Sheila E. Inducted as Honorary Member of Zeta Phi Beta

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. has announced the induction of Grammy Award-winning artist Sheila E. as an Honorary Member. The induction took place on July 11, 2026, as part of a ceremony welcoming a distinguished class of women into the sorority’s ranks.

The Alpha Omega Chapter Class of 2026 was inducted during a special ceremony at Zeta Phi Beta’s International Grand Boulé in Nashville, Tennessee. According to the sorority, Honorary Membership is the highest recognition the sorority bestows upon non-members, reserved for women whose contributions have made a significant impact in their professions, communities, and society at large.

Sheila E., born Sheila Cecilia Escovedo, is a Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, percussionist, producer, and humanitarian whose career has spanned more than five decades. Known as the “Queen of Percussion,” she has collaborated with legendary artists including Prince, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, and Lionel Richie. Through her Elevate Hope Foundation and Elevate Oakland, she advocates for abused and neglected children and expands access to youth arts and music education in underserved public schools.

As an Honorary Member, Sheila E. will support the sorority through Z-HOPE™ and the Zeta Youth Auxiliary Programs, enriching the lives of youth through education, leadership development, and the arts.

Gina Merritt-Epps, Esq., International First Vice President for Membership, spoke to the significance of the class, stating, “The Alpha Omega Chapter recognizes extraordinary women who exemplify Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood, and we are honored to welcome this exceptional class into the Zeta sisterhood.”

Dr. Stacie N.C. Grant, International President & CEO of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, emphasized the significance of this distinguished class and the impact of their collective contributions. “Their achievements have inspired countless lives, and we are honored to welcome them into our sisterhood as we continue creating lasting impact together.”

Sheila E. joins a distinguished group of women inducted into the Class of 2026, including Tennessee State Representative Karen D. Camper, Pamela Champion, Aliya Crawford, Dr. Grisanthia “San” Franklin, Cheryl “Coko” Gamble, Danielle Green, Taral Hicks-Dawson, Sheri Jones-Moffett, Valerie “Chef Val” Knight, Dr. Milan Love McPherson, Niecy Nash-Betts, Elise Neal, Patti Phillips, Councilwoman Nichole L. Rogers, U.S. Representative Lateefah Simon, Kellee Stewart, and Jenisha Watts.