Xi Zeta chapter was organized December 5, 1935 in Saint Louis, Missouri by Sorors Bernice Bolar, Hattie Gilliam, Juanita O’Crey Palmer, Lou Swartz, and Lucille Ogden-Alexander.
Under the leadership of Xi Zeta’s first President, Soror Lou Swartz, the chapter was quickly recognized as one of the premier service organization among local Greek letter chapters in St. Louis. Notable events the chapter was involved included the Dickson Center, which was a recreational center for children. In 1937, Xi Zeta began making financial donations to the center and directed many of its educational and extracurricular activities. When the building was facing closure, Xi Zeta purchased the building and continued with providing guidance through education and extracurricular activities.
Xi Zeta assisted soldiers during World War II. During that era, Pearl Harbor was bombed, and St. Louis businesses converted their efforts to supporting the war. Xi Zeta helped support the military men, women, and their families serving on active duty at Jefferson Barracks. In 1992, Xi Zeta helped fight adult literacy by providing tutoring and counseling at the Wellston Learning Center. Xi Zeta Chapter members helped to renovate Birch Haven, which was willed to the Sorority in the Last Will and Testament of our 8th Grand Basileus, Soror Violette Anderson, December 1, 1937.
Today, Xi Zeta remains dedicated to building on traditions past and blazing paths for the future. We are an award winning chapter that embodies the meaning, “Building on the principles of Zeta while blazing new paths” (Mary B. Wright, 24th International President).
Xi Zeta’s success is due to its members. Xi Zeta Chapter proudly showcases our chapter members and all Zetas who are actively promoting positive change in our communities. The excellence and recognition Xi Zeta continues to earn through scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood can be viewed on our Facebook, Instagram, and chapter website.
