About Us
Rooted in Excellence. Rising Together.
In the winter of 2017, a simple conversation sparked the beginning of what would later become the Gamma Alpha Beta Zeta Chapter. Sorors Jamina Clay, Denise Marie Snow, and Dionne Watts-Williams began to share a vision: bringing a rich, innovative approach to service to eastern Montgomery County, an area rich with opportunity but without a graduate chapter to serve as a hub of Zeta excellence. Their idea quickly grew beyond casual dialogue into intentional planning.
Recognizing both the need and the potential, they sought guidance from the 10th Commonwealth of Pennsylvania State Director, Distinguished Soror Barbara Cousar, whose insight helped shape their early efforts. Soon after, an interest meeting was convened to bring like-minded sorors together, outline requirements, and map out next steps. What started as conversation and curiosity transformed into commitment. An exploratory group was established, and with it, the foundation was laid through the creation of a comprehensive business plan – solidifying not just interest, but purpose, direction, and intention.
Gamma Alpha Beta Zeta Chapter was chartered on July 29, 2017 at Arcadia University by 17 dedicated, dynamic, and visionary Zeta women:.
Cynthia Chandler
Erica Chandler
Dr. Jamina Clay
Vanessa Cole
Patrice Harling
Sierra Hill-Akers
Dawn Johnson
Jakita Johnson
*Triumphant Soror
Sandra Pitts
Katherine Taylor
Tanaya Teamer
Jaquetta Thorntion
Dionne Watts-Williams
Karen Wright Sanders
*Monica Vance
Our Why
Our charter members set out to build something grounded in sisterly accountability, ethical leadership, and transparent communication, while being responsive to the needs of our communities and to each other. Abington is a diverse, growing suburb with a population eager for timely, meaningful, impactful, culturally-relevant programming.
Our Vision
We’re here to do more than just exist – we’re here to serve, lead, and inspire.
Our vision is to:
- Infuse Abington Township with the founding principles of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated
- Empower communities through holistic, culturally relevant programs focused on mind, body, and spirit.
- Bridge the gaps – for youth, women, men, and seniors – by being present, responsive, and consistent in our outreach.
We see ourselves as a pillar of service and leadership in the community, building bridges across generations and amplifying Zeta’s voice in spaces where it’s needed most.
Our Mission
Through Z-HOPE™ (Zetas Helping Other People Excel) and strategic partnerships, we address the most pressing needs of the community through:
- College and career readiness for youth
- Closing educational gaps for students of color
- Mentorship and support for vulnerable girls and boys
- Health and wellness initiatives for seniors and families
- Domestic violence and cancer awareness campaigns
- Voter education and civic engagement
Our network of partnerships includes local school districts, libraries, community centers, churches, law enforcement, and civic organizations – all of which expand our reach and deepen our impact.