Zeta Phi Beta: A Legacy of Empowerment and Service

Introduction

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated is a prominent African American sorority that has made significant contributions to society through its unwavering commitment to scholarship, leadership, service, and advocacy. Founded by five visionary women at Howard University in 1920, Zeta Phi Beta has grown into a global organization with over 120,000 members and chapters in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean.

The Founders

The founding members of Zeta Phi Beta were remarkable women who shared a common vision of empowering African American women and uplifting their communities. They were:

• Arizona Cleaver Stemons: The first Grand President, who dedicated her life to the sorority and its mission
• Zeta Phi Rho Founders
  • Pearl Anna Neal: The first National Secretary, who played a crucial role in the sorority's early years
  • Mary Lou Little Grandison Banks: The first National Treasurer, whose financial acumen was instrumental in the sorority's stability
  • Myrtis A. Brown Clement: The first National Historian, who tirelessly documented the sorority's history
  • Valerie Coleman Goings: The first National Chaplain, who provided spiritual guidance and support to the members

A Legacy of Scholarship

Zeta Phi Beta is renowned for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence. The sorority established the Zeta Phi Beta National Foundation in 1937, which has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships to deserving students. Through its scholarship programs, Zeta Phi Beta has supported the dreams and aspirations of countless young women and men, empowering them to achieve success in higher education.

Leadership Development

Zeta Phi Beta actively fosters the development of strong leaders within its membership. The sorority's leadership programs provide members with opportunities to hone their skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Zeta Phi Beta believes that empowering women to lead is essential for the advancement of society as a whole.

Service to Communities

Service is a fundamental pillar of Zeta Phi Beta's mission. The sorority's members volunteer countless hours to a wide range of community service initiatives, including:

• The Stork's Nest: A program that provides support and resources to low-income pregnant women and their families
• Amicae: A program that mentors young women and helps them develop leadership skills
• Five Pearls Leadership Institute: A program that empowers high school girls to become future leaders

Advocacy for Social Justice

Zeta Phi Beta has a long history of advocacy for social justice and the empowerment of African Americans. The sorority has been vocal on issues such as civil rights, education reform, and healthcare access. Through its advocacy efforts, Zeta Phi Beta has made a significant impact on public policy and helped to create a more just and equitable society.

Key Facts and Statistics

• Founded: January 16, 1920
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C.
• Membership: Over 120,000
• Chapters: Over 1,000
• Colors: Royal blue and old gold
• Mascot: Dove
• Philanthropy: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Stories of Impact

**The Stork's Nest

• Since its inception in 1942, The Stork's Nest has served over 40,000 women and their families.
• The program provides comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care, including health screenings, case management, and parenting education.
• Studies have shown that participation in The Stork's Nest reduces infant mortality rates and improves health outcomes for mothers and babies.

**Amicae Mentoring Program

• Founded in 1996, Amicae is a national mentoring program that pairs high school girls with adult mentors from the Zeta Phi Beta community.
• The program provides girls with academic support, leadership training, and opportunities to develop their self-esteem and confidence.
• Evaluations have demonstrated that Amicae participants experience improved academic performance, higher graduation rates, and reduced risky behaviors.

**Five Pearls Leadership Institute

• Launched in 2014, the Five Pearls Leadership Institute is a residential summer program for high school girls from underrepresented communities.
• The program focuses on developing leadership skills, civic engagement, and career readiness.
• Participants in the Five Pearls Leadership Institute have gone on to become successful leaders in their communities and various fields.

Effective Strategies for Empowerment

Zeta Phi Beta's success in empowering women and communities is attributed to a number of effective strategies:

• Focus on Education: Zeta Phi Beta prioritizes academic excellence and provides support for members pursuing higher education.
• Mentoring and Leadership Development: The sorority offers comprehensive leadership programs that empower members to take on leadership roles in their communities and beyond.
• Community Partnerships: Zeta Phi Beta collaborates with organizations and institutions to amplify its impact and reach more people in need.
• Data-Driven Approach: The sorority uses data to measure the effectiveness of its programs and make informed decisions about its initiatives.
• Advocacy and Policy Change: Zeta Phi Beta leverages its influence to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote social justice and uplift communities.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Longstanding history of empowering African American women and communities
• Strong commitment to scholarship, leadership, and service
• Extensive network of members and chapters worldwide
• Positive impact on social issues through advocacy and community partnerships

Cons:

• Some may perceive the sorority as exclusive or elitist
• The sorority's focus on African American women may limit its reach to other marginalized groups
• Membership fees and time commitments may be barriers for some individuals

Call to Action

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated is an organization that has made a profound impact on society. By empowering women, supporting education, and advocating for social justice, the sorority has helped to create a more just and equitable world.

If you are interested in supporting Zeta Phi Beta's mission, there are several ways to get involved:

• Join the sorority as a member
• Volunteer your time to a Zeta Phi Beta service project
• Donate to the Zeta Phi Beta National Foundation
• Advocate for issues that align with the sorority's mission

Together, we can build on the legacy of the Zeta Phi Beta founders and continue to make a positive impact on the world.

Tables

Table 1: Zeta Phi Beta National Facts and Figures

Table 2: Impact of Zeta Phi Beta Programs

Table 3: Effective Strategies for Empowerment