Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Zeta Rho Omega Chapter
Zeta Rho Omega Chapter History
Founded on April 16, 1955, Zeta Rho Omega chapter is the oldest and largest chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in Broward County. The idea of chartering a local, Fort Lauderdale chapter began with the vision of 14 young women. These young women were led 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, Fort Lauderdale, FL a reality on April 16, 1955. The charter members are 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 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 Terrace in Fort 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 president, Willard Lamar. Home meetings continued through various leadership until the late 1970s or early 1980s. 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 58 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 Beach, FL), Upsilon Xi Omega Chapter (Plantation, FL), and Chi Psi Omega Chapter (Coral Springs, FL).