OUR STORY

The Zeta Mu Omega Chapter was chartered on February 26, 1955 by a dedicated group of sixteen college-educated women who were determined to bring the ideals and principles of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, IncorporatedⓇ to the Gaston County, NC area. 

The first chapter president, Gladys E. Carter, served from 1955-1957 and oversaw the initial growth in membership, as six additional members were added to the chapter in 1956. The first Debutante Cotillion was held on December 8, 1956, and 51 debutantes were presented. Miss Patricia Crawford of Belmont reigned as queen. Also, in 1956, the chapter distributed scholarships in the amount of $250 to worthy students at their commencement exercises. The second chapter president, Margaret W. Wilson, served from 1957-1959 and 1967-1969. She is also noted for her contribution as composer of the music and lyrics to the Zeta Mu Omega chapter hymn. 

In keeping with Alpha Kappa Alpha’s theme of “service to all mankind,” Zeta Mu Omega is involved in local and national service programs. Some of the local programs include Catherine’s House, a women’s shelter; Crisis Assistance Ministry; Gaston County Alliance for Children; the Salvation Army; the Schiele Museum; the T. Jeffers After School Program; the House of Mercy, a home and caring center for people with HIV/AIDS; and the United Arts Council. On a national scale, the chapter contributes to the NAACP, Africare, and the United Negro College Fund.

Zeta Mu Omega continues to financially support all of these programs and actively volunteers with many of them.