Members of Zeta Phi Beta, Baker University’s historically black sorority, made one of their first campus appearances as they celebrated the organization’s Founder’s Day Jan. 16.

“It was a celebration of who they are and letting people know who they are,” said Bryan VanOsdale, director of greek life. “They did their step and stroll, told the people in attendance about the history of Zeta Phi Beta and shared what the organization stands for.”

VanOsdale said having the sorority at Baker will provide a nice contrast to other organizations.

“It is a great day for Baker University. Today we are allowed to have the rich history of Zeta Phi Beta here,” he said.

Multicultural Affairs Coordinator Ron Holden said Zeta Phi Beta is not Baker’s first try at a historically black organization.

“In the ’90s, there were students who tried to get charters at Baker who were not able to,” Holden said.

VanOsdale also said students should not be concerned about Zeta Phi Beta taking the place of other greek organizations or clubs on campus.

Freshman Samantha McCale said she considered becoming a Zeta Phi Beta member but decided greek life was not for her.

“It is an interesting idea, and I think it’s great to have another sorority here,” she said. “It opens up new doors and could help with recruitment of students, too. I don’t mind them coming at all.”

Like other campus sororities, Zeta Phi Beta members do philanthropy work with Z-HOPE, which stands for Zetas Helping Other People Excel. One main focus of Z-HOPE is Stork’s Nest, a program in which Zeta Phi Beta members work to encourage women to seek prenatal care early in pregnancy.

Members of other sororities on campus refer to one another as “sisters.” Zeta Phi Beta members refer to one another as “sorors.” The term, commonly used by many historically black greek organizations, comes from a shortened version of the word “sorority.”