The recent meeting in Clay County highlighted the contributions and history of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, both founded at Howard University. Barry Farmer, president of the New Beta Sigma chapter, provided an overview of Phi Beta Sigma, established on January 9, 1914. The fraternity aims to promote brotherhood, scholarship, and community service, boasting over 200,000 members and 700 chapters worldwide. Notable members include George Washington Carver and Bill Clinton.
Monique Tookes, chapter president for Clay County, and Sandy Simpson Smith, first vice president, were also introduced during the meeting. The discussion emphasized the importance of these organizations in fostering unity and addressing social issues. Zeta Phi Beta, founded on January 16, 1920, is recognized for its commitment to community service and is the first sorority to establish a national headquarters and charter a chapter in Africa.
The meeting underscored the ongoing impact of these organizations in promoting inclusivity and social responsibility across diverse communities.