On February 26, 1967, twelve happy, smiling sorors were inducted in Epsilon Theta Zeta Chapter, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. The chartering ceremony was held in the home of Soror Sallie Graham, which came to be known by our chapter as the "Zeta House." Soror Audrey Robinson performed the ceremony-assisted by Soror Della Bannister of Virginia State College (University). Also, present was Soror Hilda C. Abram of Delta Mu Zeta Chapter, New York City. Proudly we can say that she is now a very active member of our chapter.

Surely Suffolk will little note, but those sorors who were involved will long remember that event in the history of their lives.

It all seemingly began with Soror Mary Wilson Copeland who had just graduated from Virginia State College (University) as a member of the Phi Chapter, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Soror Wilson and Soror Graham started a "Zeta Round-Up." Some sorors were known while others were discovered. Nevertheless, twelve were rounded-up, one at the very last minute, but as college coeds would say, "Just in time to make the line."

A few had previously been associated with Beta Theta Zeta Chapter, Norfolk, VA. Some had only been affiliated with undergraduate chapters while in college. Our hymn states, "When Zeta calls, we'll answer one and all." The twelve who answered the call made history, for they became the charter members of Epsilon Theta Zeta Chapter.

Included in this number were the following sorors:
Gladys W. Chapman*                  Jessie Gwaltney* 

Elizabeth Christian*                    Lillian H. James*

Mary W. Copeland                       Velma A. Jones*
Jessie C. Cross*                            Doris C. Owens *
Martha W. Estes*                         Ursell J. Watson*
Sallie B. Graham*                        Berma L. White*
 

*Triumphant Soror(s)

Written by Triumphant Soror Berma L. White, Charter Member