The Zeta Xi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated was founded on January 18, 1956, A.D., in Evanston, Illinois, during the tenure of General President Milton C. Davis. The original Charter Members are Robert L. Barrett, Theodore Harding, Scott N. Harper, Nathaniel C. Hawk, William Martin, James L. Patrick, Charles M. Smith, Joseph W. Swafford, Arnold F. Winfield, and Prentice H. Winfield.

After a period of inactivity, the Zeta Xi Lambda chapter, a testament to our fraternity's resilience, was re-chartered on a memorable day, September 1, 2004, in Champaign, Illinois. The Recharter Members, who breathed new life into our chapter, were Alton Arrindell, Edward Bland, Charles Bridges III, William Campbell III, Arthur B. Cooper, Jamal Maatuka and Schaffe B. Smith. On September 4, 2004, following a University of Illinois football tailgate party, the chapter was officially installed during a solemn installation ceremony at the Lone Star Lodge #18 Free and Accepted Masons, Prince Hall affiliated.

In its early days after the recharter, the Zeta Xi Lambda chapter held its meetings at the Champaign Housing Authority, situated at 205 W. Park Ave, Champaign, IL 61820, where Bro. Edward Bland was the director. When the housing was no longer available, the chapter met at Bro. Arthur B. Cooper's State Farm office, located at 408 N. Race St, Urbana, IL 61801.

Today, the Zeta Xi Lambda chapter has launched a mentorship program and the Arthur B. Cooper scholarship as part of our Go to High School Go to College National Program effort here in Champaign.  The chapter also boasts several prominent members including medical doctors, dentists, professors, teachers, and businessmen.  Zeta Xi Lambda continues to work towards developing leaders, promoting brotherhood and academic excellence while serving their local communities.