Sigma Lambda Upsilon
Originally founded at Binghamton University on December 1, 1987
Alpha Rho Chapter at the University of Virginia was founded in March 2013
By Jennifer Arcilla, Isabel Argoti, Jaqueline Restrepo, and Vanessa Villalobos
Creation
On December 1, 1987, at Binghamton University, founding Mothers Cynthia Santiago, Adriana Zamora, Carmen Ibeth Garcia-Quinones and Carol Elizabeth Torres created an organization that would not only serve as a voice for women in an academic setting, but would also provide sincere sisterhood and unconditional support while actively promoting academic achievement, service to the community, and cultural enrichment. Over a decade and more than 30 campuses later, the Hermanas of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority Inc. continue the legacy of our Founders' vision by effectively bridging the gap between the Latino community and the campuses we represent. Today, almost two decades later, our goals and ideals continue to be exemplified by our Hermanas: Sisterhood, Leadership, Community Service, Cultural Awareness and Academic Excellence. At the University of Virginia, the four founding Hermanas wanted to create an organization that could uplift women and minority students in the rigorous academic setting our University has while also demonstrating service to the community, sisterhood, unconditional support, and cultural enrichment.
Mission
Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. prides itself as an organization of diverse college-educated (collegiate) and professional women dedicated to uplifting traditionally marginalized groups, especially Latinos and women, by serving as a voice and means for empowerment. Since 1987, Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. has been an outlet for professional development and personal growth to its members and serving constituents.
Efforts
The Sorority's impact can be seen in the outstanding accomplishments of its Hermanas, the young women they have mentored through the LADYS program, and through the lives of all the people the Sorority has touched via its many literacy initiatives. This includes RAICES week and Señorita week where we organize and facilitate a minimum of four events that focus on cultural enrichment, women's issues, community service, and scholarship.
Reflections Featured People: Adriana Carolina Suarez, and Isabel Argoti
