On February 28, 1969, seven men accepted the task of becoming the first African American Fraternity on the campus of the University of Georgia. These men, affectionately known as the Pearls of Zeta Pi were Eddie Cheeks, Alan Jackson, Richard Morgan, Bennie Roberson, Michael Stover, Russell Williams, and Alonzo Wilson. Appropriately, just as there were seven original jewels, there were seven men to establish the Zeta Pi Chapter at the University of Georgia.
In spite of the barriers of attending a predominantly white university, the reception of a fraternity was good. Finally, on May 10, 1969, the members of the Sphinx Club became members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. By doing so, the men started a tradition of excellence that has been carried on for 35 continuous years. From that point, the Zeta Pi Chapter has grown in number and in spirit. To date over 200 young and talented men have been initiated into the prestigious Zeta Pi Chapter.
As a service fraternity, out goals have changed very little over the years, thus as present members we hope to continue the work and carry out the ideals that have been bestowed upon us. We, the brothers of Zeta Pi hope to do our part to continue the legacy of upholding the light of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. We actively work with our sponsoring Alumni Chapter, Eta Iota Lambda, to carry out many projects in the northeast Georgia community. Also, members are very involved on campus in the honors program, as foundation fellows, members of blue key, and a host of other academic programs. Likewise, past and current members have served as members of the Student Government Association, Redcoat Marching Band, Arch Society, Black Affairs Council, Resident Assistants (RA), CLASS Advocates (CA), BEST Counselors, and numerous academic clubs.
After the service is completed, the social aspect of the chapter is very much alive. The chapter has won many step show competitions receiving both trophies and cash prizes. Also, the chapter participates in many social activities with other Greek organizations from the NPHC, Pan Hellenic and Inter-Fraternity Councils. Finally, the chapter raises money for charities by hosting two renowned parties – The Gorilla Thrilla held each fall and the largest pajama party in the southeast held in the spring of each year.
The purpose of the Zeta Pi Chapter is to be a humble servant of Alpha and continue to support our motto, “first of all, servants of all, we shall transcend all”. Likewise, with the “Spirit of ‘69” in our hearts and minds, we continue our relentless efforts to uphold the aims of scholarship, manly deeds, and love for all mankind.