Lambda Chapter: One Year Strong
Exactly one year ago, a group of phenomenal women established Lambda Chapter at California State University, Fresno. With only a year under their belt, the chapter has participated in multiple community service projects, raised awareness and funds for breast cancer awareness, and created a space that welcomes women from all walks of life into Greek life. The chapter’s sisters have big plans for its future and possess the determination and work ethic to make it possible.
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some of our sisters from the newly established Lambda Chapter, and each one of them has fully embodied what a Lady of Sigma Theta Psi is: welcoming, friendly, dependable, respectful- the list could go on and on. I was also lucky enough to check in with the chapter and do a Q&A. Read on to learn just how phenomenal they are.
Q. What made you want to start a sorority at CSUF? Why did you choose Sigma Theta Psi?
Lindsey Schaffran: I had always wanted to join a sorority, but I never saw myself in any of the sororities that were on campus. However when I was introduced to STP, I realized that they were much different than any other sorority I had encountered before. They truly embraced multicultural diversity and I loved that.
Jackie Nuño: At first I never saw myself as a sorority girl. I had pretty much gone my entire college years without being in a sorority, because I was never interested in what the sororities at Fresno State had to offer. Then I heard about possibly starting a new sorority on campus and I was all for it. I quickly learned all about Sigma Theta Psi, and I loved everything about the sorority. It was different and unique. I definitely never saw a sorority like [Sigma Theta Psi] at Fresno State. I knew it would be awesome to bring a fresh, multicultural sorority to Fresno State.
What has been the hardest part of establishing and making a name for Sigma Theta Psi on your campus?
Marisol Lugo: The hardest part of making a name for STP on campus is the fact that we do have such a small number of sisters at Fresno State. I know some girls are attracted to all the traditions that other sororities have. Sigma Theta Psi has amazing traditions as well but as a fairly new chapter, Lambda chapter is still making traditions of our own. Other sororities have such large numbers and some girls are interested in that.
Q. What is your vision for Lambda Chapter?
Jessica Gomez: I hope to see Lambda Chapter flourish into a well-organized chapter, [and] into something bigger and better than Founding Class could ever imagine. As of right now, Founding and Alpha Class [are] setting the foundation needed to pass down our vision of Lambda Chapter to future [sisters]. It is a work in progress, but we are determined to make it happen!
Jackie Nuño: My vision for Lambda chapter is to be recognized for all the positive things we do in our community. I want our chapter to be known for our wonderful philanthropy events. I hope in the next few semesters we are able to get into a council and get [more members].
Q. Where do you see Lambda chapter in 5 years?
Dana Vacante: In five years, I hope to see Lambda Chapter established on campus [with] a diverse [group] of passionate sisters to carry on our sisterhood. Hopefully we will be on the council and have stronger bonds with other sororities.
Veronica Montes: I hope in 5 years Lambda Chapter will be established and will have made its roots grow deep within Fresno State’s campus. I see us being well known by the other Greeks on our campus. I would like us to be well-rounded and be able to [collaborate] with the Panhellenic Association, Interfraternity Council, United Sorority & Fraternity Council, National Pan-Hellenic Council and other organizations.
What are Lambda Chapter’s goals?
Jazmine Lopez: I want all of us to work more on fundraising. The goal is to build up our foundation even more than we already do. To get into council by the end of the semester is a big one for all of us.
Sabrina Flores: Our chapter's goals are to make a name for Sigma Theta Psi at Fresno state and get on the USFC council. We would also like to get more ladies to consider joining Sigma Theta Psi.
Do you have any upcoming events?
Sabrina Flores: We just recently had a multicultural awareness event on campus. For community service, we will be participating in Kid's Day. We have a fundraising event at Panda Express on March 12 and at Tacos Marquitos in May. For philanthropy, we are tabling to raise awareness for breast cancer on March 11 and March 19.
This young chapter has many aspirations and rightfully so. We have no doubt they will continue to do what Sigmas do best: make a difference. Happy one year to all of our sisters at Lambda Chapter! We can’t wait to see what other wonderful things you do next. To get in contact with our Lambda chapter, contact Veronica Montes at [email protected].