Chapter History

The Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated has proudly served the Columbus, Georgia community since its chartering on June 17, 1954. Inspired through the vision and leadership of Brother Dr. S. P. Charleston (Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated), Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter was established to advance the founding principles of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood while meeting the needs of the Chattahoochee Valley through impactful community service and leadership.

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Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter Charter Members

The legacy of Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter began through the commitment and vision of its chartered Triumphant members:

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Elizabeth Leonard • Pongee Threatt • Ruth Barnett • Emma Abercombie • Gwendolyn Earl

 

Their dedication established the foundation upon which Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter continues to build and serve today.

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Nearly twenty years later, on February 1, 1974, the chapter's commitment to collegiate excellence continued with the chartering of the Kappa Epsilon Chapter at Columbus College (now Columbus State University). The establishment of Kappa Epsilon strengthened the bridge between graduate and undergraduate Sorors and helped ensure the continued growth and legacy of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated in the Columbus area.

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Kappa Epsilon Chapter Charter Members

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The charter members to include our beloved Triumphant (*) members of Kappa Epsilon Chapter were:

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Aszolene Atkins Elam • Malinda Smith Stovall • Brenda Byrd DeRamus • Cynthia Barnett Dickins • Juanita McBride • Lorraine Gaines • Josephine McGee • Betty Baker • * Beverly Hinton Hugle • Brenda Howard Grimes

 

Through their commitment to scholarship, sisterhood, service, and leadership, these women established a collegiate legacy that continues through Kappa Epsilon Chapter today.

 

A Legacy of International Leadership

Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter holds a distinguished place in the history of our beloved sorority as the home chapter that produced one of Zeta Phi Beta's most influential leaders,

Dr. Eunice S. Thomas, the 19th International Grand Basileus (1986–1992).

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A visionary leader and Life Member, Dr. Thomas previously served as Southeastern Regional Director and National Director of the Stork's Nest Program before her election as International Grand Basileus. During her administration, she launched Project Z.I.P. (Zetas Investing in People), reorganized and modernized the National Headquarters, expanded the Zeta Child Care Development Centers, established the Stork's Nest Foundation, created the Zeta Leadership Training Academy, restored the ARCHON publication, and developed numerous organizational manuals and membership resources that continue to strengthen the sorority today.

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Her legacy of visionary leadership, organizational excellence, and commitment to service remains an enduring source of pride for Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter and the entire sisterhood.

 

A Continued Legacy of Leadership and Service

Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter's legacy of leadership extends beyond the local chapter through Sorors who have answered the call to serve Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated at the State, Regional, and National levels.

 

Among these distinguished leaders is Soror Malinda Smith Stovall, a charter member of Kappa Epsilon Chapter, who went on to serve as the 7th State Director of Georgia, further demonstrating the enduring leadership legacy cultivated within the Columbus, Georgia Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.'s community.

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Soror Mary Strozier-Weaver also contributed to the Sorority's national leadership through her service as National Amicae Coordinator, supporting the continued development and advancement of the Amicae auxiliary.

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Throughout the years, other members of Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter have also been selected and appointed to serve on numerous National, Regional, and State committees, extending the chapter's influence, leadership, and commitment to service throughout Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

 

These appointments and leadership roles reflect a longstanding tradition within Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter of Sorors serving not only their local chapter and community, but also contributing their talents, knowledge, and leadership to the advancement of the Sorority at every level.

 

Continuing the Legacy

Today, Epsilon Eta Zeta Chapter continues to honor its rich heritage by embracing innovative programming, cultivating meaningful community partnerships, mentoring future generations of leaders, and exemplifying the ideals upon which Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was founded.

As we build upon the vision of our charter members and distinguished Sorors, we remain steadfast in our commitment to Building Better Communities Through Service and Sisterhood for generations to come.