Charter members(l-r):  Lillie J.Madison (Sec.-Treas.), Jesselyn L.  Harrison (Vice-President), Carmen Jordan-Dunphy (Historian/Parliamentarian), April B. Thompson-Ocana (President), Valerie E. Ducre (Treasurer), Antonia V. Aultman (Secretary)

On October 19, 2003, six phenomenal women ended a long journey to establish a new beginning of excellence in the city of Slidell, Louisiana.  The chartering of Tau Kappa Zeta Graduate Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was founded.  Charter members, Antonia Venice Aultman, Valerie Elizabeth Ducré, Jesselyn L. Harrison, Carmen Jordan-Dunphy, Lillie J. Madison and April B. Thompson-Ocaña were eager and determined to bring the principles of their illustrious sorority to the citizens of Slidell.  These women possessed the intelligence, drive and vivaciousness needed to enter the forefront of community service leaders. 

Since Tau Kappa Zeta’s inception they have provided the community with several successful programs that are highly attended each year.  TKZ with the help of their auxiliary group, the Zeta Amicae of Slidell, presents an annual free seminar to discuss today’s issues to better ourselves:   mind, body and spirit.  The chapter has also been involved with youth seminars which focused on exercise, nutrition, Kwanzaa and Christmas traditions around the world.  Also, TKZ, has sponsored seminars for teens that focused on career opportunities, how to apply for colleges and financial aid and self-esteem issues.

Tau Kappa Zeta has also been invited and participated in such events as Black History Programs and the annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. march.  Also, TKZ is privileged to give area students, scholarships, funded by yearly fundraisers such as the Zeta for Scholarships garage sale, Jazz Festival raffle, and annual Zeta Ball.  We have been recognized on the regional and national levels for continued service and commitment. 

After Hurricane Katrina, TKZ, became involved with the rebuilding of Slidell.  We have participated in the city wide Slidell Clean Up and have partnered with the Keep Slidell Beautiful project by adopting a street to continue our efforts to serve Slidell. 

We are excited about our accomplishments in the community of Slidell, but will not rest on our laurels. We look forward to continued excellence, contribution and dedication from our members to those who we serve in the community. 

Tau Kappa Zeta Graduate Chapter is a proud member of the "Mighty" Southern Region of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

For more information about Tau Kappa Zeta Graduate Chapter

E-mail us at zpb-tkzo@zpb-tkz.org