The Royal Review

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.- Kappa Iota Zeta chapter

Inside this issue

Founder’s Day Celebration ......... 4

UNCF ........................................... 5

Where in the World is ................. 6

Hall of Fame Inductees ............... 7

ZHOPE: ........................................ 9

Ask Pearl ..................................... 11

Feb 2010

The Finer Womanhood Edition Since its first introduction at the Atlanta Zeta conclave in 1923, Finer Womanhood has been a

highly anticipated annual celebration. Originally observed as one week in February, Finer

Womanhood has expanded to include the last full week in February to the end of March. Its

purpose is for renewed focus on the “standards, morals, customs and attributes of fine la‐

dies.” (Torchbearers of a Legacy)

Kappa Iota Zeta Finer Womanhood 2010 Activities, Soror Daphne Williams, Chairperson

Sunday, February 22 16th Annual Tea with Z; Sigma Zeta Foundation, 4 pm, SOLD OUT

Sunday, March 14 Rededication , St. Phillips AME Church, 11 am service

Wednesday, March 17 Sister Luncheon, “Treasuring Our Sisters: Strengthening the

Ties That Bind,” Sigma Zeta Foundation, Noon, $14

Saturday, March 27 19th Annual Hall of Fame Gala, “Treasuring Precious

Doves,” Westin Atlanta Airport, Semi‐formal, 7pm, $50

Soror Amber Wiliamson

examines the leadership

journey taken by our pre‐

sent and immediate past

basileus, Vicki Pearson and

Tecia McKay.

Pages 2‐3

2

The Inside Scoop: By Amber Williamson

Position in the organization (title): Tecia McKay: (Leadership in Education) Professional Learning Director / School Improvement Specialist Vicki Pearson: (Leadership in Zeta) Basileus, Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Number of years in current position: TM: 3 years in current position VP: 2 years Number of years of managerial experience: TM: 6 years in administration VP: 2 years Number of people directly supervised: TM: 180 people / 90 people VP: 29 officers & coordinators / 100+ membership Average number of hours worked a week: TM: approximately 50 hours VP: I average at least 18 hours a week on Zeta “stuff” How did you get into leadership? TM: I got my credentials together, walked closely with other administrators and did their work (hands‐on training) while the credit went to them or rather to the team. I also relocated to a “smaller pond” instead of continuing to wait in line in the big pond. VP: I started by participating on various committees then stepped up to leading a couple of those commit‐tees. Next step was to serve as an officer on the Board. What is the most rewarding part of being a leader? TM: I became a leader for increase in pay; however, the biggest reward is the knowledge that I’m supporting more people on a bigger scale.

“An aspiring leader must be humble enough to serve in order to learn”

–Vicki Pearson

3

VP: 2 things: Taking an idea from a concept to a successful implementation and coaching and developing my team into future leaders. What is the most difficult part of your job? TM: Supporting change; it is a constant push, push, push to improve. VP: Trying to balance the different personalities of my team so that we work together as a cohesive unit. What would you say are the keys to success for leaders? TM: Celebrate people. Have strong relationships with people. Sometimes the person working the hardest does not get the promotion because they failed to put strong relationships in place. VP: Honesty, integrity, influence, vision, and wisdom. What advice do you have for an aspiring leader? TM: Be a “flunky” to learn as much hands on as you can. Consider not having a problem when others are congratulated for the work “you’ve” done. VP: An aspiring leader must be humble enough to serve in order to learn. What type of ethical issues have you faced as a leader? TM: Accountability is hard. When there is a measure of progress, one can not be tempted to lie for the sake of appearing to make progress. Additionally, fiscal management has the potential for fraud. Even when one knows his actions are above board, taking extra precautions is simply good business in appearing to be beyond every reproach. VP: Having to stand alone to do the right thing rather than going along with everyone else to maintain the status quo. If you were to enroll in a leadership seminar, what topics or issues would you want to learn more about? TM: Law is always good (business law, school law). Interpersonal skill development to build relationships with those you would rather not. VP: Ethics, maximizing your circle of influence Additional information/Comments: TM: When one thinks he wants leadership, it is too soon. When one is “called” to leadership, the time is right. Instead of seeking, position yourself, sharpen your skills, and wait to be sought. VP: If you aspire to be a leader, be sure to deeply consider everything that comes along with it. More often than not, leadership comes with more challenges than “perks”. Can you manage the ups and downs and still be an effective leader?

Leadership from the Perspective of Two of KIZ’s Best

When one thinks he wants leadership, it is too soon. When one is “called” to leadership, the time is

right. Instead of seeking, position yourself, sharpen your skills, and wait to be sought.

–Tecia McKay

4

Metro Atlanta Founders’ Day Celebration

This year, the Metro Atlanta Blue and White Family celebrated Founders’ Day with an annual brunch on Saturday, January 23 at the Emory Conference Center Hotel. KIZ’s own Kelly Ellis was the chairperson of this year’s Founders’ Day Committee. Brothers, sorors, and guests came out to support and honor our most honorable founders of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incor‐porated and Zeta Phi Beta So‐rority, Incorporated. We wel‐comed Soror Mary B. Wright,

Zeta’s National First Vice‐President as our 2010 guest speaker. This year's theme was A Timeless Bond of Brotherhood, Sisterhood, and Service. As we move forward, we continue to hold true to our bond like no other and keep to our shared principles of scholarship and service.

L to R: Sorors Amber Williamson, Vicki Silas, Natasha

Stark, Mary B. Wright, and Vicki Pearson

L to R: Sorors Kelly Ellis, Kendall Ridley, Kendra King, and Vicki Pearson

5

Kappa Iota Zeta Recognized by the United Negro College Fund for Continued Generosity

For many years, Kappa Iota Zeta has been a major contributor the United Negro College

Fund. Because of our loyalty, Maurice E. Jenkins, Senior Vice President, Southern Field

Operations and Sam Burston, Regional Development Director, Atlanta Regional Office rec‐

ognized our chapter as an official local donor of the U.N.C.F Metropolitan Atlanta cam‐

paign. We received a reserved table, were photographed with local and regional U.N.C.F.

officers, and were given the opportunity to present our check of $1150 during the Super

Viewing Party honoring recording artist Lionel Richie on Saturday, January 23, 2010 at the

downtown Atlanta Sheraton hotel. Kappa Iota Zeta was well represented by Basileus Vicki

Pearson, Jenelsia Belt and spouse, Kendra King and spouse, Rebecca Jackson and U.N.C.F.

volunteers Erma Killings and Shirley Murphy, whose daughter was also in atten‐

dance. Thanks to all who support the U.N.C.F.

L to R: Sorors Erma Killings, Maurice Jenkins, Vicki Pearson, Jenel‐

sia Belt, Shirley Murphy, Kendra King, and Rebecca Jackson

6

Where in the World is………….Soror Jenelsia Belt?

First three photos top to bottom: White Pass/Yukon Railway Where did you go and when? Was this your first time visiting?

Yes. We went to Alaska for the first time in September of 2009.

Who did you go with?

My husband and another couple

Where did you stay?

We traveled and lodged on the Princess cruise ship

What is your best memory from your visit? Why?

I really enjoyed the Tracy Arm Fjord and Mendenhall glacier in Juneau, and the

White Pass / Yukon train ride in Skagway. The glaciers and wilderness was

beautiful and the 4 hour train ride was so historic! The elevation went up to

3000 miles where you could see the Klondike trail for the gold rush as well as

the Cantilever bridge which was the tallest in the world in 1901!

What was your favorite native food and beverage? .

Salmon was my favorite food and tea

When is the best time to visit?

Even though I went in the fall, I was told July is the best month because there is

the least amount of rain during that time.

What is a "must‐see" when visiting Alaska?

Glaciers ,fjords (a long, narrow inlet with steep sides, created in a valley carved

by glacial activity), bald eagles , sea lions and whale watching

Left to Right: Tracy Arms Fjord

7

The 19th Annual Hall of Fame Gala, “Treasuring Precious Doves,” will be held on Saturday, March 27 at the Westin Atlanta Airport. Sorors Margie B. Terry and Ernestine Sumlin will be honored for their commitment to Kappa Iota Zeta and the principles of our sisterhood. This signature Kappa Iota Zeta program is being led by Soror Daphne Williams (chair) and her com‐mittee: Vicki Pearson, Eboney Coney, Haroldine Crowder, Tina Dawson, Kelly Ellis, Helen Hard‐nett, Candice Hickman, Nancy Hope, Adelia Johnson, LaNise Ollarvia, Natasha Roy, Vickey Silas, Natalie Williams, Peggy Williams, Alexandria Wright and Clarice Wright. Chapter awards will also be announced for the following categories: KIZ Fervent Heart, KIZ Partner of the Year, KIZ Sisterly Love and KIZ Zeal. It is an event you do not want to miss.

Soror Margie B. Terry Romans 8:31b ‐ If God be for us, who can be against us?

Soror Terry was reared in Savannah, Georgia born from the union of the late Reverend Aaron and Mrs. Lillian Holmes. She began her higher education at Savannah State College (now Uni‐versity) completing her bachelor degree of science in 1968, and completed her masters degree of education and other advanced studies at Georgia State University (1972). She married Sigma Brother Art Terry – who ironically was also her Big Brother during her pledge period. Even though they were destined to be together, there was one Big Sister that was really interested in him. However, Soror Terry is quick to say, “she lost out on that Sigma Man!” Brother Art and Soror Terry have two children: Kimberly (Darryl) Whitfield and A.J. “Artie” (Kenya) Terry. She adores her grandchildren, Anye’ and Arke. Soror Terry is a retired educator and is still active with the Georgia Retired Educators Associa‐tion. She is a member of Flipper Temple AME where she is the immediate past president of the missionary group. Still holding allegiance to those Savannah State “Tigers,” Soror Terry is the co‐chair of the Savannah State University (SSU) scholarship fund, and of course is a life member of the SSU National Alumni Association. Other memberships and contributions include the East Point Mayor’s Educational Task Force, L.N.O. Bridge Club (founding member), East Point Youth Sports (executive board member) and the Sigma Shadows. Her other hobbies include reading and traveling. Her journey to Zetaland began in Spring 1965 of her freshman year, crossing the burning sand Fall 1965 at SSU’s Rho Beta Chapter. During this time, she served as Miss Phi Beta Sigma Sweet‐heart. Zeta captured her attention because of her college professor who was also her role model. She admired the sisterly love of the Zetas. Soror Terry has held membership in two Atlanta chapters, Epsilon Zeta and currently in Kappa Iota Zeta. Since becoming a Zeta Lady, she has served as chapter president, parliamentarian, secretary, and chaired / participated on numerous committees. Her favorite committee has been serving with the Founders’ Day committee because of the long‐lasting “friendship and relationships that were built.” She advises all her sisters to continue the sisterly love of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority for it is a strong bond that we should hold in the highest esteem.

KIZ Inducts Two Finer Women into the 2010 Hall of Fame: Ernestine Sumlin & Margie B. Terry

By Tecia M. McKay

8

Soror Ernestine Benton Sumlin Father, I stretch my hands to Thee, No other help I know; If Thou withdraw Thyself from me, Ah! whither shall I go? – Charles Wesley

Soror Sumlin was born and raised in Chatsworth, Murray County, Georgia. Her loving parents are Mrs. Kate L. Kemp and the late Mr. George L. Benton. Soror Sumlin has three brothers (one is deceased). She received her formal education at Clark College (currently Clark Atlanta Uni‐versity ), graduating in 1975. Soror Sumlin’s home is filled with the blue and white spirit as her husband, Donald Sumlin, and son, Christopher Sumlin, are both Sigma men. An office manager with Russell Contract Furnishings, Soror Sumlin has also worked in banking with Bank of America and as an elementary school educator. She is an active member of East Point First Mallalieu UMC, where Zeta sister Minnie Robinson is the pastor. Giving service to her community, she serves as the Sunday School Superintendent, as a member of the United Methodist Women, Sunday school teacher, and a member of the choir. She is an active mem‐ber of the Gus Thornhill Scholarship Fund. Soror Sumlin also enjoys gardening, reading John Grisham books, and watching basketball and football games. Being of good character and the essence of finer womanhood, Soror Sumlion was heavily re‐cruited by Soror Mae Hale. Zeta won her loyalty in 1998 as Soror Sumlin came into Kappa Iota Zeta chapter under the leadership of former president Jenelsia (Lovejoy) Belt. However, she admitted that she was quite anxious during the membership process. Although she studied her history and “knew it like the back of (her) hand,” when placed in the “hot seat” her mind went blank. She can now laugh at the experience and truly loves being a Zeta lady. During her tenure in Kappa Iota Zeta chapter, Soror Sumlin has led and served on the Tea with Z committee (honoring legendary writer, Zora Neale Hurston), the Little Miss Blue Revue Pag‐eant, and the membership committee with a focus on reclamation. Her favorite committee has been the Maryonette Lovejoy Book Scholarship committee because “it is such worthwhile work to support young ladies through scholarship and service.” Soror Sumlin treats Zeta like a family, and family sticks together through good and bad times. No matter the situation, she says “never forget who you are.”

KIZ Inducts Two Finer Women into the 2010 Hall of Fame: Ernestine Sumlin & Margie B. Terry

(continued from page 7)

9

Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter kicked off the holiday season by hosting its annual holiday parties for the kindergarten classes at Kelley Lake Elementary School in Decatur and for the senior residents at The Atrium at College Town (formerly known as John O. Childs) in Atlanta. Led by ZHOPE Committee Chair, Soror Ranardia Gaillard, this year’s party covered all three kindergarten classes at the school ‐ a total of about 75 students. Participants enjoyed pizza, juice and cookies and participated in fun activities. The event concluded with educational gifts for the students and a token of appreciation to each of the teachers. This year’s holiday party at The Atrium at College Town featured a mix of old and new activities that enter‐tained everyone involved. Organized by ZHOPE Seniors Chair, Soror Jenelsia Belt, the ladies of KIZ served over 100 residents with a traditional Holiday meal and handed out gift bags of toiletry items. The seniors and sorors were entertained by the musical stylings of the Westlake High School Orchestra playing carols and by a step show and dance featuring the Little Miss Blue Revue participants and committee members. Both events were a huge success and provided KIZ an opportunity to fellowship with each other while giving back to the community.

Kappa Iota Zeta Hosts Holiday Parties for the Young and the Young At Heart By Vicki Pearson

Soror Ranardia Gaillard leading an activity with the students at

Kelley Lake Elementary

KIZ sorors working the food service line at The Atrium at College Town

10

A Zeta’s Prayer Author Unknown

As a Zeta I want to live this life on earth,

to face its struggles and its strife and to improve my Sorority as I go.

Not just the meetings and the conferences or how the rivers flow

But to leave a path of courage wherever I may go.

To understand eternal truth, And know right from wrong,

And gather the petals of the white roses As I sing the Zeta Song

For if I help my Sorority to grow

In wisdom and grace, I will have won a special place

And will always fill my Zeta space.

Now, God I ask your guidance That I may do my part,

for sisterly love, knowledge, confidence and happiness of heart.

We must lead and not alienate

Together we can transcend our differences We can change and meet the challenge We are serious sorors for a serious time.

11

Ask Pearl. Everything You Always Wanted to Know, But Were Afraid to Ask

Question:

Right now, I am not really feelin' KIZ or Zeta for that matter. Every time I look

up some one is critiquing my style, from my hair all the way down to the

shoes on my feet. As a new member of both the sorority and chapter, this is

not what I expected. I specifically sought out Zeta because a Zeta Lady is first

and foremost an individual who doesn't need to do what is popular, but she is

a woman who follows her heart and does what she thinks is right. Or so I

thought. Pearl, do I have to conform to be a Finer Woman of Z Phi B?

Answer:

You thought it was about strolling huh? You thought it was about, holding up

that dove and smiling for the camera, huh? You thought it was about “I’ve

got a great idea and want everybody to support the idea”? Or maybe just

about hanging out with frat? You thought you would bring your own style,

flavor, and creativity so the sorors could soak up your aura, huh?

LOL! Hey, don't feel badly, I fell for the okee‐doke too!

Darlin' Love Soror, to be frank, I don't always feel Zeta either! Some Sunday

mornings I don't feel church, and many weekday mornings I'm not feeling my job. But, welcome to the real world! Yes,

we all have our notions of what sorority life will be like on the outside, but when we get inside many of us, including

myself, become disillusioned. We blow out the candle, put on a Zeta shirt and just wait on it. Eventually, we say to our‐

selves, it this it? Yep, this is it!

I, too, thought Zeta was "different" than the others. I had plans in high school of joining another sorority, but thought

that Zeta would give me a chance to "be myself." Honey, let me tell you, we have just as many snobs as the ladies in

pink and green, and as many no‐mess taking sorors as the ladies in crimson and creme.

In order to truly benefit from the multi‐generational wisdom that lives in our chapter and Zeta, you've got to be willing

to grow. It's no longer all about you. You've heard that there is no "I" in "team," right? Well, now you are on Team

Zeta and our common interest is Finer Womanhood. Regardless of what poor character of woman you may see with Z

PHI B on her chest, please know that Zeta means being a finer woman. Finer womanhood from her hair presentation,

all the way down to her shoes. We've all been down this road before. Correction is not always pleasant, but it is often

needed.

So, does this mean that you have to lose your unique personality and style? Lose? No. Modify? Maybe. It depends on

what you are working with. I know this may not be the answer you were hoping for, but know that Soror Pearl speaks

truth with much love.

Have a question for Pearl? Log into our website’s members only section and submit your anonymous question.

12

Purchase Hall of Fame Tickets and Ads ; Download the Lovejoy Scholarship Application

at http://zphibkiz.org

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter—Atlanta

SOROR KENDRA HATCHER KING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

SOROR JOANNE PATTERSON MANAGING EDITOR

Submit your questions and pictures to: joannemcdougal@msn.com kendradhatcher@aol.com

Back in the Day

Sorors Thelma Lester and Mae Hale

in Nassau, Bahamas for the chartering of Theta Epsilon Zeta

Circa 1976