From the Editor Someone once told me that I was ‘powerful’. I never thought
(L-R Soror Janet Y. Bivins, Esq, Myself, Kim Sawyer)
Questions and Comments are always welcome!
ambie@realzetas.com FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION
Q: Where can I get a paper copy of Dovely? A: Dovely is produced by Sorors on a volunteer
basis and we don’t have the resources to print off copies for Sorors. However, we encourage you to print off the issue for any Sorors who wish to read Dovely via paper.
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about myself in those terms -- I am just a person who loves living life, tries to treat people right and excel in everything I do. In this issue of Dovely, we are sharing with you unadulterated power! From personal stories of difficult experiences to tips on how to make the most of your personal journey, be it mentoring, finer womanhood or weight loss, I’m hoping the richness shared in this issue is directly transferable to your own experience. What I don’t think I understood at the time that I heard myself labeled as ‘powerful’, is that my mindset actually IS powerful. Putting your nose to the grindstone while simultaneously applying your time, talents and efforts into things that make a difference POSITIVELY without your main thought process including “What will I get out of this” is the very basis of where power lies. Powerful people tend to rub off on each other, which is why in the picture to the left, I am getting as close as possible to 2 very powerful women -- Soror Janet Y. Bivins, Esq. and Soror Kim Sawyer. Quiet confidence, immeasurable knowledge and wisdom cannot be duplicated or imitated and I’m reminded of the old school phrase, “Those who got it, GOT IT and those who don’t.... well don’t.” I try to make sure those I connect with are what my friends call “Winners”. Oprah famously said once, “Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher” -- and I would add that once you do, you listen. You ask questions. You take notes. You enact change. You then offer your hand to someone else who wants to do the same. I’m a Zeta...and I’m powerful. What about you?
Stay Dovely,
Amber Pratcher Editor-In-Chief
Summer 2012 >> In this Issue
25
5 RZ Facebook Happenings See what’s happening on the popular RZ Facebook Page.
6 kNOWING yOUR hISTORY Soror Mary Wright shares with Dovely Magazine gems from the past and explains the importance of history.
12 zETA’S pOWER 20 Dovely Magazine profiles 20 amazing Sorors who demonstrate what ‘Power’ really means.
By Monica Britton 24 fINER wOMANHOOD
There is power in Finer Womanhood. Soror Alicia Williams tells us why.
8
26 tHE jOURNEY Soror Youlanda Marshall shares her weight loss journey -- which caught the attention of the likes of the “Today Show” and “People Magazine”.
28 tHE nEXT gENERATION Power manifests into the next generation and Soror Teraleen Campbell shares how she cultivates it with her chapter’s youth group.
30 pOLITICAL eNGAGEMENT Soror Katherine Gilmore shares her expertise on how to get involved in the political process.
33 pREMATURITY aWARENESS
Soror Natasha Herrell EGZ, NC
Sorors share personal stories of survival and loss, highlighting the power of awareness.
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Read past issues of Dovely at www.issuu.com/dovelymagazine
Editor in Chief Amber Pratcher Senior Content Editor Denise Marie Snow Guest Contributors Monica Britton Teraleen Campbell Tamara Manning Youlanda Marshall Dionne Watts-Williams Alicia Williams Art Production & Design Amber Pratcher Dovely Magazine is devoted to highlighting the accomplishments and activities of members of RealZetas.com and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. Dovely is a publication of RealZetas.com and is not affiliated with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated. The views expressed in Dovely are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Dovely or its staff. All persons interested in submitting materials for publication in Dovely acknowledge the editor’s right to accept, deny or edit materials for clarity, accuracy and length. Photographs submitted are preferred to be of high resolution (300 dpi or higher). Please include captions with all photographs. By submitting photos, you affirm that the photos are your property or you have a right to use them, and you grant Dovely the right to use photos as we see fit. Please submit your materials to the editor by the deadline indicated. Only articles that reflect the mission and purpose of Dovely Magazine will be reviewed for publication. Materials submitted after deadlines will be considered for the following issue. Submit to ambie@realzetas.com or denisemariesnow@gmail.com .
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Dovely Magazine was created in 2011 and has had 3 issues published. Next submission deadline: September 1st, 2012 Real Zetas Website www.realzetas.com
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Soror Royetta Perry & the 2012 Debutantes of Sigma Eta Zeta Chapter (Long Beach, CA)
Sigma Epsilon Chapter - UCF
pI eTA zETA - sEOUL, sOUTH kOREA
iF YOU WANT YOUR CHAPTER TO BE FEATURED ON rz’S fACEBOOK pAGE, JUST SUBMIT IT TO THE PAGE DIRECTLY AT WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/rEALzETAS OR EMAIL IT TO AMBIE@REALZETAS.COM! 5 dovely :: Summer 2012
with Soror Mary Breaux Wright sOROR zORA nEALE hURSTON 1923
Soror Zora Neale Hurston 1923
sOROR gLADYS wARRINGTON 1ST iNITIATE Soror Gladys Warrington 1st Initiate
6TH pigb rUTH tAPPE sCRUGGS
6th PIGB Ruth Tappe Scruggs
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S
oror Mary Breaux Wright's love for Zeta history is so sincere. She empowers you with a deeper understanding of our Five Pearls and a desire to learn more about the dynamic lineage of Zeta Phi Beta. Soror Wright's interest in history developed as an Archonian when she wrote Most Honorable Founder Stemons and received a hand written letter back. The letter is highlighted in the Torchbearers of a Legacy. She has a collection of rare items from the Founders, such as recordings of the Five Pearls discussing how Zeta was born, to Most Honorable Founder Neal's first sorority pin. "We've got to focus on where we come from," says Soror Wright. "The Founders were determined, strong, capable women who did not get side tracked. They knew exactly what they wanted and did it." There were originally 12 women who sought to charter Zeta, but the other ladies couldn't handle the pressure of students talking about them. Only a few decades removed from slavery and through a tumultuous time in our nation’s history, the Founders expanded our great Sisterhood and did so without access to phones, cars or the internet. “Our Founders were on a mission. They didn’t desire to do it the easy way,” explains Soror Wright. “These women did not desire anything fancy, nor did they have a lot of money, yet they endured. Almost 100 years later, Zeta is still alive and is thriving.” Understanding the legacy of Zeta’s Founders is one of the reasons why Soror Wright is such an advocate for developing our collegiate members. “Undergraduates should understand that they can do whatever they want if the Founders could do it! Up until 1923, all of our chapters were chartered through undergraduates,” Soror Wright points out. “These teenage women never gave up and that’s why undergraduates are the lifeblood of our membership. More than half of our new members are undergraduates.”
Knowing Your History Soror Wright has been busy traveling to regional conferences and her message of knowing our history and remembering our oath is resonating with sorors. She remembers how Founder Stemons often stated “we did whatever we found our hands to do” and hopes that sorors will remember all that Zeta stands for as we look toward 2020. Founders’ Day and Finer Womanhood Month are great times for Zeta’s membership to reflect on whether they are living the oath, but Soror Wright believes that this feeling should last all year long. “ I pray that we will continue to represent what the oath really stands for and continue to work together,” says Soror Wright. “We can’t just remember our principles for one day.” Zeta’s centennial celebration aims to be a historic occasion and Soror Wright says “It’s time to bring sorors home to Zeta. We don’t need to wait until the last minute to bring sorors back. We need 120,000 financial members.” Soror Denise Marie Snow is the Senior Content Editor for Dovely Magazine and interviewed Soror Wright for this story. All pictures courtesy of Soror Mary Breaux Wright.
Soror Wright was generous enough to provide us with this extremely rare photograph of Founder Arizona Cleaver Stemons attending the Annual Phi Beta Sigma Ball at the Whitelaw Hotel in February of 1921. Her companion is Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity founder A. Langston Taylor. (They are in the 2nd row from the bottom, 4th and 5th seats from the left)
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Soror Ju-TUN Andrews-King Xi Mu Zeta IL
I
t will come as no surprise to my Sorors that I love being a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Those that know me also know that I love fashion and retail therapy. After engaging in countless conversations about the image of our sisterhood, I wondered how I could do my part to make our brand better. Since I am often the “go to” person for fashion advice among friends, family, and Sorors, I decided to utilize social media and create a group solely for Zetas. After coming up with a catchy name, the Facebook group, Z-BLUEtique was created. The simple motto: "No Soror Left Behind". The purpose of the group is to prove that Sorors of all sizes and all budgets could find Royal Blue and White to wear to Zeta functions. After a simple approval process, Sorors can utilize the group to sell, buy or barter new or gently used royal blue and/or white items. Additionally, Sorors engage in dialogues about: proper attire at Zeta events, fashion do's and dont's, dressing for their body type and presenting themselves as the finest Zeta possible. We also speak on topics such as hair, nails and makeup. I want EVERY Soror to know that presenting the BEST us is not optional, but expected. It can also be very fun. There is great truth in the statement “When you look better, you feel better!” As we go into the conference season, consider the tidbits below:
Top-heavy Soror: Pick pieces that are shaped but not tight. Bring attention to
the bottom half of the body. Shop for fitted, single-breasted fitted blazers to define the waist, but is roomy enough in the bust that it doesn’t pull. This will slim you out and define your shape.
Bottom-heavy Soror: Bring the focus to the top of your torso. A wrap dress with an A-line bottom is great to emphasize the smaller part of your body, yet still show the curves. Pleated skirts work well for you and wide leg slacks are ideal. Always go for the defined waist and A-Line.
Thin Soror: The goal is to give the illusion of curves. Feminine looks soften what
Soror Heather Coward TDZ, MD
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is known as the “boy” shape. Halters and tanks are your friend and flatter your figure. You look well in most patterns. You are the ideal model for skinny jeans and invest in nice belts to accent any look. A high heel is also good to highlight your slim ankles.
“Hour glass” Soror: The key is to proportionally dress
the top and bottom of your body. Wide belts over shirts and dresses are a great way to show your waist. Fitted tops, wrap shirts and tapers will work well too. Pencil skirts will flatter you and so will most fitted pants IF you balance with the right top. If you have a “fitted” bottom, stay away from the “fitted” shirt. This will present a more classy you. Whatever shape you have, we all can look our best. A tailor can make or break most outfits. Every size 10 soror is not the same proportion. A tailor will ensure the clothing is perfect for your body. Also, having a tailor work on an item can change its look from “cheap” to personal.
Brand Building: Z-Bluetique
NO SOROR LEFT BEHIND
All Sorors pictured purchased their dresses, accessories and shoes directly from other Sorors via the Z-BLUEtique forum on Facebook.
If each of us commit to working on ourselves, we are also inherently working on a better image of Zeta. As Donna Karan frequently states “Highlight the positive and delete the negative.” Soror Tamara Manning is the Basileus of Nu Theta Zeta Chapter in Warrenville Heights, OH. You can join Z-Bluetique by searching for its group name on Facebook.
Soror Denise Manning NTZ, OH
Soror Beverly TatHam, ESQ SKZ, NY
Soror dOLA eDWARDS DMZ, NY
Soror Ebony MclEAN DMZ, NY
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By Dionne Watts-Williams Though there have been signs of improvement, many Americans still feel the effects of our economic climate, particularly when it comes to finding a job. Whether temporary or longterm, the race to gain employment is more competitive these days. But there are some things you can do to help make your resume – and ultimately your personal brand – stand out from the crowd and improve your chances of getting hired.
Let’s start with your resume.
1.
Talk about your successes! Without bragging, highlight your awards, accolades, training, and significant professional successes. Prove why you’re the best person for the position.
2.
Speak their language. Draw in the person reviewing your cover letter and resume by showing that you understand their “industry speak”. As you customize your resume –as you should with each submission – have a copy of the position description and requirements on hand, applying key words and phrases used in the posting.
3.
Be flexible. You’ll most likely have to assume multiple roles in any job. Be sure to highlight your diverse experience, ability to adapt quickly, and readiness to train.
4.
Numbers count. Be very specific in stating your accomplishments. For instance, it’s great that you managed a staff of ten, but what was the result of your management skills? Did you improve company efficiency by 10%? Make your case with hard facts and figures.
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Brand Building: Professional Success
These tips are great to implement on paper, but don’t neglect the other vital piece: personal branding. Personal branding is the way you market yourself to the world, and what other people think of you. It’s a summation of all the associations about you that are stored in people’s minds. Your brand is reflective of your opinions, values and beliefs that are visibly expressed by what you say and do, and how you do it. And while it’s mostly outside of your control, you can certainly influence it. Ask yourself, “What makes me unique?” Write a list of your strengths, talents, responsibilities delegated to you, and special skills that others rely on. Go a step further and ask your colleagues, supervisors, friends, and even loved ones about their impression of you. Who better else to ask? Once you determine your unique factor, follow through. Be yourself, be confident, get recommendations (be sure to share them on LinkedIn), and always have your 30-second pitch ready. Remember – eyes are watching – both in person and via social media. Watch the language you use and be mindful of the photos you take. A great periodic exercise is to Google your name. What appears is what potential employers see as well.
Be focused and strategic, and your brand will become a magnet, helping to expand your network and giving you a competitive edge. It can differentiate you from the rest of the pack and help you reach your goals, or it can be your downfall and keep you from succeeding. In this day and age, every bit helps.
Soror Dionne Watts-Williams is an experienced communications strategist, voiceover talent and workshop presenter. She is currently Director of Marketing & Communications for The Mayor’s Commission on Literacy (Philadelphia, PA) and Principal & CEO of Inspired Creative Group, a company specializing in PR, branding, writing, and editing. She was inducted into the Sorority in 2000 and currently serves as Basileus of Kappa Omega Zeta Chapter (Montgomery County, PA). Learn more about Dionne at www.InspiredCreativeGroup.com.
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The concept to create a ZETA POWER 20 LIST was born from a simple thread in the popular ZETA group on Facebook, powered virtually by over 3500 Sorors from across the country. Daily, we share best practices, sorority insights, chapter events and more. Not only was the ZETA POWER 20 LIST concept born from this group, Sorors have also started the Z-BLUEtique (an online store for all things royal blue & white in clothing, shoes and accessories), Team Healthy ZETAs (health & wellness support) and the Fervent Heart Prayer Group (encouraging words and prayer for Sorors in need). Former Zeta National Director of Social Action, Soror Krysta Jones (Nu Xi Zeta Chapter, Alexandria, VA and one of our list honorees) posted a link in the group of a list highlighting prominent professionals. The link quickly garnered feedback and not long after its posting, the idea of creating the ZETA POWER 20 LIST began to germinate via FB inboxes. Consideration criteria was devised, Sorors to serve on the decision team were discussed and the very the talented team of Dovely Magazine were contacted to see if they would be interested in being the platform to showcase the inaugural list that highlighted the best & brightest across our sisterhood, an idea they loved and we are grateful for the partnership! It was indeed humbling to receive the submissions from Sorors representing our organization’s regions. Each submission was confirmation and a wonderful reminder that our sorority has a culturally diverse, service driven, sickeningly impressive membership base. It was a tremendous honor to work alongside our decision team - Past International Grand Basileus Dr. Jylla Moore Teatre, Past Great Lakes Region Director Soror Norma C. Dartis and Soror Nichele Ayers-Laynes of the Phenomenal Pacific Region in this endeavor. Individually we combed through each application and came together on these pages to gratefully present to you, the ZETA POWER 20 LIST sponsored by Dovely Magazine. Enjoy! Soror Monica Britton, Atlantic Region - Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter (Bronx, NY)
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Zeta’s Power 20
Sherrin Alsop (Eta Epsilon)
COMMUNITY ACTIVIST THROUGH POLITICAL LEADERSHIP
Soror Alsop expertly balances the demands of being CEO/President of her own firm, The Alsop Group where she provides expertise in marketing, fundraising and public relations, while serving her fellow Virginia residents via the elected positions of County Supervisor and Chairman of the Board of Supervisors in Queens County, Virginia. Where will we see her next? She writes grants and is involved with the dance ministry at her house of worship, Jerusalem Baptist Church. Soror Alsop is a prime example of broadening one’s expertise while gaining depth in a community.
Janet K. Bell
(Eta Delta & Xi Mi Zeta) SOLID AS A ROCK
Soror Bell is a quiet storm moving affably between the public and private sectors. Professionally, she serves as Deputy Director for the City of Markham Housing Department where she has increased revenue while simultaneously managing her own business JDTV Bell Enterprises. Her business provides accounting, office & event management solutions for small firms and non-profits. Her passion for service is at the forefront of all she does, as she lends her unique leadership skills to the homeless empowerment organization the Featherfist Foundation where she serves as President of the Board of Directors. Soror Bell is a committed volunteer to the Southland Coalition to Conquer Breast Cancer and South Suburban Health Council. Soror Bell seamlessly balances her outside affiliations with her work for our sisterhood, as she currently serves as the Great Lakes Region Life Member Coordinator. Soror Bell is also Past Chair of the Xi Mu Zeta Chapter’s charitable arm The Pearl Foundation and a former State Executive Board Chair for the State of Illinois.
Sonja Caison (Mu Xi Zeta) Entrepreneur EXTRAORDINAIRE
Soror Caison answered the entrepreneurial call with aplomb as owner of Caison Janitorial, Inc. An experienced corporate manager with an extensive background at NASDAQ Stock Market, Soror Caison has grown her business of two to a business of 40 and over 600 clients in the Alexandria & Arlington, Virginia areas. Soror Caison also finds time to be the Assistant Director of the Northern Virginia Business Center.
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Zeta’s Power 20
Sybongile Cook (Chi Delta) NETWORKING WORKS!
Soror Cook is a project manager for the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development in the nation’s capital. Her responsibilities include directing Bank on DC, a collaborative effort between the District of Columbia, non-profits and financial institutions to provide affordable access to financial products & education to the unbanked and underbanked in the city. She also serves as the District’s Liaison for the DC Earned Income Tax Campaign where she provides free tax preparation for residents. Sybongile is also the Project Manager for two multi-million dollar community developments in the city, and is crafting the Agency’s first continuity of Operations Plan as the Deputy Mayor’s Emergency Management Officer.
June McAllister Fowler (Xi Zeta )
CORPORATE & COMMUNITY GURU
As Vice President of Corporate and Public Communications for BJC Healthcare, one of the largest nonprofits healthcare organizations in the United States, Soror Fowler has made a definitive mark in the St. Louis, MO business world, so much so that in 2010, she was named Corporate Executive of the Year by the St. Louis American newspaper. Soror Fowler’s life doesn’t solely revolve around work, in addition to her involvement with her local Zeta chapter, she is Vice President of the St. Louis Economic Council and sits on the Board of the St. Louis Science Center & Associated Industries of Missouri and Citizens for Modern Transit.
Monica Leak (Mu Omicron & Nu XiZeta ) TRIPLE THREAT
As an associate minister at First Baptist Church Vienna, Soror Leak’s creativity in planning and organizing contributed to her congregation raising more than $10,000 toward Haiti Relief efforts after the devastating earthquake rocked the small country. Professionally, Soror Leak serves in the unique position of speech pathologist with the Charles County Public School district and as a librarian with the John Leland Center for Theological Studies. In our sisterhood, Soror Leak is a charter member of Mu Omicron Chapter, Anti-Grammateus for the State of Virginia, Award-winning Z-HOPE Coordinator and Chair of the H.A.V.E. (Helping Alexandria Virginia Excel) Foundation for Nu Xi Zeta Chapter .
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Zeta’s Power 20
Sabrina Lamb (Delta Delta Chapter) FINANCIAL FITNESS GURU TO OUR YOUTH
How many Sorors do you know that can say they rang the opening & closing bell at Wall Street’s NASDAQ because of the work they have accomplished? As Founder/CEO of WorldofMoney.org, Soror Sabrina Lamb has. A multi-faceted Soror who has enjoyed success in the entertainment world (writing, comedy, commentator), Soror Lamb keenly understands the importance of excellent money management and communication, skills that she has translated into her own successful financial literary non-profit organization for underserved youth in the New York Tri-State area. Soror Lamb is the recipient of the BDPA Small Business Innovator Award, Rainbow PUSH/Wall Street Project Honors, and New York State Z-HOPE Award, to name a few. In addition to being fiscally fit, she promotes physical fitness by running in the New York Marathon. Keep an eye out for her soon to be published book, “Do I Look Like an ATM?: 6 Steps to Raising Financially Responsible African-American Children” at a bookstore or downloadable to your Kindle, Nook or iPad soon!
Amina L. Gilyard (Mu Eta) NOT JUST A PRETTY FACE
All Zeta ladies look good every day! This Zeta lady happens to be gorgeous, and she should be—after all, she is the current reigning Miss Black USA D.C. A 2007/2009 graduate respectively, Soror Gilyard has both her B.S. and her M.Ed in Health, which makes her a great spokesperson to address the myriad of health related issues that plague people of color. A published author, Soror Gilyard is currently a patient navigator for The Lupus Foundation of America (DC/MD/VA chapter). In this role she provides one-on-one support to individuals affected by lupus and helps people with lupus navigate the U.S. medical and disability systems. Why is this important? Lupus affects AfricanAmerican women at a rate three times greater than it affects white women.
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Zeta’s Power 20
Ashley Futrell (Chi Tau Zeta) GOING GREEN IN BLUE
As only the second African-American to serve as Governor of Ohio’s American Legion Auxiliary Buckeye Girls State, Soror Futrell is a stand-out leader. Currently serving as Senior Legislative Representative for The Trust for Public Land (TPL) – a national non-profit land conservation organization, Soror Futrell previously served as Senior Manager of Public Policy for the National Recreation and Park Association where she advocated for local & state urban parks and was the recipient of a prestigious White House internship in 2006. As a charter member of Chi Tau Zeta Chapter and former member of the national Social Action Committee of our sisterhood, Soror Futrell is an active member of the Junior League of Washington, serves on the Goodwill Young Professionals Council for Goodwill of Greater Washington and served as a mentor for Jubilee Jobs, a non-profit that provides job development skills to the formerly incarcerated. In 2007, Ashley was selected as one of “The 50 Most Beautiful People on Capitol Hill”. Her service includes the legislative affairs office of the Office of Management and Budget in the Executive Office of the President of the United States.
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Zeta’s Power 20
Krystal Hamlet (Sigma Psi Zeta ) COMMITTED TO A CURE
Not only employed by Perfect Angels Learning Center, but Krystal Hamlet is also a perfect angel. She is a testament to not only overcoming personal adversity, but moving from it to advocacy from her experience. Through the loss of her mother to lung cancer, she has selflessly organized events, raised monies, and has turned the legacy of her mother into a labor of love to help raise awareness against the deadly disease. Krystal has also raised money for the Gynecologic Oncology Group and participated in many events that work toward the eradication of cancer in honor of her mother.
Kendra Hatcher-King (Kappa Iota Zeta) MARKETING MAVEN
A seasoned and well-respected communications executive in corporate America, Soror Kendra Hatcher-King has been recognized as one of the top executives in marketing and advertising by Black Enterprise Magazine, Top 40 Under 40 by Advertising Age; TheRoot.com as a Top Power Player and she has received an AdColor Innovator Award. In addition to an impressive professional resume, she is a published author of several publications, and also finds time to lend a hand at Flare, a non-profit that offers branding programs to at-risk youth. She also serves as the Public Relations and External Communications Chair in her chapter and is a member of the grant writing committee for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., State of Georgia. Additionally, Soror King was the cover girl of the Spring 2011 issue of Dovely magazine.
Sarah Misailidis (Tau Theta ) PR POWER PLAYER
Having garnered the attention of U.S. Senators Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Charles Schumer (D-NY), we have evidence that Sarah’s skill set will propel her to national prominence as well. Having distinguished herself in the field of public relations, her place as a leader is solidified. She volunteers at food banks, homeless shelters, and soup kitchens and has worked in the ever challenging position of press secretary. While in government, Soror Misailidis was named "One of the 50 Most Beautiful People on Capitol Hill". Sarah is currently Manager of Public Relations for Dickstein Shapiro, LLP.
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Zeta’s Power 20
Krysta Jones (Nu Xi Zeta) EXECUTE!
Creating tolerance of others is at the core of Krysta Jones’ mission. Having served with the Peace Corps in Paraguay immediately after graduating from the University of Florida, Soror Jones currently serves as the Outreach Director for Congressman Jim Moran (D-VA) and is the founder of the Virginia Leadership Institute, which has trained over 200 future campaign professionals and candidates in a variety of campaigning skills. She’s also been very active in Zeta, having served as National Social Action Director from 2003-2008, Soror Jones coordinated the Zora Neale Hurston stamp unveiling in 2003 for the Sorority, and she managed the Zeta Congressional Institute to encourage more Sorors to pursue public service careers. Krysta is a member of the National Urban Fellows America’s Leaders of Change Class 2011 and the Commission on the Status of Women for Arlington County.
Raven Profit (Epsilon Nu ) RISING STAR
A product of the foster care system for a short time and now a 3rd year college student majoring in human biology and women’s studies – with a long term goal of becoming a physician, Soror Raven Profit has become an advocate against the struggles faced by the over 400,000 foster care children in the U.S. Raven attends seminars throughout the year, speaking with foster children to explain to them what benefits they have access to and coaching them on career skills. She hopes her own experience can serve as an inspiration to other foster kids. Any future employer and graduate chapter will gain immeasurable talent in Soror Profit. A Fall 2011 initiate into our sisterhood, if you think you must wait to be a graduate soror to make an impact; you do not know Raven.
Charlotte Westerhaus-Renfrow ADMINISTRATIVE WHIZ
Attorney Soror Westerhaus-Renfrow is a stellar, untiring champion of diversity and inclusion. This servant leader has been NCAA Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, Assistant to the Chancellor for Equity and Diversity at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, and Director of Affirmative Action for Purdue University. With numerous presentations and board memberships under her published scholar belt, she was most recently Acting President of Martin University. Soror Westerhaus-Renfrow is multi-dimensional woman of innovation and creativity and is the mother of a Zeta daughter.
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Zeta’s Power 20
Nilda Rivera, Esq. (Theta Kappa & Kappa Epsilon Zeta) ZETA ZEAL
Soror Rivera is a reclaimed Soror. That’s important to mention because while she took time away and achieved professional success, Soror Rivera has rededicated herself to her Sorority and has become a valuable asset to her local chapter, to the state of New York, and to the organization as a whole. Just because you take a break from Zeta doesn’t mean your commitment to Zeta is over! Nilda is known for her belief in “accountability” and it is evidenced in her first being accountable to herself! Professionally, Soror Rivera is Staff Attorney for Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton, and Garrison LLP. She sits on the Board of Directors for the Puerto Rican Bar Association and Community Board 4 (Bronx, New York). She is also a member of the New York State and Hispanic Bar Associations and, was admitted to the United States Supreme Court in June 2010.
Dr. Melvena N. Wilson (Mu Epsilon & Chi Theta Zeta) SHINING STAR IN THE SUNSHINE STATE
As Acting Assistant Director of Minority Health at the Florida Department of Health, Dr. Wilson is the youngest person to serve in that role. She was also the first person in the state of Florida to graduate with the Doctor of Public Health degree in the area of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education. Dr. Wilson is an adjunct professor at Florida A&M University. She is also the creator of the Center for Advocacy and Research on Health Equity where she champions health education and outreach as well as research on childhood obesity and minority health issues. A charter member of Chi Theta Zeta Chapter and a Life Member of our sisterhood, Dr. Wilson is the founder of CARHE (Center for Advocacy and Research on Health Equity) an organization that provides health education, outreach and research outcomes on the topics of childhood obesity and minority health issues.
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Zeta’s Power 20
Linda J. Thompson (Nu Xi Zeta) NON-PROFIT GURU
The noble efforts of Soror Linda Thompson demand notice. Professionally, she is the Program Manager for the US Department of Housing & Urban Development. Personally, Soror Thompson has a servant’s heart. She has published a guide to help non-profit organizations improve their internal operations through her business, Kingdom Building Journey, Inc. She is also the President of the St. Jude AME Church Missionary Society and a founding board member of the Keystone School of the Artiste, a school which encourages a love for music and art and is the 2nd Vice President of the Allawadrick Area Missionary Society. A recent reclaim, Soror Thompson served our sisterhood for over ten years as our Executive Director from 1984-1995.
Trice Thompson (Epsilon Kappa) THE TRANSITIONAL MODEL
As a senior at Purdue University, Soror Thompson has been NPHC President, been recognized as one of the five most influential students on campus, Soror of the Year in the Great Lakes Region, and is the co-creator of the Purdue iSpeak Movement. As with all Zeta women, Soror Thompson has a servant’s spirit and is the creator of a summer program geared to promote professionalism among high school students entitled “Getting Into the Winner’s Circle” which focuses on resume building, ACT preparation and educational values that promote higher education. While planning a move to a new city for her job and pursuing her law degree, transitioning into a graduate chapter is on her list of priorities as she begins this new, exciting chapter in her life.
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Zeta’s Power 20
Lorrie Sinclair, Esq. (Zeta Omicron & Phi Upsilon Zeta) THE FIRST
A co-recipient of the prestigious Thurgood Marshall Award for Public Service, Lorrie Sinclair navigates family, Zeta, and her profession expertly and graciously. A recipient of the Nancy B. Woolridge McGee Graduate Fellowship, Lorrie is a charter member of Zeta Omicron Chapter. Professionally, she is the first African-American attorney in Loudoun County to be appointed as a Special Justice, the first African-American in Loudoun County to be elected as President of the Loudoun County Bar Association, and the first African-American attorney in Loudoun County to be appointed as a Substitute Judge! Her extensive legal experience has formed a jigsaw puzzle of “firsts” that have strongly positioned her to be considered for a judgeship in the State of Virginia. Along with being a Life Member in our sisterhood who has served on the state, regional and national levels, Lorrie is a mother of two children and a loving wife.
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PIGB Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte Reviewing the nominees for the “Zeta Power 20” renewed my faith and belief in the tremendous talent of my Zeta Sorors. So many unsung Sorors who are doing amazing work in their chosen fields of contribution. From academia, to innovative programs; beauty queens to advocates for youth; courtrooms to Board rooms; East Coast to West Coast; Zetas are in the mix! I see the next generation of leaders taking on the challenge of living the proud legacy of Zeta while plowing their own territory. Sorors are moving geographically to take on new opportunities that position them for greater achievement. Sorors are reaching outside of Zeta to gain stronger networks with sponsors, mentors, and other advocates for their success. Zetas are modeling the way by still being the “first” in many areas of achievement. I am reminded of how far we have come, yet how the journey must continue as Zetas lead the way. I found that Zeta Power 20 inspired me to continue to find ways to make a difference in my own space that I have carved out… The playing field where I have chosen to play. Just like the Power 20, we need to have a clear passion with a vision for doing work that matters and being the best at doing the work or innovating the approaches of the past. The Zeta Power 20 are inspirational for all generations as the stories reflect senior leaders and high potential talent that is discovering the paths where highways never ran! Zetas can be proud that we are sisters to sorors who have chosen to “dare to be different” as our Founders dared in 1920. It was a privilege and an honor to become reacquainted with the accomplishments of Sorors who I knew while adding to my knowledge base, Sorors who are living the ideals of Zeta!
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Zeta’s Power 20: Reflections
Soror Norma C. Dartis The ZETA POWER 20 Woman is one who fits the bill as the consummate Zeta woman. She is scholastically qualified, professionally positioned to lead instead of following, is spiritually grounded, and is willing to take risks. The ZETA POWER 20 Woman is not as concerned with herself as much as her fellow man. These finer women are not willing to leave it to others to make the world a better place. She has both feet firmly planted, possesses sound judgment, and is effective in her undertakings. These Zetas shine boldly through their multiple talents. When I reflect on the sayings of our Founders recently shared with us:
Founder Goings - "Much is expected from whom much has been done". * Founder Neal- "Live each day as if it were your last". * Founder Faithful - "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you". * Founder Stemons - "Give to the world the best you have". * Founder Watts- "Let no man think to have set his own house in order if he is unmindful of his *
brothers' well being".
I find the Zeta Power 20 Women interwoven within each statement.
Soror Nichele Ayers-Laynes I think that it’s important to showcase the ZETA POWER 20 Sorors because they serve as examples for others to follow. There are Sorors from all walks of life featured—Sorors who work for some of the country’s largest nonprofits to attorneys, to those dedicated to public service and small business owners; Health, government, law, finance, technology, and more are all represented. In the old days, we’d call these women “Superwomen.” We now know that there is no such thing—we can’t do it all, but these women show us that we can find time to do the things for which we are most passionate, those things that are important to us and help us achieve the “job well done” feeling. It’s also great to showcase these Sorors because, yes, these ARE Zeta women. So often we read about women doing fabulous things in the workplace or in their community, and we don’t know who they are or, how they got where they are. Well, we know what the common thread of these fabulous women are—they are all members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. We are proud to call these women Zetas, and we hope that they serve as a source of pride and inspiration for you too.
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Finer
Womanhood
As told by Soror Alicia Williams
Finer Womanhood is defined as “the distinguishing character or qualities of a wom-
an” that are “greater in quality or excellence.” While this is a succinct and well-formulated description of the dually-termed moniker, in reality, Finer Womanhood is so much more than that. As Zetas, we have been surreptitiously endowed with the understanding that, it is not the definition that makes the person, but the contrary: the person that makes the definition.
Finer Womanhood is elegance, grace, strength, and femininity. It’s love, respect,
courage, sophistication, and professionalism. It’s God-fearing and humble reverence. It’s taking a stand for a worthy cause and knowing when to bow out gracefully, in the midst of character compromise. It’s persevering through life’s greatest challenges and relying on the wisdom of those more knowledgeable than she. It’s dignity, honor, and integrity, as well as notability, influence, and prominence. Finer Womanhood precedes: others often know of one’s reputation, even before meeting the person; and it succeeds: the memory of one’s contributions and life history lives eternally. It’s setting a trend and blazing a trail.
Finer Womanhood can also be visualized as the soror that dedicates her “borrowed”
time on Saturday morning to volunteer at the homeless shelter or the sister that meticulously fashions her campaign to run for office on the National level. It is also being the best woman you can be, as much as it is, doing all that you can, with what you’ve got. In all practicality, it involves frugality: making your pennies stretch and fore-planning: ensuring that your dollars last. It’s those women that have paved the way for our organization to be as influential, diverse, and dynamic as it has become. It’s Arizona Cleaver Stemons, Myrtle Tyler Faithful, Viola Tyler Goings, Pearl Neal, and Fannie Pettie Watts. It’s you and it’s me – even greater.
Perhaps, this is why our Founders chose this expression to represent the ideals, attitudes, and characteristics of the women that so gracefully personify Zeta Phi Beta. Maybe they knew that Finer Womanhood is something that we would continually set our sights on, while being the very thing that we emblematize everyday. As to the exact reason it became the phrase that gelled with five collegiate-minded women, we may never fully know. What we do know, is that each Zeta is a distinctive prototype of Finer Womanhood, which she defines in her own unique way. Soror Alicia Williams is a member of Nu Omicron Zeta Chapter of the San Fernando Valley, CA.
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“When Zeta Calls…”
When the news broke that Whitney Houston passed away suddenly in February, Zeta sorors were shocked and deeply saddened. She was the voice of the 80s generation and sorors began to share their fondest memories of how Whitney’s music had touched their lives. Real Zeta sorors spearheaded an effort to express condolences to Soror Dionne Warwick (Whitney’s aunt) through a donation to the Whitney E. Houston Academy. Donations began to pour in from sorors around the world and more than $750 was raised in only a few days. Soror Vesta Godwin Clark, through a personal contact, was able to send an email to Soror Warwick. She expressed her sincere thanks for her sisters’ generosity and asked that we continue to keep the family in prayer. Dovely Magazine would like to thank all of the sorors who answered the call to support Soror Warwick and the Whitney E. Houston Academy. A very special thanks to Soror Dionne Watts-Williams for organizing the effort and sending the donation in with a letter expressing our heartfelt condolences.
Soror Kelli Collins KA, DC
Soror Vanessa Cole KOZ, PA
“Action-Oriented: #Zetas4JusticeTM” Members of Zeta Phi Beta participated in a social media campaign designed to increase awareness and mainSoror ChavoN Wright tain focus on the tragic murder of 17-year-old Trayvon KEZ, NY Martin. On March 30, 2012 sorors posted, tweeted, and shared hoodie pictures with their social networks using the hash tag #Zetas4JusticeTM. The death of Trayvon Martin launched a national discussion about violence against African-American young men, the “Stand Your Ground” law, and what individuals can do at the grassroots level to reduce gun violence in local neighborhoods. Zeta chapters from Florida to Nevada held candlelight vigils on college campuses, prayer vigils at churches, and community forums to demand justice for Trayvon Martin and to continue shedding light on the impact of racial profiling, gun violence, and the justice system. 25 dovely :: Summer 2012
Your Journey
By Soror Youlanda Marshall
I
never thought my decision to lose weight would have such an impact on so many people. My reasons for beginning the journey were all selfish. Yes, that’s right. I did it all for me. As a teen, I was able to make my own food choices and the right decisions weren’t always made. Instead of purchasing lunch every day, I would buy junk food: Honeybuns, Cheetos, and Snickers bars. I wasn’t grossly overweight. I was what one would refer to as “thick”. However, when I reached the 11th grade I had to buy a size 16 jeans. I realized how “fat” I had become, so I developed a diet plan based on the Food pyramid recommendations on food labels. I allowed myself a daily intake of 30 grams of fat. I checked EVERY label. My plan worked and by the spring of that year I shed about twenty pounds. I proudly returned to my 9/10s. I maintained this weight through my senior year. So you’re wondering...where did this plus-sized girl from [People] magazine come from? How did you get from a size 9 to as big as a size 26? As my longtime friend and line sister would tell you, “the summer of 1995”. After high school graduation I had gained new found freedom. I could go where I wanted and do what I wanted. There was no one to stop me and I developed horrible eating habits. Those late nights eating out at restaurants with my friends came with a price. By the time I had reached midterms in college, I was wearing a size 18. When I became a soror in Spring 1998, I was tipping the scales at 200lbs. My sister, also a soror, would tell you that I would always say that I didn’t mind being a BBW (Beautiful, Big Woman). The truth of the matter is I was miserable. I never really thought of myself as the “beautiful” in the BBW. I constantly struggled within myself. Not only did I feel rejected by the world but I rejected myself. I never let anyone know of the pain I felt because I was a great pretender.
I told God, “I hear you.” All Photos Courtesy of PEOPLE MAGAZINE & Soror Youlanda Marshall
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In the fall of 2005, I was under an unusual amount of stress at my job. As a result of this stress I spent a great deal of time fasting. The fasting coupled with the loss of appetite due to stress resulted in weight loss. However, I was too depressed to notice. Because of my denial about my weight, I never really kept up with the scales. I checked my weight and I was actually down about 20lbs! I scheduled a doctor appointment to ensure that everything was OK. Outside of being overweight, I was basically healthy. I did not have high blood pressure, high blood sugar or high cholesterol. I told God “I hear You”. I took the weight loss as a warning. I was admonished by the doctor that I had better get my weight under control or would start to see my body succumb to the ailments I mentioned earlier. There were parties and after the parties we’d all congregate at IHOP or Denny’s to cap off our evenings. There were horrible fast food choices around campus and even at the hospital where I was employed. Six years after I crossed and a few days before my 10 year class reunion, I was nearly 300lbs. I did not want keep fighting the same fight with myself. I knew I needed to make some changes both spiritually and physically. I began to be more accountable and honest about my eating habits. I would try to make small changes. My job was taking a toll on my body and my blood pressure began to rise. I was never in a range where I needed medication, but my doctor wanted to monitor it. She devised a diet for me loosely based on Atkins. This resulted in another 10 pound loss. I had also begun working out in the gym. I kept this going intermittently for about 2 years. I would go through cycles during this period. During those good cycles I was down nearly 50 lbs. On the flip side, I would be up 20 or more pounds though never returning to the 290s.
The Power of Your Journey Soror Marshall PPre Pre-WEIGHT LOSS
In January 2008, I went to Weight Watchers. The points system gave me the structure that I needed to be successful. I wanted to do something that was not extremely restrictive but had results. I tried this program because it was the only thing around that taught you HOW to eat. The program taught me HOW to monitor hunger and HOW to manage portions. I realized this is what’s going to help me get to where I truly wanted to be physically. I officially joined in February 2008 and reached my goal weight in February 2010. I became a lifetime member in April 2010 and I haven’t looked back since. Well that’s not entirely true. I have realized that my journey isn’t an exclusive struggle. I have learned that the lessons I’ve learned are helping others. Now when I look back, I see things in my past that I can use to teach a lesson. As an educator, you learn to take those teachable moments to make an impact on the lives of others.
YOULANDA’S TIPS • Take the time plan your food intake each day. • Pack healthy snack items that will quell hunger attacks. (Fruits, nuts, Fiber One bars are my favorites) • Break your weight loss goal into smaller manage able goals • Find nonfood ways to celebrate success. (Ex. Put $5.00 into a savings account for every 5lbs lost) • Be selfish enough to commit the time to work out for a designated amount of time. (it’s not really selfish if it prolongs your life or gives you the energy to keep up with your kids) • Stop putting off a start day. Begin today! • Remember since no one is perfect! Don’t stew over bad days, or bad weeks. Dust yourself off and get back to your plan.
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The
NEXT
GENERATION
By Soror Teraleen Campbell It has been stated that service is the rent that we pay for living on Earth. If that is in fact a true statement, then it is imperative that Zetas instill the ideal of service into our youth. Concepts relative to this principle must be instilled in them, as they are indeed our future. In years to come, they are the ones who will need to take up the mantle and serve those who are in need. As chapters who sponsor youth auxiliaries consider programs in the future, the following are some tips they may find helpful in order to maximize efforts.
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The Power of The Next Generation
1.
Have a conversation with members of your youth group surrounding each of Zeta’s ideals. Gauge the responses that are provided by the young ladies. Allow them to share examples of what comes to mind when for instance, the word service is mentioned. Determine the depth of knowledge that the youth have about service. During discussions, find where their interests lie in terms of service.
2.
Review the chapter calendar and consider which events are appropriate for youth. While events such as the March of Dimes’ March for Babies should be a given, there may be other events on your chapter’s calendar wherein the youth auxiliary would be more than welcome. Also search for opportunities that may be of interest to both the youth and their parents. For example, Tau Delta Zeta recently sponsored a domestic violence program. Both the Archonettes and their parents were invited to attend. Remain mindful of the fact that inviting youth to chapter service projects also increases opportunities for mentoring the young ladies through personal exposure to members of Zeta.
Tau Delta Zeta chapter’s Archonettes bring joy and service during the 2011 Holiday Season.
3.
Identify the type of service project youth respond to. According to Tau Delta Zeta’s Archonette Advisor, Dr. Nicole Allain the Archonettes have been touched by hands-on service endeavors because resonate with them personally. They also enjoy projects that reflect great needs that exist within their individual communities. Members of the Archonette Club visited an assisted living home for senior citizens during the Christmas holiday season for the second consecutive year. During the event, the Archonettes sang songs to the residents. They also presented holiday gift bags containing personal care items as part of the Meeting the Basic Needs Z-HOPE project. Dr. Allain indicated, “the visit to the Senior Center was very powerful, as it made them reflect on the seniors in their own families and the importance of honoring them and caring for them.” Since becoming involved in service projects with the chapter, the girls have expressed interest in community service projects that will help the homeless in their communities, provide awareness on the subject of bullying and teen dating violence prevention.
4.
Consider how service will have a long term impact on the lives of our youth. Service is a key component of their lives. Dr. Allain states, “while many of Tau Delta Zeta’s Archonettes were introduced to service through the Maryland requirement for graduation, their passion for service exceeds any requirement. They have raised money for the March of Dimes Walk and continue to inquire about other ways that they can be of service to the communities in which they live. Service has also helped them to be both reflective and grateful for the lives that they lead and the opportunities that they have.”
Soror Teraleen Campbell is an award-winning charter member of Tau Delta Zeta Chapter in Laurel, MD and a licensed minister at Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church. She has served in multiple capacities at the local level and was also the Atlantic Region Representative to the WalkAmerica Team under Dr. Barbara West Carpenter. She gives generously of her time and talent to various ministries at her church.
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I
f you have been watching the news, checking out a popular blog or monitoring your Twitter feed, you know that there are serious issues facing our nation that require our immediate attention. Women’s reproductive health has been under relentless assault, states are enacting laws designed to limit voter participation, and the murders of our young men are emboldened by the “Stand Your Ground” law. Zetas are in a position to make a real difference with the problems that are devastating our communities.
Soror Katherine J. Gilmore is the AntiGrammateus for the Atlantic Region, Director of Protocol for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the Basileus of Epsilon Omega Zeta Chapter. She works as the Legislative Aide for Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown in Philadelphia and was a New Leaders Fellow (Class of 2008) with the Center for Progressive Leadership. Active participation in the political process and encouraging our Blue and White family to run for office are key areas where we can access the kind of power that changes lives. In Dovely’s last issue, we featured the “Zeta on the Hill” Day where scores of sorors from around the country descended on Capitol Hill to raise our collective voices about pressing national issues. Soror Katherine J. Gilmore attended that event and sat down with Dovely Magazine to discuss the power of politics and what we can do to encourage more participation in the process.
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The Power of Political Engagement DM: How many women and African Americans are represented in Philadelphia politics? Locally, there are 17 city councilman. Blondell Reynolds Brown is the only African-American woman member-at-large. Almost 25% of elected officials are Black. Philadelphia does well at making sure the politicians represent the city’s demographics. The current crop of elected women were mentored, but they were mentored by men and not women. There weren’t a lot of women in politics so they (other women) weren’t there to mentor up & coming talent. The councilwomen today are really trying to mentor young women. They definitely take time out to mentor the next generation.
DM: Have you met a lot of Zetas and Sigmas in politics? What Black Greek Lettered Organization seems to be the most representative in politics? There are not a lot of Zetas and Sigmas in politics. I’m the only Zeta at City Hall and /or in the Mayor’s Administration and there’s only one Sigma brother. Kappas, Alphas, and Deltas have a lot of representation in politics. We have to make sure that our blue and white family looks back and helps [a soror or frat brother] who may want to run for office. If somebody doesn’t pull you up along the way, you won’t have a seat at the table.
DM: What would you suggest a person do if they are interested in running for office? You have to volunteer on a campaign or within an election cycle to see what it really takes to run. By being involved, you will meet people who eat, sleep, and breath campaigns. You have to work in the community that you want to serve. Volunteer with a local nonprofit, town watch, or community center. People should know who you are before they see your campaign flyers. Establish name recognition early and connect with someone who can help you meet important people in government.
DM: Is there any kind of special training that an individual can do to provide increased access to political process? It is important to attend events such as the “Zeta Day on the Hill” to learn more about political processes or causes that you care about. Networking at these kinds of events will help you meet people and get them to know you by name. In Pennsylvania, there is the PA Women’s Campaign Fund and they have a Winning Edge Campaign school once a year. There’s also the Center for Progressive Leadership which offers political training programs. Getting involved in programs like this will help you build relationships. DM: How can Zeta women leverage our organization’s influence to affect positive change in our communities? First, people need an introduction to Zeta Phi Beta. The community needs to know what we are about and what we do. Members of Zeta need to serve on school boards and attend community meetings. We need to have a seat at the table. If you don’t have a seat at the table, you don’t have a voice. People willstart to recognize us the more visible we are. Then, they need to know about our national and international reach. Until they know about what we do, it won’t matter to them. We need to partner with other organizations. We do a lot of good things, but we can’t be isolated within the blue and white family. Everybody needs to know what we’re doing at all times. DM: How can local chapters become more engaged in today’s political issues? Reach out to elected officials and become a staple in their office. Let them know that you want to be a part of their meetings. Get on their email listservs so that you will be able to find out news about what’s happening locally.
“The Community needs to know what we’re about and what we do.” 31 dovely :: Summer 2012
DM: A lot of African Americans can be apathetic about voter participation. What would you say to help encourage their participation? Overall people are not aware or educated in what the process entails. They don’t see the change that they expect locally, but it takes time to change issues that have been here for a while – especially in urban areas. You also have the same people making the same decisions which is why we need to be involved. Be the change you want to see and get involved so that you don’t live in the same condition. We need to encourage our own to be a part of the process. Zetas can help people to understand the importance of registering to vote. A lot of bills have passed across the United States and we should make sure constituents have proper ID so that they can be a part of the [voting] process.
You never know who you might meet when you promote Zeta. Wearing a Zeta pin at city council meetings lets people know exactly who Soror Gilmore is affiliated with. “We need to be proud of being a Zeta and talk about the sorority more. Demonstrate to the world how proud you are to be a member,” suggests Soror Gilmore.
Soror Gilmore also recommends that we support our Sigma brothers who are running for political office because each win raises our collective profile. “To run a good campaign, you need to raise $100,000-$250,000 if you are challenging an incumbent. Developing a local PAC or group to publicly support each other is a way to help raise funds. Sorors can donate time and money, participate in phone banks, canvass, and go door-to- door,” says Soror Gilmore. “We will be left behind if we don’t take an active role and it is so important that we support each other.”
Soror Gilmore (L) pictured with Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown and members of Beta Delta Zeta Chapter who received the first resolution presented to Zeta Phi Beta in Council history.
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Soror Katherine J. Gilmore pictured with Rev. Dr. Audrey Bronson, 1st Female President of the Philadelphia Black Clergy & Vicinity (also a Zeta soror!) who was recognized as a Philadelphia Living Legend at City Council.
Zeta has a long standing partnership with the March of Dimes and members can be seen regularly fundraising and educating the community on prematurity awareness. On the last Sunday of April, year after year, Zetas walk in solidarity with other organizations who aim to make a real difference in the lives of babies and their families. Some sorors have very personal reasons for why the March of Dimes and its educational endeavors are so important to them. Three sorors wrote in to share their stories with Dovely Magazine.
What’s Your Story: PRematurity Awareness
What’s your story, Soror? The March for Babies is very dear to me because of my grandmother. She did the Walk America for years and one year led the team at the hospital where she worked. When she did the walk, her grandchildren did the walk. March of Dimes and Walk America (now March for Babies) was so dear to my grandmother because she gave birth to a premature baby and a child with birth defects. My mother was almost two months early and so tiny that they said she had to be carried around on a pillow. My aunt, who was born two years after my mom, was born with cerebral palsy. I can only imagine what it had to be like to raise a child in the late 1960s and into the 1970s with a birth defect (my aunt Therea passed away in 1988). Unfortunately, my grandmother is no longer with us (she passed in 2005), as I would have loved to get more information from her in regards to March of Dimes and what they were able to provide for my mother and aunt. But I do know this, they have had to make a major impact with her and her girls to be involved with Walk America for a long as she had. Soror Starlett Mitchell is a member of Psi Zeta Chapter in Fort Worth, Texas.
My middle sister, Joi R. Wright, was born at 24 weeks, and weighed 1lb 12oz with a 50% chance of survival. My mother went into labor with her early in the morning. She was rushed to the emergency room where she had to undergo an emergency cesarean. My sister spent the first three months of her life in an incubator and we had to scrub down, wear protective robes, and touch her through gloves that were attached at the side. During her stay in the NICU (Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit), she endured a stomach infection that caused her abdomen to swell, she fluctuated in weight, and her arm was accidentally broken by a nurse. The March of Dimes and Stork’s Nest helped my family tremendously. Both organizations made sure that we received adequate and timely information, help with fees, and support. Joi is now 17 years old and a senior in high school! Praise the Lord! She has endured and overcome a great deal. As one would imagine, being born so premature has its effects. She has PDD, Pervasive Developmental Disorder which falls into the autism spectrum. My whole family loves March for Dimes/Babies and Stork’s Nest, both organizations do great work and honestly had a major influence in why I chose ZETA! I have no words to describe the support that they gave us, not just monetary but their time and their encouragement. The men and women of these organizations are true angels. The March for Babies saves lives and I am ecstatic that we will be able to share our stories with others. It makes Zeta’s contribution through our partners all the more real. Soror Denise R. Wright became a member of Zeta through Delta Eta Chapter at California State University-Long Beach. For more information about Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), log on to http://www.autismspeaks.org/whatautism/pdd-nos.
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What’s Your Story: PRematurity Awareness Soror Carissa Faber shares with Dovely Magazine her personal experience with having a premature baby that did not survive and her dedication to March of Dimes.
DM: What was your experience like having a premature baby? My son was born at 24 weeks and was in the hospital for three months before he passed away. I had a cervical cerclage where your cervix is sewn up because it is incompetent and may open prematurely. If you are not able to carry your baby and you get it sewn, there is hope. The stitches are taken out when you are ready to deliver. My son was in the neonatal unit (NICU) and was in incubator around the clock. He had feeding tubes inserted because he was not mature enough to nurse and got a series of tests ran everyday.
DM: How did Zeta Phi Beta support you and your premature baby? Sorors supported me a lot. I went in a hole and didn’t want to communicate with anyone, especially after the baby passed. Sorors were respectfully contacting me. They would drop in randomly after I didn’t return calls. They would send stuff to the house, email me, anything to try to keep her spirits. Losing a baby is a situation where you don’t feel comfortable talking about it and everybody handles grief differently.
DM: In what ways do you support the March of Dimes and prematurity awareness? I’ve raised money for the March of Dimes walks and always supported them through [my] chapter and our national Zeta initiative. I was very eager to do the walks after having premature babies. There are a lot of risks with having kids premature. Premature babies have to come home on medications and have an array of birth defects. Having a premature baby is also hard to prevent. I had no risk factors. Nothing in my family history that would make me think I would have a premature baby. You disassociate yourself from the reality of premature babies because you don’t think it can happen to you. It is still hard to hear other people’s stories. The experience of losing a baby is traumatizing and I feel like I have to educate people more. Soror Carissa Faber is an active member of Delta Alpha Zeta Chapter in Brooklyn, NY.
To lEARN HOW YOU CAN HELP PREMATURE bABIES, PLEASE VISIT WWW.MARCHOFDIMES.COM oR jOIN ONE OF THE Hundreds OF zETA TEAMS THAT WALK EVERY YEAR FOR bABIES AT WWW.MARCHFORBABIES.COM
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