2024 Fall Newsletter (Dec 2024)

December 2024

R E T T E L S W NE

TABLE LETTER FROM THE DAA BE ACTIVE: DUES INFORMATION LTA TAKES OVER PUERTO RICO -

ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION PILOT ALUMNAE SPOLIGHT:

SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL BOARD

ALUMNAE CHAPTER MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES ALUMNAE MILESTONE:

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ALPHA BETA ALUMNAE CHAPTER

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ALUMNAE GETTING INVOLVED: LTA IN NJ STATE HOUSE, NATIONAL LTA BOOK CLUB, NAAC’S ALUMNAE APPRECIATION MONTH & MORE

BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE from the BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE As weACTIVE close out 2024, BE I am filled with a deep sense and gratitude for the BE ACTIVE BEof pride ACTIVE BE ACTIVE remarkable year we’ve had in Alumnae Affairs. We’ve seen a notable increase in alumnae BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE participation — whether through active status, BE events,ACTIVE networking, mentorship, or record-

DAA

breaking enrollment in Lifetime Active Membership — and it’s been inspiring to witness so many of you re-engage with our sisterhood in new and meaningful ways. Your involvement is a testament to the enduring strength of our community and the bonds we share.

This year also marked an exciting milestone for our Alumnae Affairs program: the introduction of our new vision statement. This vision is a commitment to not only preserve the legacy of our sisterhood but also to cultivate new opportunities for connection, growth, and support for all members. We are more than just a sorority — we are a lifelong sisterhood, and our vision reflects that promise.

The alumnae survey conducted earlier this year confirmed that we have many strengths to be proud of as well as opportunities to improve the alumnae experience. The Alumnae Affairs team is committed to continuing the necessary work to elevate alumnae engagement.

As we move into 2025, I am excited about the momentum we’ve built together and the opportunities ahead. I hope this winter season brings you peace, joy, and moments of reflection, and that you continue to feel the strength of our sisterhood, no matter where life takes you.

ALUMNAE VISION STATEMENT Jennifer Alcaraz Director of Alumnae Affairs alumnae@lambdalady.org | www.lambdalady.org

To maximize alumnae engagement by creating an environment where we inspire active sisterhood for a lifetime

BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE Join us andBE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE BE ACTIVE

BE ACTIVE Spring 2025

membership activation dues

RECENT GRADUATE

ALUMNAE AT LARGE MEMBER

** ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION PILOT

ALUMNAE MEMBER

LIFETIME ACTIVE MEMBER

$60

$60

$75

$120

$710

Alumna members who received a Bachelor’s degree within 1 year of the dues deadline.

Alumna members:

Any member with alumna status becomes active through the statewide alumnae association.

Alumnae members become active through the Metropolitan area/city alumnae chapter.

To be paid in full in one payment.

Regional or Area Board member Assistant to Board of Directors National Committee / Task Force member Alumnae Advisor to UG chapter FT active duty military member outside of U.S. OR no alumnae chapter within 2 hours

Application can be completed at any point of the year.

** Currently Piloting in New Jersey.

For additional details or to submit payment view the dues information website

Dues Website

ACTIVE STATUS The Alumnae Association pilot is a new additional avenue for members with alumna status of at least 5 years who reside in New Jersey to become active starting in the Spring of 2025.

The Puerto Rico Alumnae Chapter Pilot is a new avenue for members located in Puerto Rico to become active with the group on the path to becoming an official chapter.

TAKES OVER

National Convention 2025 Our theme, “Hoy, Mañana y Siempre...Our Legacy Continues”, was created by reflecting on our roots, our shared history, and our collective future. We are so excited to gather together at the Isla del Encanto while we celebrate an amazing milestone: 50 years of beautiful sisterhood.

06 / 27 - 06 / 29

Newest Alumnae Chapter Pilot Our newest alumnae chapter pilot is based in Puerto Rico.

Throughout this year, the pilot will put on programming and create an alumnae community -- they will be supported by the Florida Area 2 (FLA2) leadership team in the Southeast region.

The initial Alumnae Chapter Pilot group consists of: Milca Nazario [Velo] (Alpha, Spring 1983) Enid Olivieri (Alpha, Spring 1990) Monica Anadón Irizarry (Lambda, Spring 1992) Marta I. Carrión (Lambda, Spring 1992) Dailyn Rivera Milanes (Lambda, Spring 1992) Suzette Roldán Medina (Lambda, Spring 1992) Teresa Vega Rivera (Lambda, Spring 1992) Yessenia Z. García (Lambda, Fall 1993) Magda A. Riega Echevarría, MD (Upsilon, Spring 1995)

Live in Puerto Rico?

Connect with the group:

Inquiry Form

Learn more about this alumnae experience in our upcoming Alumnae Newsletter in March 2025

ALUMNAE

As Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated continues to grow and evolve, it becomes increasingly important to provide flexible and inclusive pathways for alumnae members to activate their membership.

While alumnae chapters play a crucial role in keeping our sisterhood connected and engaged, there are numerous members who, due to geographical, professional, and/or personal circumstances, are unable to participate in these traditional chapter structures.

Current Active Member Types provide a one size fits all membership activation via the Alumnae Chapter structure, however, our Alumnae base is not one size fits all. As the sorority’s alumnae membership continues to mature, the spaces we provide for them also need to grow and evolve.

Recognizing the diverse needs of our alumnae, the National Alumnae Affairs Committee (NAAC) proposed the development of an alternative route for membership activation, state Alumnae Associations. It is crucial to address the needs of members of all generations and life stages.

During the 2023-24 year, the NAAC and DAA Team convened to develop initiatives to improve the sorority alumnae experience and recommend strategies for alumnae retention and need for a sense of belongingness for our growing alumnae base. We were able to lead several initiatives resulting in projects that supported the focus areas which lead us to the development of the Alumnae Association Pilot project.

ALUMNAE

The team reviewed available data after an in-depth analysis of the results from the Alumnae Survey, specifically the “Ways to Be Active” as an alumnae member, that data reflected the following:

ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION PILOT BROCHURE

58%

53%

41%

believe the current alumnae experience is undergraduate-centric

do not feel connected to their local alumnae chapter

indicated they would benefit from different active options than what are currently offered.

39% of that being undergrad initiated.

Other themes & connections made on the Alumnae Survey: Leadership focused on / Main focus is on supporting Undergraduate needs

Absence of Alumnae-Geared / No MultiGenerational Alumnae Programming

Requirements/Events are Aligned to Undergraduate (Risk Management, Recruitment/Orientation, Sorority Semesters, etc)

Experience Does Not Accommodate Alumnae Schedule Experience Centered on Orientation Activities

The Alumnae Association Pilot (AAP) will run from Spring 2025 through the 2026-2027 sorority beginning with the state of New Jersey and expanding to additional states each semester.

If you are a New Jersey alumnae wishing to engage and participate in the pilot, please attend one of the information sessions we are hosting on December 28, 2024 or January 15, 2025.

REGISTER FOR AN ALUMNAE PILOT INFORMATIONAL

ALUMNAE In the Fall of 2023, Interested Members (IM) at Louisiana State University (LSU) reached out to the South Central Regional Recruitment & Retention Supervisor, Emily Vasquez — filled with excitement and determination to join LTA. They wanted to establish a chapter on their campus. One year later, the group’s energy and commitment was so contagious, the group grew and Emily knew she had to reapply as RRRS for the year to keep that momentum going. Alongside the Regional Orientation Supervisor, Jazmin Duran, they wanted to ensure these Interested Members had the guidance and support they needed to begin orientation.

With the support from the Director of Recruitment & Retention (DRR), Expansion Committee, and Expansion Representative, Ashley Miles, Emily and Jazmin were able to build a good rapport with LSU's Greek Life Office to establish the Multicultural Greek Council, which LTA will be a part of. The IM group underwent orientation in Fall 2024 to establish our Eta Iota Chapter. Below are a few words from Emily and Jazmin about the process of helping the undergraduates establish Eta Iota Chapter.

“We feel both honored and inspired to help these passionate students bring their vision of an LTA chapter to life for the LSU community. This journey has become more than just fulfilling our role — it’s about building a lasting legacy together.”

What motivated you to step into your regional position and work on expansion efforts? What are your goals for expansion in the region?

“I’m serving my second term as ROS and I still feel like there’s work to be done within our region regarding orientation. My goal has been and continues to be to align our orientation practices within the region, in hopes that we can then align with other regions. My goal for expansion is to BRING OUR CHAPTERS BACK! Reactivation is a huge focus of ours so we are hoping to reactivate some of our chapters in Spring 2025!”

Jazmin Duran, South Central Regional Orientation Supervisor

“I’m serving my third term as RRRS, and I’ve built incredible connections with interested members and alumnae reactivating chapters. Hearing the reasons why these students want to bring LTA to their campus, or how they’re seeking a welcoming community, truly inspires me. Everything I do in my role is for them. My goal is to reactivate a few chapters within the region and support LTA’s growth in Louisiana and the Austin/San Antonio area.”

Emily Vasquez, South Central Regional Recruitment & Retention Supervisor

As alumnae in leadership, we envision other alumnae supporting the Eta Iota Chawpter to grow by supporting them through the development of a solid chapter culture and identity — creating an environment that empowers Eta Iota and the Louisiana community at large.

The South Central Regional Board hopes that this new chapter will motivate local alumnae chapter in Louisiana to establish a new Alumnae community for alumnae engagement and involvement.

In the long term, we also aim to expand our presence in Louisiana by establishing more chapters close to Eta Iota.

Congratulations to the Founding Sisters of the Eta Iota Chapter at Louisiana State University.

ALUMNAE CHAPTER 4 2 0 2 s IN e i r a s r e v i n An Alpha Alpha Epsilon Alumnae Chapter

5 years

Tri-Cities, Washington 07/15/19

Alpha Eta Alumnae Chapter

15 years

Los Angeles, California 04/25/09

Alpha Zeta Alumnae Chapter

15 years

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 02/01/09

20 years 25 years

Alpha Theta Alumnae Chapter Seattle, Washington 12/14/04

Alpha Beta Alumnae Chapter Hartford, Connecticut 11/06/99

ALUMNAE ALPHA BETA ALUMNAE CHAPTER HARTFORD, CONNETICUT What began as the dream of two determined post-baccalaureate women has grown into a legacy of empowerment, leadership, and community impact that continues to inspire the alumnae and collegiate chapters of Lambda Theta Alpha.

Alpha Beta Graduate Chapter was founded on November 6, 1999, by two trailblazing women, Rhea Chritian and Diane McNeil. With the guidance of Alumnae sisters, they established the first graduate chapter of Lambda Theta Alpha outside of New Jersey. Later, in 2002, Lambda Gamma Alumnae Chapter was established for CTA1.

The Eternal Connection Established November 6th, 1999

Pictured: Founding Alpha Beta Sisters, Rhea Chritian and Diane McNeil alongside Lisa Gerald (Kappa) and Linda Diaz (Alpha Alpha).

elebratin

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To mark this significant milestone, Alpha Beta celebrated in style with a Gala on Friday, November 8, 2024. Proceeds from ticket sales and raffle baskets supported the Luanda Cavaco Scholarship Fund, named in honor of the chapter’s beloved Lambda angel. Established in 2023, this scholarship helps support future generations of Connecticut leaders and ensures that the legacy of service and academic excellence continues.

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In 2011, the unification of graduate and alumnae chapters brought these groups together under Alpha Beta Alumnae Chapter, *The Eternal Connection*. Since then, the chapter has aimed to be a driving force in Lambda Theta Alpha, supporting its mission of community service, leadership, and sisterhood.

years

ALPHA BETA ALUMNAE CHAPTER E A N ALUM CONT’D

The celebration of 25 years of the Alpha Beta Alumnae Chapter is not only a celebration of the past but a reaffirmation of its ongoing commitment to each other and to the mission of Lambda Theta Alpha. With six successful lines -- the latest line being Fall 2024, Alpha Beta continues to grow and inspire new generations of Lambda Theta Alpha sisters.

Looking to the Future As Alpha Beta celebrates 25 years, they are not only looking back at their history but also looking forward to their future. Committed to continuing to evolve, they are building on the foundation laid by their founders and past members while embracing the opportunities of the next 25 years and beyond. Maintaining a strong connection with its founding and early lines has been essential to the Alpha Beta Alumnae Chapter’ success. Through regular communication, virtual meetups, and participation in chapter events, they ensure that their members are actively engaged in the sorority’s progress.

Advice for Alumnae Chapters Reaching a Milestone Anniversary To other alumnae chapters approaching milestone anniversaries, their advice is simple: stay connected to your roots, honor your history, and continue to cultivate a sense of sisterhood across generations. Maintaining a strong alumnae network, fundraising for scholarships, and celebrating each member’s achievements will ensure that your chapter remains vibrant and impactful for years to come.

ALUMNAE GET

Kicking off our “Road to 50 Years” with a Monumental Celebration at the New Jersey Statehouse — On Thursday, December 19, 2024, we'll stand together in pride and unity as as Lambda Theta Alpha Sister and NJ Assemblywoman Carmen T. Morales presents a special proclamation honoring Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc. as the nation’s first Latin sorority and recognizing December as our founding month! Founding Mothers, First Line, Board of Directors, and Advisors will be on the proclamation floor, just before the voting session, and we expect to have a sea of burgundy in the gallery!

Carmen T. Morales

Learn more about this alumnae experience in our upcoming Alumnae Newsletter in March 2025

January 2025

NJ Assemblywoman, LD-34 Nu Chapter Alumnae, Fall 1997

In celebration of our upcoming 50 years of sisterhood, the National Alumnae Affairs Committee (NAAC) is excited to share our National Alumnae Appreciation Month initiative!

This year’s theme is Pour into Yourself: A Month of Collective SelfCare. Oftentimes, we spend most of our lives pouring into our families, communities, and careers. The idea of “pouring into yourself” is meant to encourage self-care and prioritize well-being so that alumnae can continue to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

The NAAC will release a toolkit in December 2024 to help chapters celebrate together for this initiative.

P UR INT

ALUMNAE SPOTLIGHT NOMINATION FORM

A Month of Collective Self-Care & Renewal

Books are powerful gateways to empathy and shared experiences - which is one of the reasons so many have tried to limit access to them. It can also be an extremely rewarding experience to explore different book genres, bond with sisters, and carve out time for yourself.

LTA

th ok of the mon o b n se o h c e nce th lub will annou C k o o B l media. The A ia T c L so d The n a il a em ach month via e f o g in n in g e at the b ve, inactive, ti c (a rs e b m e th pen to all m ill be on the 4 w s g n Book Club is o ti e e m oom mnae, etc.). Z lu s. a , te a u d ra fall on holiday t underg a th se o th r ept fo ch month, exc a e f o y a d n o M g the author in ss u c is d in g e will b discussion we y to k o o b e th g n an opportunit e Duri v a h l il w e c n enda veryone in att E . k o o b e book is not e th th g n in h the is in F . out it or disliked ab d e k li y h e th t a share wh ation flows wit rs e v n o c s, re a sh e As individuals itator will hav il c fa a requirement. r u o y ll a sion ents and occa m m o c d n a . s n questio on going again ti a rs e v n o c e th estions to get discussion qu and ren’s librarian d il h c a is z e p o a Patricia Toji L She has been . re tu ra te li t u bo is passionate a ational Book N r u o d n a C A e NA member of th since 2023. r to a it il c fa b Clu

CONNECT HERE with our Book Club and submit a suggestion for a group read: LTA NATIONAL BOOKCLUB RECOMMENDATIONS

LIFETIME VISIT OUR LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP PAGE

Did you know that you can apply to be a lifetime member at any time of the year? You don’t have to wait for the dues window to take on this commitment.

Find more information on CampusGroups

We hope you enjoyed this edition of the Alumnae Newsletter.

Damaris Garcia

Cristina Springfield

Zeta Alpha Chapter, FA14

Alpha Kappa Alumnae Chapter, SP15

Angela Castillo Delta Sigma Chapter, SP19