Sisterhood Issue
In This Issue Sisterhood,... Zetafied Sisters & Sorors: A Reflection Welcoming Our Brothers Home Finer Womanhood in the Making Sigma Phi Zeta Happenings Zeta Phi Beta National Grand Boulé
Volume 1: Issue 2
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter SPZ Snapshot Sigma Phi Zeta is comprised of an array of talented, thoughtful, and professional women ranging in age, interests and experiences.
We are the current home of 21 engaging and exciting women!
We are the advising chapter of the Nu Sigma Chapter on the campus of Northwestern University.
We serve a broad community range in Lake County that includes Waukegan, North Chicago, Zion, and beyond!
Sisters, Sorors, & Friends The Bond of Zeta Phi Beta By April Clincy, Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter President
As I reflect on the meaning of sisterly love, I am reminded of the following New Testament scripture: Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. I Corinthians 13:4-7 This scripture is often used in the context of marriage; however, it can just as easily be applied to the relationships within our sisterhood. Sisterly love is one of the guiding principles within Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. And our five founders envisioned a bond that brings the above scripture to life. In my mind sisterly love requires that we love when we have been wronged; it requires compromise even when it is inconvenient and it is a constant state of doing. There are some very awesome women who embody the founding principles of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, and particularly in their demonstration of sisterly love. It is with great pleasure that I call them…..my sisters, my sorors, my friends!
Zeta Old School Prom 2012 Partying With Purpose Tuxedos, ball gowns, and corsages for a good cause? This could only mean one thing: The Sigma Phi Zeta Old School Prom! As the years have passed, this event has become one that we, along with our friends and community members all look forward to. The annual event makes it possible for our chapter to award scholarships to deserving area youth. This year’s prom was no less of a success, and was great fun as well. Sorors and guests converged on the Milan Banquet Hall and were treated to delicious food, a stunning introduction of our newest members, and the crowning of our 2012 Prom Queen, Soror Tiera Gray. We can’t wait to top ourselves next year. See you there! Former Zeta Prom Queen Soror Juli Jackson with 2012 Prom Queen Soror Tiera Gray
2012 NPHC Picnic Fraternal Fellowship As the fiscal year of our respective organizations draw to a well-deserved close, members of the eight fraternities and sororities which serve Lake County, come together annually for a relaxing family day. The 2012 National Pan-Hellenic Council of Lake County Picnic was held in the Van Patten Woods, near Wadsworth, IL. on Saturday, June 23rd. In celebration of our work together this year, sharing our mutual interests and goals, members joined together for food, dancing, and lots of laughter. Sigma Phi Zeta, along with our brothers of the Nu Lambda Sigma chapter of Phi Beta Sigma were on hand to spread a little Blue & White Love.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY We are proud supporters of the Habitat for Humanity program. This thoughtful initiative makes it possible for many families to obtain their piece of the American Dream through home ownership. This year, Zeta has been on hand for home dedications, workshops and our own Soror Lorraine McDowell facilitated a workshop on Diabetes.
Taste & Class: The Zeta Amicae On Saturday, June 30, the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan had us put our money where our taste buds were by inviting Lake County to a tantalizing networking event. At their Wine Down wine sip, the Amicae exposed us to tasty libations, great raffle prizes, and wonderful fellowship. This highly celebrated program served to further introduce Lake County to the phenomenal women we call our friends, as well as to allow business and service professionals the opportunity to let their hair down and make meaningful connections. All who attended raved on the unique idea, the fabulous company, and the great environment. Kudos, Zeta Amicae on a phenomenal event.
Finer Women In The Making 2012 Youth Scholarship & Achievement Brunch
Submitted by Soror Valerie Harmon Youth Auxiliary Chair 2011-2012
As the lyrics of the song say, “teach them well and let them lead the way”. We are doing just that! The 2011-2012 youth auxiliary year ended with an Awards Breakfast hosted by our youth members themselves. Archonette Amira Williams opened with a heartfelt welcome, followed by the history of our youth auxiliary by Archonette Justice Moore. Before serving breakfast, Amicette Modesty Hyatte blessed the food. In attendance were members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., proud parents and our 2012 Scholarship recipients. Each young lady received awards of appreciation for their attendance at workshops, field-trips and community service events. Seven young ladies were also honored with the gift of a $500 scholarship in recognition of their dedication to the principles of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., including scholarship, service, and Finer Womanhood. Recipients included Alysha Grace, Jade Green, Tayler Morris, Savannah Robinson, Karolyn Williams and Suraya Willams. The final scholarship was given to one of our own, Archonette Brianna Harmon, a graduate of Waukegan High School received the Stepping2Gether Educational Gift. Soror Kim Woods gave a biography of Brianna showcasing her dedication to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Whether she had to pick up a youth who needed a ride, help set up an event or get the word out, Brianna always answered the call of Zeta. When asked what her most memorable event was, Brianna decided it was everything! We can’t wait to see where these seeds we’ve sown, take these stellar young women.
2011Royal Blue Dove Scholarship & Steppin2Gether Educational Gift Recipients: Alysha Grace, Jade Green, Tayler Morris, Savannah Robinson, Karolyn Williams and Suraya Willams, and Brianna Harmon.
Sisters & Sorors Soror Valencia Samuel on sharing Zeta with her Sister, Soror Rosalyn Bowers My sister and I have always been really close. I will admit, however, that being Zetas, has made us even closer. Being able to share the secrets and sisterhood of the sorority with each other, has been a priceless addition to our relationship. My sister Rosalyn is four years older than I am, but it was me who first pledged Zeta in the second semester of my freshman year at Eastern Illinois University. While I did not know at the time, an uncle on my mother's side was a Sigma and both an uncle and aunt on my father's side were members of Sigma and Zeta as well. I followed my family legacy without knowing it.
Chapter members Rosalyn and Valencia. Sisters by blood and Sisters of the Dove!
I became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority on March 22, 1981 and since that time my sister has always supported me as a Zeta. She has traveled to many anniversary events at Eastern and also attended events in Springfield, IL with Kappa Sigma Zeta, my first graduate chapter where I served as First Vice President for the few years I was in graduate school at Sangamon State University. I have always valued her support. When Rosalyn found out that we were chartering a chapter in Waukegan, she was so excited. She told me that she was ready, and wanted to be on the first line we brought through. The rest is legacy history! My big sister became number one on Sigma Phi Zeta’s very first intake line of 14 wonderful women! It has been an experience we both treasure.
Finer With Time
10 years of Service, Scholarship, Sisterly Love, and Finer Womanhood in Lake County On November 2, 2002, eight dynamic women of the Lake County area came together to bring change to their community. These women, enthusiastic and proactive, chartered a new course by chartering the Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Diligence, sisterhood, and a tremendous amount of love went into forming a chapter that truly exemplified the meaning of Zeta, while focusing on the unique needs of the North Shore. This November, past and present members of Sigma Phi Zeta will stand together as we celebrate a decade of selfless service, a commitment to scholarship, exceptionally finer womanhood, and a sisterly love like none other. We thank you Lake County, for your never-ending support, and look forward to sharing this accomplishment with you. Stay Tuned!
Sisterhood,...Zetafied
Sigma Phi Zeta On The Move
My ship, Soror Brittany S. Jones HATES asking for help, especially when it comes to money. Alas, after falling short of her goal needed to attend a phenomenal Christian leadership program, she turned to our beloved Nu -Sigma chapter for help. I then turned around and forwarded the email to even more Sorors I was in contact with. What transpired only reaffirmed our decision to become Zetas. Our beloved Sorors, most who had never met Brittany in person, immediately began calling emailing, and getting her the funds she needed (a pretty hefty sum). They answered the call not because they knew me or Brittany, but because a ZETA a SOROR a SISTER needed help. Period. What Brittany and her biological family were unable to do, her Zeta family came together to do.
Sisterhood and...STORKS! Sorors Karyn and Juli are in heaven as they are showered with kisses and hugs at our Stork’s Nest Baby Shower. This March, Sigma Phi Zeta raised funds and collected items to bless two homes of children born with special needs. We had a great time meeting these little ones and their families.
Brittany: "I can't believe so many people care about me to help me like this." Me: #1"Don't ever hesitate to ask us for help. #2 Welcome to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. homie." I have yet to meet women more generous, more compassionate, and more loving than the women of Zeta. And this, ladies and gents is why I work so hard in the name of Zeta. This organization has done so much for me and chapter that it only deserves my very best. By far, one of the best decisions I've made in my young life. Soror Jessica Holden President, Nu Sigma Undergraduate Chapter
Sisterhood and...SUPPORT! Soror Regina with Dr. Camille Hammond (Alpha Kappa Alpha), founder of the Cade Foundation at the Illinois Race For the Family, hosted by Fertility Centers of Illinois and The Cade Foundation. Monies raised in this inaugural walk allowed the Cade Foundation, based in Maryland, to provide scholarships for families battling infertility or pursuing adoption and to provide a free round of In-Vitro Fertilization.
Brothers & Sisters SPZ celebrates the return of the Lake County Phi Beta Sigma Chapter Being the only constitutionally bound organizations in the National Pan-Hellenic Council is something we hold very dear. Sigma Phi Zeta is ecstatic to announce the return of our brothers, the Nu Lambda Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. to Lake County. This chapter of professional and fun-loving men, chartered in 2005, has jumped right back into action, supporting us at our Old School Prom, socializing with us at the annual NPHC Picnic, and hosting a fun and successful card tournament. Proceeds from the tournament will be used to provide scholarships to deserving area youth.
O
n July 6, 2012, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. kicked off the 2012 Magnificent Boule in Chicago, IL. Boule’ is the national assembly of all of Zeta Phi Beta’s members, as well as our auxiliary groups (Zeta Amicae and Zeta Male Network). This bi-annual meeting is the forum by which the national business of Zeta is conducted. It is an opportunity for us to celebrate our organization’s commitment to service, sisterly love, finer womanhood and scholarship. It is the venue to recognize the hard work and dedication of the many Zeta chapters across the globe. This year’s Boule’ was no exception! From the opening night ceremony where Zetas were serenaded by the men of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. to the sound of the gavel signifying the official opening of the business meetings, thousands of registered attendees converged on Chicago to participate in an events packed, fun-filled 4 ½ days. This year’s agenda included: Election of our 24th International Grand Basileus, Soror Mary Breaux Wright as well as other National Executive Board positions Performances by Ann Nesby, Ledisi, Lakeside, Doug E Fresh and Biz Markie An Old School – New School Stroll competition The pinning of Zeta Doves (members who have served this illustrious sorority for at least 50 years!) The Ms. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Pageant hosted by Damon Williams and featuring Carl Thomas Inspirational Interfaith Prayer Breakfast Boule’ represents the opportunity for the women and auxiliaries of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. to renew and strengthen the tie that binds. And so, whether it’s old acquaintances, new acquaintances or re-acquaintances, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s Boule’ allow us to come together to reaffirm our love, dedication and commitment to the royal blue and pure white! Please enjoy the following pages of candid shots and moments, as captured and compiled by members of Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter! Members of our chapter traveled by car, public transportation, and even caravan to participate. We hope that the excitement and fervor we felt at this historic event, is contagious.
In Sisterly Love and Excitment, April Clincy President, Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. National Grand BoulĂŠ July 6-10, 2012 A Grand Hello! This November, our country will take to the voting booths as we place our attention on the highest office held in the United States. In Zeta, we held elections this year as well, for the highest office in our sisterhood. Sigma Phi Zeta stands proudly with our national organization in extending a thunderous ovation for our 24th International President, Soror Mary Breaux Wright. The International President of Zeta Phi Beta is our sister, our official public representative, and most importantly our leader. Soror Wright is a native of Louisiana, and currently resides in Houston, TX. She brings to the office of National Presidency, 40+ years of service to our illustrious sisterhood, a wealth of knowledge, and a fervor for progress. Professionally, Soror Wright is a retired Business Teacher from the Holy Rosary Institute in Lafayette, LA. Along with her work for Zeta, she is currently employed as Assistant Director of Development at a private school in Houston, TX. Personally, Soror Wright has been happily married to Sigma Brother James Wright for over 40 years. They have one son, Sigma Brother Randall Wright, M.D. Photo of swear-in used with permission c/o Soror Janina Chives - Blue Cheeze Photography
A Warm & Heartfelt Goodbye While the election of Soror Wright brings a spirit of elation and thoughts on where Zeta is going, we would be remiss to not extend a heartfelt statement of gratitude for where we’ve been. Under the leadership of our departing president, Sheryl P. Underwood, Zeta Phi Beta enjoyed an unprecedented amount of national exposure through the benefit of her personal career as an entertainer. Soror Underwood also oversaw the rebirth of our national publication, The Archon, which showcased the best and the brightest of our members to a larger audience as well. Her focus on elevating our image, and her often vocal love for our sorority, will not be soon forgotten. Soror Underwood will continue to serve as a member of Alpha Psi Zeta in Los Angeles, CA.
Taking Over Chicago...
TAKING NATIONAL OFFICE SOROR JESSICA HOLDEN We are proud and pleased to announce that Jessica Holden, president of our undergraduate chapter at Northwestern University was elected Undergraduate Member to the National Nominating Committee of Zeta Phi Beta at BoulĂŠ! Congratulations Jessica, your advising chapter is extremely proud of you.
<<<Candid Camaraderie 1.
The Magnificent BoulĂŠ!
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Sorors Ciera and Regina with Phi Beta Sigma President, Brother Jimmy Hammock.
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Delegates of SPZ relaxing at the Hilton between sessions.
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Members of Sigma Phi Zeta and Nu Sigma with 97 year old Soror Blanche Jordan of New York.
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Soror Regina with International President Mary Breaux Wright.
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Sorors and Friends at the Battle of the Greeks Step Show in Chicago.
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Spoils of the vendor exhibition hall.
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Sorors Elouise and Juli at Chicago’s famous Harold’s Chicken.
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Soror Kimbrella’s Boulé Caravan.
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Soror Ciera emerging from a limousine at one of the many Chicago after-parties.
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Ledisi performing at the Grand Finale.
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Soror Scarlet H. Black, newly-elected National 1st Vice President of ZΦB.
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Ann Nesby, singing with the Zeta Choir.
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Soror Valencia catches up with Doug E. Fresh.
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Conference Registration at the Hilton.
finalthoughts...
Notes from the Editor
Summer is a time of rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.
In The Next Issue
Unless you’re in the path of Sigma Phi Zeta! We are always on the move, and when we aren’t moving, we’re planning our next one. Since our last newsletter, we have continued to blaze new trails throughout Lake County and the North Shore, with partnerships, activities and celebrations such as our Prom, the NPHC picnic, and the College of Lake County BSU Heritage Ball. It has been a busy year so far, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Lake County Community Days SPZ 10 Year Anniversary Celebration
The theme of this edition is Sisterhood, one of our most intrinsic tenets, and one that we hope is felt not only in our ranks, but among our peers. In the past six months we have served alongside one another as sisters and chosen initiatives that relate to causes dear to our members and community. Pulling together this balance of what makes us who we are, was an honor for me, and one that I could not wait to share with you. We thank you for taking the time to check in with us! So much more of what we do just could not fit within these pages, and we encourage you to follow us via social media, or even meet us out at a few of our events. We appreciate you, and the generous gift of your support.
P.O. Box 9028 Waukegan, IL 60079
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
In Sisterly Love & Blessings,
Contact us: 224-698-ZETA (9382) Sigma Phi Zeta ExpoZé Editor– In-Chief
www.facebook.com/4Zeta
www.sigmaphizeta1920.com www.twitter.com/LakeCountyZetas
Community Partners Sigma Phi Zeta Sponsors The College of Lake County Black Student Union Heritage Ball The Black Student Union is one of the oldest and largest cultural organizations at the College of Lake County, and was established in 1969. Each year., the Heritage Ball celebrates the accomplishments of current and former BSU members, while also raising funds for their Holly Graham scholarship, which is in memory of a CLC graduate. This year, Zeta Phi Beta served as one of the many sponsors of this great event. We look forward to more collaboration with BSU.