Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated was founded on the campus of Howard University.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.: A Legacy of Service, Scholarship, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (ΖΦΒ) is an esteemed international, historically African American Greek-letter organization. Founded on January 16, 1920, on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C., Zeta Phi Beta emerged from the visionary ideals of five courageous women known affectionately as "The Five Pearls." These founders – Arizona Cleaver Stemons, Pearl Anna Neal, Myrtle Tyler Faithful, Viola Tyler Goings, and Fannie Pettie Watts – envisioned a sorority that would fundamentally differ from existing Greek-letter organizations of their time. They sought to establish a sisterhood focused not on social elitism or superficial socializing, but on a profound commitment to progressive ideals: raising the consciousness of their community, promoting the highest standards of scholastic achievement, and fostering a deep, enduring sense of unity among its members. This groundbreaking philosophy underscored their belief that a progressive organization's true mission lay in tangible action and collective advancement.

Foundational Principles and Enduring Impact

Since its inception, Zeta Phi Beta has consistently prioritized addressing critical social causes and championing community upliftment. The sorority's core principles are encapsulated in its four tenets: Service, Scholarship, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood. This dedication is evident in their impactful partnerships and initiatives designed to create positive change globally. For example, Zeta Phi Beta has established significant partnerships with organizations such as the March of Dimes, advocating for healthier mothers and babies, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, supporting life-saving research and treatment for childhood diseases. Their signature programmatic thrust, Z-HOPE (Zetas Helping Other People Excel), exemplifies this commitment, focusing on comprehensive community outreach initiatives that address issues like health awareness, elder care, and educational enrichment across diverse populations.

Global Reach and Organizational Structure

Zeta Phi Beta operates as a non-profit 501(c)(7) organization, which designates it as a social and recreational club, allowing for its philanthropic endeavors to thrive. Its expansive structure is organized into eight intercontinental regions, overseeing more than 800 chapters worldwide. These chapters are strategically located across the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean, showcasing the sorority's significant global footprint. A testament to its pioneering spirit, Zeta Phi Beta made history in 1948 by becoming the first Greek-letter organization to charter a chapter in Africa, specifically in Monrovia, Liberia. This landmark achievement underscored its commitment to international service and the global empowerment of women of color.

A Unique Bond within the Divine Nine

As one of the historically Black Greek-letter fraternities and sororities that comprise the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), often referred to as "The Divine Nine," Zeta Phi Beta holds a prominent position. It is recognized as the third-largest predominantly African-American sorority within this esteemed collective. Uniquely, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. are the only constitutionally bound sorority and fraternity in the NPHC. This unparalleled relationship stems from a shared vision and a commitment to upholding parallel principles, as Phi Beta Sigma was instrumental in Zeta Phi Beta's founding. This constitutional bond signifies a deeply interwoven history, fostering collaborative initiatives, joint community service projects, and a distinctive brother-sisterhood that strengthens their collective impact and shared legacy within the Greek-letter community.

Frequently Asked Questions about Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

What is Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.?
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (ΖΦΒ) is an international, historically African American Greek-letter organization founded in 1920 at Howard University, dedicated to the principles of Service, Scholarship, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood.
Who founded Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and when?
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was founded on January 16, 1920, by five visionary women known as "The Five Pearls": Arizona Cleaver Stemons, Pearl Anna Neal, Myrtle Tyler Faithful, Viola Tyler Goings, and Fannie Pettie Watts.
What are the core principles of Zeta Phi Beta?
The sorority's core principles are Service, Scholarship, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood. These tenets guide their extensive community service initiatives, commitment to academic excellence, strong internal bonds, and dedication to uplifting women.
What is the significance of Zeta Phi Beta's international presence?
Zeta Phi Beta has an extensive global reach, with over 800 chapters across the US, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean. Notably, it was the first Greek-letter organization to charter a chapter in Africa (Monrovia, Liberia, 1948), showcasing its pioneering spirit and commitment to global service and empowerment.
How is Zeta Phi Beta related to Phi Beta Sigma?
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. are the only constitutionally bound sorority and fraternity within the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). This unique bond signifies a shared founding vision and a deep, collaborative relationship that fosters joint initiatives and mutual support.