Lashandra Garner & Tuscaloosa Zetas Champion Servant Leadership

Townsend Nissan proudly presents the 2026 Black History Makers of Alabama, a celebration of excellence, impact, and legacy.

This special initiative is brought to you by Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa, 92.9 WTUG, Praise 93.3, 105.1 The Block, and The Tuscaloosa Thread, alongside our valued community partners, the Tuscaloosa Branch of the NAACP and the Tuscaloosa County–West Alabama Chapter of the NPHC, united in honoring the individuals who shape our community and inspire the next generation.

2026 Black History Maker of Alabama – Lashandra Garner

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated - Beta Eta Zeta Chapter

Beta Eta Zeta Background

In the mid-1950s, a vision began to take shape in Tuscaloosa County. Recognizing the importance of sisterhood, service, and organized impact, Lula Frierson set out in 1956 to bring together the Zeta sisters in the area and lay the groundwork for a graduate chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

With steadfast support from fellow Zetas Josephine Harris Turner, Evelyn Mims, Johnnie Harris Howard, Annie Hatchett, and Grace Tooson, she helped transform that vision into reality, establishing a chapter that would grow into a lasting and meaningful presence in the community.

“With guidance from Dr. Maggie B. Daniels of Alabama State University, the Beta Eta Zeta chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was successfully chartered on February 26, 1956,” said the press release.

From its earliest days, the Beta Eta Zeta Chapter has stood as a vibrant and influential presence in the Tuscaloosa community. Since 1957, the chapter has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to education by awarding scholarships to deserving high school graduates and college students.

Through purposeful service initiatives and meaningful community engagement, Beta Eta Zeta continues to champion academic achievement while expanding its reach and deepening its impact across the Tuscaloosa area.

Beta Eta Zeta Chapter President

Lashandra Garner embodies the spirit of servant leadership, mentorship, and community advocacy, carrying forward the rich and enduring legacy of Black leadership and service across Alabama.

A dedicated member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Garner was initiated in 2019 through the Iota Eta Chapter at The University of Alabama. She now serves as President of the Beta Eta Zeta Chapter in Tuscaloosa. She previously held the elected position of Second Vice President, serving as the chapter’s primary Undergraduate Advisor.

As Chapter President, Garner works in close partnership with local, state, regional, and international leadership to ensure members remain informed, engaged, and equipped to serve with excellence. Her leadership approach is rooted in strong organization, meaningful collaboration, and a profound respect for the trailblazers whose legacy continues to guide her work.

Black History in Alabama matters because it shows us where we came from and why we cannot afford to repeat the past. It is a story of resilience, strength, and progress that we don’t just remember, but live and carry forward every day. - Lashandra Garner

Beyond her executive leadership, Garner serves as both an Undergraduate Advisor and Zeta Youth Advisor, reflecting her passion for mentoring and empowering the next generation through guidance and example. She previously chaired the Social Action Committee for three years, spearheading initiatives focused on civic engagement, health awareness, and community advocacy. She continues her service through the Events and Fundraising Committee, supporting volunteer efforts, scholarship programs, and sisterhood initiatives that uplift the community and strengthen chapter unity.

Garner holds a Bachelor of Science in Apparel and Textiles from The University of Alabama and a Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship and Family Business from Louisiana State University, Shreveport.

Through her leadership, service, and mentorship, Lashandra Garner continues to honor Black history by actively shaping its future through uplifting communities, empowering others, and embodying the principles of Scholarship, Service, Sisterhood, and Finer Womanhood.

Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa thanks Townsend Nissan for supporting our yearly Black History Makers of Alabama spotlight. Be sure to visit them at 2620 Skyland E Blvd, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405.

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