20th Annual Finer Womanhood Scholarship and Awards Gala

PROGRAM

Welcome Charise Bennett, Mistress of Ceremonies

Introduction of 2024 Honorees & Dignitaries Charise Bennett, Mistress of Ceremonies

Lift Every Voice Audience

Greetings

Introduction of Brotherly Love Award

Response

Introduction of Organization of the Year

Karyn Quick, Illinois State Director

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated

Tyrese Montgomery, Illinois State Director

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated

Joel Harris, National Pan-Hellenic Council President

Charlotte Taylor Powers

Fervent Hearts Foundation Vice President

Shannon Blackburn, Tau Psi Zeta President

Dawn Simmons, Tau Psi Zeta Chapter Member

Mark Simmons, 2024 Brotherly Love Award Recipient

Calia Brooks, Tau Psi Zeta Chapter Member

Response Englewood First Responders, 2024 Org of the Year

Performance

Scholarship Presentations

Fervent Hearts Foundation

Life Members Scholarship

Omicron Class 1920 Scholarship

Undergraduate Awards

Zeta Male Network Scholarship

Eros the Prince of Poetry

Dr. Carolyn Wadlington, Scholarship Chair

Teri Lewis, Tau Psi Zeta Life & Chapter Member

Omicron Class

Rev. Angela Grimes, UG Sponsor & 3rd Vice President

Denise Stroud, Zeta Male Network Co-chair

Amicae Scholarship

Racquel Perry, Amicae Scholarship Co-chair

Invocation

Performance

Introduction of Archonette of the Year

Rev. Angela Grimes Tau Psi Zeta 3rd Vice President

Dinner is Served

KeKe Wyatt

Mary Fleming, Archonette Youth Auxiliary Chair

Response Symone Waite, 2024 Archonette of the Year

Introduction of Amica of the Year

Response

Introduction of Woman of the Year

Response

Performance

Introduction of Zeta of the Year

Response

Introduction of Zeta of the Decade

Response

Closing Remarks

Diane Dorsey, Zeta Amicae Auxiliary Member

Lisa Plenty, 2024 Amica of the Year

Clarissa Davis, Tau Psi Zeta Life & Chapter Member

Rafiah Maxie-Cole, 2024 Woman of the Year

Eros Prince of Poetry

Dr. Avis Buford, 2023 Zeta of the Year

Vontonia Preyer-Owens, 2024 Zeta of the Year

Renee Byrd, 2014 Zeta of the Decade

Darcell Norwood-Baugh, 2024 Zeta of the Decade

Shatonya Flowers

2nd Vice President & Finer Womanhood Chair

Mistress of Ceremonies

Charise Bennett is the Founder and CEO of the Best Me Ever Movement. The mission of the Best Me Ever Movement is to help women grow in self-love to confidently walk in purpose and achieve their goals.

As an author, speaker, coach, host, and humorist, Charise combines creative storytelling, clever wordplay, and Christ -centered principles to deliver content that is designed to not-only amuse audiences, but to uplift and build community, as well.

Through the Best Me Ever Bootcamp, Charise equips women with the tools necessary to transform the way they see themselves; from being their worst enemy to becoming their biggest fan through the power of self-love.

Charise holds a Bachelor’s degree in English, Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies and certificates in Women’s Entrepreneurship, Human Resources Management, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

Mistress of Ceremonies

2024

Finer Womanhood Entertainment

Eros The Prince of Poetry is an International Award-Winning Poet and Recording Artist. He is 2020's Ham Slam Poetry Champion, the C.E.O and Founder of Hot Chocolate Poetry, The National Spoken Word Awards 2020, 2021, and 2022's Nominee for Best Male Poet and Best Album, 2022's winner for Best Host and Best Open Mic. Mentor for Chicago Public Schools, Community Advocate, and Author. Eros places the focus of his art around love and self-reflection, diving deep into the conversations that we tend to steer away from.

Eros

With a message that promotes looking at, and loving what we see in the mirror, Eros has found himself on many stages around the country. With a love for people and a passion for authenticity, he has become a pioneer of delivering hard hitting truths for all that navigate this human experience. Eros reminds us why love is worth fighting for. He has an amazing ability to give every audience that thing they didn't know they were missing: Faith in Pure Love and Humanity. His latest project, "The Love Her Album" (available on all streaming platforms) and his newest book "Love Notes Vol1., (available exclusively on Amazon) has sparked so many discussions around transparency and vulnerability in relationships, and the need for daily self-reflection and discovery. Get in tune with Eros and you'll soon find yourself believing in love again and inspiring others to do the same!

The Prince of Poetry

Keke Wyatt

2024

Finer Womanhood

Honorees

Zeta of the Year (2005-2023)

2005

Dr. Carolyn Wadlington

2006

Tina Davis

2007

Charlotte Taylor Powers

2008

Dr. Leslie Buckner

2009

Kendra Jenkins

2010

Mariam Thiam Hill

2011

Charise Bennett

2012

Chaisty Peace

2013

Tameka Bufford

2014

Tranese Walker

Renee Byrd, Zeta of the Decade

2015

Margo Watson

2016

Anna Ware

2017

Darcell Norwood-Baugh

2018

Wanzetta Ann Bibrew

2019

Angela Williams-Brummel

2021

Leah Bailey Langston

2022

Shatonya Flowers

2023

Dr. Avis Buford

Darcell Norwood-Baugh has exemplified herself as a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated during her past 19 years as a member, never stopping to answer the call of Zeta. She has worked diligently to strive for excellence in the sisterhood and improving Tau Psi Zeta Chapter on many levels in each position that she has held.

Darcell Norwood-Baugh became a member of Zeta on December 19, 2004. She is a member of the first intake class of Tau Psi Zeta.

Since 2004, Darcell’s contributions to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated are both large and small. She has hit the ground running as a leader since the day she was inducted. Her character is displayed by the way she communicates with Sorors. She exhibits Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood and Finer Womanhood in everything that she does. She looks out for the people that many would consider insignificant.

Darcell began her commitment as a leader from her very first year serving as Chaplain of Tau Psi Zeta. From that moment, this created her Zeta career in which she served as the Treasurer- for two terms, 2nd Vice President - serving 2 terms, 1st Vice President and then two terms as President of the Chapter. During her tenure as 1st Vice President, she inducted the first historical Graduate Intake Line of 24 (Nu Class).

She has moved to the next level in the sisterhood, serving as the current appointed State Ways and Means Chair and appointed International Finer Women Don't Haze Committee Member. She is also a Life Member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Darcell continues to remain active with TPZ and serves as a guide for anyone who is willing to accept her years of experience and tutelage. Serving in so many roles in the sisterhood, she has unique experience that many do not possess. Her warm heartedness, willing to mentor and teach, she rarely says no when it comes to the call of Zeta. Outside of Zeta, Darcell has volunteered with the Blacks in Government (BIG) Chicago Chapter and Teleservice Center of Social Security Administration, where she is currently employed. She is a woman of many hats. She also works a s a tax preparer and event planner.

Darcell is happily married to her husband of 19 years, Christopher Baugh.

Zeta of the Decade

Zeta of the Year

Woman of the Year Honorees (2005-2023)

2014

Rev. Annette Barker

2015

Yvette Moyo Gillard

2016

Diane Latiker

2017 Allison Perkins-Caldwell

2018

Dr. Evisha Ford-Sills

2019

Bionce Foxx

2021

Dr. Regina Allen Wilson, Ph.D.

2022

Kendra Dinkins

2023

Mayor Jada Curry

Dr. Theresa Mixon

Woman of the Year

Makes Me Wanna and

"Listen and Learn: A Friends Perspective about Suicide after the loss of Jamal Her advocacy has lead her to be featured in the Chicago Tribune, ChiScience Friday edition (by the KaiPodcast, SonRise Project

Rafiah was selected to present at the 2022 American Association of Suicidology Conference, the Harvard University Graduate School of Education Alumni of Color Conference, Essence Magazine May/June 2022 issue and nominated on Black

Health Networks Suicidology Conference and 2022 National Loss Team Con-

Rafiah is appointed by the Illinois Department of Public Health to serve as a member of the Suicide Prevention Alliance as a representative of survivors of

Organization of the Year Honorees (2008-2023)

2008 Share Your Soles

2009 Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago

Jadonal E. Ford Center for Adolescent Parenting

2010 Developing Communities Project

2011 Real Men Charities

2012 Dress for Success

2013 Circle Ministry

2014 Chi-town Cheerleading and Tumbling Stars

2015 Soul Children of Chicago

2016 Polished Pebbles

2017 Monday Night with the Kids

2018 Ladies of Virtue

2019 Girls Like Me Project

2020 Ravens Place (Diamond Sponsor)

March of Dimes

Sertoma Centre

Alsip Park District

American Cancer Society

2021 — Girls for Science

2022 The Puddle Project

2023 Black Fire Brigade

Organization of the Year

mind is a terrible thing to waste. If young people do not have anything to

Because of this, he ensures to include youth of all ages and has even begun to expand his organization to other neighborhoods in the Chicago-

Archonette of the Year (2006-2023

2016

Zoe Blackburn

2017

Kelsi Williams

2018

Jalynn Grimes

2019

Rachel Gates

2021

Laila Morris

2022

Jordan Mighty

2023

Jamya Stewart

Kyilah Terry

2015

Ashanti Pulphus

Archonette of the Year

pingstone to be the awesome young lady. She receives tons of support from her parents and close family friends, however her biggest supporters are her older siblings. They praise her when she succeeds and instills the values given them by

She was excited and appreciative to receive such an honor as Archonette of the Year. Symone is a giver by nature, service comes naturally. She strives now to be a positive role model and example to her fellow Amicettes and Archonettes Sisamazing women in the organization, encouraged her to make her own way as an Archonette. She

Amica of the Year (2006-2023)

2006

Jessica James

2007

*Lynette T. Williams

2008

LaVorgis Sturkey

2009

Janice Richardson (Bennett)

2010

Sherri Macon

2011

Karen Plunkett

2012

LaVorgis Sturkey

2013

*Lynnette T. Williams

2015

*Belinda James

2016

Adrienne Shenault

2017

Lavoris Smith

2018

Elizabeth Maria Wright

2019

Jessica Waite

2021

Belinda Lambert

2022

Alicia Coppage

2023

Yolanda Robinson

*Deceased

Amica of the Year

Now having a career for over 30yrs with Operating Engineers as a Heavy lades or pats on the back. So not only was being considered, but actually being chosen to be Amica of the Year quite the shock, (as she was looking at who she could help nominate and get chosen), but an Honor. Because as

Zeta Male Scholarship Recipients

2022

2019

Christopher Collins, Myles Jenkins & Gregory Williams

2020

Taron Dabney Jr., Cameron Franklin & Robert Hensley

2021

Jaylin Peace & Justin Manning

Carter Langston, Cavel Spearman, Jr. & Ethan Trammel

2023

Love Award

Brotherly

s degree without his encouragement and often much needed push to continue. He shares the responsibility with his wife

comed her as part of the family, and just as he does with numerous other family members, he is the first to question if she has registered for classes, what are her grades, and a myriad of other questions to give that sometimes needed push to

Mark is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Pi Psi Sigma Alumni Chapter, Fall 2016 Charter Line. He has served in numerous positions such as Reporting Chairman and a current Executive Board member. His work has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, he received the Pi Psi Sigma Service Award. He takes pride in evelives. He gives time and talent daily. Mark is loyal to his job, his community, his chapter, Divine 9, and most of all an outstanding husband, uplifting/encouraging father, faithful

2005 FHF Recipients

Jonnnita Chrea’ Condra

Marilyn Szeszycki

2006 FHF Recipients

Daisha Ronea Watts

India Shari Ford

2007 FHF Recipients

Jasmine Shannon Skyler Smith

Chelsey Jenkins Natasha Hardrick

2008 FHF Recipients

The Blue & White Scholarship LaSha Moore

The White Rose Scholarship Sheri Macon

The White Dove Scholarship Traci Norman

The Five Pearls Scholarship Taija Thigpen & Monae Lane

The Five Pearls Scholarship Momae Lane

2009 FHF Recipients

The Blue & White Scholarship Tiera Thigpen & Lauryn Nash

The White Rose Scholarship Stephanie Sutton

The Five Pearls Scholarship — Pashaey Johnson & Evelyn Degadillo

2010 FHF Recipients

The Blue & White Scholarship— Latesha Long

The Torch Bearer Scholarship Tyheatsha Shelly

The Five Pearls Ashley Kyles, Laura Macaddino & Torika Mitchell

Hearts

Jordan, Eboni Turner & Brandi

2016 FHF Recipients

The Five Pearls Scholarship Giselle Barraza

The Five Pearls Scholarship Courtney Powell-Cheatem

The Five Pearls Scholarship Myeshia Owens

2017 FHF Recipients

The Blue & White Scholarship Isis Graham

The Torch Bearer Scholarship Ariyanna Davis

The White Dove Scholarship Iesha Cotton-Johnson

The Five Pearls Scholarship Aubra Ladd, Ajah Wilson, Jessica Woods, & Kaila Swint

2018 FHF Recipients

The Blue & White Scholarship Zoe Blackburn & Kelsi Williams

The White Rose Scholarship Lauren Lewis

The Five Pearls Scholarship Jada Blakney Nettles-Bey, Nailah Brown

Tiki Brown, & Destiny Mallor

2019 FHF Recipients

The Blue & White Scholarship Dejah Battle, Rachel Gates, & Jalynn Grimes

The Torch Bearer Scholarship Kessler Deneen Pope

The Five Pearls Scholarship Lanee Brown, Andrea Redmon-Nash, Inaya Williams & Cydnei Quinn

The White Rose Scholarship Michelle Porter

Fervent Hearts Foundation Scholarship

Fervent Hearts Foundation Recipients

White Dove Award

juries. Her commitment extends beyond professional aspirations; she is fiercely tism, Whitney is actively involved in bolstering social resources on the south side,

Through her endeavors, Whitney Bright exemplifies resilience, empathy, and an

Kendall Wallace is a Senior at Lindblom Math and Science Academy and a proud member of the graduating Class of 2024. Kendall is a motivated and committed student.

She is the Service Chair for the National Honor Society, Treasurer for Black Student Union, and a member of the Arabic Honor Society. Kendall is an active teen advisor for the Englewood Chicago Public Library. She also enjoys volunteering at her local elementary school where she helps young readers develop a love for reading through the school’s book club. Kendall has always enjoyed the arts. She will be pursuing a degree in Art History with a concentration in African Diasporic art.

Kendall aspires to make a lasting impact by advocating for a more inclusive and cultural atmosphere where Black artists are celebrated and honored. She is dedicated and determined to foster diversity and promote inclusivity within the art world.

Blue & White Award

Torch Bearer Award

Janae Elms is a senior at Gwendolyn

Brooks College Preparatory High School in Chicago, IL. She currently is ranked in the top 15 percent of her class and on the honor roll. Janae enjoys the world of drama and acting. Over the last three years, she has been an active member of the Encore Club, in which she has been a leading actress.

Along with being an actress in the Encore Club, Janae is also an Ambassador at Brooks, in which she provides tours and information about the school to prospective students, their families and all other guests. Having been an active member in the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Youth groups for the last 6 years, Janae has had the privilege of participating in many community service events such as: creating jewelry in order to provide funding to the March of Dimes, cleaning the Department of Children and Family Services Visitation Room, participating in Making Strides Breast Cancer Walks, making blankets and wreaths for Seniors at the Symphony of South Shore Center, feeding families and donating money to the Ronald McDonald House, writing letters to the children in St. Jude, and creating letters and gift bags for Veterans during the Statewide Veteran’s Day Celebration. Janae has extended her leadership talents to being on the International Archonette Leadership Team, in which she holds an executive board position as the Secretary. Janae and the Archonette Leadership Team create relevant, meaningful and impactful activities and programming for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Youth Members all over the world.

Over the past twelve years, Janae has also been a member of the Girl Scouts of America, which has afforded her the opportunity to earn her Bronze Award, Silver Award, as well as her distinguished Gold Award, which is the highest honor you can earn as a Girl Scout. In order to earn her Gold Award, Janae created and implemented a tutoring program called Read X Play, which has allowed her to tutor and play educational games with kindergarten through 3rd grade students for the last 3 years. As a way to continue learning and create sustainability for the program, Janae also created a website for parents, which has helpful tips and learning websites for children. Along with her passion for being a Girl Scout, this year, Janae has also had the pleasure to be a University of Chicago Office of Civic Engagement Intern, which has provided realworld experience working with Psychology and Computer Science professionals. Upon graduating from high school, Janae intends to pursue a degree in Clinical Psychology at Illinois State University.

Christine White will be attending Carthage College in the fall, where she will pursue a degree in Athletic Training. Her aspiration is to become an NFL athletic trainer. She has made the Honor Roll every semester since freshman year and was awarded for having a high gpa (3.5 or higher).

Christine is also a member of the student council. She was one of a handful of students chosen to participate with the Athletic Training Club. Christine has served as an Athletic Training Captain for the past few seasons.

While her contribution has helped the athletes of Joliet West High School, she has gained valuable experience in her chosen field. Her passion for what she does, and compassion for others will make her a great addition to any team.

Five Pearls Award

person she is now. Corliss helped break Camille out of her shell and even dissipated the fear she had for public speaking, all from their positive presence and

During her junior year of high school, Camille had the opportunity to take a nursing course and explore the medical field firsthand; the knowledge, techniques, being. She graduated from the program earning her CNA license. In 2023, she was invited to constant incline, currently standing at 4.82. Her academics are excellent across the board, as she has a 4.0 GPA through both City Colleges of Chicago and Chica-

Madison Stewart has served on the executive board for the Principal Student Advisory Council (PSAC) which is a studentled organization that is dedicated to creating fun events for the school, she also serves on the executive board for the National Honor Society serving as the social media coordinator, President of the book club, and a manager for the girls' and boys’; track teams. She’s always had the will to go out of her way to help others and this transcends through her community involvement. She’s helped coordinate a winter clothing drive for immigrants at police stations and a toy drive for children at The University of Chicago Comer Hospital.

Madison’s career aspirations are to become a dermatologist. Determined to diversify the STEM field while also wanting to inspire young black girls to go into STEM, she has actively participated in a medical mentoring pipeline designed for minority students inspired to become doctors called I AM ABEL Foundation. Her active participation and determination will take her far beyond measures inspiring future generations of young black women in STEM.

Sarah

Darlene

2024

Triumphant Soror

Mildred P. Butler

Life Members Scholarship

Recipient

Mildred P. Butler Scholarship

teaching, she is actively pursuing her Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It is her goal to work with unrepresented and marginalized

Lynnette T. Williams

Zeta Amicae

Scholarship

Recipient

Lynnette T. Williams Scholarship

double major of Chemical and Electrical Engineering. Leticia kept the idea of obtaining her degree in the back of her mind. Leticia and her children went to church together until she started dating Anton Franklin in 2010 and began attending his church. Anton and Leticia dated and decided to get married August of 2015; one month after she started working for Chicago Transit Authority. Together Anton and Leticia have 9 children: four

Leticia started working for the Chicago Transit Authority in July of 2015 as a Customer Service Assistant. Wanting more, she became a Flagman then a Rapid Transit Operator. She thought she should be further in her career, so Leticia continued applying for different positions within the CTA and decided to go back to school. Thinking it is going to take forever to get her Engineering degree, Leticia began looking into Human Resource Management. Desiring growth, she applied for and was offered the position as a Compliance Clerk. This job allowed her to dedicate more time for school. A position opened in the Labor Relations department and Leticia thought this would be her opportunity to begin her career in Human Resources. So, Leticia applied for and is now the newest Labor Relations

Leticia loves to help others, is a hard worker and some would say she tends to be a perfectionist. Although she has the support of family and friends, her biggest inspirations are her children and her younger sister. Growing up, Leticia protected her sister and took care of her children. She never wanted them to see her fail. She still wants to prove that even though it may take some time to reach the finish line, she can still achieve her goals by following her dreams and not giving up. Leticia is determined in achieving this goal and so getting a Human Resources Management degree is still in the making to accom-

2024 Zeta Male Network Scholarship Recipients

Zeta Male Award

t became a battleground of competition, the raucous crowd a constant reminder of expectations, and the pressure to perform weighted heavy on his shoulders. His beJeremiah still recalls the adrenaline surge coursing through my veins as I stepped oncrowd. It was a sensation like no other, pure exhilaration. But as the years wore on, that thrill faded. The weight of performance expectations became overwhelming, and earthed a new passion. He shadowed a civil engineer at the construction site, and it was a revelation. Towering cranes hoisted massive steel beams, bulldozers rearranged monumental. The cacophony of hammers and drills filled the air with purpose. Wits indebted to his basketball days for the discipline, teamwork, and work ethic it instilled in him. But, it also served as a stepchoice, but it has paid dividends. It allowed him to reevaluate his path, and in that ins deeply passionate about. He eagerly anticipates the knowledge, experiences, and growth that lie ahead. Life is an unpredictex-

Cameron Cage is well-rounded, driven, and academically gifted future Mechanical/Robotics Engineer.

As an IB/AP Scholar holding a G.P.A. of 3.9 weighted, 6.3 unweighted, Cameron ranks impressively at 11th in his 2024 graduating class of 682 students of H-F High School.

Cameron has earned numerous academic honors, including recognition as an Illinois State Scholar, National Honor Society member, and Mu Alpha Theta inductee.

Cameron’s academic rigor is further demonstrated through consistent achievements on the Top Honor Roll, Board of Education Distinguished Scholar designation and 4-year student in the Project Lead the Way Engineering Program.

Beyond academics, Cameron is actively involved in extracurricular activities, including being a 4-year Varsity Tennis player, JV/V Chess Team (State Finalist 2022), Robotics Club Senior Mentor, and holds a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do.

Additionally, Cameron is dedicated to community service, contributing as a tutor and support staff in various local organizations.

Zeta Male Award

Cole, bringing mental health, su-

Most importantly, Rayshon puts God first. He is a member of Sweet Holy Spirit Church and serves on the Junior Deacon Board where he assists the pastor as directed and helps with the upkeep and activities of the church. Rayshon plans to attend college, but is undecided at this time because of

Xavier White is a dedicated and accomplished student poised to make a lasting impact on both his educational journey and the communities he serves. Currently pursuing his education at Homewood Flossmoor High School in Flossmoor, IL, Xavier is on track to graduate in June 2024 with an impressive academic record.

Xavier’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in his outstanding academic achievements. With a weighted G.P.A. 5.52/6.0 and an Unweighted G.P.A. 3.60/4.0, he has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a passion for learning. Xavier’s dedication to scholarship has earned him recognition as a College Board National African American Recognition Award recipient and the prestigious title of 2024 Illinois State Scholar.

Driven by a sense of responsibility to his community, Xavier has immersed himself in various volunteer and leadership roles. As a Recreation Leader for the South Suburban Special Recreation Association in Tinley Park, IL, he plays a crucial role in providing recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities. His dedication to inclusivity is further showcased through his involvement in the Miracle League of Baseball, where he serves as a Volunteer Buddy, and as a Special Olympics Unified Partner.

Xavier’s commitment to teamwork and sportsmanship is demonstrated through his participation in baseball and football at different levels – Freshman, JV and Varsity. His enthusiasm for sports extends to the Chicago Fire FC/Special Olympics Illinois 2023 All-Star Unified Soccer Team, showcasing his commitment to inclusive athletic experiences.

In leadership positions such as the Director of Operation Snowball and President of Mu Alpha Theta (National Math Honor Society), Xavier has proven his ability to guide inspire his peers. His active participation in the National Honor Society, where he engages in volunteer and community service initiatives, underscores his commitment to fostering positive change.

Xavier White is not just a scholar; he is a community leader, advocate and compassionate individual dedicated to making a positive impact. With a vision for the future that includes higher education and continued service to his community, Xavier is well-positioned to excel and inspire others along the way.

Zeta Male Award

2024 Undergraduate Highest G.P.A. Award

Undergraduate Highest G.P.A. Award

(2014-2023)

2008 - Amanda Bush (Omicron Delta)

2009 Alexandra Hines (Omicron Delta)

2010 Cheryl Mosley (Omicron Delta)

2011 -Charisse Archie (Omicron Delta)

2012 -Chelisa Gilbert (Omicron Delta)

Faith Mitchell

2013 - Andrea Yarbrough (Omicron Delta)

2014 -Jordan Parker (Omicron Delta)

2015 -Marjarrie Marshall (Omicron Delta)

2016- Jessica Stallworth (Omicron Delta)

2017 -Arius O’Neal (Omicron Delta)

2019 Nicole Malloy (Nu Delta)

Mikayla Sanford (Omicron Delta)

2020 Calia Brooks (Nu Delta)

Mary Fleming (Omicron Delta)

2021 Jasmyne Duffie (Nu Delta)

Mikayla Sanford (Omicron Delta)

2022 Jasmyne Duffie (Nu Delta)

Nia DeRamus (Omicron Delta)

2018 -Sierra Snell (Omicron Delta)

Nu Delta Chapter

Paris Souza moved to Illinois from her hometown of Junction City, Kansas. She is currently a senior at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign majoring in Human Development & Family Studies with a minor in Legal Studies and a 3.92 GPA. She has been a member of the Nu Delta Chapter since the Fall of 2021, and during that time she has held many executive roles such as Secretary, Second Vice President, as well as Scholarship, Z-Hope, and Finer Womanhood Committee Chairs. Aside from Zeta, last year she served as the Black Greek Council President presiding over the D9 sororities on the yard.

She also have a passion for child and family advocacy, as she interned for a social work organization called the Center for Youth & Family Solutions and conducted research on divorce and child custody outcomes for victims of intimate partner violence.

After graduating this May, she intends to expand this work into her future career as a Guardian Ad Litem by pursuing her Juris Doctor degree at the Loyola University Chicago School of Law beginning this upcoming fall.

Brianna Hull-Dennis is a senior graduating this Spring with a degree in Political Science and minors in Pre-Law, Africana, and Women & Gender Studies. She currently serve as 2nd Vice President for the Omicron Delta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Vice President of Student Affairs for Student Government, and President of the Worthy W.I.L. Chapter of NACWC, Inc. She has a passion for student leadership and civic engagement.

She will be blessed to attend the #1 Higher Education Masters Program at University of Michigan on a full ride scholarship in the Fall. She aspires to influence a positive culture of student campus involvement and leadership at institutions of higher education.

Omicron Delta Chapter

Undergraduate of the Year Award (2014-2023)

2012 Andrea Yarbrough (Omicron Delta)

2013 Courtney Atkins (Omicron Delta)

2020 Karmyn Doughty (Nu Delta)

Shannon Watkins (Omicron Delta)

2021 Leyah Cannon (Nu Delta)

Shariah Campbell (Omicron Delta)

2022 Alia Alicea (Nu Delta)

Nia DeRamus (Omicron Delta)

2024

Undergraduate of the Year

Nu Delta Chapter

After graduation, she plans to attend graduate school and further her education in

Rafiat Yarrow is a Senior at Eastern Illinois University majoring in Science with a minor in Women and Gendered Studies. Rafiat aspires to own a non-profit organization and to run for political office in congress. Rafiat's extracurricular activities at EIU include: President of the Omicron Delta C hapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., an active member of the Black Student Union, and the reigning 2024 Miss Black EIU.

Rafiat currently holds chapter president, Zhope committee chair, PR & Marketing chair, and elder care. Rafiat received new member of the year in 2023, was awarded BUILD Heilman scholarship, and was awarded the Alice Quinn memorial scholarship at the 57th state of Illinois Leadership conference.

In her free time Rafiat likes to rest when she can, watch movies with friends, and enjoy nature.

Pearl Pages Finer Womanhood Edition

CONGRATULATIONS

ZETA of the Year, VONTONIA PREYER-OWENS!

Upcoming Events

Tau Psi Zeta’s Charter Members

Natilee Simon

Charlotte D. Taylor Powers

Dr. Carolyn Wadlington

T. Candice Walton-McGee

Tau Psi Zeta’s Crystal Doves

Marietta C.L Bailey

*Mildred P. Butler

Doris Jackson

Kathy Riley

Francis K. Strickland

Carolyn E. Wilson

*Triumphant Soror

Tau Psi Zeta’s Life Members

Diamond Life Member

Golden Life Member

Life Members

Carolyn E. Wilson

Renee S. Byrd

Tina M. Davis

LaDonna Randle

Michelle Turner

Susie Ware

Dr. Leslie Buckner

Dr. Avis Buford

Clarissa Davis

Kelly Flowers

Teri Lewis

Darcell Norwood-Baugh

Tracy Silas Patterson

Charlotte Taylor Powers

Dr. Carolyn Wadlington

National, Regional, State Officers

Elected & Appointed

GREAT LAKES REGION OFFICERS & APPOINTEES

• Great Lakes Region Budget Chair – LaDonna Randle

• Tiffany Jordan Chapter Reports Coordinator

• Latoya Lindberg Bennett Youth Affiliates - Archonettes Coordinator

• Dr. Carolyn Wadlington Vendors Management Coordinator

• Johnique Davis Scholarship Co-Coordinator

STATE OF ILLINOIS ELECTED OFFICERS

• Recording Secretary – Johnique Davis

STATE OF ILLINOIS APPOINTEES

• Chapter Report Coordinator – Dr. Charlene Gamboa

• Legacy Coordinator – Tiffany Jordan

• Life Member Coordinator – LaDonna Randle

• Social Media Coordinator – Mary Fleming

• Ways and Means Chair – Darcell Norwood-Baugh

• Youth Lead (Pearlettes) – Camille Tunstall

• Youth Lead (Archonettes) – Vontonia Preyer-Owens

Tau Psi Zeta’s Executive Board

2022-2024 Elected Officers

President – Shannon Blackburn

1st Vice President – Dr. Avis Buford

2nd Vice President – Shatonya Flowers

3rd Vice President – Rev. Angela Grimes

Recording Secretary – Kelly Giles

Corresponding Secretary – Dawn Simmons

Treasurer – Yvonne Carte

Financial Secretary – Stacey Foster

Parliamentarian – Kendra Jenkins

Chaplain – Loretta Durrell Daniels

2023-2024 Committee Chairs

Adopt-a-School Liaisons – Johnique Davis & Shannon Watkins

Amicae Co-sponsors – Geneva Harris & Dawn Simmons

Domestic Violence Co-Coordinators – Tasha Dicks & T. Denise Stewart

Elder Care Liaisons – Yvette Baber & Jackie Smiley

Fit & Finer – Shauntae McChristian & Angel Smith-Woods

Fundraising – Kimba Brown & LaDonna Randle

Leadership Academy – Renee Byrd

Life Members Liaison – Michelle Turner

March of Dimes Coordinator – Detrice Ivy

NPHC Reps – Katrina Davis & Kelli Pumphrey

Programmatic Thrust – Tracy Hughes Perkins

Tau Psi Zeta’s Executive Board

2023-2024 Committee Chairs

Pearl Pages Editor – Dawn White

PR & Marketing Coordinator – Shatonya Flowers

Social Media Chair – Lorianna Anderson-Young

Sergeant at Arms – Fayette Coleman Gill, Valerie Hollis, Kendra Jenkins & Janice Woods

Service & Social Action– Racheal Davis & Kathy Wallace

Special Events – Debbie Shannon & Tia Stansberry

Step Team – Ashanti Pulphus & Lauren Simmons

Stork’s Nest – Regina Berry & Kimberly Gresham

Technology – Mary Fleming

Zeta Male Network – Denise Stroud & Angela Williams-Brummel

Zeta/Sigma Relations Liaison – Camille Tunstall

Zeta Youth Coordinator – Vontonia Preyer-Owens

Zeta Youth (Pearlettes) – Britni Franklin & Latoya Lindberg

Zeta Youth (Amicettes) – Secrett Stone Daniels & Malikah Ladner

Zeta Youth (Archonettes) – Mary Fleming

Z-HOPE – Dr. Leslie Buckner & Robbie Jewell

Tau Psi Zeta’s Chapter Members

Abdul-Shakur, Aqeelah #

Abdullah, Jahaan

Abdullah Choudhry, Auriel #

Adams, Lauren

Alexander, Leesa #

Allen, Diana

Al-Nurridin, Fajr ~ Anderson Young, Lorianna

Anderson, Ronnica #

Arnold, Corinne

Baber, Yvette

Bailey, Marietta # +

Bailey Langston, Leah #

Baker, Akilah #

Banks, Tiara #

Battle, Bridgette

Battle, Ketina

Bell-Johnson, Johanna

Bennett, Charise #

Bennett-Lindberg, LaToya

Berry, Regina

Blocker, London

Booker-Law, Keenya #

Brock, Nicole #

Brooks, Calia

Brooks, Jacqueline

Brown, Ashley Brown, Kimba

Brown, Yvonne

Buckner, Leslie ~*

Bufford, Tameka #

Collier, Jacquelyn H ~ Cook, Arlun Angela #

Cook, Jarita

Cook-Artis, Malia

Cox, Latrice

Craig, LaTanya

Craig, Toiya #

Crawford, Pamela

Cuevas, Patricia

Dale - Smith, Ashley

Daley, Angela

Davis, Ariyana #

Davis, Clarissa*

Davis, Johnique

Davis, Katrina

Davis, Kiahna

Davis, Racheal #

Davis, Shauntae #

Davis, Tina M ~*

DeForneau, Portia

Dicks, Tasha

Dockery, Monique

Dorsey, Jaquiya

Drake, MonaLisa

Dunlap, Toni

Durrell-Daniels, Loretta

Eades, Nicole ~

Ector-Smith, Shirolyn #

Edmonds, Michelle

Fallie, Antoinette

Farr, Belinda #

Goolsby, Allison

Grady, Paula

Gray, Kimberly

Grayson, Allyssa

Green, Kamaya

Gresham, Kimberly

Griggs, Andrea

Grimes, Angela

Hall, Ranosha

Hall-Sally, Shatee

Hampton, Stefanie

Harper Myrick, Rita

Harris, Geneva

Harris, Linneth

Harris, Shirnette

Harston, Trasie

Hawkins, Ja'Maya

Haymer, Rowena #

Haynes, Ruby

Haywood, Katrina

Hazzard-Orange, Cynthia

Henderson, Brianna #

Henley, Harmony #

Hinton, Latavia

Hodge, Lynda

Hodge, Tyesha

Holley, LaNette #

Hollis, Valerie

Hollivay-Wheeler, Sharon

Houston, Cheri

Hughes Perkins, Tracy

Jordan, Lisa R

Jordan, Tiffany #

Kelly, Donita

Keys, Venise

Kimbrough, Rhonda #

Kinnie-Neal, Lisa

Knox, Leza

Kyles, Denise #

Ladner, Malikah

Lashley, Glenda #

Latham, Trainette

Lathan, Zshoan

Lavendar-Gates, Twila

Layton, Nicole

LeMayWilson, Tamara

Lewis, Julia

Lewis, Teri *#

Liddell, Leeta #

Lockett, Antoinette

Loggins, Willetta

Lowery, Beverly #

Marshall, Cheryl

Marshall-Shim, Keyvonnia

Mason, Jennifer

Maxey, Brittenay

McChristian, Shauntae

McClain, Jermica

McFarley, Imani

McMillian, Kimberly

Melvin, Felesa

Milam-Shaffer, Shunta

Buford, Avis *#

Burnett-Wise, Peggie #

Burrows-Jackson, Juli

Burton, Tashanda

Butler, Joclyn #

Byrd, Renee S. ~*#

Carriere, Tanya

Carter, Janette # +

Carter, Natasha

Carter, Yvonne

Carter-Thomas, Audrey

Chester, Khadijah

Clark, Denise

Clark, Jonetta

Coleman-Gill, Fayette

Coles, Regina

Ferguson, Brittany

Fleming, Mary

Flowers, Kelly #*

Flowers, Shatonya #

Ford, Jutuan

Ford-Edwards, Jamila #

Foster, Stacey #

Franklin, Britni

Franks, Tiffany

Fuller, Donna

Gaither, Rasheda

Gamboa Charlene

Gardner, Shannon

Garrett, Jenifer

Gates, Rachel

Giles, Kelly #

Hunt, Tiffinae

Hunt-Jackson, Natalie

Ivy, Detrice

Jackson, Brandi

Jackson, Courtney

Jackson, Doris +

Jenkins, Kendra

Jewell, Robbie

Jimerson, Dominique

Johnson, Fabienne #

Johnson, Relana

Johnson-Scott, Stephanie

Jones, Carol #

Jones, Karen

Jones, Sabrina #

Jones, Stephanie

Mitchell Smith, Cassandra

Morris, Briana #

Moses-Hughes, Katherine

Muhammad, Fatimah

Muhammad, Hakeemah

Muhammad, Khalilah

Murdock, Evelyn

Murph, Danisha

Niblack, Susan

Norman, Junene

Norwood-Baugh, Darcell *#

Owens, Paisely

Owens, Taylor #

Page, Vedia #

Palmer, Andrea

Parham, Jennifer

Tau Psi Zeta’s Chapter Members

Parker Olguin, Natasha

Paytes, Tyra

Pearson, Ayanna

Perry, Kiaya #

Prescott, Melanie

Preyer-Owens, Vontonia #

Pryor, Belinda

Pulphus, Ashanti #

Pumphrey, Kelli

Quintana, Yolandita

Rahimi, Marnel

Randle, LaDonna *

Redd, Dr. Regina #

Redmon, Marsha #

Reid, Kristin #

Reid, Marla #

Richardson, Phaedra #

Riley, Kathy # +

Robinson, Shunica

Robinson, Tamika

Robinson, Veronica

Rolle, Rochelle

Rollins, Jataun

Ross-Busch, Lejon

Ross-Ude, Regina

Rufus, Tammi

Rutledge, Tammy #

Samuels, Maya

Sanders, Keisha #

Sanders, Samantha

Smith-Woods, Angel #

Southern, Morgan #

Stamps, Taylor

Stansberry, Tia #

Starks, Kenyatta

Stephens, Chanise

Sterling Florez, Anika #

Stevens, Leonardra #

Stevens, Vernita

Steward, Jacqueline #

Stewart, Jeanett

Stewart, Theonia #

Stockdale, Myrtlean

Stokes, Megan

Stone Daniels, Secrett #

Stroud, Denise

Sumner, Vearllean

Tate, Diedra #

Taylor Powers, Charlotte ~*

Thomas, Rebecca Alicia #

Thomas, Tonya

Tomlin, Cecili

Tunstall, Camille

Turner, Michelle *#

Wadlington, Carolyn ~*#

Wallace, Katherine

Walton-McGee, T Candice ~ Ware, Susie *

Washington, Shana

Washington, Tara #

Williams, Kendrea

Williams, Kimberly

Williams, Lizette

Williams, SaCora

Williams-Brummel, Angela

Williams-Goliday, Yolanda V. #

Williams-Smith, Sharlena

Wilson, Carolyn * # +

Wilson, Shilena

Wise, Carita

Woods, Janice

Woodside, Jalessa

Yancy-Blackburn, Shannon

Young, Sondra

Sanders, Siobhan ~ Schaffer, Lisa

Schaffer, Talisha

Scott, BreNae' T #

Shannon, Debbie

Shephard-Jordan, Shanda

Silas-Patterson, Tracey #*

Simmons, Asha #

Simmons, Dawn #

Simmons, Lauren #

Simmons, Michelle #

Simon, Natilee ~ Singleton, April #

Smiley (Reynolds), Jacquetta

Smith, Dorrell

Smith, Helena

Smith-Hickman, Theresa

Watkins, Shannon #

Watson, Sade

Webb, Sharita

Webster, Charlene

Wellons Strickland, Frances +

Weston-Butler, Tanya

White, Dawn

White, Erica #

White-Williams, LaTisha

White-Williamson, Cheryl #

Wicker, Nicole

Wideman, Danita

Williams, Concetta ~ Williams, Donyel

Williams, DoriAnn

Williams, D'Shaun

Williams, Kelsi Imani #

Zeta Male Network Committee

Marvell Brantley

Henry Brummel

Odell Clark

Patrick Peterson

Mark Stroud, Jr.

Charles Talbert

Vernon Tillman

LeBaron Williams

Fervent Hearts Foundation Committee

Dr. Carolyn C. Wadlington, Chair

Charise Bennett

Jacquelyn Collier

Johnique Davis

Tina Davis

Nicole Eades

Shatonya Flowers

Cynthia Hazzard-Orange

Felesha Melvin

Natilee Simon

Tau Psi Zeta Youth Auxiliaries

Aspyn Jamison Khadijah Farmer

Aaryn Parham Lailah Shim

Amariel Caldwell Mahlia Ray

Ameera Caldwell Miracle Latham

Aubrey Rodriguez Peyton Jackson

Ava Wilkins Shaniya Bell

Brooke Franklin Tariyah Tyler

Chelsea Chambers Taylor Crenshaw

Alala Sept Laila Wiley

Aaliyah Elion Lailah Nichols

A'Kira Suggs Lauryn Randle

Alyssa Wynne Layla Ladner

Aminata Hill Layla Smith

A'Myra Caldwell Lexa Davis

Breann Sept Lyric Wise

Brooke Henley Malaysia Washington

Camille Cox Maliya Pittman

Chloe McCall Maliyah Washington

Da'Ja Robinson Meghan Carter

Demi Peebles Taylor Davis

Egypt Mapp Taylor Webster

Essence Williams Ti'Niyah Reeves

Eva Watson Yarah Harris

Jenesis Parham Zuri Davis

Kenadi White

Gai'lani Phillips Mikiyyah Shepard

Harmonee Wilson Mya Young

Jai-elle Ross Parise Mercer

Jameah Radcliff

J'Ayanna Rodgers

Savannah Moreno

Simone Griggs

Johniece Stewart Taliya Myers

Jorianna Stewart Ziati Hill

Khloe Strong Zuri Williams

Tau Psi Zeta Youth Auxiliaries

Addison Belhomme

Alora Greene

Amariah Jones

Autumn Kimbrough

Briana Flowers

Chanel Anderson

Chassidy Craig

Chloe Fallie

Irene Levy

Jada Jones

Jarena Shell

Mataia Z. Lawson

Myah Morris

Najeri Florez

Niara Carter

Sanaa Harris

Sophia McKenzie

Spirit Daniels

Symone Waite

Symphony Taylor

Tamela Collins

Torri Thomas

Juliana Gamboa

Kailynn Smith

Kendall Wallace

Lyric Taylor

Madasin Brooks

Trinity Clay

Tyler Ellison

Vashti Baker

Zeta Amicae of Alsip Auxiliary Roster

OFFICERS

PRESIDENT Amica Jessica Waite*

VICE-PRESIDENT Amica Belinda D. Lambert*^

RECORDING SECRETARY Amica Lisa Plenty^

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY Amica Leticia Franklin

TREASURER Amica Yolanda Robinson*^

FINANCIAL SECRETARY Amica Alicia Coppage*

PARLIAMENTARIAN Amica Sydney Waite*

HISTORIAN Amica Shannon Williams

CHAPLAIN Amica Nikia Webster^

AUXILIARY MEMBERS

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Donyail Ballard*

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Adella Bass

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Enid Blanton

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Gia Byers-Howell

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amicae Adrienne Cooper*

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Diane Dorsey

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Shatia Ellis

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Felicia M. Farr*

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Yvonne Henley*

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Dwanda Henry-Gbadebo

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Catherine Holland-Hatcher

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amicae Tiarastine L. Johnson

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Tamesha McCord^

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Lorrie McReynolds-Murphy

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Patricia Mitchell*^

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Tamika Parks

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Racquel Perry

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Michelle Pettiford

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Destyne Ragland*

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Ericka Smith*

AUXILIARY MEMBER Amica Lavoris Smith*

Finer Womanhood Sponsors

Diamond Sponsor

Enterprise Rent-a-Car

Gold Sponsor

Safe Place Counseling

Silver Sponsor

J & L Learning Center

Zeta Male Network Sponsors

Bronze Level Sponsors

Rep. William Davis

Friend Kalyria Wilkerson

Thank You

Thank you the entire Finer Womanhood Committee for your continuous hard work and support to make our first Finer Womanhood Gala a success. This couldn’t have been done without your help.

Thank you to Family and Friends for your continuous support to Tau Psi Zeta. We do not take that for granted and will be forever grateful.

Thank You

Thank you to the following subcommittees for their assistance with the planned activities for Finer Womanhood Month.

Selection Committee

Entertainment Committee

Dessert Social Committee

Gift Committee

LaCheerios Committee

Life Member Committee

Logistics Committee

Membership Committee

PR & Marketing Committee

Service and Social Action Committee