S i g m a L a m b d a U p s i l o n / S e ño r i t a s L a t i n a s U n i d a s S o r o r i t y , I n c .

ΣΛΥ

Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc.

P.O. Box 4170 Grand Central Station New York, NY 10163

Telephone & Fax: 1-866-804-7678

www.sigmalambdaupsilon.org

“EMPOWERMENT: One Word at a Time” Sincer i ty

Loya l t y

Un i ty

Hi s to ry

Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. was established on December 1, 1987 with the intention to address the lack of support provided to woman of color and Latinos in higher education. Founded at Binghamton University in Binghamton, New York, Sigma Lambda Upsilon’s goal is to establish and maintain sisterhood, academic excellence, leadership, service to the community and college/university campuses & cultural enrichment while meeting the needs of the Latino Community. From its beginning, Sigma Lambda Upsilon has committed itself to empowering and revitalizing all communities of color. Although Latino based, we are not “Latino exclusive.” The organization serves as an outlet for women of all culturally diverse backgrounds, and offers an opportunity for women to fellowship and network as each Hermana looks to develop socially, academically, emotionally, professionally, and spiritually. Over a decade later, the Hermanas of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. continue the legacy of its Founders’ by effectively bridging the gap between the Latino community and the campuses they represent. Today, our purpose remains to unite women committed to seeking excellence. Sigma Lambda Upsilon is determined to developing its members to become: · Involved in their campuses and local communities · Culturally aware · Professional · Academically advanced · Committed to sisterhood Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. is looking for women that have aspirations, pride, fortitude and dedication to accomplishing their personal goals and that of the organization.

Founding

Mothers

Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. rejoices in the moments of sisterhood. Our sisterhood does not stop at a chapter level; nationally, we create various opportunities to strengthen the bond between each individual member. Sigma Lambda Upsilon is committed to fortifying our bond through our unique pledge process, National Founders’ Day Convention, Hermana Nights and much more.

We organize and participate in numerous community activities. Our community contribution allows us to redefine the desire to assist those in need. Many of our service activities are based on our Hermanas’ passion to give back to our communities. Through volunteerism, we have the opportunity to grow together and learn how we can help to change the lives of citizens in society as well as our Hermanas, for the better.

Each chapter of the Sorority has a mix of cultural identities. We pride ourselves on sharing and embracing each other’s individual history and culture; we also like to share this information with the community. The Organization incorporates cultural awareness in many of its programs in

Chapters at 7 of the 8

Ivy League Colleges/Universities

order to help educate members of the Sorority and raise public awareness of the richness of the Latino culture and other cultures. As Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. continues to grow and recognize Hermanas from all over the globe, members are reminded not forget our origins, but continue to implement new teachings and findings into our programming and sisterhood. Finally, we provide a social atmosphere for Hermanas to be themselves and celebrate in the prosperity of those who have similar yet different goals for herself. Every Hermana has many homes in this organization. She is respected and supported through all of her endeavors; for she will always have a place to call home with Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. promotes volunteerism, cultural enlightenment, social interaction, and academic excellence to engage Hermanas in a life of pluralism through leadership. We set examples for our community, our youth, and ourselves. Since 1987, Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. has expanded to over 35 universities. We have chapters at 7 of the 8 Ivy League Colleges and Universities across the United States of America. We also have established 14 Graduate/Professional chapters in: · New England: Massachusetts and Rhode Island · East Coast/Mid Atlantic: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland · West Coast: California · South: Texas and Florida · Mid West: Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana

Apply ing fo r Membersh ip

The pursuit of knowledge is to create positive changes for our families, communities, and ourselves. This theory is one of our organization's main goals because we believe that without an education we would be lost. A sound education is the key to our personal success and we foster these teachings during our membership intake process, by teaching such things as time management, different study skills, meeting deadlines, maintaining organization and much more.

We pride ourselves in the number of Hermanas that pursue graduate degrees after completing their undergraduate education or choose to enroll in the job market. In order to seek membership on a graduate/professional level, we encourage you to contact the local chapter in her area directly or the Director of Graduate Affairs for Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. at graduate-affairs@sigmalambdaupsilon.org. The Director of Graduate Affairs will be able to entertain any questions pertaining to graduate/professional membership as well as put you in contact with the chapter representative nearest you. Before acceptance into a pledge class, perspective graduate/professional members are required to attend at least one Formal Tea meeting sponsored by the Organization, and must have shown interest by attending a number of activities, amongst other things, for a minimum of six months. Activities include but are not limited to community services, events/workshops sponsored by the Theta Chapter, and participation in other Sorority sponsored programs. Once a perspective member is deemed eligible, she will be provided with an Application Package that must be completed and returned (fees apply) to the Theta Chapter. Top candidates will be chosen to interview with members of the Sorority. All applicants should have a bachelor’s degree. Candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree will be considered for GPC membership after completing one year of graduate course work having received a minimum cumulative GPA of a 3.0 or have three consecutive years of professional work and a letter of recommendation from their current employer. Please note that on a case-by-case basis, a minimum of 6 years professional work experience can be substituted for a bachelor’s degree.

These philosophies are some of the most important tools for academic success. Therefore, in order to be considered for undergraduate membership, applicants must have a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CUM) of a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale at a four-year college or university where a GPA system is used. Applicants should also be involved in campus and/or community activities, participated in sorority sponsored programs, and attended at least one Informal and Formal Tea event.

S in ce r i t y Our Hermandad is based on sincerity. We are

women who are honest, open-minded, and genuine with one another. We pride ourselves on establishing connections with Hermanas all

over the world. “We support each other through thick and thin, and beyond.”

L o ya l t y

Our Hermandad is based on loyalty. Our devotion to each other, our families, and our

Hermandad is priceless. We are dedicated to our goals, ideals, and each other. Our loyalty

to one another is our compass to dependable, phenomenon women.

Un i t y

Our Hermandad is based on unity. Our unity guides us and keeps us running. We

essentially bridge the gap between those of diverse cultures, creeds, ages, social classes,

sexual preferences, religions, and political beliefs. Our spirit of sincerity and loyalty

leads us to be unified and ultimately continues the legacy of our Hermandad.

Cu l tu ra l En r i ch me n t “You cannot know who you are, if you don’t

know where you’ve been.” Our culture is ours and it defines our past, embodies our

present, and directs our future. We support and encourage each Hermana to discover, preserve, and endorse the wealth of all our

heritages.

Se rv i ce to Ca mp u se s &

Co m mu n i t i e s We believe that every individual can

positively affect another individual. Giving back to others through unpaid service is a

“light of inspiration.” We devote ourselves to serving our campuses and communities and

provide support for their development as well as ours as an individual and an

Hermana.

L e ad e rsh i p Some leaders are born while others are

made. We believe that leadership can be attained through one’s personality, open

mindedness, and willingness to work with others. Encompass these attributes with

passion, motivation, and empowerment and you have one outstanding leader. We seek

such attributes in each Hermana and provide support with the development and

implementation of exceptional leadership qualities.

Aca d e mi c Exce l l en ce We believe that academic excellence is

imperative to maintain success. It enhances our ability to learn about others, our

environment, and ourselves. Each Hermana strives to excel academically and continues to

learn from her environment. Our growth is inevitable and we set out to conquer all odds

against us.

S i s te rh o o d We believe that sisterhood guides our path to continue to accomplish greatness and impact

our communities. Our ideals of sincerity, loyalty, and unity provide a basis for the

strength of our Hermandad and our relationships with Hermanas across the

country.

UNDERGRADUATE CHAPTE RS

Alpha Chapter Binghamton University Beta Chapter Buffalo State College/University at Buffalo/Daeman College Gamma Chapter University of Pennsylvania/Temple University/Bryn Mawr College/Drexel University Delta Chapter Brown University Epsilon Chapter State University of New York at Cortland Zeta Chapter State University of New York at Oswego Eta Chapter Syracuse University Theta Chapter Graduate Professional Chapters Iota Chapter Cornell University Kappa Chapter Princeton University Lambda Chapter Rutgers University-New Brunswick Mu Chapter University at Albany/Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute/Union College Nu Chapter Penn State University-University Park Xi Chapter University of Rhode Island Omicron Chapter New York University/City College

CUNY/Baruch College-CUNY Pi Chapter Yale University Rho Chapter Johnson and Wales University Sigma Chapter Reserved Tau Chapter Stevens Institute of Technology/Rutgers

University-Newark Upsilon Chapter University of Maryland-College Park Phi Chapter University of Massachusetts-Amherst Chi Chapter Boston, MA Psi Chapter Rochester Institute of Technology/University

of Rochester/St. John Fisher College/Nazareth College Omega Chapter Old Dominion University Alpha Alpha Chapter Columbia University/Barnard College Alpha Beta Chapter Dartmouth College Alpha Gamma Chapter George Washington University Alpha Delta Chapter State University of New York at Stonybrook Alpha Epsilon Chapter State University of New York at Plattsburgh Alpha Zeta Chapter Virginia Commonwealth University Alpha Eta Chapter Indiana University at Bloomington Alpha Theta Chapter Wesleyan University Alpha Iota Chapter Hamilton College Alpha Kappa Chapter Adelphi University Alpha Lambda Chapter Montclair University Alpha Mu Chapter State University of New York at New Palz Alpha Nu Chapter Grand Valley State University Alpha Xi Chapter Pace University Alpha Omicron Chapter University of Connecticut Alpha Pi Chapter Georgia State University

GRADUATE/PROFESSIONA L CHAPTERS

Theta Alpha Chapter New York City, NY Theta Beta Chapter Providence, RI Theta Gamma Chapter Albany, NY Theta Delta Chapter Texas Theta Epsilon Chapter Buffalo, NY Theta Zeta Chapter Philadelphia, PA Theta Eta Chapter New Jersey Theta Theta Chapter DC / VA / MD Theta Iota Chapter Miami & Tampa, FL Theta Kappa Chapter Southern / Northern California Theta Lambda Chapter Harrisburg, PA Theta Mu Chapter Boston, MA Theta Nu Chapter OH / MI / IN / IL Theta Xi Chapter Rochester, NY Theta Omicron Chapter Westchester, NY

Sisterhood

REJ OI CI N G I N T HE M OM E N TS OF S IS TE R H O O D

Welcome!

AN TI - HA ZI N G P OL I CY

The membership of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. does not condone and will not tolerate hazing in any manner. Our pledge process is intended to nurture and embody our sisterhood. Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. defines hazing as endangering the safety or mental and emotional health of a Dama (pledge), the physical abuse of a Dama, and the verbal abuse and threatening of a Dama.

No chapter, colony, student or alumnus shall conduct nor condone hazing activities. There shall not be any action taken or situation created, intentionally, whether on or off sorority premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. Such activities may include but are not limited to the following: use of alcohol; paddling in any form; engaging in public stunts and buffoonery; morally degrading or humiliating games and activities; and any other activities which are not consistent with academic achievement, fraternal law, ritual or policy or the regulations and policies of the educational institution or applicable state law. Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. indisputably prohibits any acts of hazing and requires Hermanas to reports such incidents. Any Hermana who engages in such activities will be thoroughly investigated by the National Judicial Board of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc., in accordance with the procedures set forth by the National Judicial Committee.

We prohibit any

acts of Hazing…

Saludos!

The Hermanas of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc., would like to thank you for your interest in our Sorority. This informational brochure will give you insight into our Sorority’s history, mission and goals, and where we are today as an organization. Having committed ourselves to empowering our communities, we serve not only as a voice for women in an academic setting, but provide sincere sisterhood and unconditional support to our members. Though Latina-base, Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. is not Latina exclusive. We are a non-discriminatory organization comprised of women from all cultures, creeds, disabilities, political beliefs, and sexual preferences. Over the years, the Hermandad has continued the legacy of our Founders’ by effectively bridging the gap between the Latino community and the campuses/communities we represent. We continue to promote volunteerism, cultural enlightenment, social interaction, and academic excellence to engage Hermanas in a life of leadership. We strive to set positive examples for our community, the youth, and ourselves. Through the leadership of our Hermanas, the Sorority has grown to over 30 undergraduate chapters at more than 40 campuses, establishing chapters at 7 of the 8 Ivy League Colleges/Universities, 14 graduate/professional chapters and has touched the lives of hundreds of women. Please visit us at www.sigmalambdaupsilon.org to learn more about the Señoritas and our Hermandad. Sincerely, Hermanas of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc.

Expansion

INTERESTED IN STARTING A CHAPTER OF SIGMA LAMBDA UPSILON/ SEÑORITAS LATINAS UNIDAS SORORITY, INC. AT YOUR SCHOOL?

Greetings from Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Senoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc., and thank you for your interest! In order to help you assess how you may become a member of our beloved Hermandad, there are a couple things you can do.

Third, because we want to get to know YOU as an individual and what your interest level is, we would like to invite you and other interested ladies to join our interest list server. Through this service, you will meet other women, like you, who are also interested in joining Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Senoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. as well as Hermanas (sisters) of our Organization. This is a great way to start a dialogue and to get to know each other on an informal basis. All that is required of you is an e-mail address. We sincerely hope that the above information has answered some of your initial questions. As always, we are eager to answer any other inquiries you may have. “If there is a will, there is a way…” so if you are interested in bringing our beloved Hermandad to your campus or becoming a member, we will do our best to work with you to achieve your goal. For questions/comments and information on where to forward your submission, please contact our Director of Expansion at expansion@sigmalambdaupsilon.org. We look forward to hearing from you. In the meantime, we wish you the best in your personal, academic, and professional endeavors!

First, to learn more about the Sorority and its members, we encourage you to contact the chapter(s) nearest you. You can find out what chapter(s) is near you by logging onto www.sigmalambdaupsilon.org/chapters.htm. There will be an e-mail address on the individual chapter link so that you can contact the Hermanas (sisters) at that particular chapter. As a result, you can set-up a date and time to meet our members, attend events and programs, and determine whether or not Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Senoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. is the right organization for you. Second, if your college/university is not located near an already established chapter of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Senoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc, then you are in the position to establish a chapter at your college/university. This is a huge endeavor, but if you are extremely interested in establishing a chapter of our sisterhood at your institution, it can most certainly be done. In order to do this, you must do the following:

Establish an interest group with a minimum of 6 women. What is an interest

group? An interest group is a group of women, who are undergraduate

Literacy

“EMP O WE R ME NT : O N E W O R D A T A T IM E. ”

National Philanthropy In 2000, Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. decided to focus its efforts and funding on literacy. A study by the National Adult Literacy Survey found that 23% of American adults function at the lowest reading level. Twenty-five percent of the respondents were immigrants, and 62% had ended school before completing high school; this represents approximately 44 million people. Not surprisingly, those with the fewest years of education and those who are new to the United States were most likely to have limited literacy skills. Among adults, Latinos have lower literacy levels than do Whites, both in general and even when they hold similar levels of educational attainment. Adults that cannot read were children that could not read. Did you know that at age four, Latino children tend to have less developed school-related skills than do White children? By age nine, Latino students lag behind in reading, mathematics, and science proficiency. Literacy Facts · 43% of people with the lowest literacy skills live in poverty. · 17% of people with the lowest literacy skills receive food stamps · 70% of people with the lowest literacy skills have no full or part time job. · Workers who lack a high school diploma earn a mean monthly income of $452 compared to $1,829 for those with a college degree.

“By the age of 9, Latino children lag behind

in reading, math, and science proficiency.”

students enrolled at a college /university, which have shown interest in our Sorority and wants to pursue membership. An interest group is generally created on a campus where we do not already have an existing chapter.

The interest group must submit a letter of intent to the Sorority explaining why they wish to bring Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Senoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. to their campus. All interested women must sign the letter and include a roster with everyone’s full name, mailing address, email address, phone numbers, year in school (i.e. freshman, senior, etc.), and it must indicate two primary contact persons.

The interest group must find out the procedures for establishing a chapter at their respective college /university. In other words, do you have an Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life at your school? If so, make an appointment with that office and find out what the requirements are for establishing a chapter of a Latina sorority. Make a copy of all those materials as well as the name, phone number, and e-mail address of the Greek Life contact person and include it in your application to Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Senoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. In your application packet, you must also include an application fee, which is a money order or check for $100.00 made payable to "Sigma Lambda Upsilon." This money goes towards processing fees, paperwork, and expenses towards the interest group.

Philanthropy Impact Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. advocates literacy as a means of ensuring the empowerment and success of our nation and of the people of its diverse communities. We strive to encourage literacy as an activity that affords limitless possibilities and promotes reading and writing as enjoyable, exciting, and empowering. Each year, the Sorority targets a particular population, defined by age, need, or location in which to focus its literacy efforts. The organization’s initiatives emphasize the importance of literacy in the lives of children, adolescents and adults. Their intention is to bring the richness and power of literature to the minds of each population. The Sorority’s work is based on the premise that literacy serves to uplift our communities by fostering confidence within people, so that they may advance toward their educational, personal, and professional goals. In turn, children may begin working toward establishing a foundation of success for our communities and our nation as whole. Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. has participated in several programs focusing on fostering a positive attitude toward reading for the entire family and the community. · National Book Drive: All of our organizations chapters have participated in soliciting books and funds from their campuses and local communities in order to donate to students and schools in need of books within each chapter’s local communities. · The Sorority has established of collection 0f a minimum of 1,000 books and spending at least 1,000 hours in literacy-related activities each academic year. · Participate in several literacy programs throughout the year such as Kids Day and LINC in NYC. · Conduct reading workshops. · Established book scholarships.

“I became interested in

Sigma Lambda

Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas

Unidas Sorority, Inc. as well

as a Noble Nine

organization and decided to

pursue SLU because of the

connections I saw among the

Hermanas. Since SLU was

not on my campus, I traveled

to Buffalo and Syracuse for

events and I had the

opportunity to experience

SLU’s greatness…Now,

I’m an Hermana and helped

to establish a chapter in

Rochester, NY.”

Denishea Flannigan

Psi Chapter Spring 2002

“As an Hermana, I am

most proud of our national

philanthropy and motto of

“Literacy:

Empowerment, One

Word at a Time”.

Through our continued

commitment to this cause, we

have leveraged the support of

many other organizations

and have empowered Latinos

to not only enjoy reading as a

leisure activity but have

convinced them that it’s the

root of knowledge. The

potential to collaborate with

us on this initiative is

endless. Others should

consider getting involved with

SLU so that together we can

help one more person achieve

excellence.”

Bernarda Arias

Beta Chapter

Spring 1999

National Initiatives Sigma Lambda PEARLS Mentorsh ip P rogram

Sigma Lambda Promoting Education, the Arts, our Roots, Leadership and Service The Sigma Lambda PEARLS Program was piloted by Hermana Maria Delgado in the Spring of 2000 with 15 fifth graders at P.S. 43 in the Bronx. The program is an independent non-profit mentorship program designed for girls ages 8 to 14 with the intention of instilling a sense of sisterhood, cultural pride, academic excellence and service to the community within its participants, through team-building activities and projects. Program participants are known as the Sigma Lambda PEARLS and work closely with the Hermanas of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc., who through their diverse careers and backgrounds exposes the PEARLS to opportunities and experiences that are many times denied to young girls in today's male-dominated society. The close relationship Hermanas have with the PEALS has helped the PEARLS develop pride in their culture and a passion for education. The Sorority has sponsored numerous academic and social events for the betterment of the PEARLS development. The Program’s Impact Since its founding, the PEARLS program has touched the lives of over 50 young girls who look to the program as an outlet for creativity and exposure to life outside their school walls and environment. The PEARLS have actively participated and raised funds for the following community service projects:

o AIDS Walk NY o New York Cares Spring Clean-Up o Breast Cancer Walk o March of Dimes Walk o Puerto Rican Day Parade in NYC

The PEARLS are also active participants of various Greek Life events such as:

Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. National Founders’ Day Convention

Stroll Exhibitions/Competitions

Step Shows

Sigma Lambda LADYS Mentorsh ip Program

Sigma Lambda for the Leadership, Advancement, and Development of our Young Sisters Using the success of the PEARLS program, the Sigma Lambda LADYS program was established in the Fall of 2001 by the Theta Epsilon Graduate/Professional Chapter of Buffalo/Rochester, New York. Understanding the sensitive issues young high school women face, Hermana Noemi Ayala wanted to create a curriculum that addressed and managed the needs of this population. Sigma Lambda for the Leadership, Advancement, and Development of our Young Sisters is a mentorship program geared toward young women ages 14 to 18 that promotes sisterhood, cultural pride, academic excellence and service to the community within its participants, with an emphasis on college and career preparation. Currently, we have Sigma Lambda LADYS programs in New York and Florida. The Program’s Impact Since its inception, the Sigma Lambda LADYS program has graduated 10 young women. The program has helped each participant gain college preparatory skills, develop professionally, gain knowledge about her culture and much more. Each of the participants have successfully completed high school and as a result of the Hermanas support and the prospectus of the program, participants were enabled to excel academically and be accepted to and attend institutions that include:

· Binghamton University · Buffalo State College · Lafayette College · New York University · Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute · Rochester Institute of Technology · St. John Fisher College · Syracuse University · University of Buffalo · University of Rochester

Upon successful completion of high school and the program, active participants are awarded with the Sigma Lambda LADYS Book Scholarship, a monetary scholarship to assist with the economic demands of institutions of higher learning.

NA TI O NAL FO U N D E RS’ D AY C O NVE N TI O N

Every year, during the first weekend in December, Hermanas from across the globe reunite to celebrate and rejoice in the fruition of sincerity, loyalty and unity. Members of the Sorority honor organization's establishment through an amazing weekend filled with outstanding educational, professional and culturally enriching workshops and programming. This annual event enables our Hermanas to enhance their development as students, campus leaders, professionals, mothers and local community members. In addition to the professional development portion, we utilize this time to recognize the astonishing accomplishments of our Hermanas and their respective chapters. We acknowledge their undying dedication and great strength in fulfilling the goals and ideals of the organization by awarding them with our National Cacique and/or Avance Awards. These awards are great incentives and motivators that keep our Hermanas continuously active in our sorority and in the community. During this time, a large formal banquet is also held in order to allow for downtime and Hermana bonding, in a different way. Hermanas are able to reconnect with old Hermanas and meet New Hermanas from across the country. Members also take this time to introduce close family and friends to the Sorority and showcase the talent of our lovely Hermanas

HE R MA N A RE T REA T

Strengthening our bond of Hermandad is an important element of our sorority. Each year, we sponsor a summer retreat where Hermanas share in each other’s company and have a wonderful time learning more about each other. During this time, Hermanas participate in various team building activities and strengthening exercises, while bonding and just having FUN!

NA TI O NAL P E RF O R MA N C E TE AM Savvy, Lively & Unique The National Performance Team represents SLU in step and stroll events. The “traditional step show" is not an all-encompassing representation of who we are; therefore we do not confine ourselves to that mold. Sigma Lambda Upsilon's National Performance Team does the "Greek thing" the Latino way. Our performances have been diverse as our scintillating sista's! Our step/stroll routines are a combination of the various aspects of our culture, both as Latinas and as Greeks.

The National Performance Team of SLU was the first Latino Greek Organization (men or woman team) to perform alongside the Noble Nine Greeks at the historical Penn Relays Step Show sponsored by the University of Pennsylvania and to win 1st place at the annual Stompfest step competition in Rhode Island. Additionally, SLU was the first and only Latina sorority to perform at the BET Hip-Hop Basketball Throw Down event in New York City. Since 2004, NPT has placed in the top three performances for either the Silk Stroll or annual Nation Step Competitions. However, for 2007 – 2008, SLU’s National Performance Team defeated their opponents, making them the second sorority to win 1st place for both the national step and stroll competitions in the same year.

“As an alumnus, I love

interacting with undergrads,

offering advice, or just lending an

ear. Through SLU

programming, I am able to grow

both personally and professionally.

Programs that target our alumni

assist the graduate/professional

population with life challenges and

keeps us abreast to social trends.

Our community outreach

programs offer a unique way for

each member to impact our local

community, which not only

benefits the community, but offers

personal gratification. However,

what makes SLU truly special is

the bonds created with an

incredible group of women. The

organization uniquely brings

together a phenomenal group of

women, second to none, that fills

each of our lives with love, joy,

and happiness.”

Lady Melodie Maldonado

Omicron Chapter

Spring 1999

“One of the things that attracted me to SLU was the

LADYS and the PEARLS program.

Knowing that there were women trying to make a

difference in young girls' lives made me see that I had many

things in common with the women of SLU. When I met

some of these women, it was as if we knew each other for

years. I had a feeling of comfort and I knew that our

relationship was going to grow stronger.”

Gloria Ramos

Omicron Chapter Spring 2005

RAI C ES ( R O OTS) SLU is the proud sponsor of Raices Week, a series of events promoting and celebrating the Latino heritage and culture. It is a Sorority-wide event in which each chapter participates at their respective campus and/or community. Every chapter must conduct a minimum of four events, one for each of the following categories: community service, cultural enrichment, women's issues, and scholarship. These are events, based on a yearly theme, which explore, promote and celebrate our Latino heritage and culture. Past themes include:

· Mujeres de Brazil: Nuestras Vecinas, Nuestras Hermanas. · Latino Colorism: "Blanquitas" vs. "Trigueñas" · Caution Curves Ahead: Body Image and the Latino Culture. · Tipping the Scale: The Impact of the Latino Vote. · Literacy: “EMPOWERMENT, One Word at a Time.” · Our People, Our Workers: The Latino Impact on the U.S. Economy.

Dol l ars for S chol ars In 2004, Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. became a chapter of Dollars for Scholars. Dollars for Scholars is a program of Scholarship America that has been designed for local chapters to conduct community based fundraising for scholarships. There are over 1,210 grassroots community-based, volunteer-driven scholarship foundations in cities, towns and neighborhoods throughout the United States that participate in this program. Local Dollars for Scholars chapters have immediate access to a growing national network of community scholarship foundations all across the country. For more information about Dollars for Scholars, log onto www.scholarshipamerica.org

“Sigma Lambda Upsilon has been a

chapter of Dollars for Scholars since 2004.”

For P aren ts Attending college is an exciting time for students. While in college, your child will encounter many opportunities to become involved in different clubs and organizations. It is important that you, the parent, be educated about the inspiring experiences that your daughter will find by not only being involved in campus clubs and organizations but also in a sorority. What is being involved in a sorority all about? Being involved in a sorority is about family. Membership offers women the opportunity to share in a common bond and work towards similar goals. As a life-long member of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc., Hermanas (sisters) are offered the opportunity to develop as leaders, focus and excel in academics and serve the campus and local community. In addition, they will network with other members to help develop their personal and professional goals and engage in continual learning and growth that is at the root of self and community empowerment. Since my daughter is considering joining a sorority, what advice should I give her? Since joining a sorority is a lifelong commitment, consider sitting down with your daughter and researching different organizations. It is imperative that your daughter attends several sorority information sessions. Attending an information session will give your daughter the opportunity to learn about the organizations goals and ideals, community service activities, mentorship programs, fees associated with membership and more. During this time, your daughter will also be able to ask questions and get to know the Hermanas (sisters) of the organization. What about all the negative things I've heard about Greeks, like drinking? Unfortunately, the positive sides of Greek life are often not deemed newsworthy. However, Greeks service their communities, giving countless hours and providing financial support. Greek Life promotes unity and a welcoming environment for all students. Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. has a zero tolerance policy for misconduct and sorority violations. Hazing is illegal and is not tolerated. Our organization spends time on the development of each member and not on degrading our potential members. What are the safety risks associated with membership in a sorority? All colleges and universities have fairly strict anti-hazing policies. The membership of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. does not condone and will not tolerate the hazing in any manner. Our pledging process is intended to nurture and embody our sisterhood. Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. defines hazing as endangering the safety or mental and emotional health of a Dama (prospective member), the physical abuse of a Dama, and the verbal abuse and threatening of a Dama. For further information, please view our Anti-hazing policy. How will joining a sorority affect my daughter academically? Your daughter's academic success is important to the sorority. Academic excellence is one of our goals and is significant to our organization. We have a specific grade requirement in order for women to pursue membership into Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. While undergoing the membership process, a Dama's(prospective member) academic progress is monitored by their Dean of Academics. As Hermanas (sisters), we must also maintain a certain grade point average in order to remain an active member in good academic standing with our organization and are mentored by graduate/professional Hermanas. What are the benefits of membership in Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc.? Leadership: Our sorority provides sufficient opportunities for students to gain leadership skills. As a member of a Greek letter organization we are essentially considered among self-governing communities. New members have the opportunity to serve on various committees and hold board positions within the chapter. As committee members and chapter board members, you are responsible for the operation of the chapter. Community Service: Each semester, the sorority members participate in a wide variety of community service projects. Many of these projects are guided by our National philanthropy of literacy. Integrity: The sorority is based upon values, ethics and standards. Since our founding, we have upheld each of our values, while maintaining ethical and setting standards above and beyond the norm that makes our organization and Hermanas (sisters) exceptional. Because we are a prestigious organization, we hold our members accountable for their own actions, behaviors and expect that they are portraying Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. in a positive light at all times. Diversity: Membership into our sorority makes for its own community. It allows for the opportunity to mix with people from the many different walks of life. This creates a diverse environment in the areas of race, religion, sexual preference, economic background, etc. Network: Because we ensure Sisterhood, Academic Excellence, Leadership, Service to Community and Campus & Cultural Enrichment, we provide a foundation of support. Through this support, members are able to utilize and assist each other with their personal and professional goals.

If you have any further questions, please feel to email us at

nationalboard@sigmalambdaupsilon.org.

“SLU is a proud

sponsor of Raices Week.”

“In 1994, I was thrust from the hustle and bustle of New York City to the quaintness and "country life," of Rhode Island, the smallest state in

the country. There I was, an 18-year-old Puertoriquena

from the Big Apple starting her freshman year at the

University of Rhode Island.

How in the world would I survive such a transition and

culture shock? Well, it wasn't long before I became

involved in as many organizations as I could and began meeting people who I

realized I could connect with. Among this group of people

were a distinct group of women just like me--Latinas

and leaders. But, there was something between them,

something more than a simple "hi," between classes

or a group study break at the library. They connected at every level. They were all

active campus and community leaders, all shared

a common vision of empowering Latinas and serving as role models for other Latinas who didn't

think college was an option. It's funny, because as I met

these women, it was their actions that I saw and them that I knew, not the sorority which they belonged to. Not

once did they try to "sell" their organization to me, a freshman coming to college with a twisted image of the

stereotypical Greek life which was common in the media.”

Soljane Martinez

Delta Chapter Spring 1995

“In the years that I have been a member of this organization, I have gotten more out of it than I ever could have imagined. I have had the opportunity to work systematically to enhance the lives of Latinas/os through our community services, and to develop relationships with incredible women which go beyond friendship. There is a certain solidarity that binds me to my Hermanas, because we know that we share ideals and goals, and have worked together to fulfill them. I feel certain closeness and have a sense of recognition with my Hermanas, even if I don't see them very often. I have made friendships with women that under other circumstances I would never have even met, and I am part of a network of women I admire and respect. Even now, years later, I am often taken aback by the depth of feeling and the passion that I have for my Hermanas and for my sorority. We laugh and cry together, debate each other, and hold ourselves and our organization to the highest standards. What I have learned as a part of Sigma Lambda Upsilon, about myself and about my culture is immeasurable, and to say that I love my organization dearly, only begins to describe what my Hermanas and my sorority mean to me.” Wanda Blackman Alpha Chapter Spring 90