Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was founded on Friday, January 16, 1920, on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. as the sister organization to Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. Five women chose not to embrace the tenets of established black sororities and founded Zeta Phi Beta Sorority to encourage the highest standards of scholarship through scientific, literary, cultural and educational programs; to promote service projects on college campuses and in the community; to foster sisterhood; and exemplify the ideal of Finer Womanhood.

The founders of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated were Arizona Cleaver Stemmons, Pearl Anna Neal, Myrtle Tyler Faithful, Viola Tyler Goings and Fannie Pettie Watts.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority a private nonprofit organization is incorporated in Washington, D.C. and the state of Illinois. Since its inception, Zeta has continued its steady climb into the national spotlight with programs designed to demonstrate concern for the human condition both nationally and internationally. The organization has been innovative in that it has chronicled a number of firsts. It was the first National Pan-Hellenic Council organization to centralize its operations in a national headquarters, first to charter a chapter in Africa, first to form adult and youth auxiliary groups (the Amicae, Archonettes, Amicettes and Pearlettes) and first to be constitutionally bound to a fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. The sorority takes pride in its continued participation in transforming communities through volunteer services from members and its auxiliaries. Zeta Phi Beta has chartered hundreds of chapters worldwide and has a membership of 100,000+.

Zeta’s national and local programs include the endowment of its National Educational Foundation, community outreach services and support of multiple affiliate organizations. Zeta chapters, auxiliaries and affiliates give hours of voluntary service to educate the public, assist youth, provide scholarships, support organized charities, and promote legislation for social and civic change.

As the sorority moves into its next century, it retains its original zest for excellence. It espouses the highest academic ideals and that has resulted in its members serving in groundbreaking roles in all fields of endeavor. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. is poised for perpetual service  into her second century and beyond.

For more information about Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. visit the national website at www.zphib1920.org.