Everything You Need to Know About Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated stands as a proud beacon of sisterhood, service, scholarship, and finer womanhood. As one of the “Divine Nine” historically Black Greek-letter organizations, Zeta Phi Beta has left an indelible mark on communities across the world since its inception over a century ago. From its founding principles to its present-day programs and leadership, Zeta has proven to be more than a sorority — it's a movement, a legacy, and a calling.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the history, symbols, values, programs, influence, and enduring legacy of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Whether you are a prospective member, a fellow Greek, or simply someone eager to learn, this guide offers deep insight into what makes Zeta Phi Beta a powerful force for positive change.

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Origins Rooted in Purpose: The Founding of Zeta Phi Beta

The story of Zeta Phi Beta began during a pivotal era in American history. On January 16, 1920, five visionary women — known today as the Five Pearls — founded the sorority on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. These women were:

1. Arizona Cleaver Stemons

2. Pearl Anna Neal

3. Myrtle Tyler Faithful

4. Viola Tyler Goings

5. Fannie Pettie Watts

These trailblazers dared to dream of a sorority built on the ideals of scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood, at a time when such ambition was met with societal resistance, especially for African American women.

Zeta was conceived as a sisterhood that would transcend social traditions, focusing instead on addressing the real needs of the community. Unlike other sororities of the time, Zeta Phi Beta placed a strong emphasis on community consciousness, academic excellence, and the upliftment of African Americans.

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Principles That Guide: Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood

Zeta Phi Beta’s founding principles are not just ideals — they are a lifestyle for its members.

Scholarship

Education is the bedrock of Zeta’s mission. Members are expected to pursue academic excellence, not just as a personal achievement but as a tool for empowerment. Zeta chapters frequently offer scholarships to high school and college students and support educational initiatives at all levels.

Service

Zeta’s motto — A community-conscious, action-oriented organization — reflects its longstanding commitment to service. From voter registration drives to international relief efforts, Zetas are consistently involved in making their communities better.

Sisterhood

Zeta is more than an organization; it's a family. The sorority promotes a nurturing and empowering space for its members to grow personally and professionally. Bonds formed in Zeta often last a lifetime.

Finer Womanhood

This unique principle is a core Zeta value. Finer Womanhood encourages personal development, integrity, dignity, and respect for self and others. It is celebrated annually during the last week of February and throughout March.

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Symbols, Colors, and Traditions

The identity of Zeta Phi Beta is rich with meaning.

• Colors: Royal Blue and Pure White

• Symbol: The white dove

• Flower: White Rose

• Motto: A community-conscious, action-oriented organization

• Mascot: The white dove symbolizes peace, love, and purity

Zeta’s traditions are grounded in pride and honor. The sorority is known for its graceful yet powerful presence, often distinguished by its refined step shows, unique call, and dedicated service.

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Relationship with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

Zeta Phi Beta is the only sorority constitutionally bound to a fraternity — Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., founded in 1914. This unique relationship reflects a shared vision and collaborative efforts between the two organizations.

This brother-sister bond fosters joint community initiatives, cultural programs, and youth mentoring services. Together, they represent unity and mutual respect within the Divine Nine landscape.

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Expanding Impact: Youth and Auxiliary Groups

Understanding the importance of mentorship and generational support, Zeta Phi Beta has established several auxiliary groups:

Zeta Amicae

Formed in 1948, Zeta Amicae (meaning “friends of Zeta”) consists of women who are not members of Greek-letter organizations but support Zeta’s mission.

Archonettes

This youth auxiliary supports high school-aged young women through mentorship, scholarship, and leadership development.

Amicettes

For middle school-aged girls, Amicettes are groomed with positive values and life skills.

Pearlettes

The youngest group, Pearlettes, includes girls ages 4–8 who are taught foundational values in self-respect and community service.

These auxiliary groups help Zeta cast a wide net of influence and sow seeds of excellence at all ages.

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Signature Programs and Initiatives

Zeta Phi Beta has never strayed from its commitment to service and social action. The organization is known for its high-impact programs that address the most urgent issues facing underserved communities.

Z-HOPE (Zetas Helping Other People Excel)

Z-HOPE is Zeta’s signature program. It focuses on health, education, economic development, youth outreach, and elder care. Through Z-HOPE, Zeta chapters coordinate health fairs, financial literacy workshops, voter engagement efforts, and more.

Adopt-A-School

This initiative allows Zeta chapters to partner with local schools, providing mentorship, tutoring, resources, and supplies to help improve educational outcomes.

Stork’s Nest

A collaborative program with the March of Dimes, Stork’s Nest promotes prenatal education and provides incentives for pregnant women to maintain healthy behaviors during pregnancy. Since its inception in the 1970s, the program has reached tens of thousands of women nationwide.

Zeta Day on the Hill

Every year, Zetas convene in Washington, D.C. to advocate for policy issues affecting their communities. This includes health equity, voting rights, education funding, and more.

Global Partnerships

Zeta Phi Beta has extended its programs internationally, with chapters in Africa, the Caribbean, Asia, and Europe. Their global efforts include clean water projects, HIV/AIDS education, and disaster relief.

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International Growth and Presence

While Zeta was born on American soil, it has blossomed into an international force. The sorority has established over 800 chapters worldwide, with members across the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean.

This global footprint enables Zeta to respond to crises, share resources, and empower women and families far beyond U.S. borders. The international expansion also showcases Zeta’s appeal as an organization rooted in purpose and impact.

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Prominent Members and Influential Zetas

Zeta Phi Beta boasts an impressive roster of members who have excelled in entertainment, education, politics, business, and public service. A few notable Zetas include:

• Zora Neale Hurston – Celebrated author and anthropologist

• Sheryl Underwood – Comedian and talk show host

• Esther Rolle – Actress best known for her role on Good Times

• Dr. Deborah Wolfe – Renowned educator and policymaker

• Towanda Braxton – Entertainer and reality TV personality

• Violette Anderson – First African American woman admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court

These women exemplify what it means to live by Zeta’s founding principles and inspire future generations of Finer Women.

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Membership Intake and Lifelong Commitment

Becoming a member of Zeta Phi Beta is both an honor and a responsibility. Membership intake occurs through collegiate and graduate chapters. The process is thorough, focusing on character, academic performance, community service, and alignment with the sorority’s principles.

Once initiated, Zetas are members for life. Many women continue their involvement through graduate chapters, regional and national events, and service leadership well into retirement.

Zeta fosters professional development, mentorship, and an unbreakable support system that extends far beyond college.

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Centennial Celebration and Vision for the Future

In 2020, Zeta Phi Beta celebrated its centennial anniversary — 100 years of sisterhood and service. Despite global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, Zetas came together in historic fashion to honor their past and chart a bold vision for the future.

Under the theme “Honoring Our Founders, Celebrating Our Legacy, Fulfilling Our Promise,” the sorority committed to deepening its impact over the next century. This includes strategic initiatives around social justice, health disparities, education reform, and women’s empowerment.

Zeta’s current international president, known as the International Grand Basileus, leads with integrity and ambition to continue propelling the organization forward.

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Why Zeta? The Power of Purpose-Driven Sisterhood

What sets Zeta Phi Beta apart isn’t just its history or its programs — it’s the heartbeat of the sisterhood. Zetas are unified by more than letters. They share a purpose to serve, uplift, and inspire. In an era where community and integrity are desperately needed, Zeta stands as a shining example of what’s possible when women work together for a greater good.

Women who choose Zeta are women who want to lead with compassion, live with intention, and leave a legacy.

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Final Thoughts: Leaving a Legacy of Finer Womanhood

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. isn’t just an organization — it’s a movement of women committed to excellence, rooted in love for community, and driven by a sense of duty. With over 100 years of service and sisterhood behind it, and a global network of powerful women at its helm, Zeta continues to shape the world for the better.

Whether through mentoring young girls, fighting for justice, or supporting mothers-to-be, Zeta women embody a higher standard — a finer standard. As they like to say: Zeta is not for the faint of heart, but for the woman of purpose.

And that is the true essence of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

Lateef Warnick is the founder of Onassis Krown. He currently serves as a Senior Healthcare Consultant in the Jacksonville FL area and is a Certified Life Coach, Marriage Counselor, Keynote Speaker and Author of "Know Thyself," "The Golden Egg" and "Wear Your Krown." He is also a former Naval Officer, Licensed Financial Advisor, Insurance Agent, Realtor, Serial Entrepreneur and musical artist A.L.I.A.S.