History

Seven courageous women: Marjorie A. Davis, Josephine Ivey, Marguerite Miller, Juanita C. Phillips, Frances W. Scruggs, Roberta Sturgis and Ellyn F. Walters, motivated by the urge and desire for cultural affairs and political action programs, defined a new course of action for Broward County. They combined their talents and ingenuity to captivate the attention of the African-American community by organizing the first Greek-letter organization in Broward County, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, thereby Delta Eta Zeta was chartered. These courageous women and members of the organization accepted the challenge to continue networking with influential residents in the community, solicited their help providing opportunities (Volunteerism) that promote society’s agenda to improve the literary, cultural and educational standard for everyone.

The chapter's conception and vision of a special cultural event involving outstanding young women led to the birth of the first Debutante Cotillion, which was held at Dillard High School Cafeteria. It was the first of its kind in Broward County. Our focus on youth and their total development was always essential to the success of our outreach programs.

The Debutante Cotillion continued to grow and moved from Dillard High School's gymnasium to The Governor's Club, which was the first time the cotillion was held in a hotel. Additional scholarships were established to promote higher education in the community.

Marks the 25th year, (Silver Anniversary) of the Debutante Cotillion. As Broward County continued to grow, so did Delta Eta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, continuing to focus on expanding the many multicultural and educational opportunities that touch the lives of today’s youth and their families.

Teamwork, sacrifice, hard work, dedication, and creativity were the cornerstone of the members’ many accomplishments. As a result of becoming more visionary and twice as adventurous toward the challenges of participating in the development of the new innovative program, the Delta Eta Zeta Chapter was recognized nationally as a “Model Chapter.”

The Debutante Cotillion emerged as An Evening of Royal Elegance, is now 48 years old and has evolved into the most phenomenal cultural event of the year in Broward County with 20 participants annually and attendance of over 150 guests. Scholarships awarded total over $10,000.00.

The first Masters' Ball is incorporated with the Debutante Cotillion, spotlighting the accomplishments of African-American young men scholarship dollar amounts were increased.
Since its inception, hundreds of Broward County's families have experienced the elegance of this cultural event. The Cotillion and Masters' Ball involves the entire family of the Debutante from beginning to end. The presentation of the Debutante and Master by either parents or guardians has always been one of the monumental highlights of the Cotillion. Debutantes are chosen from former Sub-Debutantes and high school seniors who exhibit outstanding qualities in scholarship, leadership, community service and FINER WOMANHOOD!

The Debutante Cotillion is 50 years old, “The Golden Anniversary,” aptly described as beautiful, strong and resistant, made its debut under the Zeta D.O.V.E. Foundation (Zeta Developing, Outreach, Volunteerism, and Education), a 501c (3) non-profit organization. The organization was created for the purpose of securing grants and corporate sponsorships to extend the educational opportunities of our youth.

We have come a long way since 1954 and the legacy continues... As the flight of the dove sustains we have hopes and dreams for our youth for generations to come.