Ninety-two years ago, a trailblazing group of Black nurses founded something revolutionary. In 1932, when racism kept them out of professional spaces and hospitals, Aliene Carrington Ewell and 11 fellow nurses organized Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc. at Freedman’s Hospital in Washington, D.C.
Their mission was simple but powerful: to elevate the plane of nursing and increase interest in the profession, particularly among African Americans.
Today, Chi Eta Phi has grown into a national force with more than 9,000 members nationwide. However, the Zeta Chi Chapter stands out as one of its most vibrant and impactful chapters in Houston. This year marks their 62nd year of service. The organization continues to embody the founding spirit of “Service for Humanity” through grassroots health initiatives, mentorship and fierce advocacy.
Grounded in excellence
Under the leadership of Chapter President Cheryl Tims, BSN, RN, Zeta Chi has earned Chi Eta Phi’s highest honor—the STAR Award—for four consecutive years. The award is given to chapters that best align with the national mission.
“This organization was started in a time when Black nurses were not allowed to join other organizations and practice in all hospitals,” said Tims. “While these challenges may not present the same way today there are still challenges nurses of color face regarding having to prove their value, dealing with microaggressions.”
“We’re proud to be the first chapter in the Middlesouth Region,” added Dr. Racquell Garrett. “Zeta Chi is also home to six former regional directors, and in 2023 we celebrated our 60th anniversary. That kind of legacy isn’t just history—it’s a foundation we’re building on every day.”
Their impact goes far beyond accolades. The chapter routinely partners with major organizations like the Epilepsy Foundation, the Lupus Foundation of America and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s Heart Truth for Women campaign. Locally, they conduct blood pressure screenings, organize COVID-19 vaccination clinics, and raise thousands annually for causes like the March of Dimes and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Advocacy woven into every thread
Ask any member of Zeta Chi, and they’ll tell you: nursing is advocacy.
“Nurses advocate for patients, ensuring they receive the best care within the hospital and the community,” said Michelle Frank, Chair of Health Advocacy and Social Policy. “Zeta Chi unites nurses from multi-specialty areas who understand the importance of advocacy beyond their organization’s walls. Our members work with specialty organizations and legislators to influence healthcare policies that will advance the nursing profession and address healthcare issues.”
Garrett echoed that sentiment, adding, “Advocacy by nurses happens at the bedside, in boardrooms, on Capitol Hill and in classrooms. We promote changes in practice, testify before Congress about unsafe staffing and help develop laws that protect our most vulnerable populations.”
A safe space for Black nurses
While the profession has evolved since 1932, Black nurses still face unique challenges.
“Some challenges Black nurses still face today are being dismissed and not taken seriously by doctors,” said Jasmine Craven, undergraduate sponsor and mentor to students at Prairie View A&M University. “Chi Eta Phi works to address this by elevating and encouraging our Sorors to go back to school and receive higher education so we can advocate for our patients at the highest level.”
That emphasis on education is more than talk. Zeta Chi annually awards scholarships to nursing students at Prairie View A&M University—most recently, two $4,000 scholarships. Many members also serve as professors, shaping the next generation of nurses not only through textbooks, but through lived experience.
Craven said the support she’s received from the sorority has been life-changing.
“Nursing isn’t an easy career, but it is rewarding. With the sisterly advice and guidance of Chi Eta Phi, it inspires me to be the change I want to see. Chi Eta Phi has provided me with mentors and a space where I can grow as a person, nurse and leader. There is no other organization like Chi Eta Phi because we all have one thing in common—and that is Service for Humanity.”
Reaching the next generation
The legacy continues through Zeta Chi Beta, the Prairie View A&M University undergraduate chapter, where Craven plays a key advisory role.
“We go out into underrepresented communities and show young people there are people who look like them in the nursing field doing incredible things,” she said. “That visibility is so powerful. Representation matters.”
Through mentorship, community service, policy advocacy, and a legacy of Black excellence, Chi Eta Phi’s Zeta Chi Chapter is not just elevating the nursing profession—it’s transforming it.For more on Zeta Chi’s work and how to get involved, visit zetachichapter.clubexpress.com.
