Sorority History
Our five Founders recognized the need for a new and distinctive Greek-letter organization and took bold action to fulfill that vision. To these remarkable women, Zeta was more than an organization—it was a movement. It embodied a belief system rooted in the principles of Service, Scholarship, Sisterhood, and the noble ideal of Finer Womanhood.
Their vision created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire members around the world to uphold the values established by its earliest members. Through their unwavering commitment and leadership, they laid the foundation for an organization dedicated to excellence, unity, and meaningful service.
The Founders of Zeta were women of exceptional character—strong, principled scholars whose humility, integrity, and dedication to academic achievement distinguished them. Their courage and foresight established the firm foundation upon which our illustrious Sorority proudly stands today. Our founders are (pictured L to R):
Arizona Cleaver-Stemons: Arizona Cleaver was the first president of Alpha chapter and the first national president of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. She completed her graduate and post-graduate studies in the field of social work and was responsible for chartering numerous undergraduate and graduate chapters throughout the United States.
Pearl A. Neal: After graduating from Howard University’s Conservatory of Music, Founder Neal continued her studies at the Julliard School of Music. In 1938, she was the first black woman in New York to earn a master’s degree in music from Columbia University. An extremely accomplished musician, Founder Neal taught music in North Carolina public schools and served as a director of seniors majoring in music at Teachers College in Winston Salem, NC.
Myrtle Tyler-Faithful: Myrtle Tyler was the second national president of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and blood sister to Viola Tyler. A high school mathematics and English teacher, Founder Tyler was an active member of Alpha Zeta chapter in Baltimore, Maryland.
Viola Tyler-Goings: Viola Tyler graduated from Howard University with a teaching degree and a major in math. She taught school in Ohio for many years and was always very active in community affairs.
Fannie Pettie-Watts: Fannie Pettie graduated from Howard with a Bachelor of Arts degree in education and taught junior and senior high schools in Savannah, Georgia. She was credited with organizing two additional Zeta chapters and had active membership in Delta Alpha Zeta chapter.
Chapter History
In the heart of Central New Castle County, Delaware, are the communities of Bear, Newark, and New Castle. Inspired by the ambition, dedication, and unwavering commitment of seven extraordinary women, the dream of establishing a new chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated became a reality.
Recognizing the opportunity to make a lasting impact, these seven women united with a shared purpose: to serve their communities, provide meaningful resources, and create opportunities that would improve the lives of those around them. Through their vision, determination, and commitment to service, they laid the foundation for a lasting legacy.
On May 13, 2026, Zeta Alpha Epsilon Zeta (ZAEZ) Chapter was officially chartered by:
Nicole Abrams
Shawnda Mims
Kendra P. Stennis
Dr. Princess Gayes
Kimberly Hall
Deidre Ward and Charmaine West. Each committed to advancing the mission of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated through purposeful action and community engagement.
Guided by the organization's founding principles of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood, the members of Zeta Alpha Epsilon Zeta chapter are dedicated to empowering individuals while enriching, educating, and uplifting the communities of Central New Castle County. Proudly serving Bear, Newark, and New Castle, the chapter recognizes both the unique strengths and the evolving needs of each community.
Zeta Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter is committed to being a catalyst for positive change by promoting educational excellence, supporting health and wellness initiatives, encouraging economic empowerment, and enhancing the overall well-being of the citizens it serves. Through quality mentorship, impactful programming, and visionary leadership, the chapter strives to build a brighter future—one community, one family, and one life at a time.
Understanding that meaningful progress is achieved through collaboration, Zeta Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter has established strategic partnerships with schools, nonprofit organizations, faith-based institutions, businesses, civic leaders, and community organizations throughout Bear, Newark, New Castle, and the surrounding areas. These partnerships strengthen the chapter's ability to deliver impactful programs and expand its reach across Central New Castle County.
As the chapter continues to grow, Zeta Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter remains steadfast in honoring the enduring legacy of our Five Pearls while embracing the opportunities of the future. Through innovative programming, dedicated service, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, the chapter will continue responding to the evolving needs of the communities it serves for generations to come.
Zeta Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter is honored to embark on this remarkable journey and looks forward to creating a lasting legacy of service, leadership, and sisterhood throughout Central New Castle County.