enhancing a chapter’s fund development efforts, consider the following: Address the Issues – Before a chapter or organization decides to ramp up their fundraising efforts, they should ask their members questions about their first experiences with money, their comfort level with asking for money, and the importance of money in

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Zeta Implements New Association Management System

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The Fonteva Platform

By Kim Sawyer, Zeta International Technology Co-Director

By Nicole Lowry, Zeta International Technology Co-Director

As technology evolves, it becomes more streamlined, more reliable, and easier to use. Faster, more effective, and efficient products lead to more work done in less time, therefore increasing productivity. International Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth Baker appointed the International Technology Directors, Sorors Nicole Lowry and Kim D. Sawyer, and a technology team to carry out our technology infrastructure’s overhaul. She desired to replace the current Association Management System with a system that offers highly flexible, efficient, and robust organization management capabilities that support our critical business functions.

FONTEVA REPLACES the current Association Management System with a system that offers highly flexible, efficient, and robust organization management capabilities that support Zeta’s critical business functions.

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on the system. A helpdesk was created to address issues in an organized manner. The Zeta Organizational Leadership (ZOL) team and the International Headquarters staff were trained on the system to provide additional support in addressing issues.

On July 1, 2020, the Phase I launch allowed members to pay their National, Regional, and State dues online for the first time. Over 3,400 members used the system on launch day.

In August 2020, Phase II launched the automated Membership Intake Program Forms & Payment.

Work on Phase III has begun, which will enable Event Registration with ZOL as the first event.

Within the first six months of 2021, Phase IV will enable e-Store function-

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Through the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, the vendor Fonteva was selected. Fonteva offered a powerful association management platform built on Salesforce, designed to manage the operations of associations effectively and efficiently. The Fonteva platform gives Zeta incredible flexibility in how we can serve our members. It is a true cloud solution that is built to scale as our needs and membership grow.

The project was officially kicked off in February 2020. The vendor migrated the data from the old system to the new system. Members received welcome letters that provided instructions on how to set up their member portal.

Leadership and members were trained

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ality to allow members to purchase items from the Zeta MarketPlace through Fonteva. We also look forward to launching the new Member Transfer Process, establishing Member Groups, and Chapter and Member Directories.

Phase V is scheduled for July 2021 to facilitate e-learning and establish a community separate from the Zeta Member Services portal to be used solely by the National Educational Foundation.

The International Technology Team has worked diligently to bring the organization this much needed technology.

Thank you to everyone who has supported this effort. A special thank you to the ZOL Technology Team, who supported all the webinars.

Stay tuned for what is next!

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Chartering a New Zeta Chapter

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GAPZ Shares Tips

By Jada Gibbs, Parliamentarian Public Relations Chair Gamma Alpha Pi Zeta Chapter WHERE WE BEGAN Chartering a new chapter only four months into a shutdown has proven to be an exciting challenge. The Groundbreaking Gamma Alpha Pi Zeta Chapter was chartered in June 2020 by eight women who powered through a pandemic with determination and a vision of finer womanhood in Bergen County, NJ. Recognizing this is a novel and truly groundbreaking process, they are sharing some tips for new chapters:

THE GEORGE WASHINGTON BRIDGE is a double-decked suspension bridge spanning the Hudson River, connecting the New York City borough of Manhattan with the New Jersey borough of Fort Lee. The opening of the bridge on October 25, 1931, contributed to the development of Bergen County, New Jersey, in which Fort Lee is located. The bridge is named after George Washington, the first president of the United States, and it is the world’s busiest motor vehicle bridge, carrying more than 103 million vehicles in 2016.

GET TO KNOW YOUR SORORS! Some sorors are transferring from other chapters, have recently moved, or are reclaiming and coming back home to Zeta.

Whatever the method, everyone’s love for the organization is what drove them to create or join a new chapter. Explore everyone’s reason!

Getting to know each other’s strengths early will be helpful for chapter function, and you may even have the best stepper in your chapter—even Centennial Step Team material!

MEET IN PERSON WHEN POSSIBLE (ADHERING TO CDC GUIDELINES, OF COURSE!) If there are opportunities to meet outdoors safely, take that opportunity.

GAPZ started their sister stroll with the intention to get to know each other and build bonds. This gave the chapter an opportunity to get out of the house and safely enjoy each other’s company.

VIRTUAL FUNDRAISING! Double Good Popcorn is named double good for a reason! The website is consumer-friendly, is easy to set up, and requires (Continued on page 112) ZETA MANAGEMENT

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both feasible and meaningful to chapter members!

GAPZ events have been designed to target multiple initiatives and goals. The GAPZ sister stroll, initially designed as a walk in the park and with the intention of getting to know sorors, has now grown into a bigger event and shifted into virtual selfcare Sundays with meditation and yoga.

The display of sisterhood has piqued the interest of those who would like to join Zeta and sisters who have been away for a while.

As a new chapter, GAPZ chooses to keep the motto of the sisterhood at the forefront of its mission. Remaining community conscious, especially during a pandemic, calls for active effort and outreach.

The shutdown has impacted small busi-

no coordination for delivery of popcorn… and the popcorn is delicious. This fundraiser will help you raise thousands in just a couple of days.

GAPZ’s Harvest Basket Raffle utilized the giveaway site betterworld.org to fundraise for chapter operations. Some items in the basket included professional makeup services, fitness classes, and a Samsung tablet. Mix services and items to garner interest.

START SMALL AND MIGHTY… THEN BUILD! There are so many amazing initiatives to take on, but as a new chapter, it is important to make sure to use and allocate resources wisely. Choose initiatives that are

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ness, and GAPZ has made sure to support Black-owned businesses, an area of focus in a predominantly white county.

Finally, extend yourself and everyone else grace. Starting a chapter or even building a chapter up during a pandemic is no small feat. It takes time and effort all while handling the new stressors of COVID-19. GAPZ encourages everyone to embrace the process and learn along the way.

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Former Archonettes

From Girls to Pearls Zeta Youth

2020. The 2019–2020 Pearlettes focused on cultural awareness as they read and discussed the book Hair Love while donning their hair in their favorite style to express their culture and beauty. They also crafted Valentine’s Day cards for a senior center in East Windsor, CT, to support the Elder Care Initiative. The Pearlettes are anxiously awaiting the continuation of their partnership with the senior center as they were planning to participate in readalongs and game days at the center. Unfortunately, COVID-19 put that on hold.

The Amicettes focused on building young leaders as they created vision boards for the year and planned activities in the community. The Amicettes and the Pearlettes visited the Connecticut Science Center and engaged in several activities focusing on STEM while bonding with each other and building friendships that will last a lifetime. Everything came to a screeching halt

By LA’Tosha Woodard TriState Youth Coordinator Phi Delta Zeta Pearlette Advisor The mission of the youth clubs of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, is to provide a carefully designed program of activities that will enhance youth club members through mind, body, and spirit as they work within their various communities. The Phi Delta Zeta Chapter embraced the National Youth Affiliates Mission Statement as they held their initial induction ceremony in December of 2019. The two groups inducted consisted of Pearlettes and Amicettes. The Archonettes were inducted in December of

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in March 2020, but the virtual connections and activities have been implemented and the groups are moving forward in the 2020–2021 year by participating in yoga, making pizza, creating holiday gifts for loved ones, and having dance parties, all while learning the history and principles of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. The 2020–2021 Youth Affiliate Groups will be inducted in a virtual ceremony on December 19. The youth are already planning virtual community service events and a Founders’ Day service event to collect and prepare Emergency COVID-19 Relief bags for a homeless shelter in Hartford, CT. The bags will consist of a mask/face shield, hand sanitizer, gloves, packs of facial tissue, and antibacterial wipes. The Phi Delta Zeta Chapter Youth Affiliate Groups have an enthusiasm for each other, the organization, and their communities, and it has been demonstrated in their meetings, relationships with their family members and peers, and community efforts and activities. There is a proud excitement with these young ladies as we watch and nurture them “From Girls to Pearls.”

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Zeta Youth Continue to Strive for Excellence Virna Springer

become viable links of the sorority. The year 2020 was a great year for our Amicette youth club as they celebrated 50 years since the official adoption of their name, “Amicette.” We stand by our motto, “Zeta Youth with Dreams Become Zeta Women with Vision.” The Zeta Youth are the future to a bigger and brighter tomorrow. These future Zeta leaders continue to strive for excellence with the guidance of our nationally designed youth curriculum, also known as our Four Strands. Through the mentorship and guidance of our youth club advisors, our youth will be molded into leaders and innovators of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM).

Jutun Andrews

By Virna Springer International Youth Affiliates Director and

Zeta Youth Get Engaged

Jutun Andrews International Youth Affiliates Co-Director Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, has had the honor of sponsoring our future Zeta leaders for more than 70 years. We proudly continue being the only historical Black sorority to have youth affiliates from ages 4-18.

Our three international youth clubs are Archonette Club, who are in high school (ages 14-18); Amicette Club (ages 9-13); and the Pearlette Club (ages 4- 8). These clubs have

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Our Archonettes recognize the importance of “putting their voice in the room” by getting engaged with their local elections. These young ladies believe they can become the next U.S. president and/or influential politicians in their time.

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As we continue to support our youth dreams by exposing our Zeta youth to many different professions—from educator to a Fortune 500 CEO—we believe our mentoring programs will open more doors to our youth as they make the collegiate and professional decisions of a lifetime. Currently we face the COVID-19 pandemic, which has changed our lives significantly as we continue to maintain social distance, wash our hands, and wear masks. This pandemic has not stopped our youth from executing community service projects for the homeless in their community.

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Camryn Clanton

We Serve Our Communities Since COVID-19, our youth clubs have been openly participating with multiple virtual workshops, fundraisers, Netflix parties and challenges. Our youth advisors have found innovative ways to capture our Zeta youth’s attention as they, too, are affected

by COVID-19. Our youth have been fortunate to have participated with multiple community service projects and programs and created PSAs that speak to what’s happening in today’s society (autism, breast cancer, bullying, prematurity awareness, and teen domestic violence, just to name a few). Our youth adviors have dedi-

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dance performed by dancers in boots is said to be one of the most influential parts of stepping? We are so proud to acknowledge our Girls to Pearls that participated with the National Centennial Steppers during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day virtual parade. It was always a dream of our Step Mistress Valencia Springer to be a part of the Macy’s Day parade, but never in her wildest dream did she think this opportunity would’ve happened during our Centennial year. These five young ladies were actively a part of our youth clubs from all ages. It was a proud moment for all their advisors from Sigma Kappa Zeta and Epsilon Rho Zeta Chapters as they had the honor of seeing their former youth now sorors making Zeta history.

We’re excited to announce the First International Youth Scholarship Initiative with an EXCLUSIVE LIMITED EDITION of pins for Zeta’s youth and advisors! The proceeds from the pins goes directly to the National Youth Scholarship Initiative for Amicettes and Archonettes. Help us to make this scholarship initiative a reality! This LIMITED EDITION makes a gift!

Please follow the link below for purchase: #ZetaYouthPins2020 https://www.member planet.com/s/zphibhq/youthpins2020 If you have any questions, please reach out to our International Youth Directors.

We are proud of our advisors and youth that continue to uphold our principles and mission as we move toward making our youth a household name, assuring the preservation of Zeta by working with girls at an early age in development of attributes and characteristics of Finer Womanhood, Sisterhood, and Scholarship as envisioned by our Founders.

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cated their time to making this temporary virtual lifestyle as comfortable as possible in order for our youth to be successful during this pandemic.

As we proudly celebrate our Centennial, we want to highlight one of our former youth. She is now our Centennial Soror from Howard University. This proud Zeta Legacy, Soror Camryn Clanton, who believes in STEAM, was recently announced

by Flourish PAC as a National Political Advocacy Intern. This is a non-partisan political committee dedicated to helping our sisters gain a seat at the table. We Salute Soror Clanton.

Did you know “stepping” originated in Africa? Did you know movements and sounds were a form of expression? Did you know that “The African Gumboot”

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Zeta Male Network on the Rise

The first Virtual Lunch and Learn for ZMN coordinators was held on Oct. 24, 2020. More than 32 coordinators attended and left the event with great ideas and the motivation for a successful year. Along with this event, virtual Meet and Greets and networking programming took place across the organization to welcome the men into the auxiliary.

A few tips for implementing a successful ZMN: 1. Chapters should host a virtual social and networking event inviting men in the community. During this event, share the mission and benefits of being a member.

politicians, spouses, business professionals, or members of other Greek-letter organizations. These men collectively come together to help with the programs, service projects, and initiatives of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority.

While 2020-2021 was full of ups and downs, the Zeta Male Network worked alongside their host chapters to carry forth the programming of the organization.

Chapters around the globe have realized that they can do greater work and service in Zeta if they use the skills, resources, manpower, and ideas brought forth by members of the Zeta Male Network. Zeta Male Network auxiliaries have participated in service projects such as Relay for Life, March of Dimes, Elder Care, Adopt-ASchool, and St. Jude Children’s Hospital, to name a few.

By Dr. Ophelia Sanders National Director Zeta Male Network

2. Create a database of all prospective members using member profile sheets.

3. Host a Project Runway introducing all chapter projects and events.

4. Get the host chapter excited about the auxiliary.

5. Use ZMN members to help meet program goals, NOT for handymen and setup crew.

6. Host end-of-the-year events that highlight the contributions made by ZMN members.

7. Encourage ZMN members to attend national, regional, and state conferences.

Have you heard about “No Man Left Behind”? The “No Man Left Behind” slogan is used to encourage the sisterhood not to leave their husbands and significant others at home when attending national,

The Zeta Male Network, also known as ZMN, is on the rise and has been one of Zeta’s best-kept secrets. It is the official fifth auxiliary of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and was established in 1996 under the leadership of 20th International President Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte.

The membership of this auxiliary is composed of men in the lives of Zeta from all walks of life. It doesn’t matter whether they are clergy, community and civic leaders, 118

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This past sorority year is only the beginning for the Zeta Male Network. We look forward to bigger and better things in the future. Plans are underway for upcoming Lunch and Learn Sessions for ZMN Coordinators at all levels, National ZMN events, Boule 2022, regional and state conferences, and the second Zeta Male Network Symposium.

If you or a chapter you know would like to find out more about the Zeta Male Network, contact the Regional Coordinator for your area:

regional, and state conferences. Zeta provides parallel activities during conferences that provide ZMN members with activities specifically tailored for them during sorority business sessions.

The Zeta Male Network Scholarship Drive is currently in process. Each chapter and ZMN member is asked to make a minimum donation of $25. Our goal is to raise $25,000 to present to ZNEF at the 2022 Boule. Five young men meeting the specified criteria will be presented with scholarships.

The official vendor for Zeta Male Network apparel is Allijay Creations: www. etsy.com/shop/allijaycreations. They have designed the perfect apparel, conference items, and accessories.

The first annual Zeta Male Network Symposium was held on May 22, 2021, with more than 302 registered. The theme was “From Boys to Men: It’s Better to Build Boys Than to Mend Men.” The special celebrity guest presenter for the event was David Rucker III, an actor and writer based in Atlanta. He was very inspirational. Other guest presenters included Sam McKenney, licensed therapist; E. Skip Brown, educator, author and member of Omega Psi Phi; and G. JaVaughn Troxler, minister and ZMN member, who served as moderator.

All participants left inspired.

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Dr. Romanda Dillon, Atlantic Region Leah Selvy, Eastern Region Jennifer Ormand, Great Lakes Jeanna Hines, Midwestern Region Ebony Hallman, Pacific Region Hilda Harper, South Central Region Peggy Smith, Southeastern Region Eugenia Rodgers, Southern Region

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2020 Zeta Amicae Soror/Friend Robin W. Jones National Director of Amicae Affairs

Soror/Friend Carolyn Corbin National Co-Director of Amicae Affairs

PACIFIC REGION: New 2020 Zeta Amicae California Members

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Zeta Amicae are women who are willing and committed to lend assistance to their Zeta friends by volunteering in their respective communities.The Zeta Amicae are a vital part of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. From February 1 to June 30, 2021, the Zeta Amicae participated with the Zeta Get Engaged Team to hold a competitive NAACP Membership Drive. The region with the most Zeta Amicae who joined the NAACP would be recognized at their regional conference.

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In March of 2021, the National Amicae Leadership team kicked off a four-month series of educational and informative virtual workshops. Topics included Zeta and Amicae Working Together, Community Service and How to Be Successful, and Stress-Free Event Planning. All workshops were well attended with approximately 400 attendees at each session.

The ZOL Virtual Zeta Amicae Leadership and Empowerment Retreat was a huge success! For two days, on July 21 and July 22,

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2021, Zeta Amicae and Friends obtained valuable information that can be used to ensure their auxiliaries will continue to be successful. This retreat boasts the largest number of Amicae in attendance for any national retreat, with an estimated 100+ in attendance each day.

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REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

GREAT LAKES REGION

ATLANTIC REGION

PACIFIC REGION

Great Lakes Region Amicae Coordinator(s): Soror/Friend Monica Mogbo and Soror/Friend Rozella Campbell

New Charters: 1 New Members: 26

New Charters: 2 Reactivations: 3 New Members: 40

Pacific Region Amicae Coordinator: Soror/Friend Christine Williams Edwards

Atlantic Region Amicae Coordinator: Soror/Friend Aisha Hilliard Zeta Amicae of Springfield, MA. First Auxiliary in MA

The Pacific Region Amicae “Sister City” program was introduced during the Pacific Regional Conference to connect and strengthen bonds of the local auxiliaries.

EASTERN REGION

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

New Charters: 2 New Members: 39

New Members: 14

South Central Region Amicae Coordinator: Soror/Friend Calandra Jones McDonald

Eastern Region Amicae Coordinator: Soror/Friend Tanyon Martin ZA of Washington, DC, celebrated 72 years 2/27/2021

SOUTHEASTERN REGION New Members: 63

MIDWESTERN REGION

Southeastern Region Coordinator(s): Soror/Friend Harriet Green and Soror/Friend Malinda Jackson-James

New Charters: 2 New Members: 15

Midwestern Region Amicae Coordinator(s): Soror/Friend Marcella Morgan and Soror/Friend Cynthia Saddler

SOUTHERN REGION: New Members: 6

EASTERN REGION

Greensboro, NC, New Members North Carolina New Members

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Virginia New Members

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Greensboro Z-Hope

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ATLANTIC REGION

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GREAT LAKES REGION

MIDWESTERN REGION

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Long Beach, CA

PACIFIC REGION

Gardena, CA

Arizona

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Amica Natalie Taylor-Graduated from Miles College May 2021. She has already accepted a job to teach 3rd grade at a local Birmingham City School.

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

She hopes to become a member of Zeta Phi Beta soon. Amica Taylor is a member of Lambda Zeta Zeta Amicae—Zeta Amicae of Bessemer, Alabama.

New Members—Zeta Amicae of Forest, Mississippi— Nu Pi Zeta Chapter

Amica Emma Owens was voted South Central Region Amicae of the Year for 2021! Emma has been an Amicae since 2009. She is a member of Lambda Xi Zeta AmicaeZeta Amicae of Gulfport, MS.

Zeta Amicae of Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

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Zeta Amicae of Itta Bena, Theta Pi Zeta Chapter

Amica Florence Ramsey— South Central Region Zeta Amicae Financial Secretary ZETA AUXILIARIES

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Amicae of Ft. Lauderdale

SOUTHEASTERN REGION

SOUTHERN REGION

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Magnificent Seven Zeta Amicae of Homestead, FL: Small but Mighty Although small in membership with only seven members, the Zeta Amicae of Homestead, FL, have continued to provide community service since 1983.

Amica Olivia Smith

Zeta Chapter to families in the Homestead and Florida City communities. Additionally, they prepared and distributed book bags and school supplies in partnership with Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church and Mu Gamma Zeta.

The most recent joint bonding fun activity with Zeta Amicae and Friends was the 2020 Virtual Christmas Social, hosted by Mu Gamma Zeta. The attire was holiday pajamas and a Santa hat. Each Amicae and Soror received a holiday gift from Basileus Anita Moore.

The Magnificent Seven prove each day that even small auxiliaries can make huge impacts!

Amica Juanita Jones

Amicae Elaine Woodberry, Tammy Hemingway, Juanita Jones, Lina Davis, and Olivia Smith preparing snacks after helping with packaging book bags with school supplies at the Back to School community giveaway at Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church in Perrine, FL

Other service activities included a breast cancer walk and awarding a $1,000 scholarship to a high school graduate. The Zeta Amicae even distributed mail-in ballots and water at Precinct 949 in Homestead on Election Day.

Surgical mask and cap

During this COVID-19 pandemic, Amica Olivia Smith made masks and surgical masks and caps for essential workers at local hospitals and clinics and also supported monthly food distributions in partnership with Florida City and Mu Gamma ZETA AUXILIARIES

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Amica Tammy Hemingway (Auxiliary President) holding sign. Left to Right: Amica Juanita Jones, Lina Davis, Elaine Woodberry, Olivia Smith

(Continued on page 130)

Amica Susie Bennett

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Distributed “Mail by Vote Ballots”

Distributed water during 2020 Election Day

2020 Annual Thanksgiving Boxes

2020 Virtual Christmas Social with Friends of Mu Gamma Zeta. (L to R) Amica Olivia Smith, Amica Susie Bennett, Amica Juanita Jones

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Amica Tammy Hemingway, Auxiliary President

Amica Lina Davis, Auxiliary Secretary

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Amica Elaine Woodberry, Auxiliary Vice President

Zeta Amicae had a fun-filled evening! Thank you to our sponsoring friends of Mu Gamma Zeta!

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Zeta Amicae of Nassau, the Bahamas Outstanding Highlights, Activities, and Initiatives

On Saturday, October 24, they embarked on another exciting journey, meeting some new prospective members! Ten ladies expressed interest in joining the Amicae Auxiliary.

October 2020 Firstly, the Amicae’s theme for the 2020 fiscal year was “Serving Our Community and Each Other in Excellence.”

Secondly, the Amicae are beginning to make themselves known in the international arena. They sent a congratulatory gift to a sister Amica who was celebrating her 100th birthday. Amica Mary Hinton also responded with a Thank You card.

1st Anniversary Celebrations The Zeta Amicae of Nassau first anniversary celebrations truly set the bar high.

Donations to the Undergraduate Chapter: The Amicae donated toiletries to Rho Upsilon’s Thanksgiving drive to assist the elderly at Persis Rodger’s home.

November 2020

Recently, the Amicae held a renewal retreat at Balmoral under the theme “Moving Together and Getting Stronger.” Friend Margaret Johnson Rolle presented on the topic, “The Importance of Copmitment in Your Organization.”

As our historic Amicae prepare to celebrate their first birthday, they are looking forward to future community service opportunities with their Friends and their own special projects. Despite the pandemic, they were still able to help some families with care packages. Additionally, they assisted the undergraduate chapter with their Thanksgiving Drive by donating toiletries.

Over the last month, our friends participated in our chapter’s fundraisers, such as BINGO Night and Sip n Paint, where they had an awesome time of fun and sisterly fellowship.

Four of them were financial on all levels and registered for the upcoming SER Conference. Our very own local Amicae President was responsible for one of the prayers at the Amicae Prayer Breakfast during the conference. As they made their mark on the international “stage,” they also planned to host fellow Amicae of the Virgin Islands at a virtual meet and greet. Under a “Caribbean theme,” they planned on sharing recipes and engaging in exciting discussions about being Caribbean Amicae.

Prayer/Breakfast/Service: On Sunday, November 15, the Amicae held a Prayer Breakfast/Service that was split into three opportunities for them to celebrate and fellowship with their friends and community.

Prayer: At 7 a.m., they held a virtual Prayer Breakfast where our very own State Director, Soror Cargill, was the guest speaker under the theme “In a Time Like This.” It was powerful! Amica Anita Tynes performed a beautiful song on her steel pans. Prayers were also offered by our President, Soror Johnson-Rolle, and ZYA Head Advisors – Soror (Basden) Brown, Soror Thompson, and Soror Braithwaite.

Breakfast: After a short break, at 9:45 a.m. the doors of the Lutheran Church were opened to host a hot breakfast in celebration of this wonderful milestone.

SER Conference and Chat and Chew Although small in number (for now), our Finer Friends truly exemplified how comZETA AUXILIARIES

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mitment and hard work pay off in the end.

They started off the month of November with their First Virtual International Conference (Southeastern Region (SER) Leadership Conference, November 7–8) and a “Chat and Chew” with their Amicae Sisters of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Both events were a success and an awesome opportunity for them to increase their exposure and interest with other Amicae on the international level.

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$5 a day, and the proceeds went toward non-perishable items that went to families in need. This was their final community service initiative for the year, and it was a huge success. They raised over $375 and provided bountiful grocery boxes to four families on Saturday, December 19, 2020. The grocery boxes were filled with non-perishable items such as grits, rice, canned goods, corn flakes, sugar, flour, Kool-Aid, and one case of water. All items were well received!

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Service: In closing this three-part celebration, all were invited to worship with them at the 11 a.m. service at the church. Of special note, they also had a few of the ladies who expressed interest in joining Zeta Amicae of Nassau come out and assist or support the event. The Zeta Amicae of Nassau, Bahamas, were truly grateful and humbled by the overwhelming support and responses they received about the service. They were especially grateful for the kind words and support from fellow Amicae Sisters and Friends of the SER, including the SER Amicae President, Amica Sally Wilson, and Virgin Islands State Director, Soror Etta Mitchell.

February 2021 Coming off of the heels of a rough year with the COVID-19 pandemic, the month of February was used for planning and organizing the way forward for the Auxiliary in 2021. We also took the time to formally celebrate our newest members!

so they, too, could feel the love shared this month. Additionally, they committed themselves to donating two cases each of water, cranberry juice, and coconut water to Sister Sister for Tuesday Teas goodie bags for the next six months.

Also, our friends partnered with Theta Epsilon Zeta at a Love Luncheon for the Salvation Army held on Saturday, February 20, 2021. The community came out in large numbers and was very receptive of what was given to them. Persons were able to take home healthcare kits, food vouchers, and a hot plate of food.

March 2021

New Members Alert!

1. Alicia Bain 2. Shareal Burton 3. Dionyssa Campbell 4. Angelique Ferguson 5. Abigail Pratt 6. Tamyka Walkine

Community Service: Still in a celebratory mood and with a spirit of service above self, the ladies participated in an impromptu community service by providing a hot breakfast to some less fortunate families in an inner-city community.

The Amicae were in constant activity, and they continued to make a difference and have their presence felt throughout various communities. This month, our friends delivered homemade cards with encouraging words for the patients at the Oncology Center along with goodie bags

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During the month of March, as part of their six-month commitment, members of the Auxiliary once again presented cases of water and coconut water to the Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group Tuesday Teas Initiative. This initiative is to help with the distribution of bags given to patients attending the Oncology Clinic at the Princess Margaret Hospital. They were also joined by one of their sponsors, Friend/Soror Taisha Lloyd.

On Saturday, March 20, the Auxiliary hosted its first fundraiser, which was an awesome success! This was the first of a fundraiser initiative where members volunteer to spearhead a creative fundraiser each month and garner support of their Sister Amicae, Zeta Friends, family, and community! Amica Abigail Pratt took on the task of hosting this first fundraiser, which was a Souse Out. The Souse Out was held at Evangelistic Centre Assembly of God Church, Blue Hill Road and Vesey Street from 10 a.m. to noon. Chicken, turkey, or

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pig feet souse were served with rolls at a cost of $10 each.

Fifty tickets were sold for a total of $500.

Expenses totaled $200, and $50 was given to the church for tithes. This resulted in a net profit of $250 for the Auxiliary! There were also a number of donations received and pledged from Friends and other Sister Amicae, which will result in an even higher net profit for Amica Abigail’s fundraiser.

Once those values are confirmed, a final report on the Souse Out will be shared.

Amica Abigail certainly left some big shoes for the next fundraising host to fill!

aware, our friends devoted six months to donating cases of water and coconut water to help with the distribution of bags given to patients attending the Oncology Clinic at Princess Margaret Hospital. The Auxiliary presented these items on April 17, 2021, at Fort Mortague. Media personnel were also present.

Additionally, on Monday, April 19, 2021, the Auxiliary presented books to Ms. Richine Bethel, Guidance Counselor at Mt. Carmel Preparatory Academy School to help build the school’s library.

Moreover, the Zeta Amicae hosted another fundraiser initiative, “Donate Your Shoe Size X2.” The proceeds of this event will help support their various projects.

April 2021 During the month of April, the Zeta Amicae continued to deliver their monthly pledge to the Sister Sister Breast Cancer Support Group Tuesday Teas Initiative. As you are

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Maintaining a Successful Step Team

Photo by Luis Quintero from Pexels

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Advice from UndePHIable Step Team in Pennsylvania

By Catia Rembert UndePHIable Step Team

WHEN UNDEPHIABLE STEP on any stage or platform, they are not just stepping for themselves; they are stepping for Zetas everywhere and for all of the young women who are aspiring to be a part of what they have.

Before they were known as UndePHIable, they were a group of friends brought together by the sisterhood of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. The foundation of the step team dates back to 2016 at West Chester University of Pennsylvania’s (WCU) Meet the Greeks program. It was the first time since 2014 that members of Zeta Phi Beta were able to perform in the show. They created a seven-minute performance with coordinated outfits, makeup, and voiceovers. It was arguably the best performance that West Chester had seen in a while. From the reception received, they knew they had to keep the momentum going.

In January 2017, sorors from the Theta Lambda, Rho Chi Zeta, and Epsilon Omega Zeta chapters began practicing for WCU’s April step show. After practicing for four months, UndePHIable won first place.

Since then, they have won 10 step competitions and stepped for numerous community service opportunities. When they step on any stage or platform, they are not just stepping for themselves; they are stepping for Zetas everywhere and for all of the young women who are aspiring to be a part of what they have.

Here are some tips and tricks that they utilize whenever they step in the name of Zeta: (Continued on page 136)

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Top Left & Bottom Right: 2019 Bahamas Greek Weekend Step Show Champions; Top Right & Bottom Left: 2018 WCU Step Show; Middle Left: 2019 WCU Step Show; Middle Right: 2017 WCU Step Show

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1. Maintain a step team notebook. A notebook is great to keep an inventory of steps, draw out formations and transitions, and write down ideas for themes, music, and outfits. Having this notebook makes it easy to reference for new shows and opportunities.

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2. Plan, practice, and perfect! A good time to start practicing is 3-4 months before a show. Make sure your practices are productive, with goals for each practice.

Pay attention to small details that could really enhance your performance (head movements, following your arms, etc.).

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or personal life. Stepping for community events is a great way for your team to serve the community and for our organization to gain exposure. Do not let the disagreements get in the way of the sisterly love. Keep everything about your performances Finer: theme, wardrobe, music choices, facial expressions, etc.

4. Know your teammates’ strengths.

Everyone has their own way of contributing

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Top left: 2019 Bahamas Greek Weekend Step Show Champions; Top right: 2019 WCU Step Show; Bottom left: 2017 Shippensburg University Step Show; Bottom right: Centennial Steppers

to the team, so utilize specialized abilities.

Delegate/assume roles based on member strengths.

5. Collecting dues. Travel, lodging, uniforms, and other expenses can add up.

Dues assist with covering those costs.

6. Always exude confident humility.

Enter each performance with the confidence that you will win. No matter the outcome, show humility and grace.

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7. Spend time with each other outside of practice. This builds rapport and trust and strengthens your sisterhood.

8. Use social media. This is a great way to get exposure globally.

9. Smile! This simple addition really impacts and enhances the way audiences and judges perceive your performance.

10. Pray before each performance!

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How to Develop a Publicity Campaign Omega Mu Zeta Tips

sidered the same thing. Moreover, without a social media committee, there is no publicity committee!

By Deborah Muse-Carty

The Differences Between Social Media and Public Relations

Past Publicity Committee Chair, 2016–2020 Omega Mu Zeta

The primary difference between social media promotion and PR promotion is that one is about maintaining a consistent presence while the other is about working an angle. We live in a social media dominant world, and studies have shown people spend an average of two and a half hours of their day on social media. They work hard to curate messaging across multiple platforms and to generate followers.

On the other hand, PR campaigns work a specific event or angle to generate interest, with activities occurring irregularly. PR is the ability to capture an audience’s (the media) attention via focused messaging around a hook that draws them in and encourages them to want to learn more. For example, Omega Mu Zeta participates in the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, a national initiative, as do thousands of other chapters and organizations. However, you can focus on another aspect, such as youth that come out to support (angle). Whatever it is, it must be strong enough to stand out to that reporter

Omega Mu Zeta, News12 Interview

The formula for developing a publicity campaign to generate interest and awareness should be extremely focused. A chapter with few service areas would be quite different from one with 15. Omega Mu Zeta Chapter has 15 service areas, so at the onset, the chapter decided to make a distinction between what constitutes public relations versus social media. These two types of engagements are linked, but there is a fine line between the two. The two activities complement each other in a collaborative way, but they cannot be con-

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and encourage them to share the information they’ve learned.

An example of a strong storyline could be a chapter’s five-year anniversary of providing service to the community. This would be a feel-good story that could generate interest for a network’s viewership, reaching millions of households in your service area; a bake sale would not. Once you have made a connection, the rest is history. Omega Mu Zeta has been featured over 30 times during a four-year period, which has also included placements for Phi Beta Sigma, youth auxiliaries, and other New Jersey sister chapters that are facilitated through an established relationship.

Tips That Helped Develop Our Publicity Committee • Patience & Persistence Consistently reach out to a reporter until you are acknowledged. It could take months, so do not give up.

• Be Responsive You might receive a request for details on an event at 6 a.m. on a Saturday morning.

• Make sure all email messages have a WOW headline to generate interest A heading of “Zetas Travel to DC for Boule” versus “Zetas Flood New Jersey Trains, Planes, and Highways Heading to Boulé” • Become a resource From time to time, requests are made to participate in feature stories, such as promoting New Jersey beaches.

Our chapter sorors simply go to the beach and take photos. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Pearlette, Peaceful Demonstration

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The Art of Planning Productive Therapy

By Ashley Martin, Psi Beta Zeta and Denea Venoy, Upsilon Psi Zeta

When most people think of a planner, they think of sitting down with a book and simply writing the tasks of the day, week, or month. During a pandemic, you may not see the purpose or value in planning, but the need is real. Planning just “ain’t what it used to be!”

Having a planner cannot only be fun and functional but also very therapeutic.

Planning can be used to document major events like the Zeta Centennial celebration and the election of the first African-American female vice president as well as everyday events such as birthdays, milestones, and sorority gatherings. Planners help us see how blessed we are. Every day, planners are being used as journals, task keepers, declarations of hopes and goals, and more. Stickers, dashboards, covers, and pens add a flair of creativity to the work

that is commonly seen as boring. Taking time from the bustling lives you lead to plan your week can be therapeutic.

Oprah Winfrey says, “Passion is energy.

Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” A great start to balancing your life and getting focused is choosing your planner. Determining the type of planner you will use and its purpose is the first step. Planner size and page layouts that fit your style will make it easy to document meetings, reminders, work schedules, past and current events, celebrations, and more! It will help keep you focused and on track. Use stickers to mark a special moment, color coordinate important meetings or life changingevents with highlighters, or create checkboxes for your appointments, meetings, and projects. Think of it as holding yourself accountable. Doing so releases the stress of trying to remember or possibly forgetting something.

If you don’t want to carry a bulky book around, then join the digital planning world.

It is all the flair of the physical book moved to an online medium. Inspiration can be found on many social media platforms. In the planner community, there are several local and online groups. Joining a planner community allows you to connect and learn while doing something new.

Did you know that there is a Zeta planner group on Facebook? It is called Bougie and Finer Planners, and we invite you to join us as we connect and plan across the globe. Being an excellent time manager is a skill needed to be an organized Zeta who is able to manage the many facets of life and still serve effortlessly.

Photos: Denea Venoy @Functionallybluetiful_plans ZETA DEVELOPMENT

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LEGACY

Photo by Anna Stampfli on Unsplash

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ZETA SPOTLIGHTS

The Important L Word

By Dr. Leslie Hodges-Jackson Beta Beta Zeta Chapter Historian Undergraduate Advisor In Fall 2009, I became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Beta Beta Zeta Chapter. Obtaining membership in such an esteemed organization as Zeta Phi Beta made me feel complete. I felt I could make an impact in the lives of others alongside my sisters.

While attending chapter programs and participating in community service events, I would bring my two daughters along. I didn’t realize, they were watching, listening, and waiting for their turn to become Zetas. Both of my daughters were inducted into Kappa Beta Chapter on the campus of Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina: my daughter Daphne Jackson in the Spring of 2018 and Leslie Jackson in the Spring of 2019.

I didn’t realize the real importance of having a legacy until I joined the National and Southeastern Regional Myrtle Tyler Faithful and Viola Tyler Goings Legacy Clubs. During my course of study, the two Triumphant Founders were recognized as the first legacies. However, it didn’t really register then. But the real impact of knowZETA SPOTLIGHTS

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ing this importance was felt during the legacy induction, experiencing the overwhelming love, support, and emotion of leaving my lasting footprint on an organization that I hold dear to my heart while teaching and implementing the Founding Principles to help my legacies understand the importance of the Zeta Brand.

The word Legacy, noted in most dictionaries, means to bequeath money or provide a provision after someone dies. I have also read it’s something that happens as a result of things that happened before. What better way to accomplish such a good work as this than by demonstrating the mission of Zeta by living the Founding Principles for them to pass on to their daughters. For me and my daughters, this Zeta journey has equipped us with a systematic approach of how to grow successfully within the organization and beyond. Zeta’s platform is meticulous, resilient, and encouraging, which allows us to keep pushing forward in spite of obstacles.

Moreover, becoming a member of this organization, giving of my time and talents, leaving positive little footprints, and entrusting my daughters to continue alongside me and when I am no longer here is the greatest feeling in the world.

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Embracing Our Crowns Zeta Artist Places Black Hair on the Forefront

By TJ Hendrix National Publications and Communications Team Member

All people are born with crowns. Some are soft helixes that spring and bounce playfully atop the head. Others are powerful loops— numerous, strong as steel, and beautiful like wool. Whether loc’d, straightened, buzzed, or braided, these beautiful Black crowns are as gorgeous today as they were in the past, and Black women are finally living in a time in which they are more widely accepted.

Soror Stephanie Sims knows all about it.

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Americana journey. Her work has included Don’t Touch My Crown! (2018), a collaborative curation of artifacts and art to teach the history behind the crowns of Black women and men, which was inspired by her 2016 graduate thesis project, It’s Growing on ’Em: Black Hair’s Fight for Social Acceptance. In 2020 her curated exhibit, March On, an exhibit focused on the Black Lives Matters Movement in Arkansas, was a featured exhibit at Hendrix College in Conway, AR, a predominately white private college. Though the physical exhibit is now closed, it has been captured on video as a virtual exhibit that anyone can enjoy.

Soror Sims currently serves as the Museum Director and Curator for the University Museum and Cultural Center (UMCC) at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), her alma mater. Seeing Sims today, one would never know that this bold and confident woman was once self-conscious about her crown. Like many women of color, she has made the hard choice before interviews to straighten her hair in order to make the best impression on her would-be employers. This is one of the reasons she focused on Black hair as her thesis project.

Sims was inspired by the graduating students at UAPB and her experiences in Corporate America. Her thesis project was first featured at her alma mater, and she wanted the next generation of graduates to know that their natural hair can be acceptable in mainstream business America. She learned this when she, in 2014, interviewed for a position at the William J. Clinton Foundation. Regarding the experience, she said, “My job interview experience…caught me off guard. I straightened my hair for the interview, and to my surprise, the deputy director at the time was one of the interviewers, and she wore a beautiful twist out. I was shocked, and I was locked in.” After that interview, Sims locked in on being comfortable with her hair in any form. She made the choice to wear more natural styles and even emboldened other young POC (People of Color) to wear more ethnic and natural styles in the workplace.

When asked about the importance of showcasing projects about blackness at a PWC, she explained that representation matters. Displaying this history and the experiences of POC, when it comes to how they are judged based on

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outward appearance, allowed “non-POC to see how their experiences are different from ours and how they take some things for granted.”

Her exhibits have also examined colorism and the Black Elite in the early 20th century. “Not only was skin color an indication of intellect and [civilized behavior], hair texture and facial features were additional attributes highlighted as encouraging one’s position in the hierarchy of humanity.” Her thesis explores the success of Madame C. J. Walker over that of Anne Malone and challenges observers to consider the cultural mindset of the time. The “Don’t Touch My Crown” exhibit asks the observer to examine the pressing comb and its purpose as well as why the tool was not commercialized before Walker. One could hypothesize that the fairer women of the Black race kept the tool as a secret for their beauty and perceived acceptance as assimilationist, and Walker’s emergence revealed the secret to darker women to achieve the same end. Though these struggles are not quite the same today, there is evidence that the conversation must continue. When asked if she feels that there is such a thing as good hair, she said, “No, ‘good’ hair is typically used by conservative, more traditional members of the Black community to define someone’s hair type, which in many cases coincided with that person’s skin tone.” Current generations of Black women have adopted the attitude that good hair is hair that one can manage and

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“

“

It is clear why African-American people were affected by and concerned with discussing the attractiveness of preserving African features and took pride in their African ancestry.

It is also comprehensible why African Americans addressed their communities about the necessity of producing images that contradicted the dominant culture’s representations. These depictions come from a society that is still coping with the wounds slavery has inflicted.

love, which could be any of the hundreds of styles Black women wear, whether chemically straightened or not.

It is clear why African-American people were affected by and concerned with discussing the attractiveness of preserving African features and took pride in their African ancestry. It is also comprehensible why African Americans addressed their communities about the necessity of producing images that contradicted the dominant culture’s representations. These depictions come from a society that is still coping with the wounds slavery has inflicted.

She plans to continue to exhibit her work in any available space because all Americans need to become comfortable with ethnic Black appearances and know the history behind their personal discomfort. As we press forward in ZETA SPOTLIGHTS

the 21st century, we are sure to see more ethnic hairstyles and accessorizing with items like turbans, scarves, or other African hair jewelry. POC are embracing their ethnic identity in public and professional spaces more and more. It is definitely growin’ on them.

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Saluting Our Honorary Members — Alpha Omega —

Below are the current members of Alpha Omega Chapter. The professions of our Honorary Members are wide-ranging, and their notable works and accomplishments are numerous. Many of our Honorary Members are aligned and actively working with the sorority’s international programs, projects, and initiatives. This work even extends to our Zeta National Educational Foundation.

Over the past two years, the International Honorary Members Team has been hard at work researching sorority records and public documents to locate Honorary Members, living and deceased, to add to our current listing. This work is ongoing, and the team looks forward to publishing a full compilation of known Honorary Members in the near future.

CURRENT HONORARY MEMBERS Name

Year Ind. City (Region)

Life Work

Barrow, The Honorable Regina Ashford

2018

Baton Rouge, LA (Southern)

Louisiana State Senator

Bennett, Rhona

2017

N. Hollywood, CA (Pacific)

Singer/Songwriter, Actress, Author & Life Coach

Carter, Dr. Laurie J.

2017

Jersey Shore, PA (Eastern)

Academician, Author, US Army Veteran & Activist

Doar, Elaine P. Clark

1984

Greenwood Lake, NY (Atlantic)

Social Activist, Office Manager for Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

Douglass, Nettie Washington

1998

Atlanta, GA (Southeastern)

Founder, Chairwoman, Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives

Dunn, Linda Spradley

2005

Newark, NJ (Atlantic)

CEO/Founder of a Media Company

Edwards, The Honorable Donna F.

2014

Washington, DC (Eastern)

Former US Congresswoman, First African American Woman to Represent the Maryland Congressional District & Political Contributor

Fields, Ret. RADM, Evelyn J.

2000

Baltimore, MD (Atlantic)

Retired Rear Admiral, NOAA

Fox, Vivica A.

2020

Granada Hills, CA (Pacific)

Award-Winning Actress, Producer, Author & Entrepreneur

Hill, Esq., Anita F.

2017

Waltham, MA (Atlantic)

Attorney, Academician, Champion of Women’s Rights & Author

Hurston, Lucy Ann

1990

Bloomfield, CT (Atlantic)

Acclaimed Sociologist, Author, Academician & Ethnographer and Niece of Zora Neale Hurston

James, Cynthia

2017

Pine, CO (Midwestern)

Award-Winning Author, Coach & Motivational Speaker

Khan, Chaka

2020

Beverly Hills, CA (Pacific)

Grammy® Award-Winning Music Icon, Author, Entrepreneur & Activist

Kidd, Wynona

2019

Springfield, OH (Great Lakes)

Daughter of Founder Viola Tyler Goings & Community Volunteer

Micheaux, Nicki

2019

West Hills, CA (Pacific)

Actress, Director/Producer, Community Advocate & Filmmaker

Muhammad, Brenda Joyce

1998

Atlanta, GA (Southeastern)

Founder of MOMS (Mothers of Murdered Sons and Daughters)

Omilami, Elisabeth

2014

Atlanta, GA (Southeastern)

Activist, Entrepreneur, Actress & Philanthropist

Palmer, Archbishop Dr. Mary Floyd

2020

Philadelphia, PA (Atlantic)

First Female African-American Archbishop in America, Founder/CEO, Motivational Speaker, Gifted Vocalist/Musician & Award-Winning Radio Show Host

Robinson, Angela

1998

Unknown

Unknown

Singh, Ret. Major General, Dr. Linda L.

2020

Bowie, MS (Atlantic)

First African-American and Female Adjutant Gen., MD National Guard, CEO/Founder, Author, Motivational Speaker, Trainer & Executive Coach

Smalls, Dr. Marlena

1998

Beaufort, SC (Southeastern)

Actress, Acclaimed Vocalist, Motivational Speaker, Historian & Educator

Warwick, Dionne

1978

Los Angeles, CA (Pacific)

Grammy® Award-Winning Music Icon, Actress & Former Television Host

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TRIUMPHANT HONORARY MEMBERS Name

Year Ind. City (Region)

Life Work

Aggrey, Rose D.

1961

Salisbury, NC (Eastern)

Community Leader, Teacher

Anderson, Pearl C.

1957

Dallas, TX (Southern)

Philanthropist

Benge, Willa

1978

Spring, TX (Southern)

National Director, Community Affairs, Miller Brewing Co.

Blount, Mildred

1948

Los Angeles, CA (Pacific)

Hollywood Hat Designer

Cary, Alice Dugged

1926

Atlanta, GA (Southeastern)

Second President of Morris Brown College, 1886–1887

Carson, Julia, Honorable

1976

Indianapolis, IN (Great Lakes)

Fourteen years in Indiana Senate; Ten years in US Congress

Davis, Ellabelle

1948

New Rochelle, NY (Atlantic)

International Concert Singer

Delaney, Sadie P.

1955

Tuskegee, AL (South Central)

Chief Librarian of Veterans Hospital In Tuskegee

Dubois, Ja’net

1993

Los Angeles, CA (Pacific)

Actress, Singer

Dwyer, Honorable Florence P.

1957

Union County, NJ (Atlantic)

US Congresswoman, New Jersey

Edwards, Frances

1950

Oklahoma City, OK (Midwestern)

Civic and Community Worker

Elkins, Deborah, PhD

1956

Flushing, NY (Atlantic)

Professor of Education, Queens College of City University, NY

Evanti, Madame Lillian

1926

Washington, DC (Eastern)

First African-American Lyric Soprano Grand Opera Singer

Fountain, Julia A.

1939

Atlanta, GA (Southeastern)

Platform Speaker, Social Worker

Gilmer, Dixie Brooks

1934

Chicago, IL (Great Lakes)

Lecturer, Social Worker

Greenwood, Mary O.

1978

Houston, TX (Southern)

March of Dimes National Board

Hamilton, Julia West

1938

Washington, DC (Eastern)

Speaker, Community Volunteer

Hayford, Adelaide Casey

1934

Sierra Leone, Africa (Atlantic)

Founder, Girls’ School of Vocation in Sierra Leone

Jackson, Abbie Clement

1952

Louisville, KY (Great Lakes)

Laywoman In the AME Church

Johnson, Margaret R.

1926

Richmond, VA (Eastern)

Educational Leader

Keyserling, Mary

1970

Washington, DC (Eastern)

Head of Women’s Bureau, US Department of Labor

King, Mme. Cecelia

1949

Liberia, Africa (Atlantic)

Wife of Liberian Ambassador to the US

Koontz, Elizabeth Duncan, PhD

1965

Raleigh, NC (Eastern)

First Black President of the NEA

Malone, Annie Turnbo Pope

1926

Chicago, IL (Great Lakes)

Founded Poro College of Beauty Culture in St. Louis, MO

Mclean, Mary Cannon

1960

Springfield, MA (Atlantic)

First Black Teacher of Special Education in Springfield Schools

Napier, Nettie L.

1928

Washington, DC (Eastern)

Community Worker; Wife of J. C. Napier, Registrar, US Treasury

Richards, Beah

2000

Los Angeles, CA (Pacific)

Actress

Riperton, Minnie

1974

Altadena, CA (Pacific)

R&B/Soul Singer-Songwriter

Rolle, Esther

1978

Los Angeles, CA (Pacific)

Movie and Television Celebrity

Rumph, Myrtle Faye

2000

Inglewood, CA (Pacific)

Founder, AJ Wooten Jr. Heritage Center, Actress

Ruthenburg, Dorcas

1954

Louisville, KY (Great Lakes)

Poet, First White Honorary Zeta

Sampson, Edith

1952

Chicago, IL (Great Lakes)

First Black Female Judge in Chicago’s Municipal Court

Sellars, Louise E. Roy

1974

White Plains, NY (Atlantic)

March of Dimes Youth Activities Director

Simango, Kathleen Easmon

1920

Sierra Leone, Africa (Atlantic)

Artist, Educational Pioneer in Africa

Simpson, Barbara W.

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

Spriggs, Barbara Ann Webb

1952

Houston, TX (Southern)

Concert Singer, Role in Porgy and Bess

Stewart, Sallie Wyatt

1934

Evansville, IN (Great Lakes)

Teacher, Community Organizer, Black Women’s Club Leader

Taba, Hilda

1959

San Francisco, CA (Pacific)

Professor, San Francisco State University

Taylor, Dorothy Mae

1976

New Orleans, LA (Southern)

First Black Female Louisiana Legislator

Torrance, Jackie

1984

Salisbury, NC (Eastern)

African-American Storyteller

Townsend, Mamie Harrington

1986

Indianapolis, IN (Great Lakes)

Founded Auntie Mame’s Child Development Centers

Tubman, Mme. Antoinette

1952

Monrovia, Liberia, Africa (Atlantic)

Liberian Representative to UN, Wife of the President of Liberia

Vaughan, Sarah

1976

Los Angeles, CA (Pacific)

Legendary Jazz Singer, Pianist

Walker, Maggie Lena

1926

Richmond, VA (Eastern)

First Black Female Founder and President of a Bank

Whickam, Katie Ethel

1950

Washington, DC (Eastern)

Owner, Katie’s School of Beauty Culture and Barbering

Whitelaw, Elaine

1976

New York, NY (Atlantic)

March of Dimes Vice President, Director of Community Services

Wilen, Charlotte

1976

Atlanta, GA (Southeastern)

March of Dimes BIB (Better Infant Births) Program Director

Williams, Freddye H.

1986

Oklahoma City, OK (Midwestern)

Equal Rights Advocate, Served Five Terms in the State Legislature

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Regional Roundup

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REGIONAL ROUNDUP

ZETA REGIONS Atlantic • Eastern • Great Lakes • Midwestern • Pacific • South Central • Southeastern • Southern •

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States and Chapters Lead the Challenge to Break the Cycle of Domestic Violence

• Gamma Alpha Sigma Zeta Chapter, Accra, Ghana • Nu Gamma Chapter, Coppin State College, Maryland • Epsilon Omega Zeta Chapter, Chester County, Pennsylvania • Gamma Alpha Nu Zeta Chapter, Northern New England (Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont) • The State of New Jersey • The State of New York

The Atlantic Region is committed to operational excellence and unique programming and primed to continue Zeta’s legacy of service into our second century. Our sorority experienced many firsts in 2020, including the shift to virtual meetings and events. We were also privileged to witness the launch of Zeta’s first initiative focused on the prevention of domestic violence.

It is no surprise that the impetus for the inaugural Domestic Violence Prevention Initiative (DVPI) originated in the Atlantic Region, with Karen Gooden (NY) as the first director. The Atlantic Region continues to lead the way with timely, innovative, and practical programming designed to improve the condition of both the communities we serve and our own members.

Unfortunately, domestic violence continues to plague our society, and the pandemic resulted in an increase in domestic violence incidents.

Zeta women from New Hampshire to Maryland and from Germany, Greater London, and Ghana wholeheartedly embraced this initiative. Under the leadership of AR Coordinators Shirley Caro, Esq. (NY) and Dr. Darlene Williams (NY), Sorors and Amicae supported the $20.20 Centennial Challenge Fundraising Campaign and the 2020 Days of Giving Challenge, raising more than $50,000!

I am extremely proud of the entire Blue and White family for the support of all initiatives of the Members’ Administration and grateful that the Atlantic Region leads the way in empowering others to build healthy relationships and encouraging open conversations about domestic violence. It is my honor to spotlight the premier programming of the following Atlantic Region states and chapters in the first Archon of the Members’ Administration.

The State of New Jersey launched the centennial year by gathering for the Annual State Founders’ Day service at Kaighn Avenue Baptist Church in Camden, NJ, which is the church home of 8th Past State Director, who also celebrated her 100th birthday in August. In addition, the host chapter for the Founders’ Day service was Gamma Nu Zeta Chapter,

the first graduate chapter chartered in New Jersey. In honor of their centennial celebration, the 15th State Director presented a check in the amount of $2,020 for the church’s scholarship fund. As the centennial year continued, the State of New Jersey continued to strive to make an impact even with the onset of a pandemic. Some of the key milestones that

would help keep the Zeta train moving is the presentation of scholarship awards to three graduating Archonettes, totaling $3,500. As our sorority continued to create many firsts in our new virtual world, one of the undergraduate chapters, Psi Pi of Seton Hall, and graduate chapter Alpha Alpha Chi Zeta participated in the initial virtual MIP induction ceremonies with the

By Gina Merritt-Epps, Esq. Atlantic Regional Director

Shirley Caro, Esq. — Atlantic Region Domestic Violence Prevention Initiative Coordinator

NJ Makes Impact Through Style and Grace

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Centennial International President presiding. In a similar fashion, the 15th State Director recently chartered Gamma Alpha Pi Zeta Chapter and held a groundbreaking virtual chartering ceremony with sorors from all around the country in attendance.

As the second half of their centennial year picked up steam, the state director prepared for a

pivot by forming a technology team and securing a virtual platform for the state to continue to host events and programs. One event that was a huge success was the Centennial resolution presented

by Brother Troy Singleton, who is a U.S. Senator in New Jersey. With the holidays drawing near and our sisterhood feeling the impact of an unfamiliar

holiday season, the state partnered with the Brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity to host a mental health webinar focusing on managing stress and grief during the holidays while promoting the #onlyfamily.

tas, Gamma Upsilon undergraduate chapter, and sponsoring Graduate Chapter Alpha Alpha Omega Zeta mobilized their efforts in a space donated by First Baptist Church of Bronxville, where Brother Lamont Granby of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated is the Senior Leader. Within 48 hours of the request, over 200 care packages were assembled, filled with essential items such as healthy snacks, leisure activities, mindful mental practice, and toiletries to help those quarantined.

The mere existence of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated over the last century has been deeply rooted in the ideals of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood. In this, our centennial year, we continue to honor the commitment to our founding principles by serving the communities we live in, work in, and ultimately learn in. It was our privilege to serve the Pace University community—especially at a time when service to others is so crucial and needed. It’s my hope that this gesture will inspire other sororal and fraternal organizations at the university to the task of service, and we look forward to partnering with Pace and said organizations in future endeavors.

The effects of COVID-19 have been both physically and emotionally draining on the Pace student body and their families. As a result, NYS Zetas are working together with Pace University’s Dean of Students to curate

special programming to provide support for the students. One of those events will be hosting a virtual party on Friday, October 2 with live music provided by DJ Shannell B., who is also a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated.

“During this pandemic, college students have been asked to change all of their expectations about college life. However, due in part to the kindness shown our students from Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., we don’t have to sacrifice our students’ expectations about how we support them. Spending time in quarantine is difficult for anyone, but due to the communityconscious and values-based efforts of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Pace University and our students are grateful for the support, care, and service to students regardless of their affiliation. This unified, humanistic approach is part of why college campuses continue to thrive. It will take all of us doing things above and beyond to create new expectations of how communities come together,” said Rachel Carpenter, Interim Dean for Students.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, is committed to standing in the gap for the communities we serve and responding to the needs of the students of Pace University is a true testament to our resolve.

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New York State Zetas Answer the Call to Service During Pandemic COVID-19 Impacts Pace University’s Pleasantville Campus Students

By Amber D. Koiner, CPA New York State Director Since the start of the fall semester, students have resumed their daily activities by returning to classrooms either virtually or in person.

As the world attempts to transition to our new socially distanced normal, for some students at Pace University’s Pleasantville campus, the planned progress of reopening has slowed.

After twenty students tested positive for COVID-19, one dormitory enacted a fourteen-day self-quarantine for the 165 students that reside there.

On September 26, a call was placed to the Sisterhood by Soror Ayana White, President of Gamma Upsilon, asking for support to help uplift the spirts of those quarantined students.

Our beloved sorority answered the call with service and relief efforts. New York State Ze-

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Atlantic Region Levels Up The National Association of Parliamentarians® (NAP) Initiative

By Beverly S. Tatham, Esq. PRP/Atlantic Region NAP Initiative Coordinator

The awesome, amazing, astounding and trendsetting Atlantic Region continues to level up by implementing innovative leadership development initiatives to meet the evolving needs of our members while strengthening the pipeline of aspiring future leaders and enhancing our membership experience. In 2019 Atlantic Region Director Gina Merritt Epps, Esq., set out to reignite her mission to revolutionize and transform the way we do business within the Region and beyond by launching and participating in the inaugural Atlantic Region’s National Association of Parliamentarians® Initiative. The goal of the initiative is to empower our members, leaders, and aspiring leaders to become knowledgeable participants in the operations and governance of the Region through the proper use of parliamentary procedure. Furthermore, the central objectives of the initiative are to prepare our members to successfully pass the membership exam and increase Zeta’s membership profile within the National Association of Parliamentarians®.

During the 2019 Atlantic Region Leadership Conference, Regional Director Merritt-Epps, Esq., along with the inaugu150

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ral group, Cohort I, took their membership exam after completing a robust eight-week study course facilitated via webinar by Soror Beverly S. Tatham, Esq., PRP. The study sessions were curated to enhance the participants’ understanding of fundamental rules of parliamentary procedure and promote effective meeting management strategies within their respective states and chapters. There were 55 sorors enrolled in Cohort I, which included all six State Directors of the Region. Fortynine sorors passed the exam on their first attempt, and six sorors did so on their second attempt. Of significance, 59% of Cohort I earned scores of 90% or higher, including six sorors who earned a perfect score. In fact, these sorors collaborated and harnessed their newly refined meeting management skills to curate a meeting space where over 600 conference attendees engaged in reasoned discussion and decision-making, which not only invigorated and inspired the membership but is

clear and convincing evidence of the initiative’s success.

As a result of the initiative’s viral status, 156 sorors enrolled for Cohort II and sat for their membership exam during the Atlantic Region Leadership Academy in February 2020. Cohort II achieved similar impressive results, with152 sorors passing the exam in their first attempt and three sorors passing on their second attempt. Of significance, 74% of Cohort II earned scores of 90% or higher, including 36 sorors who earned a perfect (100%) score.

As the initiative continues to grow in popularity within our Region, our leadership remain poised to meet the demands of a rapidly changing learning environment in an increasingly digital world. As such, the Region has successfully launched the initiative’s second year with 300 registrants split across Cohorts III and IV, who will take their membership exam via remote monitoring during the 2020–21 sorority year. It is anticipated that these cohorts will enjoy the same level of exceptional success, thereby elevating Zeta’s membership profile within the National Association of Parliamentarians® to 500+ members, which is a definitive step to ensure that our Region continues to produce competent and aspiring leaders.

Members of Cohort II taking the NAP Exam in February 2020 and Sorors NJ Chapter Presidents enjoying a moment at the testing site.

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Gamma Alpha Pi Zeta, Bergen County, NJ

Gamma Alpha Omicron Zeta State College, PA

Modeling “Smart Growth” Atlantic Regional Director Gina Merritt-Epps, Esq., first presented her strategic plan for the region in October 2018, laying out her vision for operational excellence and the expansion of Zeta’s footprint. She was clear, however, that consistent with Grand Val’s strategy, the region would employ “Smart Growth,” expanding to underserved and unserved areas. She was also clear that the charter members would lead the effort and demonstrate that they are prepared to sustain their new chapter and make an immediate impact on the communities that they will serve.

The result—eight new chapters in two short years in six states and abroad: There were many sorors that contributed to this significant accomplishment. However, the Region is proud to acknowledge the honesty and “Zeta First” mentality of the chapters that supported the charter members and paved the way for this unprecedented growth. Thank you to the sorors of:

Xi Phi, Chartered March 15, 2019, serving Cornell University (New York)

Epsilon Rho Zeta Chapter (Wilmington, DE)

Pi Phi, Chartered Nov. 26, 2019, serving Allegheny College (Pennsylvania)

Theta Zeta Zeta Chapter (Dover, DE) Lambda Lambda Zeta Chapter (Pittsburgh, PA)

Gamma Alpha Nu Zeta, Chartered Aug. 14, 2019, serving New Hampshire/Northern New England

Upsilon Eta Zeta Chapter (Monongahela Valley, PA)

Gamma Alpha Omicron Zeta, Chartered March 9, 2020, serving State College, Pennsylvania Gamma Alpha Pi Zeta, Chartered June 12, 2020, serving Bergen County, New Jersey Gamma Alpha Rho Zeta, Chartered July 16, 2020, serving Southern New Castle County, Delaware Gamma Alpha Sigma Zeta, Chartered Aug. 29, 2020, serving Accra, Ghana

Rho Tau Zeta Chapter (Passaic and Morris Counties, NJ) Many thanks to the charter members for bringing the region’s vision for growth to fruition. The Atlantic Region’s growth spurt is not over. Stay tuned for more from the Awesome, Amazing, Astounding, and Trendsetting Atlantic Region!

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On the Map in West Virginia

The Tau Iota Zeta Chapter of Morgantown, WV, was issued an Adopt-A-Spot sign in Morgantown, WV. This is the only Divine Nine AdoptA-Spot sign in Northern West Virginia. Tau Iota Zeta, Eta Omicron, and the Zeta Amicae of Morgantown, WV, have worked diligently with the West Virginia Divisions of Highway to serve the Morgantown area for over two years.

Virginia Elder Care

By Dr. Donna Jordan Eastern Regional Director

During the Eastern Region’s 75th Eastern Region Leadership Conference (ERLC) in Hampton, VA, the Eastern Region donated $500 to InnovAge of Hampton Roads as part of their Z-HOPETM program. InnovAge is the largest provider of the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) and is dedicated to expanding this successful program to serve as many seniors as possible across the country.

United Arab Emirates Alpha Alpha Lambda Zeta Chapter

NC Scholarship in the Name of Sisterhood

Pictured: Tenesha Overby (far left), Eastern Region Z-HOPE Coordinator, and Dr. Donna W. Jordan, Eastern Regional Director (far right), provide a donation of $500 to InnovAge. 152

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The Sorors of the AALZ Chapter (UAE) have been working diligently to grow our organization, expand our impact, and promote the principals of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

This past year focused on health and wellness such as, Zetas Have Heart and Diabetes Awareness Forum, Domestic Violence Awareness Forum, Breast Cancer Awareness, and Virtual 5K Voter Registration Forum.

During our virtual State Leadership Retreat, Zetas, Amicae, and guests witnessed the unveiling of two new scholarships funded through the inaugural E3 Elevate in Education campaign. With the support of generous donations, in just 16 days, North Carolina raised $20,154.40 and ultimately raised nearly $30,000. Through the endowment of these new scholarships, the State of North Carolina proudly honored two of the most influential Zetas in our state’s history of leadership with the establishment of the Bettye A. Murchison Memorial Scholarship and the LaKeshia Holley Neal Scholarship.

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District of Columbia Highlights Bundle of Warmth Initiative

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, was featured on NBC News Channel 4 at National Airport, where we were interviewed by Mollette Green, an NBC news reporter in DC. At the event, Zetas talked about our Centennial and were welcoming our members to DC for the event and also informed the DC residents about the Bundle of Warmth initiative we were doing with Martha’s Table in which we were donating some 10,000 bundles of blankets, hats, and gloves to DC residents.

Hon. John Lewis

On July 27, Mayor Muriel Bowser invited Zetas and Sigmas in the District of Columbia to help touch up the mural at Black Lives Matter Plaza in preparation

for the Honorable John Lewis’ motorcade. Sorors and Brothers were humbled to honor our Sigma Brother and our city in this way.

Zeta Amicae of Washington, DC

Zeta Amicae of Washington, DC, participated providing nutrition to persons and in the 4th Annual AARP Meal Pack Chal- families in need. lenge, Wednesday, October 7, 2020. During prior years, the auxiliary gathered along with volunteers from the metropolitan DC area, weighing, packing food, and listening to various experts informing the public about services and issues impacting seniors.

The community project changed this year because of COVID-19. Each Amica received a shopping list, purchased suggested items, packed boxes, and brought food boxes to the Capital Area Food Bank in Washington for distribution. The Capital Area Food Bank is the largest organization in the Washington metro area working on solving hunger and REGIONAL ROUNDUP

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A Top Fundraiser The Amicae of Washington, DC, were also recognized as a Top Fundraiser for the 2018-2019 Zeta’s Hope for St. Jude Initiative.

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Yours in Service

By Elner Bailey Taylor Great Lakes Regional Director

Greetings Sorors, Amicae, and Youth Affiliates, Wonderful things are happening in the Great Lakes Region! See the highlights from Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin on this page and on the next! But here are a few highlights: Firstly, we just became home to one of the newest graduate chapters in the Sisterhood! I am bursting with pride to have overseen the chartering of Gamma Alpha Psi Zeta Chapter on December 28, 2020, during our centennial year. It is based in Kankakee, IL, an hour south of Chicago in northeastern Illinois.

Our next point of pride takes us to Michigan.

The Michigan State Organization was the first ever to hold a virtual state leadership confer-

Region Highlights ILLINOIS

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reached the milestone of 70 years of service to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., the members of Upsilon Omega Zeta Chapter in Fishers, Indiana, surprised the Jackson State University alumna at her home with oversize metallic balloons and an engraved statuette. The act of love happened in November 2020. Soror Latosha N. Higgins, Esq., is Indiana State Director.

KENTUCKY

Kudos to the State of Illinois for launching the Youth Auxiliary Story Time Initiative in November 2020 at a time when young people, who are spending more time at home, need activities to keep busy. The monthly program is offered via Zoom. Illinois State Director Deborah Chima has also begun the Sisterhood Embellishment Team, made up of the Leadership Academy, Sisterhood Connections, Undergraduate Engagements, and the Measurement & Impact Group. The committees are charged with working together for the growth and forward movement of the state.

INDIANA

ence in Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.! It took place September 24-26, 2020, under the leadership of Michigan State Director Lynese Thomas. We were delighted to have International Centennial Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth-Baker join us for the momentous occasion.

Then you might have read in the ZNN about our region’s dynamic “Healing From Racial Trauma” webinar and maybe even attended it. The Great Lakes Region Leadership Academy Series and GLR Zeta Sings the Blues Team offered the workshop, via Zoom, for the entire sorority on June 27, 2021. The timely topic was a hit, drawing hundreds of participants, so we followed up with an encore presentation on August 4, 2021, and, this time, opened it up to the public as well.

Now I want to share my excitement about the interior modernization going on at the Birch Haven lakefront cottage in historic Idlewild, Michigan, which was bequeathed to Zeta Phi Beta in 1937 upon the death of Grand Basileus Violette N. Anderson. I oversee the upkeep and upgrades of the grounds in my appointment as Birch Haven Resident Agent. We have also installed a wheelchair accessibility ramp leading into the house, among other renovations.

My fondest dream is for chapters to hold retreats here one day.

The doors to Birch Haven are always open.

This is your house!

Paperwork has been submitted for a Zeta license plate in the state of Kentucky! Once the plate is approved, sorors will be notified. The actual license design will be revealed at a later date. More than $15,800 was raised for the approval of the plate and its design through the

Dove Laura Smith got a surprise visit from the members of Upsilon Omega Zeta Chapter in Fishers, Indiana, for her 70 years of service to the Sorority.

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WISCONSIN

online donation site created by Kentucky State Director Tonya Muhammad.

MICHIGAN

Michigan State Director Lynese Thomas instituted a comprehensive leadership training series covering everything from conflict resolution, parliamentary procedure, protocol, budgeting, and public relations to officers’ roles. Monthly “Mind Full Monday” webinars were held throughout the 2020/2021 sororal year. During the summer months, an intensive, half-day MSO University was offered on June 12, 2021. A statewide Basilei Retreat was convened on August 7, 2021, at Zeta’s lakefront cottage, Birch Haven, in historic Idlewild, Michigan. The series’ faculty was comprised of National ZOL trainers and sorors with contentarea expertise.

OHIO

Ohio State Director Isi Green has launched a special program for Amicae, the adult women’s auxiliary of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. She meets virtually with all of the state’s Amicae on the third Thursday of every month. It’s called Finer Friends Day.

Kappa Beta Zeta Chapter in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is on the forefront of raising the low vaccination rates among people of color. It is partnering with the Milwaukee Health Department’s Crush COVID program. The initiative trains everyday citizens to be “ambassadors” who talk to their neighbors, friends, and family to address misconceptions and concerns around the vaccine’s safety. Soror Demetria Garrett has even appeared on NBC affiliate WTMJ-TV in Milwaukee to tout the program, telling listeners that all of her chapter members have become ambassadors. “There is a wealth of information out there that we can’t wait to share with our community to say, ‘Hey, here’s some things you should know, the information,” she said. “Make an informed decision and get vaccinated today.” Soror Bessie Groce is Wisconsin State Director. Click on this link to watch Soror Garrett’s June 30, 2021, interview: https://bit.ly/Milwaukee-Ambassadors.

The Michigan State Organization hosted its annual Basilei Retreat at Birch Haven on Aug. 7, 2021.

MINNESOTA

Congratulations to the Minnesota State Organization for chartering an undergraduate chapter during Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s Centennial year! That it was the state of Minnesota’s first new chapter in 20 years made it that much sweeter! Sigma Phi Chapter was chartered on February 26, 2020, at Minnesota State University-Mankato. Minnesota now stands at four chapters overall, two undergraduate ones and two graduate chapters. Soror Mary Caruso Dailey, Ph.D., is Minnesota State Director.

The state of Minnesota welcomed a new undergraduate chapter, Sigma Phi, at Minnesota State University-Mankato in February 2020.

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The Great Lakes Region twice offered a “Healing From Racial Trauma” workshop to the entire Sisterhood.

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Akella L. Wicker Midwestern Regional Director It is my sincere pleasure to greet you on behalf of the Magnificent Sorors and Amicae of the Midwestern Region, where our vision is to have an undeniable culture of magnificence as evidenced by our operations, programs, actions, and communications. We work daily to accomplish this vision by creating and implementing sustainable programs that anticipate and

meet the current and future needs of the Midwestern Region while always working to consistently display that oh-so-sweet principle of Finer Womanhood!

While the COVID-19 pandemic certainly affected many of our plans, we were still able to peacefully protest the racial injustices occurring throughout our nation, support our first responders through donation drives, engage our communities, and earn over 16,980 Z-HOPE points, as well as raise over $11,000 for the March of Dimes! Over the next few pages, you will see a sampling of the work performed by many of our States, Chapters, and Sorors through photos and chapter spotlights.

Thank you for the opportunity to share and highlight what is happening in the Magnificent Midwestern Region with you!

Xi Pi Zeta Chapter, Davenport, IA – Xi Pi Zeta Chapter and their Archonettes, serving the community meals by curbside pick-up amid global pandemic.

Upsilon Iota Zeta Chapter, Columbia, MO –The Finer Zetas of Upsilon Iota Zeta makes donation to the Local Food Bank in honor of Finer Womanhood. Every $1 donated helps provide a meal for 5.

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GATZ Supports Autism Program at Highline Academy

Gamma Alpha Theta Zeta chapter raised $240 to support a program at Highline Academy that purchased pedometers for students with autism at Highline Academy in Denver, CO. Although service is a hallmark of GATZ, the inspiration for this project was more personal.

Soror Azure Brame is the proud mother of a handsome 9-year-old named Dashaun, a 4th grader at Highline Academy. Dashaun was diagnosed with autism in April 2015. He is nonverbal but very intelligent and functional. Since his diagnosis, he has worked with more than 30 therapists. He currently receives applied behavior analysis three days a week, speech two days a week, and occupational therapy once a week. He works very hard daily to overcome some of the challenges he faces, but with God and his mom by his side, all things are possible.

Beta Psi Zeta Chapter, Omaha, NE – Beta Psi Zeta chapter is included among a list of Omaha organizations who are addressing rising Black infant mortality rates in Douglas County.

Chi Delta Zeta Chapter Honors the “Six Triple Eight” Chi Delta Zeta Chapter, in partnership with the Department of Diversity and Inclusion at Washburn University in Topeka, KS, and Topeka KTWU Television, presented The Six Triple Eight Documentary: No Mail, No Morale.

The documentary focused on the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, nicknamed the “Six Triple Eight,” an all-Black battalion of the Women’s Army Corps. The unit consisted of 855 Black women, both enlisted and officers, led by Major Charity Adams, who were sent overseas during World War II. Fourteen of the women were from the state of Kansas. Two are buried in Topeka, two are buried in Leavenworth National Cemetery, and one is buried in Atchison, REGIONAL ROUNDUP

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KS. Chi Delta Zeta chapter had the honor of laying a wreath at the monument of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion as their commitment to learning, remembering, and honoring the women who served in this battalion.

This was the second presentation hosted by Chi Delta Zeta Chapter. The chapter will have an encore presentation of this documentary for the American Legion Post 23, Leavenworth, Kansas, in celebration of Women’s History Month.

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Yours in Sisterhood, in Service

By Kathy R. Tatum S.C. Regional Director Greetings, What an honor to serve as the 20th South Central Regional Director during our Centennial year. The service rendered to the South Central Region is not taken lightly as we recognize the journey of our Founders as they sought to build a legacy that would withstand the test of time. We traverse into the

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second century of our existence wiser, more conscientious of the needs our sisters and brothers around the globe, more supportive of the bond that keeps us close, and with a flair that reminds us that we are blessed to be affiliated with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

The Unconquerable South Central Region, comprised of Awesome Alabama, Amazing Arkansas, Mighty Mississippi, and Tremendous Tennessee, continues to demonstrate the power of resilience by exhibiting to all serviced throughout our region and beyond that Finer Women can conquer anything as One Zeta…Unified…Mobilized…

Zetarized! Though met with many challenges during our Centennial year, we persevered in honoring our founding principles through the accomplishments of our states, chapters, sorors, and auxiliaries.

The extenuating circumstances of 2020 prevented us from holding our

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annual regional conference, but we had our first virtual Year in Review.

The event not only allowed us to reflect and acknowledge all previously accomplished by the region but to highlight the best we have to offer moving steadfast and forward.

During this next century, we recommit ourselves to Zeta. The ideals upon which we were founded shall be beacons of light that guide us to the forefront of all endeavors. The Oath written upon our hearts will be the impetus to continue working for Zeta.

Regional Highlights Awesome Alabama Dove Mabel Fagans

In August of 2020, Soror Freeda Koomson informed Alabama and the South Central Region that the sole surviving charter member of Zeta’s

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first international chapter, Delta Iota Zeta of Liberia, was residing in Bessemer, Alabama.

This photo, shared from the Liberia Zetas Instagram page, pictures 93-year-old Dove Mabel Fagans along with the other charter members.

Alabama has communicated with the family of Soror Koomson and, amid pandemic conditions, is working to express and share the love of Zeta with our trailblazing Soror.

Soror Autherine Lucy Foster

American activist Soror Autherine Lucy Foster was the first African-American student to attend the University of Alabama, in 1956. She had originally enrolled in 1952, after earning her Bachelor of Science in English from Miles College (Fairfield, AL), but was denied admission when the university learned she was African American. As the first to integrate the University of Alabama, she unfortunately was expelled within the same year as substantial threats against her life and civil unrest escalated. On August 19, 2020, Miles College bestowed upon Soror Foster an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.

Salute to Selma Jubilee

February was not only an exciting but historic moment for Awesome Alabama as it was South Central’s host state for Zeta’s National delegation attending the Salute to Selma weekend commemorating the 55th Anniversary of the first Selma to Montgomery March across the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Special guests included International Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth Baker, National Social Action Director Nicole Butler, National Brand Director Kendra Hatcher King, Southeastern Regional Director LaWanda Harper, Inter Denominational Ecumenical Director Jalen Chase, Georgia State Director Vicki Pearson, and Archbishop Mary Floyd Palmer.

Weekend activities began on Saturday, February 29, 2020, with the sorority hosting the Black Women Vote 2020 Town Hall meeting on the campus of Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL. At the conclusion of the town hall, Centennial Grand Basileus Valerie Hollingsworth Baker presented the university with a $5,000 donation for student scholarship.

On Sunday, many sorors and members of the Blue and White family from across the country joined together in the Salute to Selma, marking the 55th Anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March. The day began with worship services at various churches and facilities throughout the city of Selma, and Zetas participated in the Divine Nine Ecumenical Services.

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rally that ended with reenactment of the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge.

Amazing Arkansas Celebration of State’s First Chapter Charter

Alpha Mu Zeta Chapter, chartered on May 18, 1940, hails as the first Zeta Chapter in Arkansas. The chapter anticipated celebrating eighty years in grand style but soon learned that celebrating amid a pandemic characterized by social distancing and virtual meetings was futile.

Plans were thwarted, and the celebration was canceled. Chapter members could only dream of beautiful gowns, all-night dancing, and being lauded with proclamations, accolades, and honors. Determined not to be deterred by cancelation of the celebration, the chapter rethought the meaning of celebration.

Chapter members looked through the chronicles of Alpha Mu Zeta Chapter; saw the rich history of Service, Scholarship, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood; and were reminded that Zeta is much greater than a party. That is when the celebration began!

Alpha Mu Zeta Chapter Members did what they have done for the past eighty years: They rendered service to the community! Zeta’s light glowed in Central Arkansas. The light of Zeta was radiated through: Scholarship: Money that chapter members would pay for a ticket to a celebration was donated for scholarships.

Ten graduating seniors received scholarships from the chapter. Social Action: Voter registration drives were held, Meet the Candidates meetings were held via Zoom, and rides to the polls for the elderly were given. Service: Meeting Basic Needs donations to homeless shelters, domestic violence homes, elderly care centers, and the Salvation Army were contributed, and each week a service project was completed in celebration of Zeta. The celebratory service given by chapters each week will have a lasting effect upon our communities and remind all that Zeta’s light keeps shining.

strength of our love and the power of our will to be the best example of the founding principles of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood. That is the essence of Mississippi’s story and the history that has been captured throughout the years.

This is the first time that a historical collection of writings has ever been published in this format. It was a “ground up” project impassioned with a labor of love. The History of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, in the State of Mississippi spans 82 years. That is only 18 years after the Lovers’ Stroll at Howard University in 1920 and a few years before there was a South Central Region. Who would imagine that Mississippi would be one of the early states beyond the Mississippi River to catch Zeta’s light and pass it on to other chapters and states? If you were there in 1938, right on the heels of the Great Depression, in one of the most segregated and one of the poorest states in the nation, you might have thought, “They won’t make it.” However, 82 years later, with a consistent membership of over 1,000 members and several hundred Youth and Amicae, this masterpiece displays the chartering and growth of all 48 graduate and undergraduate chapters, 19 Amicae, and 23 Youth Auxiliaries.

Mississippi’s mighty story is captured through the contribution of each chapter and auxiliary.

Tremendous Tennessee A Sweet Spotlight on Finer…

Celebrity Baker Deidra Whitsett

The “Mighty State of Mississippi” is publishing its Zeta history in the inaugural edition of the Mighty Mississippi–Our Journey to Centennial: 1938 to 2020. This special Centennial project is available as either a hardcopy or digital copy.

Mississippi is not mighty because of its strength, even though we are strong. Mississippi is not mighty because of our power, though we are powerful. We are mighty because of the

Blessed to bake for celebrities ranging from Food Network Chefs, NBA players, entertainers and city council members to family, Soror Deidra Whitsett has gained worldwide notoriety for her tasty creations. The local Memphis baker discovered her true passion for baking after an extended illness.

After a four-month stay in the hospital and a new outlook on life, Deidra left with the gift of baking and decorating and a divine purpose sprinkled with perseverance.

Deidra is a member of Alpha Eta Zeta chapter of Memphis, TN. According to Deidra, she loves representing Zeta in all that she does.

“Zeta is just who I am and where I was called to be,” says Deidra, who became a member of Zeta in the spring of 2020. Deidra embodies all the principles of Zeta, and she exemplifies Finer while enjoying the bonds and sisterly connections. Deidra has shared her skills and talents with the chapter by providing baking workshops as well as coordinating a photo shoot for the chapter’s Spring Membership Intake Class of 2020.

After meeting Soror Whitsett, the phrase “So Sweet” takes on a whole new meaning.

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Florida Sisterhood During COVID-19 Mu Gamma Zeta Chapter

COVID-19 made us become creative and innovative to continue bonding as sisters in our beloved sorority and serving our communities. At the beginning of the pandemic and prior to mask mandates, sisters in Mu Gamma Zeta were the first to honor essential workers at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Clinic in Homestead, Florida. The workers were provided a breakfast and an individual, specially made certificate of appreciation.

Although the chapter has always provided bonding activities, the pandemic provided a greater need to “stay in touch” with each other. Chapter Basileus, Soror Anita Moore, created the first activity and supported other sisterly projects and Amicae

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activities that promote bonding each day.

The first activity was a parade to recognize the six senior sorors ranging from 75 to 96 years old. Each soror received a personalized and handmade decorated sign, balloons, and a huge fruit basket. The highly blessed sorors recognized were Eddie L. Redding (96 years), a diamond life member; Mary Smith, Life Member; Dorothy Shaw; Margaret staples, Life Member; Ada Stevens, Life member; and Lula Thompson.

The sorors’ ongoing sisterly and Amicae activities, via group text messages, included daily inspirational messages; a special prayer by the chapter Chaplain at each monthly meeting in addition to Zeta’s opening prayer; birthday recognitions; get well cards; special prayer requests;

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and immediate announcements of any deaths and surgeries within the royal blue and white family and their families. We sponsored a special recognition program of Amica Juanita Jones for 36 years of continuous membership in Zeta Amicae of Homestead, Florida, and attended the recognition program for Amica Olivia Smith for her services to Second Baptist Church.

The chapter Basileus continue to plan and implement theme-oriented activities. The latest fun activity was the December 12, 2020, Virtual Pajama and game night for sorors and Amicae. Prior to the event, the chapter basileus delivered her personal Christmas gift to each soror and Amicae.

The gift included a blue and white Santa hat, a Zeta wine glass, and an Amicae wristlet wallet.

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Service–Who We Are, What We Do its 16th Annual Service Above Self Virtual Awards Ceremony honoring Women Who Serve the Virgin Islands Community. This year’s honorees are trailblazing women Legionnaires who not only serve our

By LaWanda E. Harper Southeastern Regional Director Service is what we do! It is who we are! The year 2020 brought about numerous and unexpected challenges, yet the Finer Women of the Southeastern Region found a way to pivot, persevere, and SERVE! We showed out for social action and mobilized for Get Engaged. Chapters and auxiliaries jumped at the opportunity to collect items for our Adopt-A-Schools and ZetaCares facilities to ensure our most vulnerable populations were taken care of. The awareness and walks for our initiatives continued as we raised money for domestic violence, breast cancer, and autism, to name a few. We still disseminated turkeys and toys to make sure families were fed and children had a gift for Christmas. We even hosted virtual events to recognize community leaders.

The year 2020 presented many challenges, but the State of the Virgin Islands was still able to host

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monies that surpassed the chapter’s regular annual donated amount. Proceeds went toward two local organizations to support breast cancer and cancer patients.

The Ladies of the Opulent Omega Upsilon Zeta reached out to the community to raise awareness for autism during our Walk It Out for Autism Virtual Walk! On August 30, 2020, we inviteded everyone across the world to help us shine light on autism by walking 1.54 miles. This number represents the 1 in every 54 children who are diagnosed with autism in the United States. We also used this opportunity to raise funds and awareness for Virgin Islands Parents of Autistic Children, also known as VI PAC. VI PAC is a non-profit organization located on the island of St. Thomas.

Iota Omicron Zeta’s sorors Tammy Jackson Moore and Regional Director LaWanda Harper, along with Florida State Senator Tina Polsky and

community through military service but also serve unselfishly in the communities they reside in. This annual event raised funds to benefit Women Veterans Rock and the National Education Foundation.

Sorors from South Carolina provided service at Piedmont Medical Center.

Ladies of Nu Chi Zeta had their annual breast cancer event! Soror Michelle Gibbs, committee chair, along with other sorors, came up with innovative ideas to still execute their annual Put Ur Feet In Pink (PUFIP) Breast Cancer Awareness Charity Event. Amazingly enough, on October 12, 2020, the St. Croix community came through and donated

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The State of the Bahamas

The chartering of the State of the Bahamas was a historic occasion that occurred on November 16, 2019. Led by the 25th International President, Valerie Hollingsworth Baker, Theta Epsilon Zeta Chapter (New Providence), Rho Upsilon Chapter (University of the Bahamas – New Providence), and Beta Alpha Mu Zeta Chapter (Grand Bahama) all gained their independence from the State of Florida. Christie Cargill, a past president of Theta Epsilon Zeta and the first and only Diamond life member in the Bahamas was appointed as the first State Director. The main focus of the State in 2019 was assisting with Hurricane Dorian relief efforts. It is with much gratitude that we thank everyone who donated and supported us during that time. Then, as we prepared to celebrate our first anniversary as a State, we were then faced with COVID-19. Nevertheless, we forged on.

The State of the Bahamas celebrated its 1st Charter Anniversary by making donations to the Crisis Centre on the islands of New Providence and Grand Bahama in support of the sorority’s domestic violence programmatic initiative. The items included non-perishable grocery items and hygiene and baby products as well as water and beverages.

The State of the Bahamas also held a webinar featuring representatives from the Bahamas Crisis Centre, who advised the guests of the perils facing many victims of domestic violence as well as gave tips on how they can support victims.

As the world continued to face unprecedented times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the members of Theta Epsilon Zeta Chapter took the opportunity to forge a partnership with the Bahamas Red Cross Society. The members volunteered numerous hours to assist with the 166

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packaging of over 1,500 boxes of food items.

Some members even hit the road to assist with the distribution of the boxes to families on

the island of New Providence. On October 31, 2020, some sixty members attended the volunteer induction and orientation, solidifying the chapter’s relationship with the Red Cross.

Theta Epsilon Zeta welcomed back the energetic members of its Zeta Youth and was also delighted to virtually induct each auxiliary’s newest members.

The Zeta Amicae of Nassau, Bahamas, sponsored by the Theta Epsilon Zeta Chapter, celebrated its first Charter Anniversary on November 16, 2020. In the spirit of faith and thanksgiving, a virtual prayer breakfast and church service was held for Amicae and Friends. After worshipping together, these lovely ladies donated food to the less fortunate.

Rho Upsilon Chapter (University of The Bahamas – New Providence): The college experience is not the same having moved completely to the virtual realm. However, the ladies of Rho Upsilon rose to the challenge to adapt to the new normal. From a virtual induction for new members to welcoming new and returning students to the virtual campus, the members of Rho Upsilon used their skills and creativity to the fullest.

(Top Right Photo) representatives from the Grand Bahama Crisis Centre, members from Beta Alpha Mu Zeta Chapter and Jenna Christie, Bahamas State Domestic Violence Coordinator; (Middle Photo) Bahamas State Executive Board Members and Mrs. Cleopatra Christie, Administrator of the Bahamas Crisis Centre; (Bottom Left Photo) Mrs. Cleopatra Christie and Christie Cargill, Bahamas State Director.

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(Continued from page 165) City of South Bay Mayor Joe Kyles, assisted with an after Christmas toy giveaway on December 26, 2020.

Chi Zeta Zeta donated fun bags with coloring books, crayons, mini sanitizers, decks of cards/uno cards, and slime to the Children’s Hospital at Palms West Hospital.

Tapping Into Creativity As the COVID-19 pandemic continued and society was forced to quarantine and remain indoors to try to slow down the spread of the disease, the sorors of the “Second to None” Southeastern Region were left to find new, Center of Disease Control (CDC) safe modalities to continue the activities that facilitate the mission of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood and Finer Womanhood.

Chapters and Auxiliaries tapped into their creativity to keep each other together in the spirit of fun and fellowship. Here are some of the innovative activities that emerged:

State of Georgia Scavenger Hunt

Beta Alpha Mu Zeta chapter participated in Elder Care.

Zeta Mu Zeta Palatka, FL, provided free turkeys, COVID-19 tests, flu shots, a Obamacare seminar, and sign up with Florida Blue.

Rho Upsilon Paint Night

Books and Tea: A Zeta Gamma Zeta ZOOM Tea Party In its 50th Anniversary Issue, Essence magazine published its list of important books for Black America called Our Golden Canon. Of course, their list could not contain every important book, but it did serve as an excellent starting point for conversations about which books have impacted our lives and culture.

For our tea party, the sorors of Zeta Gamma Zeta of St. Petersburg, FL, took a look at The Essence Golden Canon. We discovered that we had read many of these books and owned several of the classics. Sorors shared wonderful descriptions of the teas they were drinking, and there was plenty of lively, sisterly conversation about how this important literature helped to shape our culture. Even sorors who did not review a book tuned in to just listen and be a part of the conversation. In addition to the book conversations, we had music, fun, trivia and prizes!

It Was Bluetiful to Be Together!

Gamma Phi Zeta-Polk County Chapter – Christmas Caroling

Kappa Lambda made posters for a local senior center in Tampa for Thanksgiving.

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Gamma Alpha Upsilon Zeta – Holiday Gingerbread Contest

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Southern Region

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