History & Legacy of Tea with Z
Named in honor of Zora Neale Hurston, pioneering author, folklorist, anthropologist, and proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Tea with Z began over three decades ago in 1994 as a small gathering hosted by the Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. to celebrate Zora Neale Hurston, as well as to highlight culture and the arts. Over the years, it has grown into one of the most anticipated scholarship events in Metro Atlanta, drawing an intergenerational, co-ed audience across social, civic, and professional sectors.
For 45 years, the Kappa Iota Zeta chapter has served the SoFu area: South Fulton, East Point, and the greater Atlanta region—awarding more than $100,000 in scholarships and uplifting countless students. Tea with Z continues this legacy with purpose. Each year, the event raises funds to support college-bound scholars and to celebrate leaders who embody Zora’s spirit of scholarly achievement, courage, and community impact.
The 2026 theme is “Fans and Fedoras”—a fun, stylish, cultural nod to tradition and flair. There are several iconic pictures of Zora wearing a stylish hat. The event will be held Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 1-4 pm, at the beautiful Savanna Hall at Zoo Atlanta in The Carlos Ballroom. Guests will enjoy a classic afternoon tea menu with elegant service, the beloved Hattitude Stroll, where attendees showcase stylish hats and statement pieces, and award presentations to college-bound scholarship recipients. There will also be recognition of distinguished community leaders who exemplify excellence and service and live entertainment from Pretty Stringz, a violinist known for fusing classical technique with contemporary flair and the EQ Band (Ernest Quarles Band), delivering an elevated musical experience blending jazz, soul, and culture. Guests can expect an afternoon that seamlessly blends sophistication, cultural pride, artistry, and philanthropy.
SoFu Lifestyle got to sit down with Tea Chairwoman Marea White and President Michelle Langham-Robinson, Esq.
On the History and Purpose
“Tea with Z began as a small sisterhood gathering over 30 years ago, and today it has evolved into a premier scholarship event that uplifts our youth and honors those who embody Zora Neale Hurston’s spirit of brilliance, artistry, and boldness.”
On the Event Experience
“Tea with Z is more than an event—it’s an experience. Guests come for the elegance of afternoon tea, the fun of the Hattitude Stroll, and the vibrancy of our entertainment, but they leave inspired by the scholars whose lives are transformed through these funds.”
“This year’s ‘Fans and Fedoras’ theme brings a fresh, fashionable energy to the experience. We’re blending timeless sophistication with cultural flair in a way that evokes the spirit of Zora.”
The entertainment will feature Pretty Stringz and the EQ Band at Tea with Z 2026. Their artistry brings a dynamic fusion of classical and contemporary sound that elevates the entire afternoon.
“Our entertainment is always carefully curated. Pretty Stringz and the EQ Band reflect the excellence, creativity, and cultural heartbeat that make Tea with Z unforgettable.”
On the Impact
“When you support Tea with Z, you are investing in the next generation of leaders. You are helping us turn academic dreams into reality.”
“Every scholarship we award represents a legacy of service and a belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for changing lives and communities.”
“Our community shows up year after year because we all believe in the transformative power of education. Together, we are building futures.”
“For our chapter, scholarship isn’t just a principle—it is a promise. Every year, Tea with Z allows us to keep that promise by opening the doors of opportunity for outstanding college-bound scholars.”
Tea with Z is first and foremost a scholarship fundraiser aimed at opening doors for promising college-bound students. The chapter’s goal for 2026 is to double the amount of scholarship funds raised, expanding their ability to support educational equity.
Tickets are available at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/zetaphibetasororityinckappaiotazetachapter/1925342
Photo Caption: ZNH 2025 Scholarship Recipient Camille Richardson
· Spirit of Zora 2025 Community Awardee Mayor of Union City Vince Williams
· Kappa Iota Zeta Chapter President Michelle Langham Robinson, Esq.
· Spirit of Zora 2025 Community Awardee Valerie Richardson Jackson
· Spirit of Zora 2025 Community Awardee Roslyn Young-Daniels,
· ZNH 2025 Scholarship Recipient Fatmata Sow