Jada Mitchell History! Federal Aid Shakeup T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
ZNEF Celebrates a Golden Night at the Smithsonian
12 7 14 10 15 Denver Hill Strategic Spotlight A Night to Remember
A Look at ZNEF’s 2025 Achievements and Impact
Scholarship Winner Sends an Update New Pell Grant Rules Explained
17 18 Ready, Set, Apply! A Quick 5 Questions
ZNEF Workshops Help Empower Alabama Students
Meet ZNEF Secretary Nichole Gladney
ROM THE ESK OF HE CHAIR
orors and friends of the ZNEF,
y a banner year for ZNEF as we celebrate a historic our 50th Anniversary. Fifty years of scholarship, service, fast commitment to educational excellence is no small ent, and I am proud of what this Foundation has built, and build
honored to lead ZNEF in such a time as this I also had the ng as the Centennial President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, I understand the weight and the wonder of guiding an rough a defining moment, so I do not take this moment lightly.
so made history by awarding the Chairman’s Scholarship largest scholarship awarded in ZNEF history We also ing forces with the Combined Federal Campaign, a ZNEF are proud to announce the long-awaited completion of the meaningful tribute to our legacy and the people who helped ou to order your copy and celebrate these 50 years with us y
ter, I hope you’ll take pride in the progress and enjoy seeing s made history this year May you be informed and
rful years of ZNEF, and we look forward to 50 more!
Valerie Hollingsworth Baker
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
National Educational Foundation Board Chairwoman
EDITOR’S NOTE
Hello, Sorors and friends of ZNEF! I’m honored to serve as your new Editor-inChief, and I’m excited to share my first edition with you.
You’ll notice a fresh, updated format designed to make it easier to stay connected to the work of the Zeta National Educational Foundation with timely information, meaningful updates, and ZNEF news you can use.
This newsletter will be published quarterly, and I want it to reflect the incredible impact happening across our organization. I invite chapters, regions, and states around the world to submit your ZNEF and scholarship activities so we can spotlight your service, celebrate your successes, and share ideas that inspire others. If your chapter is raising funds, awarding scholar-
ships, hosting youth initiatives, or building community partnerships, we want to feature you.
Also, please be on the lookout for the 2025 ZNEF Annual Report, scheduled for release in February 2026. The ZNEF Board of Managers has pledged transparency, and this newsletter—and the reporting to come—continue to reflect that commitment.
Thank you for reading, for serving, and for supporting the mission, and I look forward to serving you in this capacity.
Dr. Rhonda M. Lawson
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
National Educational Foundation
Publications Chair & Newsletter Editor
2025 Chairman’s Centennial Scholarshipwinner
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
ZNEF celebrates 5 decades of scholarship
By Dr Rhonda M Lawson
ZNEF Publications Chair
PHOTOS BY ALLRICHMEDIA
T The Zeta National Educational Foundation marked its 50th Anniversary with an elegant gala celebrating achievement, legacy, and scholarship at the Smithsonian African American Museum in Washington, DC. The evening followed ZNEF’s second annual Open Meeting, held Friday and Saturday at Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Headquarters
Attendees enjoyed exclusive museum access, fine dining, and a live performance from Grammy-nominated R&B artist Musiq Soulchild
The program ’ s pinnacle moment was the presentation of the Chairman’s Centennial Scholarship, awarding $150,000 to Denver Hill. Additionally, ZNEF Chairwoman Valerie Hollingsworth Baker honored
GALA, page 8
Zeta Soror Pat Jones shares a moment with Zeta Soror Dorothy Perrault, who was honored for establishing ZNEF’s first endowment, the Omicron Nu Zeta Perpetual Endowment
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority 26th International President Stacie NC Grant and ZNEF Chair Valerie Hollingsworth Baker pose for a photo with members of the ZNEF Board of Directors
GALA, continued from page 7
three trailblazers--Dr Kathryn Malvern, the Foundation’s longest-running Chair, Issie L. Jenkins, Esq., former ZNEF Chair and legal visionary, and Dorothy Perrault, founder of the Omicron Nu Zeta Perpetual Endowment-for their historic contributions in building the Foundation
“To honor leaders like Dr Malvern, Issie Jenkins, and Dorothy Perrault is to honor the foundation upon which ZNEF stands,” said Valerie Hollingsworth Baker, current ZNEF Chair. “Their work created pathways that have carried thousands of students forward. And tonight, with the awarding of the $150,000 Chairman’s Scholarship, we
See
Top, ZNEF Chair Valerie Hollingsworth Baker honors Dr Kathryn Malvern, ZNEF’s longest-running chair Above, ZNEF founding attorney Issie Jenkins, Esq, addresses the audience after being honored Below, Musiq Soulchild performs for the crowd
GALA, page 9
GALA, continued from page 8
reaffirm our commitment to investing boldly in the futures of young scholars who will shape the world.”
The anniversary gala capped a weekend of strategic planning and reflection during ZNEF’s 2 Annual Open Meeting, which took place at the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Headquarters in Washington, D.C. nd
“Our second annual ZNEF Open Meeting reminded us that progres requires both collaboration and courage. As we step into the next fifty years, we do so with renewed purpose to innovate, to expand our reach, and to ensure that every deserving student has the opportunity to rise continues, and ZNE lead the way. ”
Top, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated 37th International President David Turner brings greetings Chairwoman Hollingsworth Baker and President Grant smile with Musiq Soulchild and Ms Denver Hill, the Chairmans Scholarship winner Right, ZNEF Publicity Chair Ron Carter smiles with ZNEF’s Protocol Chair Ms Shernette Morrison during the program Far right, Mistress of Ceremony Ms Jerrica Duncan, CBS News correspondent and anchor, and Quality Control Chair Zeta Soror Rauchelle Jones share a smile as they wrap up their gala duties
ZNEFjoins CFCforfirst timeinhistory
By Dr. Rhonda M. Lawson ZNEF Publications Chair
ZNEF has officially joined the Combined Federal Campaign, a historic milestone for the organization and an extraordinary opportunity to expand its impact nationwide.
For the first time, federal employees and retirees can directly support ZNEF through the world’s largest and most successful workplace-charity fundraising program.
Through participation in the CFC, ZNEF now stands alongside thousands of vetted charities working collectively to uplift individuals, strengthen families, and create lasting change.
Federal supporters can quickly locate the Foundation by searching for “Zeta National Education Foundation” or using the CFC charity code 93260 at GiveCFC.org.
ZNEF’s inclusion in the Combined Federal Campaign marks a new chapter in its legacy of service. After decades
of investing in education and community advancement, the Foundation now has access to a broader giving platform that can exponentially increase its reach.
"This moment is truly historic for ZNEF,” said Valerie Hollingsworth Baker, ZNEF Chairman. “Being welcomed into CFC affirms the strength of our mission and expands our ability to transform lives through education.”
“Every contribution creates real and lasting change,” added Tia Rideout, ZNEF Fundraising Chair, “Together, we can uplift, empower, and open doors for the next generation of leaders.”
Strategic Spotlight 2025 Achievements and Impact
By Chriscilia Cox ZNEF Strategic Chair
As we conclude an impactful year, Zeta National Educational Foundation celebrates 50 years of Y.E.S., inspiring pride and confidence in our supporters and partners for our collective achievements. Not only did we mark this milestone, but 2025 was also a year of strategic growth, impactful programs, and strengthened partnerships, all driven by the dedication of our committees, volunteers, and supporters.
ZNEF's mission is to raise funds through High Touch Connectivity, leveraging technology-driven communication, transparency, quality, education, and professionalism. The Zeta National Education Foundation supports higher education achievement through scholarships and by making ongoing charitable contributions, conducting community educational programs that enrich the academic experience, promote pride and positive awareness, and improve individual and community living standards.
Key goals: As a capable, forward-thinking organization that addresses humanity's needs, ZNEF's strategic plan sets the broad direction for its priorities and goals, inspiring supporters and partners to stay engaged with our evolving initiatives based on input from the Board of Directors and committee members, organized around these themes:
• Branding
• To meet the needs of the foundation through Technological Advancements-
• To transform ZNEF into a highly efficient, effective corporate organization delivering daily unprecedented customer service excellence to the donors and partners by highly skilled volunteers and paid staff
• To transform and enhance educational opportunities to foster organizational as well as professional development of the Board/donors/partnerships by designing curricula and workshop trainings, for effective management of ZNEF
• To Reboot/Retool the 3Rs of Partnerships (Recruitment, Retention, and Record Management)
VISION, continued from page 12
It will require a shift in how we think and work, transforming how we do business within the organization through charitable means and our relationship with the outside world.
Foundation Key Achievements
Our strategic planning team successfully aligned committee goals with ZNEF's mission, demonstrating our progress and reinforcing supporters' confidence in our shared direction.
Collaborative Leadership: Board members, Committee Chairs and Co-Chairs worked together to set actionable priorities, ensuring that every initiative contributes to our longterm objectives and fostering a sense of shared achievement and appreciation among supporters and partners.
Volunteer Engagement: Through strategic sessions, facilitated alignment of ZNEF's programs, increased participation across committees, and had leaders step up to drive initiatives forward.
A Few Impact Metrics
KPI Progression Surge: Our KPI movement increased from 24% in October 2024 to 97.65% by September 2025, highlighting our strong execution and accountability and reassuring supporters of our future success.
Modern Collaboration Tools: Successfully deployed Microsoft 365 Apps and Teams for improved communication and productivity, demonstrating our commitment to innovation and efficiency that supporters can trust.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Introduced and piloted Power BI and Microsoft Graph for real-time KPI tracking and reporting.
Branding Milestone: ZNEF launched its 50th Storefront Branding Initiative, reinforcing ZNEF's visibility and identity. Diversified Revenue Strategy: Advanced plans for mixed revenue streams, including corporate sponsorships, grants, and planned giving.
Jada Mitchell Scholarship winner update
I would like to thank Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated and ZNEF for this incredible opportunity to receive this generous scholarship. My family and I are profoundly grateful for the love and support we have received. I am honored and humbled to be chosen for this award.
As a former member of the Zeta Youth Auxiliaries since the age of four and a current Zeta member, I have been shaped by the values of leadership, service, and community With this scholarship, I can continue my dream of pursuing Computer Engineering at Clark Atlanta University and ultimately working for a company like Cisco, where I hope to contribute to innovations that make a difference in the world.
My guiding principles are integrity, service, and grit. This scholarship is helping me live out those values every day by allowing me to focus on my studies, stay active in-service projects, and build the resilience I need to succeed. Through the Dual Degree Engineering Program, I have had the opportunity to host and lead STEM camps for neighboring elementary and middle schools, creating hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity and excitement in young students.
At Clark Atlanta, I am flourishing as a Dean’s List scholar and Honors Program student, while also having the opportunity to gain valuable experience as a Hitachi Quality Engineer intern. This scholarship affirms my commitment to lead with integrity, serve with passion, and persevere with grit. I look forward to making you all proud.
Federal Aid Shakeup: How New Rules Threaten Pell Grants for ZNEF Scholarship Winners
By Dr. Stacy Jones ZNEF CSC Chair
Recent changes to federal financial aid law, highlighted in the 2025 “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” are set to reshape the landscape for student aid, especially for students who rely on both federal grants and private scholarships, like those from ZNEF.
Key Federal Aid Changes
The legislation introduces stricter lifetime borrowing limits on federal student loans and sharpens eligibility requirements for the Pell Grant program. Students can no longer borrow more than $257,500 in federal student loans, with new annual caps for graduate and professional students. Simultaneously, the Pell Grant program’s rules now render students ineligible if they receive non-federal aid, including private foundation scholarships, that covers or exceeds their college’s official cost of attendance. This provision is designed to avoid “double dipping” but could cut off federal grant access for students with robust scholarship support.
GRANTS, continued from page 15
Implications for ZNEF Scholarship Recipients
Recipients of ZNEF scholarships, often high-achieving students attending colleges and universities, frequently stack their awards with Pell Grants and federal loans. Under the new rules, those awarded a combination of federal, institutional, and ZNEF funding at or above their total cost of attendance may lose Pell Grant eligibility for those terms Since Pell Grant eligibility is tied to financial need, families with a higher Student Aid Index (SAI) may also be newly excluded, while those on “full ride” scholarships are the most directly impacted
Broader Impact and Strategies
While the aim is to target federal aid to the highest need students, these measures could exclude some ZNEF recipients who are still experiencing significant unmet financial need even if their external scholarships formally cover their bills To retain Pell eligibility, ZNEF and similar organizations may need to set their awards just below a student’s full co should pay close a affect their access
In summary, ZNEF must be vigilant re the total amount o rece inad Pell the r
READY, SET, APPLY!
ZNEF empowers students to win scholarships and achieve college success
On Sept. 26, the Tuscaloosa/West Alabama National Pan-Hellenic Council (TWANPHC) presented “Ready, Set, Apply!,” a free virtual workshop designed to help high school juniors and seniors prepare for scholarships and college success.
The workshop equipped students with practical tools, including résumé building, tracking leadership and community service involvement, and writing effective personal statements. ZNEF members also presented a live demonstration that provided students with detailed guidance on submitting a strong, complete scholarship application.
Moderators for the event included
Leslie Bates, a Collegiate Scholarship Connect Committee member and Scholarship Coach, and Dr. Stacy Jones, CSC Committee Chair and Dean of Students at The University of Alabama. Dr. Kenneth Webb, TWANPHC President and Secondary Curriculum Specialist with Tuscaloosa City Schools, provided opening remarks.
Attendees also heard from inspiring voices such as Imani Muse, 2025 Miss Tuscaloosa, and Skyler Evans, 2022 ZNEF Founders’ Scholarship recipient. Both guests shared their personal experiences with scholarships and offered practical advice on financing college without relying on student loans.
Students who meet one of the following academic benchmarks, 3.5 GPA, 27 ACT, or 1300 SAT, were also granted free membership in the National Society of Collegiate Scholars Torch & Laurel Honor Society, which recognizes high-achieving students and supports them with access to scholarships, and essay and résumé reviews, college application resources, and a national network of peers. Members also receive a printed diploma, press release, and an invitation to a virtual induction ceremony.
Imani Muse Skyler Evans
5AQUICK Questions Answers &
Why did you choose to serve on the ZNEF Board of Directors?
The mission of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority National Educational Foundation is to support higher education achievement through scholarships, community education and related research to improve individual and community living standards. Additionally, ZNEF has sponsored many healthcare awareness and social service programs. As a member of the ZNEF Board of Directors, I have utilized my leadership skills and philanthropy experience to further advance the mission, vision and strategic priorities of the Foundation.
What are some of the things you implemented since being elected secretary? See FIVE, page 19
Since 2022, I have served as Board Secretary for the Zeta National Educational Foundation. My main focus has been on compliance, communication and collaboration. These contributions have included: (1) attending and recording the minutes of board of directors’ meetings, (2) providing administrative assistance to the Board Chair, (3) serving as custodian of all official organization records, including board meeting minutes, historical documents, list of directors and committee members, and financial reports (4) clear and transparent communication to ensure information is conveyed effectively (verbal and written reports, emails and phone calls) and (5) other duties as assigned by the Chair. In addition to my role as Secretary, I serve on the Fundraising Committee (formerly Chair) to increase scholarship and revenue for ZNEF through fundraising activities (i.e., events, annual giving, board giving) and donor cultivation, solicitation and stewardship.
What do you like most about serving on the ZNEF board?
I have made many contributions to assist in the advancement of ZNEF along with building positive relationships and demonstrating effective interpersonal skills with board members and external partners and ZNEF stakeholders.
What would you like the everyone to know about ZNEF?
ZNEF, a 501 c3 public charity, is the oldest affiliate of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc, with a long history of fostering academic excellence and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential. This year, we’ve set ambitious goals to increase the number and size of scholarships to students. Your support is critical in helping us get there.
What would you like the everyone to know about you?
I’ve been a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Alpha Zeta chapter in Sturtevant, WI, Great Lakes Region since April 10, 2021. I served in leadership roles on several nonprofit boards, including the March of Dimes, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, and the National Association of Healthcare Service Executives.
What Service to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Means to Me:
1. I take my responsibilities very seriously. I assure the team that they can rely on me. This quality helps build positive trusting relationships.
2. I have a great desire to learn and improve. This passion for growth and improvement helps me add value to myself and others.
3. My strategic thinking allows me to absorb and analyze information, which allows me to assist others in making credible and well-informed decisions.
4. I have a strong inner drive (energy and power) that allows me the ability to work well with others and motivate them to accomplish goals.
Chapters can still participate in the Booker’s Soul Food Starters Fundraiser until June 30 2026! The expanded partnership will allow participating chapters to receive 50% of every dollar sold to support their programming and ongoing initiatives.
The remaining proceeds will be evenly split between ZNEF and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. to support scholarship endeavors and programmatic initiatives.
Are you ready to support for your chapter?
Click here to find your chapter’s fundraising link to get started.
