Taral Hicks-Dawson Inducted as Honorary Member of Zeta Phi Beta

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. has announced the induction of actress and singer Taral Hicks-Dawson 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.

Taral Hicks-Dawson is an actress, singer, and entertainer whose career has spanned more than three decades in film, television, music, and theater. Best known for her roles in A Bronx Tale and Belly, she also found success as a Motown recording artist with the hit single “Silly.” Beyond entertainment, she is an advocate for Alzheimer’s and dementia awareness, mental health support, and domestic abuse awareness, using her platform to promote healing and education for individuals and families.

As an Honorary Member, Hicks-Dawson will support the sorority through Z-HOPE™, advancing health education and providing hope and resources to vulnerable populations.

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.”

Hicks-Dawson joins a distinguished group of women inducted into the Class of 2026, including Tennessee State Representative Karen D. Camper, Pamela Champion, Sheila E., Aliya Crawford, Dr. Grisanthia “San” Franklin, Cheryl “Coko” Gamble, Danielle Green, 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.