“The Epitome of Finer Womanhood” is Zeta Phi Beta sorority’s motto.

The women of Baker University’s Pi Sigma chapter are embracing that motto throughout the month of March, which is deemed Finer Womanhood month by Zeta Phi Beta.

“We will be hosting events on campus throughout the month that everyone is welcome to come to,” President Katerra Shackelford said.

The events include activities like a nutrition seminar, bible study and a fitness class.

Zeta Phi Beta sororities across the nation, and even in parts of Africa, participate in Finer Womanhood month.

“Finer womanhood is one of our founding principles,” Shackelford said. “Along with scholarship, service and sisterhood, but we focus on finer womanhood in March because it’s also women’s history month.”

This is only the second time the Pi Sigma chapter has hosted Finer Womanhood events because member numbers have been low the past few years.

“The first time was back in 2007 when the chapter was first chartered,” Secretary Logan Gallardo said. “We wanted to do it this year, though, and bring back all the things the chapter stands for.”

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was founded in 1920 by five African American women to address societal issues, ills, prejudices, poverty and health concerns of the day.

Just as Zeta Phi Beta has sought to adapt to the current needs of a new era, Finer Womanhood month focuses on personal wellness and staying healthy as a woman in modern times.

“I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of programming they put together,” Jennifer Letner, fraternity and sorority life coordinator, said. “They have a nice variety and I think they’ve got some good information to give.”

The events began March 16 with Pin UpZ Bowling Night and will conclude with Zumba with the Zetas from 7:20-8:30 p.m. on Tuesday in Mabee gym.

“Because we’ve had the help and support from the faculty and staff, we’ve been able to take an idea and have it blossom into something bigger,” Shackelford said.

Treasurer Stephanie Nelson and Vice President Amanda Sams will host the events along with Shackelford and Gallardo.

Even though the events are labeled Finer Womanhood, most events are open to both males and females.

“They’re aiming to get the other greek houses involved as well,” Letner said. “Hopefully they’ll all come out and support.”

Zeta Phi Beta members hope that through Finer Womanhood activities, the rest of the campus can become more aware of their sorority and what they stand for.

“We hope that by offering these events everyone can see what we’re about and start recognizing us as a developing organization on campus,” Shackelford said.