Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated SIGMA MU ZETA CHAPTER presents
A GATHERING OF FRIENDS
DENIM AND Pearls SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON
Embracing Our Children to Secure Our Future MAY 2, 2015 DEKALB CONFERENCE CENTER
MARY BREAUX WRIGHT 24TH INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT
SHANESSA N. ASHFORD GEORGIA STATE DIRECTOR
DR. YVONNE J. BARNES SOUTHEASTERN REGIONAL DIRECTOR
DR. ROSEMARIE FARNGALO SIGMA MU ZETA CHAPTER PRESIDENT
Annual Gala &Scholarship Dinner
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Table of Contents Greetings from Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter President...................................................................................1 Greetings from Zeta Phi Beta’s State of Georgia Director....................................................................2 Greetings from Zeta Phi Beta’s Southeastern Regional Director.......................................................3 Greetings from Zeta Phi Beta’s International President........................................................................ 4 Greetings from Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte..........................................................................................................5 Greetings from Congressman Hank Johnson............................................................................................6 Greetings from DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May...........................................................................7 Proclamation from DeKalb County Government......................................................................................8 Greetings from the Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Scholarship Chair..........................................................9 Greetings from the Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter AGF Committee Chairs.............................................10 About Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. ............................................................................................................... 11 Historical Perspective........................................................................................................................................ 13 Annual Denim & Pearls Awards..................................................................................................................... 15 Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte........................................................................................................................................ 16 Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte Award Community Involvement....................................................................... 17 Scholarship Recipients...................................................................................................................................... 18 Sapphire Award (Undergrad of the Year).................................................................................................20 Diamond Award ................................................................................................................................................. 21 Distinguished Zeta.............................................................................................................................................. 21 Pearl Award ........................................................................................................................................................ 22 Zeta of the Year.................................................................................................................................................. 22 Trailblazer of Change Award......................................................................................................................... 23 President Awards............................................................................................................................................... 24 Supporters............................................................................................................................................................ 25 Acknowledgments............................................................................................................................................. 42
- Painting by John W. Jones
House by the Side of the Road By: Sam Walter Foss
There are hermit souls that live withdrawn In the place of their self-content; There are souls like stars, that dwell apart, In a fellowless firmament; There are pioneer souls that blaze their paths Where highways never ran -But let me live by the side of the road And be a friend to man.
Let me live in a house by the side of the road, Where the race of men go by -The men who are good and the men who are bad, As good and as bad as I. I would not sit in the scorner’s seat, Or hurl the cynic’s ban -Let me live in a house by the side of the road And be a friend to man.
I see from my house by the side of the road, By the side of the highway of life, The men who press with the ardor of hope, The men who are faint with the strife. But I turn not away from their smiles nor their tears, Both parts of an infinite plan -Let me live in a house by the side of the road And be a friend to man.
I know there are brookgladdened meadows ahead And mountains of wearisome height; That the road passes on through the long afternoon And stretches away to the night. But still I rejoice when the travelers rejoice, And weep with the strangers that moan, Nor live in my house by the side of the road Like a man who dwells alone.
Let me live in my house by the side of the road -It’s here the race of men go by. They are good, they are bad, they are weak, they are strong, Wise, foolish -- so am I; Then why should I sit in the scorner’s seat, Or hurl the cynic’s ban? Let me live in my house by the side of the road And be a friend to man.
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Po Box 136 Stone Mountain, GA 30086
President Dr. Rosemarie M. Farngalo 1st Vice President Aisha M. Swope 2nd Vice President Rebecca Johnson 3rd Vice President Talissa Truitt Treasurer Maureen Walker Financial Secretary Jennifer Toussaint Recording Secretary Tamara Franco Assistant Recording Secretary Sherry Pope Parliamentarian Tawhana Johnson Public Relations Coordinator Marketa Killingbeck Assistant Public Relations Coordinator Katoria Jones Keeper of Properties Maureen Walker Z-Hope Coordinator Karen Hughes
Greetings from Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter President Greetings, On behalf of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter of Stone Mountain, I extend to you a sincere welcome to our 6th Annual “A Gathering of Friends”: DENIM & PEARLS Scholarship Luncheon. Your presence here this afternoon clearly illustrates the extent of your support and commitment to not only our chapter but to our community. Our Sisterhood is now 95 years old and as we Journey to our Centennial in 2020, we continue our zealous commitment to the principles of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood and Finer Womanhood. We are indeed a community-conscious, action-oriented organization and we are relentless in our efforts to be of service to others. Your demonstrated commitment to the efforts of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and more specifically to Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter ensures the continuity of our efforts to stand united and committed to the educational advancement of our future generations. Thank you to all of our supporters. We are indeed appreciative of your generosity at a time when so many are in need. Your contributions matter! As President Obama, so eloquently told us, “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”
Sincerely,
Rosemarie
Dr. Rosemarie Merritt-Farngalo President, Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter
Chair of the Executive Board Jocasta Frazier Charter Member-At-Large Cheryl Nugent-Bishop
www.sigmamuzeta.org
Greetings from Zeta Phi Beta’s State of Georgia Director May 2, 2015 Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Stone Mountain, Georgia It is an honor to greet you on the occasion of “A Gathering of Friends: Denim and Pearls Scholarship Luncheon!” I am particularly excited to greet you in this, our 95th year of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood and Finer Womanhood! Through service projects such as March for Babies, Relay for Life, American Cancer Society and monthly food packages, and your awarding of scholarships each year, you are truly making a difference in the Stone Mountain community. Your chapter continues to embody your theme, “Embracing Our Children to Secure Our Future,” through projects such as Stand Up for Kids and the awarding of scholarships each year. Thank you for all you do to advance Zeta’s mission. I wish you a successful luncheon!
Sincerely,
Shaneesa
Shaneesa N. Ashford Director, State of Georgia Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated
Greetings from Zeta Phi Beta’s Southeastern Regional Director
Greetings from Zeta Phi Beta’s Southeastern Regional Director Greetings Sorors, Amicae, Youth and Friends: It is my pleasure to greet you on the occasion of the Annual “A Gathering of Friends: Denim and Pearls Scholarship Luncheon – Embracing Our Children to Secure Our Future,” event. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, and its Southeastern Region is proud of its Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter , and the work that it has done, is doing, and will continue to do, in service to and for the betterment of mankind. There is no nobler work than that of rendering community service and providing scholarships to deserving college bound students, to assist them in meeting their financial obligations. I am proud to serve with my Sisters and Auxiliary Members who value the Principles and Precepts of Zeta while striving daily to ensure that the Southeastern Region implements with integrity, the mantra of its founders: Scholarship; Service; Sisterhood and Finer Womanhood. Thank you for the opportunity to share with you as you celebrate your esteemed scholarship luncheon Program. And as the sorority moves toward its centennial, through efforts such as those being implemented by you, it retains its original zest for, and of, excellence. It espouses the highest academic ideals and that has resulted in its members serving in groundbreaking roles in all fields of endeavor. Because of your work, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, is poised for perpetual service to mankind into her second century and beyond. I am honored to be counted among those who have chosen the Royal Blue and White family as home. I am also humbled to have been asked to bring greetings on this most special of occasions. We are in service together, for the Love of Zeta.
Yvonne Sisterly,
Yvonne Jefferson-Barnes, Ed.D/Ph.D. 20th Southeastern Regional Director Second to None in Zeta “Building on the Principles of Zeta While Blazing New Paths” 3 A Gathering of Friends Scholarship Luncheon
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS 1734 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20009
Mary Breaux Wright
Established 1920
INTERNATIONAL GRAND BASILEUS
Greetings: It is a pleasure to greet you in the name of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, and on behalf of the National Executive Board and the thousands of Finer Women around the world. Welcome to Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter's Annual, A Gathering of Friends: DENIM and PEARLS Scholarship Luncheon and Embracing Our Children to Secure Our Future. The chapter is recognizing and honoring leaders for their noteworthy efforts in creating initiatives for youths and all citizens in DeKalb County. Service is one of Zeta's founding principles and we thank you for your participation and support of this event. Kudos to the members of Sigma Mu Zeta, Dr. Rosemarie Farngalo, president and Sharon Angel and Tawhana Johnson, event co-chairs for an outstanding program. We extend congratulations and best wishes to those being honored today: Karen Hughes, Pearl Award – Zeta of the Year; Erma Killings, Diamond Award – Distinguished Zeta; On Common Ground News, Jylla Moore Tearte Award – Community Involvement. Again, we thank you for joining with us as we honor these leaders who work tirelessly to serve their communities and as we continue Building on the Principles of Zeta While Blazing New Paths. We are excited to honor these outstanding honorees who are blazing new paths. As we move through our 95th year of Service please know that we are only great when we work together! Always remember "It's about ZETA"! Please take advantage of the support and experience of one another throughout this year as we are energized, excited and committed to what we can offer and do for this great sisterhood. Again, congratulations and have a wonderful event! Serving for the Love of Zeta,
Mary
Mary Breaux Wright International President
Greetings from Zeta Phi Beta’s International President
"Building on the Principles of Zeta While Blazing New Paths"
Sorors, Amicae, Sigma Brothers and Guests: Welcome to Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter’s 2015 Denim and Pearls Scholarship Luncheon! As you share an afternoon of reflection and honor those who serve the community with distinction, I applaud the honorees that the chapter has paused to commend. A special congratulations to a Soror I love and adore, Erma Killings. She is truly an example for others to follow. Zeta of the Year is also a very special award that signifies the active engagement of a member, so commendations to Karen Hughes. The accomplishments and recognition of On Common Ground News is especially important as we witness the critical role that the news media plays in our day-to-day lives. Commendations to Glenn Morgan and Valerie Morgan as Zeta acknowledges your 20 years of contributions to our communities. It is truly an honor to know that On Common Ground News is the recipient of the Community Involvement Award for 2015. Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter, I wish you continued success with your work in the DeKalb County community as you honor those who truly make a difference. Regards,
Jylla
Jylla Moore Tearte, PhD 20th International President 2020 Centennial Chair Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated
Greetings from Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte
CONGRESSMAN HANK JOHNSON Georgia’s Fourth District April 21, 2015 Friends and Colleagues, Congratulations on six years of hosting the Gathering of Friends Scholarship Lunch benefiting four exceptional high school senior recipients. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s philanthropic efforts truly stand out in our community. Those efforts exemplify the principals of scholarship, service, and sisterly love on which your organization was founded. I’ve known Glenn and Valerie Moran, the publishers of OnCommon Ground, and this year’s Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte Community Involvement Award recipients, for many years. Congratulations to you both. Well-deserved accolades and honors are yours today! As you move forward, we look to an ever-brighter future for you and our community. With best personal regards, I remain, Very truly yours,
Hank Johnson Member of Congress
Greetings from Congressman Hank Johnson
Greetings from DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May
Proclamation from DeKalb County Government
Greetings from the Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Scholarship Chair
Greetings from the Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Scholarship Chair
May 2, 2015 On behalf of the Scholarship Committee of the Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. it is my honor to extend warm greetings and welcome you all to the 2015 “A Gathering of Friends” scholarship luncheon. The word “Scholarship” per the standard dictionary has a duel meaning. The word often refers to financial support awarded to a students to further their educational endeavors, but it can also refer to the work that the scholars do in obtaining their educational goals. Today we take a moment to celebrate both definitions. Each year as we begin this process we are humbled by the high caliber quality of the students that apply, as well as by the overwhelming need within our community. These student challenge us to strive to do more each year, to make a difference in the lives of the students and ultimately our community. This year I am proud to report that due to your continued support and the efforts of the tireless members of this organization, four awards in the amount one thousand dollars have been awarded to outstanding students from the DeKalb County School system. The young scholars that you will meet today are truly remarkable and stand as proof that this generation has so much to offer. Each recipient is very active in the community and has worked diligently to achieve outstanding academic records. We are proud to assist them with moving to the next phase of their journey. To this year’s recipients, we say “job well done” in getting to this point…now set your goals higher and carry the same standards of excellence forward to your future endeavors. Continue to “Dream Big”, “Set Goals” and “Take Action”. Goals are merely dreams with deadlines. Sincerely Rebecca A Johnson 2nd Vice President Scholarship Committee Chair
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Greetings from the Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter AGF Committee Chairs
A Warm Welcome Greetings, It is with great pleasure that we greet you for this remarkable occasion. As the co-chairs of “A Gathering of Friends” Denim and Pearls Scholarship Luncheon we are pleased that you choose to join us as we honor leaders that have made a great impact in our sorority and community alike. We are also equally honored that you choose to support Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. - Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter as we award two DeKalb County students scholarships as they continue to further their education. This event means so much to the both of us and we are incredibly thankful to our committee and chapter for all their hard work in making this event a success. This event is dedicated to children and we believe our theme of “Shaping our Future by Enhancing and Fulfilling the Vision” shows just how important allowing our children to further their education means to us a whole. As we continue to work with the community, it is our prayer that Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter will continue to receive the support need to give more students deserving funds so that one day they will become our future community leaders and continue the vision. Please enjoy this wonderful event and remember that it truly does take a village to raise a child. Sisterly, Soror Tawhana Johnson & Soror Sharon Angel
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About Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
About Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was founded January 16, 1920, at Howard University, Washington, D.C. The Klan was very active during this period and the Harlem Renaissance was acknowledged as the first important movement of Black artists and writers in the U.S. This same year the Volstead Act became effective heralding the start of Prohibition and Tennessee delivered the crucial 36th ratification for the final adoption of the 19th amendment giving women the right to vote. The worst and longest economic recession to hit the U.S. would define the end of the decade-The Great Depression. It was within this environment that five coeds envisioned a sorority which would directly affect positive change, chart a course of action for the 1920s and beyond, raise consciousness of their people, encourage the highest standards of scholastic achievement, and foster a greater sense of unity among its members. These women believed that sorority elitism and socializing overshadowed the real mission for progressive organizations and failed to address fully the societal mores, ills, prejudices, and poverty affecting humanity in general and the black community in particular. 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 auxiliary groups, 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 and auxiliaries have given untotaled 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 toward its centennial, 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 to mankind into her second century and beyond.
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Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter
Officers Dr. Rosemarie Merritt Farngalo President Mrs. Aisha Swope 1st Vice President
Mrs. Rebecca Johnson 2nd Vice President
Mrs. Talissa Truitt 3rd Vice President
Ms. Tamara Franco Secretary
Ms. Maureen Walker Treasurer
Ms. Jennifer Toussaint Financial Secretary
Ms. Tawhana Johnson Parliamentarian
Mrs. Marketa Killingbeck Public Relations Coordinator
Ms. Maureen Walker Historian/Keeper of Properties
Mrs. Jocasta H. Fraizer Chair of the Executive Board
Committee Chairs Ms. Tawhana Johnson A Gathering of Friends
Ms. Tawhana Johnson Constitution and By-Laws
Mrs. Maureen Walker Budget and Finance
Ms. Cheryl Nugent-Bishop Fundraising
Mrs. Aisha Swope Membership
Mrs. Rebecca Johnson National Programs
Mrs. Jocasta Frazier Nomination and Election
Mrs. Marketa H. Killingbeck Publicity
Mrs. Rebecca Johnson Scholarship
Ms. Maureen Walker Scrapbook
Ms. Tamara Franco Sunshine
Mrs. Talissa Truitt Undergraduate Coordinator
Mrs. Karen H. Hughes Z-HOPE/Social Action
Historical Perspective
Historical Perspective HISTORY OF SIGMA MU ZETA “Freedom to share innermost thoughts, to ask a favor, to show their true feelings. The freedom to simply be themselves.” - Anonymous Zeta Phi Beta Sorority – Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter’s mission is to enhance the community by focusing on the Sorority’s principles, encouraging proactive participation, and showing persistence in all endeavors, while fostering the spirit of sisterhood, and promoting the idea of Finer Womanhood. Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter chartered on December 20, 2001 by 7 classy ladies. At the chapter’s inception, meetings were held at Stephenson High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia. Currently, meetings are held at the Lithonia Women’s Center. Sorors Rosemarie Farngalo, Jocasta Frazier, Trellis Buckles, Serafina Williams, Darleen Benson Smith, Cheryl Nugent-Bishop, Teresa Green Johnson, and Daarina Abdul Mateen had a vision for a new chapter in the Stone Mountain- Lithonia area. Their heartfelt desire was to create a chapter focused on the Zeta principle of Sisterhood. A chapter where a true sisterhood would be forged, finer womanhood would be a consistent norm, and atmosphere that would be welcoming, inviting, and supportive which we believe our 5 pearls envisioned for the organization in 1920. Our many community service projects include March for Babies, Relay for Life, and American Cancer Society. In the spring of 2008, Sigma Mu Zeta chapter sponsored its first undergraduate chapter. Alpha Tau Chapter at Emory University started with 5 initiates, over the years, Alpha Tau Chapter continues to grow and represents Zeta well on Emory’s campus. In 2014 Sigma Mu Zeta became the sponsoring chapter for Iota Sigma at Clayton State University.
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Embracing Our Children to Secure Our Future A Gathering of Friend: DENIM and PEARLS Scholarship Luncheon
The Program Saturday, May 2, 2015 • 12:00 PM
Mistress of Ceremonies Ms. Carol Williams, Esq.
Greetings and Acknowledgments from Sigma Mu Zeta............................................................ Ms. Tawhana Johnson Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter, AGF Co-Chair Invocation and Blessing...............................................................................................................................Ms. Chianti Mitchell Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter, Chaplin Recognition of Scholarship Recipients........................................................................................................ Ms. Sherry Pope Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Scholarship Chair
Lunch Musical Selection
Mr. Ethan Nathanael Kearney and Mr. Victor Mandel Hughes II The Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte Community Involvement Award ......................................................... Ms. Doreen Carter Lithonia Chamber of Commerce The Sapphire Award (Undergraduate of the Year) ..................................................................... Ms. Serafina Williams Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Undergraduate Advisor The Diamond Award (Distinguished Zeta)........................................................................................ Ms. Yolanda Stewart Hosea Feed the Hungry The Pearl Award (Zeta of the Year).............................................................................................................Ms. Aisha Swope Sigma Mu Zeta 3rd Vice President Special Recognition................................................................................................................................. Ms. Tawhana Johnson Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter, AGF Co-Chair Trailblazer of Change Award................................................................................................................... Mrs. Jocasta Frazier Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Executive Board Chair Presentation of President’s Award..................................................................................Dr. Rosemarie Merritt-Farngalo Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter President Acknowledgments from Sigma Mu Zeta................................................................................................ Mrs. Sharon Angel Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter, AGF Co-Chair Closing Remarks.....................................................................................................................Dr. Rosemarie Merritt-Farngalo Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter President Benediction......................................................................................................................................................Ms. Chianti Mitchell Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter, Chaplin
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Annual Denim & Pearls Awards
Annual Denim & Pearls Awards
The Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte Community Involvement Award
membership, but rather contributions far beyond the normal expectations and service which transcends the call of Zeta.
The Sapphire Award ~
The Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte Community (Undergraduate of the Year) Involvement Award is to provide recognition to a community leader who has provided The Sapphire Award is to provide recognition outstanding contributions, longstanding to an undergraduate Soror who has shown commitment and selfless devotion for the academic achievement by maintaining a high betterment of the community. grade point average. The award served as a means of scholastic motivation.
The Diamond Award ~ (Distinguished Zeta)
Trailblazer of Change Award
The Diamond Award is to provide recognition to a Soror who has demonstrated many, many years of leadership and distinguished service to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. Through such leadership, she will have performed initiatives and responsibilities which transcend the call of Zeta.
Trailblazer of Change Award is to honor are a role model who demonstrates the impact of elective service as a way to address public challenges and their advocacy to civil rights that serves as a model for modern public service in the spirit of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
The Pearl Award ~
President’s Award
(Zeta of the Year) The Pearl Award is to provide recognition to a Soror who has demonstrated extraordinary and meritorious service within Sigma Eta Zeta chapter. Service shall mean more than mere
The President’s Award recognizes Sorors whose performance went substantially beyond expectations and whose contributions had a significant impact on the chapters objectives beyond their normal responsibilities.
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Past President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and CEO of Crystal Stairs, Inc.
Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte is President and CEO of Crystal Stairs, Inc. The firm’s mission is to help countless encore leaders count in unimaginable ways by strengthening leadership assets® that will cause conscious and intentional shifts in individuals, teams, businesses, organizations and institutions resulting in the development of legacy leaders and high potential talent. Services include Encore Leadership and executive coaching, publishing, consulting, strategic facilitation, and organization development. She has authored “The Leadership Maturation Life Cycle” as a process to develop exceptional leaders. In 2013, she published Encore Leadership: Transforming Time, Talent and Treasure into a Legacy that matters! Written as the textbook for her life’s work, she documented a comprehensive 12-step process and resource guide with her dissertation as the foundation. She has also published an eBook, “Life Prospectus: The most crucial portfolio to manage for family and trusted advisors.” She also serves as Chief Operating Officer for Tearte Associates, Inc. that manages their family foundation focused on education partners and the network of Tearte Scholars. As the 20th International President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, a 100,000+ member community service organization, she established partnerships with the American Lung Association, the U. S. Space Camp, Black Enterprise Magazine, Center for Disease Control, National Caucus on Black Aged, the March of Dimes and a host of Fortune 500 corporations. During her presidency, she was awarded keys to more than 25 cities and participated in the Fourth United Nation’s World Conference on Women in Beijing, China, where she lectured on “The Role of African-American Women Leaders.” Her “World Class Service” Administration founded the Pearlettes for girls ages 5-8, and the Male Network, for men who support Zeta women. During her tenure as International President, the Sorority’s Diamond Jubilee was celebrated in Washington, D.C., marking the Sorority’s 75th year of global service. A monument was placed on the campus of Howard University to commemorate this historic milestone. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband, Curtis.
Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte
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Dr. Jylla Moore Tearte Award Community Involvement
On Common Ground News Glenn L. Morgan and Valerie J. Morgan are the publishers of On Common Ground News. The newspaper, which provides a weekly print edition and online news (www.ocgnews.com), serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties. This year, On Common Ground News is celebrating its 20th anniversary in the community. The newspaper was founded in April 1995, a year before the Summer Olympics Games brought the world to Atlanta. The newspaper was birthed out of a desire to make a difference. An Army veteran, entrepreneur and photographer, Glenn wanted to provide a vehicle to help promote small businesses and build a legacy. Valerie, a veteran journalist who had worked as an editor for The Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Tribune Company and newspapers in Central and South Florida, wanted to fulfill her dreams of providing news from an African American perspective about people and places in the community. Since its inception, On Common Ground News has remained true to its mission of serving. The newspaper has been involved in a number of collaborative efforts to enlighten, enrich and educate the community. It was awarded two grants to establish anti-tobacco campaigns targeting youths. The campaign helped to pave the way for smoke-free environments in DeKalb. On Common Ground News also has partnered with a number of schools by providing onthe-job training to future journalists and by assisting nonprofits such as the 100 Black Men of DeKalb and the South DeKalb Youth V.I.B.E. organization with mentoring initiatives for youths. The newspaper has won several awards for its news coverage and community service, including recognition from the DeKalb NAACP, DeKalb History Center, the DeKalb County School System, the Rockdale-Newton Georgia Federation of Democratic Women, the Trailblazers Awards presented by DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson and Congressman Hank Johnson and the Her Story Awards presented by DeKalb Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton, to name a few. On Common Ground News is a member of the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce, Rockdale Chamber of Commerce and the DeKalb NAACP. Glenn and Valerie serve as board members of the YMCA Academies, and Glenn is a member of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb. Both are members of Voices of Faith Ministries, where they serve as trustees.
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Scholarship Recipients
Scholarship Recipients
Alicia Worthy
Christopher Stephens
Miss Alicia Worthy, senior at Southwest DeKalb High School in Decatur, is the daughter of two proud parents, Alice Walker and Ralph Worthy. Miss Worthy is a diligent scholar, as she possesses an impressive 4.08 GPA in accelerated and advanced courses at Southwest. Alicia is also a highly involved member of her community and her school, as she’s the president of the Southwest DeKalb’s French Club and National French Honor Society, member of the National Honor Society, National Beta Club, Simon Scholars program, The Prowler Newspaper staff, Red Cross Club, Sister’s in Action; editor of the Stylistic Literary Magazine, and a member of several other extracurricular organizations and honor societies. She plans to attend Georgia State University or University of Georgia, majoring in Business or Education and minoring in French and Art.
I am the son of Patrick & Debbie Stephens. I am from Stone Mountain, GA. I will be graduating from Redan High School, on May 20, at the Georgia Dome. I will attend St. John’s University, in Queens, NY, in the fall. I plan to major in sociology/liberal arts studies. A quote I always live by is “Your actions always make your priories evident.”
Alicia prides herself on being not only an involved student but also a genuine, kind-hearted individual. Her dream is to establish a non-profit organization that specializes in impacting the lives of young girls through mentorship and counseling. Overall, Alicia is dedicated to obtaining her education and blossoming into an informed, involved, resilient, and impactful young lady that will contribute significantly to society’s progression.
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Scholarship Recipients
Danielle Francis
Brandon Fountain
Miss Danielle Selena Francis is attends Arabia Mountain High School. Danielle. Danielle is a founding member and president of the Epistemology Club. She is a peer tutor to her fellow students and is very active in several organizations while maintaining exemplary academics. Danielle will be attending Emory University in the fall. Her AP/Gifted Biology teacher says, “Danielle remains one of the most talented students of my teaching career.
My name is Brandon Fountain, and I would like to start by congratulating my fellow scholarship recipients. I am currently a senior at the Marist School in Dunwoody, GA, where I am the President of the National French Honor Society as well as a member of the National Honor Society. Since the fall of 2009 I have been a proud member of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb Leadership Academy, and in 2013 I was named the 100 Black Men of America’s Mentee of the Year. After doing 200+ hours of service in the community I have developed a passion for using my gifts to help others, which led me to serve at the New Life Community Center as a GED tutor, helping underprivileged adults without high school diplomas prepare for and pass their GED exams. After graduating from Marist this spring, I will begin my studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where I will major in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. After earning a master’s degree in Computer Science I plan to work at a technology company where I will focus on making the world safer and giving back to the community through technology. After gaining the needed experience there I then plan to start my own business. To say the least, I am incredibly humbled and honored to receive this scholarship; my family and I greatly appreciate all the support of the Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta (ZPB). My success has been made possible by the hard work and sacrifice of my family, those around me, and the help of amazing organizations like ZPB. I look forward to seeing this scholarship continue to bless many more students in the future.
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Sapphire Award
Undergrad of the Year
Angelica Bowens Sapphire Award Undergrad of the Year
Angelica Bowens is a graduating senior at Clayton State University, majoring in Integrated Studies with a concentration in Health Sciences and a minor in Health and Fitness Management. She plans to one day be the CEO of a hospital or own a doctor’s facility. She currently holds an Associates degree in Early Childhood Education which she earned at Georgia Perimeter College and earned her way to the Dean’s List three semesters in a row. After obtaining that degree she went into the field of teaching which she taught at Little Creations Learning Center in the Georgia Lottery Pre-K program for two years. After two years of teaching Angelica recognized her true calling was to be in the healthcare field. In recognizing here true calling, she obtained a Certified Nursing Assistance Certification which she plans to use working with children. She plans to go back to school again one day and earn a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Nursing to work with newborn babies and their mothers. Angelica is a current member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, Iota Sigma Chapter. Angelica is student, worker, daughter, sister, mother of two, and wife. Even with all of these titles she has not let them stop her in accomplishing her goals in life and has forged ahead with her Zeal for it all which has stood the test of time.
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Diamond Award Distinguished Zeta
Erma Killings Erma Gore Killings was born February 22, 1942 in Fort Valley, Georgia to the late Robert and Catherine Gore. She is the fourth child of seven. She grew up in a very humble household, where she was taught to never look down on anyone unless you were giving them a hand to get up. Her strong family values taught her respect for all, love and support to others. Erma joined the church at an early and became very active in Sunday school and other phrases of church. After graduating from H. A. Hunt High School in 1960, Erma entered The Fort Valley State University majoring in Comprehensive Business Education. She graduated in 1964, and entered the University of Georgia in 1969 and received a Master of Education in Comprehensive Business Education. She also did further study at Georgia Southern, and Georgia State University, receiving Diamond Award a Leadership Certification in Administration. Erma became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Distinguished ZetaSorority, Inc., in 1962 at Fort Valley State University, Delta Beta Chapter. During her elementary and high school years, most of her favorite teachers were Zetas. She saw the Ideals of Zeta in these women: Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood. She was nurtured by these women wearing that beautiful royal blue, and knew her junior year in high school that she wanted to be a part of this group. As an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Erma has served her sorority in many capacities in Kappa Iota Zeta: First Anti Basileus, Chaplain, Assistant Chaplain, Co-founder of Tea W Z, Miss Blue Revue, Daddy’s Little Girl, Burial Service Coordinator, Founders’ Day Committee, and numerous others. Soror Killings is a Zeta Dove, with 50+ years in the sorority. She is also a Life member and has received numerous awards from her beloved sorority: Hall of Fame inductee, the Fervent Heart Award, an Unsung Hero Award, and many other certificates and awards. Erma’s passion for the less fortunate, led her to Hosea feed the Hungry and Helpless, where she is a Department Head. She has faithfully served this population continuously for over 15 years. Her promise was that once she retired, she would make this her number one charity to help. She remembered what she taught, to never look down on anyone unless you are giving them a hand to get up. She feels close to the work that she does at Hosea Feed the Hungry. Erma is a breast cancer survivor and has been recognized by the Atlanta Braves with The Diamond of Hope Award, and The National Coalition of 100 Black Women with a Brave Women Surviving Cancer Award. Erma was featured in two magazines, a DeKalb Medical ad with her son Justin, and in a book “Breast Cancer Portraits”: Wisdom From The Journey, by Peter Doyle. She is an advocate for this disease, and has been called on for support from families across the nation.
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Pearl Award
Zeta of the Year
Tamara Franco
Tamara Franco was born in Puerto Rico. At the tender age of 7, her family uprooted Pearl Award themselves to the U.S. and moved to Boston, Massachusetts. When she got here, she did not speak English. It was her elementary schools ESOL program that help her develop her Zeta of the Year English skills. During her freshman year of high school, her parents decided to move back to Puerto Rico. This was no good for Tamara. As we all know she is very stubborn and does what SHE wants, and this is nothing new. By her senior year, she begged her parents to let her move back to Boston to finish high with the children she had grown up with. She graduated and went on to study at Savannah state university in 1992. She was an honorable and exceptional pupil. In 1994, she gave birth to the greatest human being to grace this earth, her oldest daughter Keylaisha. Tamara worked her tail off and finished college the same way she entered, exceptionally. She graduated in 1998 and soon after moved to Atlanta where she got certified in teaching and began her career as an educator. Did i forget to mention that that was the same year she became a part of the illustrious and divine Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. In 2004 she gave birth to the second greatest human being to grace this earth, her beautiful Jessica. The Tamara Franco we all know is a gorgeous, educated, sarcastic, and kind hearted individual and we love her the way she is and wouldn’t think to have her any other way.
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Trailblazer of Change Award John Lewis Often called “one of the As a student at Fisk most courageous persons University, John the Civil Rights Movement Lewis organized sitever produced,” John Lewis in demonstrations has dedicated his life to at segregated lunch protecting human rights, counters in Nashville, securing civil liberties, and Tennessee. 1961, he Trailblazer of ChangeInAward building what he calls “The volunteered to participate Beloved Community” in in the Freedom Rides, which America. His dedication to challenged segregation at the highest ethical standards interstate bus terminals and moral principles has across the South. Lewis won him the admiration of risked his life on those many of his colleagues on Rides many times by simply both sides of the aisle in the sitting in seats reserved for United States Congress. white patrons. He was also beaten severely by angry He was born the son of mobs and arrested by police sharecroppers on February for challenging the injustice 21, 1940, outside of Troy, of Jim Crow segregation in Alabama. He grew up on his the South. family’s farm and attended segregated public schools in While still a young man, John Pike County, Alabama. As a Lewis became a nationally young boy, he was inspired recognized leader. By 1963, by the activism surrounding he was dubbed one of the the Montgomery Bus Big Six leaders of the Civil Boycott and the words Rights Movement. At the age of the Rev. Martin Luther of 23, he was an architect King Jr., which he heard of and a keynote speaker on radio broadcasts. In at the historic March on those pivotal moments, he Washington in August 1963. made a decision to become a part of the Civil Rights John Lewis holds a B.A. in Movement. Ever since then, Religion and Philosophy he has remained at the from Fisk University, vanguard of progressive and he is a graduate of social movements and the the American Baptist human rights struggle in the Theological Seminary, both United States. in Nashville, Tennessee. 23 A Gathering of Friends Scholarship Luncheon
He has been awarded over 50 honorary degrees from prestigious colleges and universities throughout the United States, including Harvard University, Brown University, the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, Duke University, Morehouse College, ClarkAtlanta University, Howard University, Brandeis University, Columbia University, Fisk University, and Troy State University. John Lewis is the recipient of numerous awards from imminent national and international institutions, including the highest civilian honor granted by President Barack Obama, the Medal of Freedom, and the Lincoln Medal from the historic Ford’s Theatre. John Lewis lives in Atlanta, Georgia. He has one son, John Miles.
President Awards Tawhana Johnson Soror Tawhana Johnson is an Atlanta native. She graduated from Redan High School and Georgia State University with Bachelors in Business. She is a proud mother of a son, Jaylen, Professional she has worked for SunTrust Bank for 14 years having started on her birthday (July); she currently is the Foreign Exchange Specialist Team Lead for the past 9 years after serving in various positions in their Wealth and Investment area.
President Awards
She has been a dedicated member to the sorority and led the charge for the chapter to be Chapter of The Year in 2014. Thank you Tawhana for all your hard work and congratulations!
Julia Bennerson Julia Bennerson was born and grew up in the US Virgin Islands attended Sts. Peter and Paul School in Saint Thomas, VI. After high school, she attended the University of Virgin Island, St. Croix in Kingshill, VI where she received an Associate of Arts in Business Management. While at the University, Julia knew her passion for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and made a commitment to the organization and was one of the charting members of the Chi Rho Chapter. After college Julia began her career in the medical claims industry where she oversaw the operating budgets and corporate goals for Triple S Medicare Puerto Rico and made presentations throughout the Caribbean. After working at Triple S Medicare Puerto Rico for seven years she moved on to work for the US Virgin Islands Department of Health and other healthcare providers in the US Virgin Islands and eventually moved to Georgia in 2003 to continue her professional career. Julia now works for Saint Joseph’s Mercy Care Services in Atlanta, GA as the Patient Accounts Coordinator. In her role there she is the training instructor for employees utilizing the practice management and electronic health record software. Due to Julia’s passion for teaching and spark to introduce students to medical billing careers she recently went back to school and graduated from Clayton State University with a Bachelor of Science in Health/Health Care Administration/Management. Julia has a daughter and son and currently resides in Decatur, GA.
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Supporters
Supporters
Patrons
Patrons
Dekalb Alternative School
Maureen Walker Blake Walker Morgan Walker Janice Alford Minerva Mitchell Tyrone Belin, Jr. Janai Williams Katoria Jones David Holloway Julia Okie Cheryl Bishop Sharon Angel Tawhana Johnson Carol Williams Quinlan Hughes Victor Hughes II Serafina Williams Melvina Washington Jocasta Frazier Rosemarie Farngalo Sylvia Flen Willie Carter II Fran Carter Karen Hughes Karen McFadden Dr. Marcella Favors Dr. Michael Taylor Tamara G. Franco Keylaisha J. Hudson Jessica K. Tillery Marion Johnson Rebecca Johnson Shalay Johnson Niya Johnson
Olabisi Thomas Keith Evans Ron Robinson Bobby Schiltz Collie Nicole Robinson Dion Williams Adrienne Toliver Edmond Wilson Lorenzo Nash Thomas Dean Morris Gary Keysha Lee Brian Dyess Natasha Simpson Carla Reese Margie Smith Mr. Devarasetty Jason Rhoden Aubrey Mitchell Deborah LeStage Lerlean Johnson Adrienne Scott Takila Booker Quinton Morris Reshae Head Vivian Sihachack Era Stewart Trellis Buckles Shirlene Tanner Stacey Andrews Roy Dawson
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Congratulations Erma Killings 2015 Distinguished Zeta Awesome work done serving in our community for 30 years, we could not have touch thousand lives without you! Afemo and Elisabeth Omilami Coo, Ceo Yolanda Stewart, CEO Stewart Unlimited Inc.
Congratulations to Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated 2015 Scholarship Recipients on behalf of Soror Melvina M. Washington.
Melvina M. Washington President & Founder M. Washington is the proud owner of Infinity HIM. Infinity Health Information Management (Infinity HIM) is a full service medical coding and consulting company founded upon compromising values and dedicated to the clients we serve and to our employees. We are in the business to make a difference and bring about awareness to everyone about the HIM world. We cater to all hospitals, clinics and doctors’ offices to handle their coding, compliance, auditing needs around the United States. We are about making a difference in the HIM arena. Please Contact @ MelvinaWashington@infinityhim.com for your HIM needs.
CONGRATULATIONS
TO MY MOM ERMA GORE KILLINGS A ZETA DOVE AS SHE RECEIVES THE “DIAMOND AWARD” SHE IS TRULY A RARE DIAMOND, WHO GIVES SO MUCH TO SO MANY. THANKS TO SIGMA MU ZETA FOR BESTOWING THIS AWARD TO A WELL DESERVED SOROR. MUCH LOVE, JUSTIN L. KILLINGS, SON
The Brothers of Kappa Alpha Alpha Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., extend well wishes to the ladies of Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. in support of your Annual “A Gathering of Friends” scholarship event. 2014-2015 CHAPTER OFFICERS RODNEY JOHNS – BASILEUS ROBERT MURRELL JR. – VICE BASILEUS CRAIG COMMODORE – KEEPER OF RECORDS AND SEAL CALVIN HORTON – ASST. KEEPER OF RECORDS AND SEAL WILLIE JACKSON – KEEPER OF FINANCE BRIAN ASHFORD - ASST. KEEPER OF FINANCE CHARLES MAXWELL - CHAPLAIN CHAPTER ADVISOR – ALONZA BENNETT MARSHALL – KC JACKSON
Morgan Walker
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Congratulations Jocasta Frazier and the ladies of Sigma Mu Zeta on your 6th Annual “A Gathering of Friends” DENIM & Pearls Scholarship Luncheon from Vanessa Elkins-Rogers
CONGRATULATIONS to my daughter, Cheryl Nugent-Bishop and the wonderful ladies of Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. on this your 6th annual Scholarship Luncheon “A Gathering of Friends!” I have watched you grow from your small, but ambitious group of seven. You all work tirelessly and have done great things for the community and each other. Continue to be that change agent who makes a positive difference. Love, Ma (Verner Nugent-Bishop)
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Acknowledgments President Rosemarie Merritt Farngalo, members of the Executive Board and the membership of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. – Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter is indeed grateful to all those dedicated individuals for their untiring efforts in making the 6th Annual A Gathering of Friend: DENIM and PEARLS Scholarship Luncheon a success. We thank the program participants for honoring us with their presence and for their participation. We are sincerely grateful to our sponsors and other financial supporters whose contributions will support the work of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., both locally and nationally. And finally, to all in attendance, we are delighted that you joined us; we invite you to become partners with us as we continue our work to foster the ideas of service, charity, scholarship, civil and cultural endeavors, sisterhood and finer womanhood. We salute all of our honorees for their years of service to the community and the advancement of civil rights.
Decorations
Mrs. Karen Hughes Mrs. Rebecca Johnson Ms. Martha Traylor
Event Planning Partner
DeKalb Conference Center Decatur, GA
Caterer
B-Unique Publix
Contributors
Dee Bell & Associates
Program Brochure Ms. Katoria Jones dDirect
Video
Mrs. Marketa Killingbeck GENAsis Marketing
Photography
Mike Izenady Mike Iz Photography
Volunteers
Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Children
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ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY, INC. SIGMA MU ZETA CHAPTER
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