Since Zeta Tau Alpha's founding in 1898 at Longwood College in Farmville, Virginia, it has provided the opportunity of membership to over 158,000 young women.

The mission of Zeta Tau Alpha is "to make a difference in the lives of its members by developing the potential of each individual through visionary programming which emphasizes leadership development, service to others, academic success and continued personal growth for women with a commitment to friendship and future based on the values and traditions of our past." The ZTA mission statement, creed, ritual, and open motto "Seek the Noblest" make the values of sisterhood and service strong throughout a lifetime membership in Zeta Tau Alpha.

1992, ZTA adopted The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation as its national philanthropy. Later, the Fraternity broadened its focus to encompass not only the Komen Foundation, but also other educational means dedicated to fighting breast cancer through education, awareness and promoting breast health. Furthermore, each alumnae and collegiate chapter generally volunteers with one or more local philanthropy of its choosing in addition to their support of the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation and ZTA’s national philanthropy.

Nickname: Zeta's
Symbols: Strawberries & 5-pointed Crown
Colors: Turquoise Blue & Steel Gray
Flower: White Violet
Founded Nationally: 1898
Philanthropy: Breast Cancer Research and Awareness