Charter Members

Zeta Rho Omega Chapter History

The idea of chartering a local, Fort Lauderdale chapter began with the vision of fourteen, young women. These young women were lead by Willard Lamar who had the initial idea of forming a chapter.

The aspiring local group worked for approximately one year organizing, finding enough members to charter and completing other necessary requirements to become a chapter. Their untiring efforts and dedication made the dream of Zeta Rho Omega Chapter, Ft. Lauderdale, FL a reality on April 16,1955. The list of Charter Members included the following names Gladys Cohen, Sylvia Epps, *Jean Everett, *Parthenia Hamm, *Virginia Hamm, *Hazel Hankerson, Daphne Harrison, Cecelia Hayes, Willard Lamar, Eula Mosby, Betty Smith, Millicent Sworn, Gloria Talbolt, and Albertha Williams. (*Deceased)

During this time, the national leader of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was Supreme Basileus, Arnetta G. Wallace. The South Atlantic Regional Director was Mamie Williams of Miami, FL.

The chartering of the chapter took place at the YMCA Building located on 14th Avenue in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. The chartering and installation of officers took place under the direction of Regional Director, Mamie Williams.

The newly formed Zeta Rho Omega Chapter began its formal meetings in various homes under the leadership of the elected Basileus, Willard Lamar. Home meetings continued through various leadership until the late 70’s or early 80’s. At this time, the Chapter began meeting at the Lincoln Park School/Complex.

Zeta Rho Omega Chapter has been an active and integral part of the community for the past fifty-three years. Several awards and recognitions have been received for outstanding services rendered through and by this organization. We strive to exhibit excellence in “community service” by providing “Service to All Mankind”

Since its inception, three other graduate chapters have evolved from the membership of Zeta Rho Omega. They are Kappa Kappa Omega Chapter, Pompano, FL, Upsilon Xi Omega Chapter, Plantation, and Chi Psi Omega Chapter, Coral Springs, FL.