Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. fosters the ideals of service, charity, scholarship, civil and cultural endeavors, sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood. These ideals are reflected in the sorority's national programs for which its members and auxiliary groups provide voluntary service to staff, community outreach programs, fund scholarships, support organized charities, and promote legislation for social and civic change.Founded on January 16, 1920 on the campus of Howard University, five women believed that sorority elitism and socializing should not overshadow the real mission for progressive organizations. These five Pearls dared to break the mold that was predicated for the role of black women during this time, envisioning a new organization established on the precepts of the aforementioned ideals.“In the ideal collegiate situation, there is a Zeta in every girl regardless of race, creed or color, who has high standards and principals, a good scholarly average and an active interest in all things that she undertakes to accomplish,” a statement oft quoted by Founder Viola Tyler Goings and a testament to the passion that Zeta as well as its members hold to the upliftment, empowerment, and commitment to our community.