Impact of Pi Zeta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Endowed Scholarship

In deciding where to spend her four years of college, Zoe-Patrique Umelo searched for a school where she could immerse herself in the community through mentorship, service, and leadership. She found her dream school at UNCG.

“From 2020 through 2022, I was a member of Strong Residential College, which played a major role in my college career,” says Umelo, who is studying human development on a pre-med track. “Because we had classes in the place where we lived, my professors watched me develop every step of the way. I made most of my friends in the residential program.”

In addition to having received support at Strong, Umelo was the first recipient of the Pi Zeta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Endowed Scholarship her junior year.

“I’m grateful for this scholarship, which supported me financially so I could give my time and effort to the community that made me who I am today.” — Zoe-Patrique Umelo

Alpha Phi Alpha’s endowed fund was established in celebration of the Pi Zeta chapter’s 30th anniversary of chartering at UNCG, through the brothers’ individual gifts and pledges. Recipients must demonstrate leadership skills and community service on their application, and participation in a minority-serving student organization is preferred.

Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African Americans, was founded in 1906 at Cornell University. Its founders laid a firm foundation: scholarship, manly deeds, and the uplifting of all humanity. The fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the fight for civil rights.

Now a senior, Umelo says, “If I could talk to the donors today, I would express my gratitude for this scholarship, which has shaped my college career in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Now as I finish my last year as an undergrad, I want to continue all the things I’ve learned and help future generations find their way at UNCG.”

Learn about the Light the Way campaign, which seeks to raise $200 million to increase access, elevate academic excellence, and enhance the tremendous impact of UNCG’s programs, at lighttheway.uncg.edu.