The Journey
Associate Member
Manual
SIGMA LAMBDA GAMMA NATIONAL SORORITY, INC.
Updated: July 2014
© Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc.
Table of Contents
WELCOME & OVERVIEW ..................................................................................................... 4
ASSOCIATE MEMBER RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS AGREEMENT ............................................ 5
MEETING SCHEDULE ........................................................................................................... 6
CONTACT INFORMATION ...................................................................................................... 7
NOTES FOR THE JOURNEY PRESENTATION ......................................................................... 8
ESTABLISHING GROUND RULES .............................................................................................. 9
ACADEMIC IMPROVEMENT PLAN: START RIGHT PROGRAM .................................................10
STUDENT / PARTNER ACADEMIC SUCCESS CONTRACT .................................................................13
GOALS STATEMENTS ..........................................................................................................14
Action Plan ...................................................................................................................14
ACADEMIC IMPROVEMENT PLAN: TIME MANAGEMENT PROGRAM ........................................15
CREST EXERCISE INSTRUCTIONS ......................................................................................29
SISTER-TO-SISTER ...........................................................................................................30
SLG VALUES SYSTEM ........................................................................................................31
GREEK ALPHABET* ...........................................................................................................33
SIGMA LAMBDA GAMMA FACT SHEET* ...............................................................................34
LIFELINES ........................................................................................................................35
SELF CONFIDENCE INVENTORY .........................................................................................36
SELF CONFIDENCE INVENTORY .............................................................................................37
SIGMA LAMBDA GAMMA’S 5 PRINCIPLES ............................................................................38
REFLECTION EXERCISE .....................................................................................................40
SHIP BONDING ACTIVITY ..................................................................................................42
NATIONAL HISTORY OF SIGMA LAMBDA GAMMA* ..............................................................43
FOUNDER’S PROFILES* .....................................................................................................46
Structure of Sigma Lambda Gamma .............................................................................47
E.I. MODULE: TEAMWORK AND COLLABORATION ...............................................................50
REFLECTION EXERCISE .....................................................................................................51
SISTER SHADOWING ........................................................................................................52
TYPES OF CHANGE AND CHANGE AGENTS ..........................................................................55
MAKING CHANGE ..............................................................................................................56
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THE 4 P’S OF CHANGE ........................................................................................................57
TRIO PROGRAMS ..............................................................................................................58
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS ...............................................................................................58
PROGRAM PROPOSAL........................................................................................................59
SHIP ROLES .....................................................................................................................60
REFLECTION EXERCISE .....................................................................................................60
CULTURAL POTLUCK DISH: ..................................................................................................61
IDENTITY .........................................................................................................................62
BUILDING BONDS .............................................................................................................63
YOU .............................................................................................................................64
RULES OF NETWORKING .....................................................................................................65
REFLECTION EXERCISE .....................................................................................................65
COMMUNITY SERVICE ACTIVITY ........................................................................................66
E.I. MODULE: TRANSPARENCY...........................................................................................67
UPHOLDING OUR PRINCIPLE OF MORALS AND ETHICS .......................................................68
DEPICTING EXPERIENCE CREATIVELY ................................................................................69
REFLECTION EXERCISE .....................................................................................................70
HISTORY OF FRATERNITY/SORORITY LIFE .........................................................................71
AMERICAN FRATERNITY ....................................................................................................72
UNDERSTANDING SIGMA LAMBDA GAMMA’S ROLE IN THE F/S COMMUNITY.........................76
REFLECTION EXERCISE .....................................................................................................77
COMMITMENT ..................................................................................................................78
COMMITMENT EXERCISE .....................................................................................................79
REVIEWING OUR PRINCIPLES............................................................................................80
ALWAYS WEARING OUR LETTERS ......................................................................................81
ONCE UPON A TIME ..........................................................................................................84
GLOSSARY OF TERMS .......................................................................................................85
NOTES .............................................................................................................................87
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Welcome & Overview
Dear Sister(s),
You are about to join the incredible journey of fostering and confirming the
lifetime commitment for new women to become members of our great Sigma
Lambda Gamma sisterhood.
The spirit of The Journey is developmental and educational, and was
developed to ignite a spark in new members using Emotional Intelligence
principles and modules--as well as incorporating history and facts about the
Sorority. In order to maintain the integrity of this program, it is essential that
each week is given the appropriate attention and advanced
planning. Preparation for each week should not be done in the previous
week. All plans, reservations, and supplies, etc., should be arranged and
confirmed at the start of The Journey.
In order to achieve the ultimate goal of a lifetime commitment to Sigma
Lambda Gamma Sorority and our founding principles, The Journey is broken
into three phases: Sigma Phase, Lambda Phase, and Gamma Phase. As you
progress in your Journey you will experience the importance and significance
of each phase.
The Program concludes with reflections on The Journey and beginning the
lifelong commitment to Sigma Lambda Gamma Sorority.
The Journey was developed with you in mind and was meant to be just the
beginning of membership education as we are continually learning and
growing not just in Sigma Lambda Gamma, but in life. The founding Principles
and Values of the Sorority are embedded throughout this program and should
be the spirit behind every meeting and every interaction with Associate
Members as we walk together through this lifetime journey.
In Sisterhood,
Mary Peterson, Executive Director
Lupita Temiquel McMillian, Founding Mother
Michelle M. Espino, Ph.D.
Ariadna Ginez, 2010-2012 Undergraduate Representative
Vanessa Jimenez, Assistant Executive Director
Amanda Berenguel Smolka, MSW
Associate Member Education Program Committee, 2010-2012
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Associate Member Responsibilities & Expectations Agreement
As an associate member of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc. commit myself to the
Sigma Lambda Gamma Associate Member Education Program. This means that I will…
Attend all of the Associate Member meetings that are required.
Keep all ritual activities confidential, which includes Induction Ritual and Initiation Ritual.*
Do my part to create and participate in a safe, supportive and engaging atmosphere for my
fellow Associate Members.
Exemplify Sigma Lambda Gamma’s Five Principles in my behavior and in what I say.
Treat everyone with respect and hold others to treating me with the same respect.
Confront with compassion any Associate Members’ behaviors that are contrary to the SLG
Values System.
Make an effort to get to know Initiated Members.
Make an effort to share myself with my fellow Associate Members.
Be on time and prepared for meetings.
Maintain open communication both inside and outside the Journey activities.
Fulfill all financial responsibility in a timely manner and discuss any difficulty with the Educator if
it arises.
Will not share individual, personal information about another member with anyone outside of
Journey meetings and activities.
Follow all Sorority, campus, and city rules, regulations and laws.
Please Sign
Click HERE to submit your electronic signature for this agreement
*The Initiation Ritual is conducted upon successful completion of the Journey Program and
any other applicable Associate Member requirements for membership.
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Meeting Schedule
Date
Time
Location
Notes:
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Contact Information
Name
Phone
Email
Notes:
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Notes for The Journey Presentation
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Establishing Ground Rules
In the space below, take a few minutes to brainstorm some ground rules. What do you value in
a safe place?
How can we hold one another accountable to these grounds rules?
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Academic Improvement Plan: Start Right Program
Objectives:
1. Identify a set of semester goals (grade point average, commitment to
study time)
2. Create an action plan that will support your academic success
3. Identify an academic partner (university staff, faculty, advisers) who will
help you implement and fine-tune your action plan
4. Complete a contract that defines your goals and, semester plan and lists
your academic partners
STEP #1: Goal Setting/SMART Method
Getting off to a great start of depends upon how much time you have invested in
planning for success. Your first steps are to:



identify two to five goals for this semester
use the SMART method to define the goals and record them on your Goal
Statement and Action Plan Sheet, and
provide supportive feedback to your scholarship chair.
SMART method of goal setting:
S – Set specific, not general, goals. Identify a particular goal or outcome.
M – Goals must be measurable. Will there be a noticeable improvement?
A – Are the goals attainable? What plan must be in place to attain the goals?
R – There should be a certain level of risk involved. Does your goal inspire you?
T – Set a time limit. Is it done when it’s supposed to be done?
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SMART Goal Statement - Example
I plan to earn a semester grade point average of 3.50 by the end of spring 2001 and
earn a place on the Dean’s List.
Is there a time
limit?
Is the goal
specific?
Is the goal measurable?
What risks involved?
Is this goal attainable?
STEP #2: Action Plan
Each student will identify critical elements that will support their efforts to attain their SMART
goals. These items will be listed as intention statements that begin with I will…
Action Plan Example  To attain my grade point average goal, I will:
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Study three hours for every one hour I am in class.
Create a weekly study schedule.
Ask for help before I get behind in my studies or projects.
Be on time and attend every class/studio this semester.
Use my planner to keep track of the due dates for all of my obligations.
Hand in all work on time.
Keep track of all test, quiz, paper and project grades.
Learn how to calculate my grades in each class to stay on track toward my grade point
average goal.
Consult with my professors at least once every 10 days to monitor my understanding of
the course material.
Stay ahead of my class by reading each chapter and studying materials before coming
to class.
Create a budget to cover costs for academic supplies and materials.
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STEP #3: Academic Partner
Academic partners are people who have great amount of experience in helping students
achieve academic success. Partners can be your chapter advisor, academic advisors,
professors, current faculty/staff mentors, or other campus professionals. Another
undergraduate student would not be able to sign on as a partner.
The student’s partner should be willing to:






review your goals and action plan;
guide your efforts by providing useful feedback;
encourage you to refine you goals and action plan;
set regular meeting times to evaluate your progress;
direct you to academic and social support resources;
hold you accountable for attaining your academic goals for this semester.
The FINAL Step…
The final step for you is to set a time to meet with your academic partner. Schedule at least 30
minutes of your partner’s time to do the following:




Review your goals and action plan
Review the student and partner obligations together
Sign the contract
Set regular meetings – at least twice per month
Remember to make three copies of the Student/Partner Academic Success Contract
and Statement and Action Plan sheet. Give one copy to your Scholarship Chair, one
to your partner, and keep one for yourself.
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Student / Partner Academic Success Contract
Student Section
I,
, have set the following goals for myself to be completed by the last day of
classes
.
Goal #1:
Goal #2:
Goal #3:
(Additional goals may be listed with the Action Plan)
I have selected
to help me stay on course and to evaluate my progress
toward completing my goals. I agree to meet at least twice a month and show evidence of my
progress toward my goals during each meeting. I will use the attached action plan to reach my
stated goals for this semester.
Partner Section
I,
, agree to work with
to realize the goals and
implement the action plan attached to this contract. I agree to meet at least twice a month to
answer questions, provide feedback, and lend my support.
Student & Partner Section
We both agree to work to attain the goals and implement the action plan attached to this
contract. We both agree to listen and provide each other with feedback. We also agree to
cooperate with each other and follow through on the individual obligations noted above. If we
cannot keep an appointment, we will use a method we select (phone call, email or another
method) to notify the other and to immediately set a new meeting time. We will periodically
evaluate our partnership. If one of us is not fulfilling the duties assigned, the other is not held
responsible for continuing the partnership.
Student
Signature
Date
Partner
Signature
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Date
13
Statements & Action Plan Sheet
Goals Statements
Goal #1:
Goal #2:
Goal #3:
Action Plan
To attain my goals for this semester, I intend to…
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Academic Improvement Plan: Time Management Program
How you manage an academic load and extracurricular activities is determined and decided by
you. It can be seen as a firm method for organizing your time or a tool helping you plan out
your day, week and month. To be successful it will require more time and effort on you to be
conscious of where time is being spent, and if it is productive and balanced with other activities.
In essence, how effectively and wisely have you utilized your time?
This Academic Improvement Plan is a four step process which will help guide you in
focusing on your time and scheduling patterns as to maximize the way you utilize your day,
week, and month and succeed in your academics. The fifth step is optional.
The time management is to be done and completed by the member and their mentor. A
schedule review should be done on a monthly basis. However, the success of a member’s time
management is the positive nature and commitment to prioritizing their work. Best of luck!
Step I
Create an activity log for accountability of how you have spent time throughout your day.
Step II
The Master Calendar is done quarterly beginning with the start of the school semester. The
purpose is to record major obligations for one half of your semester so that you may know
accordingly what is expected of you from the beginning.
Step III
Review your commitments and fill in your schedule for a full week then review how efficiently
you have utilized your time in Step I.
Step IV
List three goals and objectives created and utilized from your time management log, weekly
schedule and quarterly schedule. The purpose is creating an effective and efficient goal specific
to your schedule.
Step V
A short-term schedule will provide a different skill to help you with daily tasks to be completed.
For example, create a daily list of tasks for what you will do the next day, or when you fall
behind use the technique “Getting Caught Up”. This step is optional; however, it is a very
helpful tool to utilize when organizing your daily activities.
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STEP I: Time Management Log
The goal of this worksheet is to increase your awareness of how you spend your time. At the
end of each day, take a few minutes and fill in the time chart below with whatever activities you
were doing during that hour. Were you in class? Were you studying, reading, or sleeping?
Were you socializing with friends, working, or exercising? Be as specific as you can be and
don’t leave any time slots blank. At the end of the week review your answers with your
mentor, chapter advisor or faculty advisor and analyze the information to plan accordingly.
Activity
Hours/Week
1. Attending Class
2. Sleeping
3. Eating
4. Dressing, showering, etc.
5. Studying
6. Working
7. Practicing athletics, dance, instrument, etc.
8. Cleaning and doing laundry
9. Socializing
10. Exercising
11. Watching TV
12. Leisure activities, video games, internet, e-mail, etc.
13. Traveling to class, to work, to leisure, etc.
14. Caring for family
15. Sigma Lambda Gamma
16. Other
Total
Now subtract your total hours from 168 (the number of hours in a week) to determine the
amount of uncommitted time in your schedule.
168 (hours in week) -
(total committed hours) =
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(uncommitted time)
16
Time Management Questions
1.
On which activity do you spend the least amount of time?
2.
On which activity do you spend the most time?
3.
What did you learn about the way you spend your time?
4.
If you have uncommitted time, how can you use it to reach your goals?
5.
Overall, are you satisfied with the way you spend your time?
6.
If you could make changes what would they be?
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STEP II: Master Calendar
The Master Calendar (Quarter Schedule) is a schedule that should be completed at the
beginning of the quarter and edited as the quarter progresses. It provides an overview of
upcoming commitments, appointments, and assignments. Use it to record hours of all
scheduled classes, work labs, doctor appointments, family responsibilities, job interviews, and
conferences with your instructors. (Walther Pauk & Ross Owens, 2005, p 84).
The purpose of the Master Calendar is to give you a complete view of the quarter and help you
pace your energy accordingly. At the same time, the Master Calendar can be used as a strategy
tool, which will guide you through the quarter. Consider altering your Master Calendar by:
1. Adding on the completion of times for assignments, projects and tests so you may see
how these big tasks can be subdivided throughout the quarter.
2. Color-code important tasks in colors that are eye-catching to you. Circle the activities
that can be postponed when the pressure is on. Once completed, you will be able to see
at a glance the dynamics of any particular event.
3. Add in due dates for academic activities during the quarter. An example is, when you
are planning to write a paper. You set one date for completing the research, another
date for the rough draft and a third date to complete the paper. Always stick to your
start-up dates and no matter what establish the pattern now.
4. Lastly, prepare for finals during the last month of school. This means that you must
have started working on assignments for four weeks prior to your scheduled final
exams.
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Quarter Schedule
WEEK
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
BIOLOGY
LAB
1
SLG
Study
2
SLG
Study
3
SLG Chapter
BIOLOGY
EXAM
SLG
Study
GYM
SLG Study
GYM
WRITING
WRITING
LAB
SLG Chapter
SLG Study
AM. LIT.
GROUP
WRITING
LAB
SLG Chapter
GYM
WRITING
LAB
AM. LIT
GROUP
GYM
4
WRITING
LAB
SLG
Study
5
Wednesday
WRITING
LAB
Thursday
SLG
GYMStudy ENGLISH
PAPER
BIOLOGY
LAB
GYM
SLG STUDY
GYM
SLG Study
GYM
WRITING
LAB
WRITING
LAB
SLG Study ENGLISH
PAPER
AM. LIT.
GROUP
GYM
SLG Study
GYM
GYM
WRITING
LAB
SLG Study ENGLISH
EXAM
BIOLOGY
LAB
AM. LIT.
REVIEW/
GYM
GYM
AM. LIT
PAPER
WRITING
SLG
LAB Study
Canoe
field
trip
WRITING
LAB
WRITING
LAB
SLG Chapter
SLG Study
SLG Study SLG Study
BIOLOGY
EXAM
ENGLISH
QUIZ
BIOLOGY
LAB
WRITNG
LAB
Saturday
AM. LIT
GROUP
GYM
GYM
Friday
WRITING
LAB
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AM. LIT
GROUP
WRITING
LAB
AM. LIT
PAPER
HOME
WRITING
LAB
19
Semester Schedule
Week
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
FINALS
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STEP III: Weekly Schedule
The weekly schedule takes over where the master schedule left off. You have now completed
the activity log for the week and the master schedule. The next step is to record this
information onto your weekly schedule. This weekly schedule will give you a clearer perspective
of what your day, week and month usually look like. By completing the weekly schedule, it will
guide you through each quarter week by week.
It is important that you record all your obligations during a typical week. Do the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Write down your class schedule, including labs, and your work hours if any.
Every day of the week, show when you go to sleep and wake up. Get the sleep you need.
Allow an hour for lunch and two hours for dinner. These are times you can use to relax.
List clubs, meetings, activities that you attend on a regular basis - including weekends.
Plan to exercise three or four times a week. This is most important for good studying habits,
health, stress management, and most importantly healthier lifestyle.
Allow for free time on Friday or Saturday nights. Show any TV time.
Schedule time for naps if you tire easily. (Thomas Edison used naps most effectively.)
The remaining time could be study time. Use a highlighter to mark blocks of time where you
are willing to make a study commitment.
Follow the schedule for a week, and revise it as needed. Make the schedule fit your needs.
Comments on Scheduling Study Hours
The Four-Day Week - Keep in mind when creating your schedule a four-day week does not
mean, “I have one free day.” You schedule no classes for Monday, Friday, or another day of
the week. What happens? It is usually wasted time, because the days become too long.
Therefore, keep in mind if you have a day make yourself study in the morning.
The One Hour Block – The pervasive feeling is “What can I do in an hour?” The answer is
simple: A LOT if you plan it accordingly. This is a good time for “low-level” tasks, light review,
floating tasks, short naps, quick trips, and a snack; almost anything. Just plan it!
The Eight or Ten-Hour Marathon – it may look good on your schedule, but in reality, long
blocks of time are usually wasted. This happens because it is difficult to stay focused for long
periods of time. Instead, break it up into two- and three-hour blocks with a break in between.
The Two or Three-Hour Block- this is everybody’s favorite, allowing you the opportunity to
study in smaller increments and learn the required information with more time to take a breath.
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WEEKLY SCHEDULE
SUN
6:00
AM
7:00
AM
8:00
AM
9:00
AM
10:0
0
11:0
AM
0
12:0
AM
0
1:00
PM
PM
2:00
PM
3:00
PM
4:00
PM
5:00
PM
6:00
PM
7:00
PM
8:00
PM
9:00
PM
10:0
0
11:0
PM
0
12:0
PM
0
1:00
PM
AM
MON
TUES
WED
SLEEP
BREAKFAST
BREAKFAST
SLEEP
Biology
BREAKFA
ST
Biology
Bio. lab
Bio. lab
THURS
FRI
SAT
SLEEP
SLEEP
BREAKFAST
English
LUNCH
Biology
English
LUNCH
BREAKFAST
BREAFAST
Biology
Bio. lab
English
Am.
Literature
LUNCH
Am.
Literature
LUNCH
BREA
KFAST
Am.
Literature
LUNCH
LUNCH
STUDY
LUNC
H
Writing lab Writing
lab
NAP
NAP
NAP
Writing
lab
NAP
NAP
DINNER
GYM
GYM
GYM
GYM
DINNER
NAP
SLG
STUDY
SLG
STUDY
DINNER
SLG STUDY
STUDY
Writing lab
NAP
SLG STUDY
SLG STUDY
SLG STUDY
DINNER
DINNER
SLG STUDY
SLG
CHAPTER
SLG STUDY
DINNER
DATE
DATE
SLEEP
SLEEP
SLEEP
SLEEP
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DATE
SLEEP
SLEEP
SLEEP
DATE
SLEEP
22
WEEKLY SCHEDULE
SUN
MON
TUES
WED
THURS
FRI
SAT
6:00
AM
7:00
AM
8:00
AM
9:00
AM
10:0
0
11:0
AM
0
12:0
AM
0
1:00
PM
PM
2:00
PM
3:00
PM
4:00
PM
5:00
PM
6:00
PM
7:00
PM
8:00
PM
9:00
PM
10:0
0
11:0
PM
0
12:0
PM
0
1:00
PM
AM
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STEP IV: Goals/Objectives & Priorities
Landsberger, Joe. (August 12, 2005). http://www.studygs.net/schedules/goals.html
List three goals or objectives that are most important to you, and indicate whether they are
long term medium term, or immediate:
LONG TERM
MEDIUM TERM
NOW!
(Quarterly)
(Monthly)
(Weekly)
1.
2.
3.
How much time have you set aside to meet each goal during your week?
A.
B.
C.
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Does your time allocation reflect the priority of your goals?
Can you change your hourly commitments to meet your priorities?
Where do you have the most flexibility: weekdays or weekends?
Can you change one or the other? Or both?
Can you change your goals? What are your options?
Can you postpone any goals until school breaks?
How will assignments and tests affect your time allocation?
What can you change to meet your class responsibilities?
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STEP V: Short-Term Scheduling
1. Daily Schedule- Remember to create a daily schedule the evening before. By this time
you should have a very good idea of what your day will be like tomorrow. If you wait until
morning, you’ll be too rushed to make a plan, and will not get all that needs to be completed
done. Always remember to use your weekly schedule for guidance the next day.






Be specific about the task, study, location, time and duration
Allow time for relaxation
Be realistic: are you really going to study at 8:00 AM on Saturday?
Break up long periods of study with brief more pleasant activities
Plan to study when you are most alert
Do more difficult studying first to get it out of the way
Landsberger, Joe. (2003, August). http://www.studygs.net/mapping/index.html
For example: Wednesday
7:00 – 8:30
Get up. Breakfast. Leave for campus by 8 AM.
8:30 – 9:00
Library – 3rd floor

Review biology lecture notes, look over text underlining (half hour)
9:30 – 11:00 Biology class
11:15 – 1:15 Lit.
1:15 – 2:30
Lunch and rest
2:30 – 3:30
Library
Check out library books for term paper (Get 6 references)
3:30 – 6:30
Wash clothes. Meet Inez for dinner.
6:45 – 10:30 Library – 3rd floor
6:45 – 8:30



Lit. – read chapters 4 & 3
Survey chapters, read summaries (one hour)
Underline by section, review underline. (One hour)
8:30 – 9:00
Study Break
9:00 – 10:45
1.
Biology – study chapter 4
Study lecture notes and review biology labs
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Notice how specific the study plans for the evening are? The tasks themselves are arranged
according to priority, and that is what makes this sort of schedule work.
2. “Getting Caught Up”- There are many times when we lose track of time, day or forget
events and we end up falling behind. The catch-up schedule shows you how to handle this:




List all the tasks that need to be done to stay caught up.
Label the amount of time needed for each and its priority.
Select some tasks off each list, catch-up and current. Use these as part of your target
lists. Be sure to include all high priority lists.
Lastly, reevaluate by eliminating some tasks, postponing others, or scaling down what
you plan to do.
Time Saving Tips
Stewart, Patricia, (2005, August). http://www.sas.calpoly.edu/asc/ssl/time.mgt.tips.html

Don't waste time feeling guilty about what you didn't do. It's gone now; move ahead.

Try to find a new technique each day that you can use to help gain time.

Eat a light lunch so that you don't get sleepy in the afternoon.

Examine old habits for possible elimination or streamlining.

Carry blank 3 x 5 index cards in your pocket to jot down notes and ideas.

Plan activities first thing in the morning and set priorities for the day.

Keep a list of specific items to be done each day, arrange them in priority order, and then
do your best to get the important ones done as soon as possible.

Give yourself time off and special rewards when you complete the important tasks.

Once on campus, stay on campus. Avoid useless trips back to your apartment or room
unless you have a definite purpose to accomplish.

Give yourself enough time to concentrate on high priority items.

Concentrate on one task at a time.

Keep pushing and be persistent when you sense you can be a winner.

Train yourself to go down your "To Do List" without skipping over the difficult items.

Set deadlines for yourself and others.

Find a place for everything (so you waste as little time as possible looking for things).

Try not to think of work on weekends.

Frequently ask yourself: "What is the best use of my time right now?"

It ain't over till it's over. Your paper isn't finished until the last word is typed; the Quarter
isn't over until the last exam is done. Do 100%. See your work through to completion.

LIMIT YOUR INTERNET ACCESS
The Journey: Associate Member Manual
27
Tips for Setting up a Study Schedule

Find a good place to study and organize it.

Have all of the necessary study equipment (textbooks, pencils, notes, etc.)

Make your study periods fit the length of time you can concentrate effectively.

Plan for definite periods of study, rest and relaxation. A short, active break (taking a 10minute walk, for example) every hour or so will keep you alert and relaxed.

Use a schedule to achieve your goals. Revise your schedule when your goals change.

Eliminate dead hours - odd bits of time in which little is accomplished.

List academic tasks according to priorities.
Avoid making extremely detailed schedules. It usually just wastes more time.
Go to sleep each night and get up every morning about the same time. You'll be more alert.
The Journey: Associate Member Manual
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Crest Exercise Instructions
1, 2, 3, 4: Create four symbols (pictures) that represent your deepest, most cherished values in
life. Do these in order of importance (1, 2, 3, 4).
Use written statements (short phrases or words) to describe the following:
1. Who am I?
2. My happiest moment or experience or greatest achievement.
3. Three things I do well.
4. Three areas, traits, characteristics, or attitudes I want to improve.
5. Personal motto by which I (try to) live.
6. One thing I would like to have said of me if I died today.
7. Three things I would like to learn to do well.
8. Three accomplishments I want to realize during my lifetime.
9. Three things I would like to start doing now.
10. My three highest priority life goals.
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Sister-to-Sister
Sister to Sister is a time for Initiated Members and Associate Members to get to know one
another outside of Journey meetings and form relationships prior to initiation. These
meetings/gatherings should be held in a comfortable environment such as a coffee shop, event
on campus, sister's apartment, lunch/dinner, etc. Below is a list of questions to help guide the
conversation, you are not limited to these questions and are not required to memorize any of
these answers, this is just a reference for you during your gatherings.
Name:
Sorority Name:
Initiation Date:
Birthday:
Birthplace:
Hometown:
Ethnicity:
Number of Siblings:
Major:
Hobbies:
Involvement on
Campus:
Gamma Mom:
Gamma Daughter:
Why you joined SLG:
Biggest
Accomplishment:
Most important things
gained from joining
SLG:
The Journey: Associate Member Manual
30
SLG Values System
The Mission, Purpose, Vision, Creed and Principles are the essence of Sigma Lambda Gamma.
Without one of these we are not living up to who we can be as Women of Distinction.
MISSION
Sigma Lambda Gamma strives to be the premier organization committed to providing a
mechanism of empowerment to all women.
PURPOSE
The purpose of Sigma Lambda Gamma Sorority shall be primarily one of promoting standards of
excellence in morality, ethics, and education. Further, the Sorority shall work to better serve the
needs and wants of all people by disseminating information about the diverse culture, which we
all share. Finally the Sorority shall maintain respect for the views of others through this valuing,
thereby enhancing our understanding of one another, and thus bettering our community, our
country, and the world.
VISION
Recognizing our responsibility to the progression of a positive global community, we stress the
importance of morals, ethics, and education in our daily lives so that we serve the needs of our
neighbors through a mutual respect and understanding of our varying cultures.
CREED
ACADEMICS
As women pursuing higher education we are fortunate to be given opportunities that provide us
with an endless amount of personal and professional growth. We have an obligation to
ourselves, our families, and our sorority sisters to achieve academic success. We believe that
maintaining the GPA standards set forth by our universities and Sorority will ensure that we
have a solid foundation to succeed in our immediate and long-term endeavors.
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COMMUNITY SERVICE
Community Service is an aspect of Sigma Lambda Gamma that allows members to exemplify
the impact of change we wish to see in others and in our communities. It is our responsibility,
as good citizens, to give back to our community. We demonstrate in action what being a sister
of our organization is all about and what we believe in. Community Service is not only about
giving back to others in need but it is also about empowering us as women leaders in our
community.
CULTURAL AWARENESS
Sigma Lambda Gamma’s official motto is “Culture is Pride, Pride is Success.” Although
historically Latina-based, we were established on the beauty of diversity. As a result, our
sorority has grown to represent a diverse, multicultural membership. We are encouraged to
explore our individual histories and share those traditions, customs, and experiences with fellow
sisters. In addition, we must take advantage of the opportunities to learn about and celebrate
others’ cultures because this is what exemplifies being culturally aware Sigma Lambda Gamma
women.
SOCIAL INTERACTION
One of the benefits of joining Sigma Lambda Gamma is the opportunity to interact with
individuals of all backgrounds within and outside of our organization. By joining a sisterhood
composed of women from all walks of life, we learn more about the world around us while
gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves. The opportunity to network with others outside of
our organization exposes us to new experiences and the chance to build academic, professional,
and personal support systems. We are able to experience diversity, recognize and appreciate
individual differences, and respect one another for who we are.
MORALS & ETHICS
As women of distinction, we display good sound judgment, remembering that we represent
Sigma Lambda Gamma at all times. We acknowledge that our individual actions reflect not only
on our individual values and beliefs, but on the Sorority as a whole. As members of Sigma
Lambda Gamma, we are committed to the empowerment of all women through exemplary and
admirable leadership.
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Greek Alphabet*




ALPHA
BETA
GAMMA
DELTA
(al-fah)
(bay-tah)
(gam-ah)
(del-tah)



Θ
EPSILON
ZETA
ETA
THETA
(ep-si-lon)
(zay-tah)
(ay-tah)
(thay-tah)




IOTA
KAPPA
LAMBDA
MU
(eye-o-tah)
(cap-ah)
(lamb-dah)
(mew)




NU
XI
OMICRON
PI
(new)
(zie) or (zee)
(om-uh-cron)
(pie)




RHO
SIGMA
TAU
UPSILON
(row)
(sig-mah)
(taw)
(oop-si-lon)



Ω
PHI
CHI
PSI
OMEGA
(fie) or (fee)
(kie)
(sie)
(o-may-gah)
*This document is used as a reference for Associate Members and is not required to memorize.
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Sigma Lambda Gamma Fact Sheet*
FOUNDERS:
Gloria Cuevas
Julieta Maria Miller
Maria Ester Pineda
Danell Marie Riojas
Guadalupe Temiquel
PLACE:
The University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa
WHEN:
April 9, 1990
PRINCIPLES: Academics
Community Service
Cultural Awareness
Social Interaction
Morals & Ethics
FIRST LINE:
Patricia Arroyo
Noemi Elizabeth Diaz
Angel Maria Martinez
Seema Kumari Singh
Gabriela Villafuerte
COLORS:
Shocking Pink and Majestic Purple
FLOWER:
Pink Rose
MASCOT:
Purple Panther
MOTTO:
Culture is Pride, Pride is Success
NEWSLETTER:
La Mensajera
STONE:
Amethyst
SHIELD
5 Stars
6 Books (5 closed 1 open)
Shaking Hands
Woman with Balance
Pyramid
*This document is used as a reference for Associate Members and is not required to memorize.
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Lifelines
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35
Self Confidence Inventory
Please rate yourself on the following scale:
1
2
3
4
5
Rarely
Infrequently
Sometimes
Often
Always
I am comfortable talking about myself.
I openly express my ideas when they differ from everyone else’s.
It is easy for me to make decisions when the pressure is on.
I talk openly with people about topics that are important to me.
When I take on a new challenge, I know that I will be successful at the end.
I can inspire confidence in those around me.
When I compare myself to others, I feel good about who I am and what I can do.
I am proud of who I am.
I stand by the decisions that I make.
I can admit that I made a mistake and still feel good about who I am.
Total
40-50 Stay the Course- Congratulations! You have a good sense of who you are and what
you are capable of. Having healthy self-esteem and an understanding of what you can do are
essential components of self-confidence. Remember your social skills because too much
confidence can quickly become turn into arrogance. Focus on staying true to who you are and
what you believe – these skills will serve as anchors for the rest of your life.
30-39 Focus on the Positive- Sometimes it’s hard to remember your achievements and
your strengths. Try to calm the nerves or quiet the negative self-talk. You have the potential to
do whatever you set your heart and mind to, but you have to believe in yourself. Good ideas
without action don’t add up to much. Remember to focus on your past accomplishments and
have a vision of your future success. This positive imagery can help you get over some of the
hurdles that you may feel or sense.
0-29 Build Yourself Up- For any number of reasons, you may feel that you don’t possess
the right number or kinds of skills to be successful. Or perhaps you don’t feel good about who
you are. Remember that each one of us has tremendous potential. In order to find it, you have
to believe in yourself and show others that you’re worth believing in. Focus your thoughts on
what you know you do well and concentrate on those times when you felt the best about
yourself. Seek out opportunities think and feel these again – show yourself and others what you
have to offer. Each time you are successful, be sure to celebrate. All of these experiences build
upon each other and help develop our self-confidence.
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Self Confidence Inventory
Think of someone who you think is charismatic or influential.
Describe the qualities that person possesses that you respect.
How do you feel in that person’s presence?
If you could borrow one of these qualities, what would it be?
What can you do to help others develop their self-confidence?
What can you do to strengthen your self-confidence?
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Sigma Lambda Gamma’s 5 Principles
Turn to page 6 of your manual, as each principle is read aloud, reflect on their true meaning
and write down your thoughts about each principle.
●
●
●
●
What does this Principle mean to me?
What are some struggles that I may face when trying to live this Principle every day
How do I, as an Associate Member or Initiated Member, already live by this Principle?
How will I incorporate these Principles into my life?
Academics
Community Service
Cultural Awareness
Morals and Ethics
Social Interaction
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Set your own personal goals for each principle
Academics
Community Service
Cultural Awareness
Morals and Ethics
Social Interaction
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Read the Following out loud:
Sisterhood is a way of life for members of Sigma Lambda Gammas across the nation
because we are a Sorority founded to promote friendship among women who share
common values and ideals. Sigma Lambda Gamma sisters support each other in their
endeavors, share hugs and smiles during times of disappointment and joy, and develop
friendships that last a lifetime.
Sisters should make Sigma Lambda Gamma’s Value System a part of their daily lives.
This includes living out the Sorority’s Principles, Purpose and Ritual in everything we say
and do. Our responsibility is to hold our sisters accountable for following the Sigma
Lambda Gamma Value System and being a positive representation of what it means to
be a Sigma Lambda Gamma Woman of Distinction.
Reflection Exercise
The Sorority Principle that speaks to me most in this moment in time is? Why?
What did I learn today about my level of self-confidence? What did I learn about my
line sisters’ levels of self-confidence?
I look forward to the next week because…
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Reflections / Journaling
This is your time to journal on your thoughts and feelings of The Journey so far.
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Ship Bonding Activity
Activity:
Reflection:
Date:
Time:
Location:
Items to Bring:
Wait! Before hosting an Activity/ Event/ Program…
1. Review the most recent FIPG Risk Management Policies to ensure the activity /
event / program meets national standards.
2. Make sure everyone involved knows what the activity / event / program entails.
3. Make sure everyone involved knows their responsibilities for the activity / event /
program.
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National History of Sigma Lambda Gamma*
On October 22, 1989, a group of women gathered at the Chicano Native American Cultural
Center to form an organization of Latina/Hispanic women at the University of Iowa. Their goal
was to form a group that would provide social and academic support to Latinas/Hispanics and
women of all cultures.
The organization began with a group of nineteen (19) women during the fall and spring
semesters of the 1989-90 school year. These women met once a week with the help of their
advisor, Esther Materón-Arum
On April 9, 1990, The University of Iowa Panhellenic Council recognized these women as a
sorority. This is the day Sigma Lambda Gamma Sorority recognizes as their Founding date.
Thanks to the contribution of the nineteen (19) women, Anna Arteaga, Vanessa Bonilla, Gloria
Cuevas, Laura Flores, Pamela Little, Patricia Mares, Rosalee Mares, Patricia Marroquin, Patricia
Marquez, Julieta Miller, Cintya Molina, Maria Pineda, Julieta Rapoza, Danell Riojas, Emma
Rodriguez, Zerina Segoviano, Guadalupe Temiquel, Maria Temiquel, and Alejandra Torres as
well as the assistance of Esther Materón-Arum and Mary Peterson this was accomplished.
On May 7, 1990 a retreat was held with Mary Peterson at the Iowa Memorial Union (IMU) to
brainstorm ideas for the sorority, to write these ideas on paper, and to determine the next step.
At this retreat the founding principles were determined. In attendance were Julieta Miller,
Zerina Segoviano, Guadalupe Temiquel and Esther Materón-Arum.
The first meeting for the fall semester of 1990 was held on August 23rd at the Chicano Native
American Cultural Center. The number of women had decreased to six since the 1989-90
school year. They were Gloria Cuevas, Patricia Marquez, Julieta Miller, Maria Pineda, Danell
Riojas and Guadalupe Temiquel.
Members of the sorority participated in volunteer projects such as the National Association of
Chicano Studies (NACS) as well as some on-campus programs such as the Leadership
Conference sponsored by the IFC/Panhellenic Council.
At the end of the fall 1990 semester there were five women left. These women were Gloria
Cuevas, Julieta Miller, Maria Pineda, Danell Riojas and Guadalupe Temiquel, which are
recognized as the five founders. They spent countless hours together along with Esther
Materón-Arum, the founding grandmother, working on the first manuals allowing the sorority to
continue and to grow. The beginning manuals marked the sorority’s continued progression.
On February, 15, 1991, the first ritual of Sigma Lambda Gamma took place and the first group
of associates were formed. They were inducted at the Chicano Native American Cultural Center
at 7:30 p.m. This group consisted of five young women, which included Patricia Arroyo, Noemi
Diaz, Angel Martinez, Seema Singh and Gabriela Villafuerte. The members that performed the
ceremony were Gloria Cuevas, Julieta Miller, Danell Riojas and Guadalupe Temiquel.
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43
On March 13, 1991, four of the five founders participated in an initiation ceremony that was
performed by Esther Materón-Arum and Mary Peterson at the Danforth Chapel. These women
were Gloria Cuevas, Julieta Miller, Danell Riojas, and Guadalupe Temiquel. Esther MaterónArum and Mary Peterson, wrote the ceremony, and performed the initiation.
The first groups of associates inducted into the sorority on February 15, 1991 were initiated into
Sigma Lambda Gamma Sorority on April 9, 1991 at 9:05 p.m. at the Chicano Native America
Cultural Center.
Through the following years a great deal of work was put into the growth of the sorority toward
becoming a national sorority.
Mary Peterson who was then coordinator in the Office of Campus Programs and Student
Activities worked in establishing space in her office as a headquarters office. This was shared
with the organization of Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity, Inc. Since that time the
following has occurred, and should be noted:
Mary Peterson, first National President (1994 – 1998)
Lupita Temiquel, second National President (1998 – 2000)
Yesenia Avalos, third National President (2000 – 2004)
Nellie Nevarez, fourth National President (2004-2008)
Matielyn Jones fifth National President (2008-2009)
Juanita McGrew, sixth National President (2009-2010)
Nisha Reyes, first National Chair (2010-2012)
Staff
Noemi Diaz, headquarters first part-time staff person
Nellie Nevarez, headquarters second part-time staff person, the first to also work with Sigma
Lambda Beta
Timothy K. Wightman, first full-time staff person working with both Sigma Lambda Gamma and
Sigma Lambda Beta
Mary Peterson, first Executive Director (1998 – current)
Jim Trigillio, first Associate Executive Director (2004-2009)
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National Events
Schaumburg, Illinois, first national convention – 1996 (held every other year) held with Sigma
Lambda Beta
Oxford, Ohio, first national sisterhood retreat – 1997 (held every other year)
The Office of Campus Program and Student Activities, now the Office of Student Life and The
University of Iowa and was very generous with help from staff and resources to our
organization. Without their help it would have been very difficult to exist. As of our 20th
anniversary, Sigma Lambda Gamma had over 150 entities including chapters, colonies, and
alumnae associations.
Updated by Headquarters, September 2011
*This document is used as a reference for Associate Members and is not required to memorize.
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Founder’s Profiles*
Gloria Cuevas
Birth Date: October 13, 1970
Birth Place: Beeville, Texas
Hometown: Sarita, Texas
Ethnicity: Mexican-American
Major: Accounting
One of how many children: 1 of 2
Family Birth Order: Youngest
Interests: Tennis, Aerobics
Gamma Daughter: Angel Maria Martinez
Julieta Maria Miller
Birth Date: November 20, 1969
Birth Place: Santa Clara, California
Hometown: Walnut Creek, California
Ethnicity: Mexican-American/Italian
Major: Elementary Education/ESL and B.A.
in Spanish
One of how many children: 1 of 3
Family Birth Order: Oldest
Interests: Cooking, Exercising
Gamma Daughter: Patricia Arroyo
Maria Ester Pineda
Birth Date: January 14, 1969
Birth Place: Los Angeles, California
Hometown: Cudahy, California
Ethnicity: Cuban-Salvadorian
Major: Psychology
One of how many children: 1 of 5
Family Birth Order: Middle (3rd)
Interests: Listening to Music, Dancing,
Shopping, Politics
The Journey: Associate Member Manual
Danell Marie Riojas
Birth Date: February 14, 1969
Birth Place: Chicago, Illinois
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Ethnicity: Mexican-American
Major: Economics
One of how many children: 1 of 4
Family Birth Order: Oldest
Interests: Cooking, Crochet, Dancing
Gamma Daughters: Seema Kumari Singh,
Gabriela Villafuerte
Guadalupe Cruz Temiquel
Birth Date: November 3, 1970
Birth Place: Sterling, Illinois
Hometown: Sterling, Illinois
Ethnicity: Mexican-American
Major: Social Work and Spanish
One of how many children: 1 of 3
Family Birth Order: Youngest
Interests: Cooking, Dancing, Sewing
Gamma Daughter: Noemi Elizabeth Diaz
*This document is used as a reference for
Associate Members and is not required to
memorize.
46
Structure of Sigma Lambda Gamma
Regional Directors
National Board of Directors
Director of Alumnae &
Volunteer Development
Alumnae Assocaitions
Alumnae-at-Large
Executive Director
Director of Education
Entities/ Advisory
Committees
Director of Engagement
Entities/ Advisory
Committees
Coordinator of Member
Services
Human Resources /
Bookkeeper
Student Intern
Sigma Lambda Gamma’s National Board of Directors (NBOD) is comprised of six volunteer
leaders from across the country elected by the membership at the National Convention to serve
a two year term. These women meet monthly via teleconference and once a semester in
person. The NBOD upholds, evaluates, and revises the national constitution and policies of the
sorority. The Board operates under policy governance.
Sigma Lambda Gamma’s Headquarters Staff is comprised of six employees, full and part-time,
paid positions. The Headquarters Office is located in North Liberty, Iowa.
Executive Director-Vanessa Jimenez
The Executive Director is responsible for leading the staff and overseeing all operating affairs of
the sorority. She translates the strategic plan into tangible projects for staff to implement and
keeps board members abreast of project statuses and sorority happenings. She provides board
support, serves as an ex-officio member of the Sorority’s Education Foundation, and is the
sorority’s main contact for media relations. Vanessa may be reached at
Vanessa@SigmaLambdaGamma.com (ext. 1#).
Director of Alumnae and Volunteer Development - Leigha George
The Director of Alumnae and Volunteer Development is responsible for overseeing and working with
the sorority’s alumnae associations, alumnae at-large, and volunteer leaders. Director of Alumnae
and Volunteer Development will oversee volunteer leaders including regional directors and advisory
committees, and assist with judicial procedures such as policy violations.
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Members may contact Christina at Leigha at Leigha@SigmaLambdaGamma.com (ext. 2#), for the
following information and inquiries:




Alumnae Associations
Alumna-at-Large
Alumnae Volunteer Opportunities including:
o Advisory Committees
o Expansion Advisory Committees
o La Mensajera
o Special committees
o Additional opportunities
Judicial Procedures
Director of Education- Lexi Cabrera
The Director of Education is responsible for all collegiate colonies and chapters in the Central,
Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, North Central, and Southeast Regions. In addition to member
services, the Director of Education is responsible for overseeing collegiate resources and the
assessment of sorority programs and initiatives.
Collegiate members may contact Lexi at, Lexi@SigmaLambdaGamma.com (ext. 3#) for the
following information and inquiries:





Entity management
Entity judicial procedures including SEC, terminations, & AM discontinuations
Interest groups in the above mentioned regions
Online Resources
Educational Programs
Director of Engagement- Genevieve Padro
The Director of Engagement is responsible for all collegiate colonies and chapters in the
Northwest, Plains, Southern, Southwest, and Western Regions. In addition to member services,
the Director of Engagement is responsible for overseeing the sorority’s communication,
marketing, including managing social media, website, and the sorority’s overall online presence.
Collegiate members may contact Genevieve at Genevieve@SigmalambdaGamma.com (ext. 4#)
for the following information and inquiries:





Entity management
Entity judicial procedures including SEC, terminations, & AM discontinuations
Interest groups in the above mentioned regions
Social Media and Website
Sorority branding materials- official sorority trademarks, logos, and images
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Coordinator of Member Services - Karen Hanes
The Coordinator of Member Services is responsible for managing and processing entity
paperwork and payments, as well as EmpowerNet inquiries including member registration and
general troubleshooting. The Coordinator of Member Services is also responsible for collecting
and inputting sorority data and statistics for reporting purposes.
You may contact Karen at, Karen@SigmaLambdaGamma.com (ext. *#) for the following
information and inquiries:




Sorority Paperwork including:
o Semester Fact Sheet
o Induction and Initiation
o Risk Management/Event Registration
o Additional paperwork
General payments and payment plan options
Member Certificates and Pins
National Events registration and payments
Regional Directors- Volunteer, alumnae sisters, who live and work in the region they serve.
They provide guidance and support for all entities in their region. Regional Directors are also
elected during Convention to serve a two-year term.
Entity Advisory Committee – Entities are encouraged to find advisors to assist in providing
local support and guidance. Often these individuals are faculty /staff members at the
university/college or alumnae sisters residing close to the entity.
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E.I. Module: Teamwork and Collaboration
Observer Notes:
Your part is an important role as an Observer. Please watch the group dynamics
as the team tries to flip the tarp. Notice their behaviors, comments, and nonverbal communications. Take notes here. Be prepared to share your responses
when the facilitator calls for your reactions.
Who is exhibiting collaboration behaviors?
What are they doing?
What are they saying?
Who is creating an environment for teamwork?
What are they doing?
What are they saying?
What behaviors are you noticing that are keeping the team from working well
together?
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Reflection Exercise

What is the value of teamwork in helping our Sorority succeed?

Which chapter leadership position sounds interesting to you?
This is your time to journal on your thoughts and feelings of The Journey so far.
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51
Sister Shadowing
As a Member of Sigma Lambda Gamma there will be many opportunities to hold leadership
positions within the sorority and your campus as well as giving presentations to the campus
community. This activity will help you better understand the commitment and dedication the
Executive Board Members give to the sorority, the responsibilities assigned as well as practicing
public speaking skills.
Use the information below when shadowing a Sister to help format your Executive Board
Shadowing presentation. This presentation should include the responsibilities/tasks of the
position. how to successfully prepare/execute, important contacts and resources, skills the
position requires and interesting information you learned during your shadowing.
Name / Position:
Responsibilities:
Tasks:
Important Contacts:
Due
Dates/Deadlines:
Skills Required:
Resources:
Important
Information/Advice:
Interesting
Information:
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Name / Position:
Responsibilities:
Tasks:
Important Contacts:
Due
Dates/Deadlines:
Skills Required:
Resources:
Important
Information/Advice:
Interesting
Information:
Name / Position:
Responsibilities:
Tasks:
Important Contacts:
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Due
Dates/Deadlines:
Skills Required:
Resources:
Important
Information/Advice:
Interesting
Information:
Sister Shadow Reflection
Presentation is Due Week 6.
\
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54
Types of Change and Change Agents
Personal Change
Why change?
For self-improvement
For professional development
Could include attitudes, behaviors, skills, or knowledge
To influence personal change, you may be a friend, family member,
professional, colleague, or mentor.
Organizational Change
Why change?
For improving effectiveness or productivity
For developing a new process, product, or structure
Could include strategies, processes, communication, or patterns of interaction
To influence organizational change, you may hold an official position, be a
member, be a volunteer, or be a stakeholder.
Social Change
Why change?
For addressing issues and challenges
For designing new or improved programs, services, opportunities, or spaces
Could include systems, groups, processes, procedures, laws, or structures
To influence social change,
you may be a professional, parent, student, or volunteer.
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Making Change
Take a few minutes to respond to the following questions.
1. List three people who effectively made change happen. (These people
may be personal friends, family members, or famous people.)
2. Think of a time when you made something happen, either starting
something new or improving on something that already existed. Describe
what you did. How did you feel doing it?
3. Think of a time when you experienced change. Did you respond positively
or negatively to it? Why?
4. What lessons did you learn from these experiences about making change
happen?
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The 4 P’s of Change
The Purpose
What are you doing and why?
Be clear in communicating your purpose with others so they understand.
Connect the purpose to what others know.
If the purpose solves a problem, be sure the problem is understood first.
If the purpose opens up an opportunity, make the benefits of the opportunity
clear.
A Picture
What does the end result will look like?
A good picture creates energy.
The picture should resonate with you and those involved in the change.
The picture may change or evolve as others get involved – be focused and
flexible at the same time by keeping the purpose
central.
The Plan
What needs to get done?
Be organized.
Focus on creating action.
Know who needs to be involved and in what capacity.
Consider organizations and groups as well as individuals.
A Part to Play
Who will be a part of the change?
Have a role for everyone interested.
Be flexible to create opportunities for others.
Think about roles for individuals and organizations.
Remember that you can’t do it alone.
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TRiO Programs
www2.ed.gov
Sigma Lambda Gamma supports the TRIO programs for its innovative and proactive stance on the
continual education of individuals who otherwise would not have been afforded the education or
financial assistance to further their education and livelihood. These programs have become
stepping stones for many students within our organization and other affiliates who have benefited
to identify and continue secondary education.
Our nation has asserted a commitment to providing educational opportunity for all Americans
regardless of race, ethnic background or economic circumstance. In support of this commitment,
Congress established a series of programs to help low-income Americans enter college, graduate
and move on to participate more fully in America’s economic social life. These programs are
funded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and are referred to as the TRIO
Programs. While financial aid programs help students overcome financial barriers to higher
education, TRIO programs help students overcome class, social and cultural barriers to higher
education.
Breast Cancer Awareness
www.breastcancer.org
Sigma Lambda Gamma and its member groups actively support the important societal issue of
Breast Cancer Awareness. Our support of this cause comes in various avenues: from fundraising
campaigns; educational workshops to create awareness; active participation in run/walk events;
volunteer participation with organizations; or a combination of these forms. The two primary
programs our organization supports in respects to breast cancer awareness include, but are not
limited to: Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and Y-ME National Breast Cancer
Organization.
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Program Proposal
Committee:
Semester:
Date:
Chair:
Program Title:
Implementation Date:
Description:
Goals:
Purpose(s):
Financial Breakdown:
Item(s)
Amount
Total Price
Sources of Funding:
TOTAL COST: $
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Ship Roles
Reflect on who fits these roles within your ship and begin thinking about who should be
assigned these roles.
Captain- The first woman in the ship; the position of Captain should be granted to the
woman who is most commonly defined as the leader of the group. She is realistic and
understands leadership qualities in the context of achieving a goal. She is well organized,
detail-oriented and methodical in her thinking about the way the goal should be carried
out by the group of Associate Members. The goal in this case is to become Initiated
Members of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc.
Anchor- The last woman in the ship; the position of Anchor should be granted to the
woman who is most commonly defined as the source of motivation for the group as a
whole. She is strong, supportive and will aid in the quest of achieving the goal. This
woman will keep the line determined and focused, while providing support for the
decisions needing to be made. She will ensure that her ship will not get off course nor
lose sight of their ambitions during the Associate Member Education Program.
Reflection Exercise
In what ways do you see yourself being the change...
●
with your family?
●
with your friends?
●
within your Ship?
●
within the entity?
●
within your campus?
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Cultural Potluck Dish:
What culture(s) does your dish represent?
What ingredients are in your dish?
Why did you select this dish? What does this dish mean to you and your cultural
background?
Is there a story that is connected with this dish? If so, what?
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Identity
Part of Sisterhood means embracing all the ways we self-identify. On the triangle provided write
all the ways in which you identify.
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Building Bonds
Fill in the map on the following page:. Draw a line connecting you with people who
you consider to be important to you, personally and professionally. Use the key
below to detail your map.
Squares represent your friends, family, and others who are important to you
personally. Shade in the box if this is a friend who “challenges” you. (This might be
someone who asks you good questions to make you think or plays devil’s advocate
to help you think through your ideas.) Stripe the box if this is a friend who supports
you. Do both when appropriate.
Circles represent your mentors, sponsors, or others who are important to
you professionally. Shade in the box if this is someone who challenges you.
Stripe the box if this is someone who supports you. Do both when
appropriate.
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YOU
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Rules of Networking
Listen. Listen. Listen.
Ask questions.
Be sincere.
Speak for yourself.
“It’s more than who you know; it’s who knows you.”
- Wendy Schwarz
Reflection Exercise
What are my social identities?
Which social identities am I most comfortable with?
Which social identities am I least comfortable with?
How does recognizing and accepting my own social identities offer me an
opportunity to honor and respect the differences within my Ship and within my
entity?
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Community Service Activity
Brainstorming Community Service Activities:
Activity:
Date:
Reflection:
Time:
Location:
Items to Bring:
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E.I. Module: Transparency
Transparency means:
Knowing your values and living them
Openly admitting your mistakes
Being accountable for your behavior
Confronting unethical behavior
Being open to others about your own feelings and beliefs
As a group, create a list of behaviors that reflect specific values and list them here.
Behaviors
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Upholding Our Principle of Morals and Ethics
Human Dignity Statement/Policy:
Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc. has, since inception, encouraged each member to
strive for self-respect and self-knowledge in an effort to foster the personal development of each
member. Sigma Lambda Gamma supports the concept of equality and is committed to building a
society where human judgments are based on merit, without regard to gender, race, religious
preference, sexual orientation or disability. The sorority is committed to eliminating sexual
harassment by educating her members about their personal worth. Sigma Lambda Gamma firmly
repudiates actions and statements that negate the concepts of self-respect, personal development,
equality and dignity.
Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc. expects that:
1. Each chapter/colony will express its disapproval of hazing.
2. Each chapter/colony will afford its members the opportunity to be informed about those
issues facing collegiate women (at this time such as substance abuse, sexual harassment,
and AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases).
3. Each chapter/colony will decline to participate in activities degrading and demeaning to
women, men or persons with disabilities.
4. Each member will decline to participate in activities based in any negative manner
regarding religion, sexual orientation or race.
5. Each member will decline to join any sorority auxiliary group.
6. Each member will avoid portraying our organization in an inappropriate manner through
internet and social networking sites. Material that harasses, degrades, bullies, or targets
other individuals will not be tolerated.
Sigma Lambda Gamma affirms her commitment to human dignity.
●
What does this statement really mean?
●
Why is this policy important? Describe personal experiences.
●
How do we hold our Sisters accountable for meeting these expectations?
●
How does this policy reflect who we are as women?
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Depicting Experience Creatively
Depict on paper--either through drawing a picture, writing a poem, story or journal entry--an
experience you had with one of the following:
●
●
●
●
●
Substance Abuse
Unhealthy Relationships
Sexual Health
Low Self-Respect
Misuse of Social Media (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, YouTube etc.)
“If this experience happened when I was a member of Sigma Lambda Gamma I would have
wanted my Sisters to...”
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Reflection Exercise
1. In what ways does this song reflect who you are as a Woman of Distinction?
2. How can you further develop your commitment to being a Woman of Distinction?
3. How can your Sisters support and nurture you as a Woman of Distinction?
4. How can you support and nurture your Sisters as Women of Distinction?
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History of Fraternity/Sorority Life
List some notable members of our society who are also members of fraternities and sororities.
Here are some additional statistics you might find interesting:

85% of Fortune 500 executives are Greek.

80% of U.S. Presidents since 1900 are Greek.

100% of Apollo 11 Astronauts are Greek.

More than 7 million men and women in the U.S. and Canada are Greek.

80% of the chief executives of the 500 largest corporations are Greek members.

Greeks comprise more than three-fourths of Congress.

85% of Supreme Court Justices since 1910 have been Greek.

Since 1900, two-thirds of members of Presidential Cabinets have been Greek.

Of the fifteen presidents who had a chance to join a fraternity, twelve took advantage of
the opportunity.

The majority of men listed in "Who's Who in America" are fraternity men.
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American Fraternity
By Betty Mullins Jones, Alpha Phi
Fraternities are uniquely American. Although European schools have clubs and societies,
nothing parallel to the American fraternity system exists elsewhere.
The first fraternity was begun at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, on
December 5, 1776, when a group of students formed a secret society which they called Phi
Beta Kappa, after the first initials of their Greek motto: “Love of wisdom, the guide of life.” Phi
Beta Kappa existed as a social group for the first 50 years of its life, and chapters were
established at other schools, including Harvard, Yale, and Dartmouth. It did not become the
scholastic honor society we know today until after the anti-Masonic and anti-secret-society
agitation of the 1820s.
But Phi Beta Kappa set the tone and instituted many of the characteristics which are considered
“typical” of fraternities: a Greek-letter name, a Greek motto, an oath of secrecy, a badge, a
ritual, a seal, and a secret grip or handshake. (Undoubtedly the Greek motto and Greek name
arose from the fact that all these students studied Greek as an academic requirement.)
Other groups that were founded shortly thereafter emulated the characteristics of Phi Beta
Kappa in most respects, and fraternity chapters were established at many of our early colleges.
Of the 63 men’s fraternities that are now members of the National Interfraternity Conference,
36 were founded in the 19th century.
Education in the 18th and 19th centuries was rigid, structured, and dogmatic. Fraternities filled
a need in the lies of these young students by providing friendships and recreation. Although
clubs, particularly literary societies, flourished at this time, most of them were too large and too
specialized to provide variety and to foster close friendships.
When young women were finally admitted to what had previously been all-male colleges, they
too wanted “something of their own.” Consequently, after the Civil War several women’s
fraternities appeared within a few months of each other. I. C. Sorosis (coined from the Latin
word “soror” meaning “sister”) was patterned after the men’s groups and was established at
Monmouth College in Illinois on April 28, 1867. It later took the name Pi Beta Phi, after the
initials of its secret motto. Kappa Kappa Gamma followed I. C. Sorosis at Monmouth in March
1870, but Kappa Alpha Theta was founded as the first Greek-letter woman’s fraternity on
January 27, 1870, at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana. At about the same time, and
without any prior knowledge of the existence of the others, Alpha Phi was founded at Syracuse
University in New York in September 1872, and Delta Gamma was founded at Lewis School in
Mississippi in December 1873. All of these groups were incorporated as “women’s fraternities,”
because at that time the word “sorority” did not exist. This term was created for Gamma Phi
Beta in 1874 because their advisor, a professor of Latin at Syracuse University, thought the
term “fraternity” ill-advised for a group of young ladies.
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By the turn of the century, ten women’s fraternities had established themselves as national
groups, and in 1902 they organized what in now called the National Panhellinic Conference.
Today the conference has 26 member groups.
In 1909, 26 men’s groups founded the National Interfraternity Conference, and it now has a
membership of 63 general fraternities. Not all of these fraternities are designated by Greek
names, exceptions being Acacia, FarmHouse, and Triangle.
In 1930, eight national Greek-latter sororities and fraternities united to form the National PanHellenic Council. Five of these traditionally black groups were founded at Howard University:
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority in 1908, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority in 1913, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
in 193, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity in 1914, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity in 1911. The remaining
sorority in the council, Sigma Gamma Rho, was founded in Indianapolis in 1922 and grated its
first collegiate charter at Butler University in 1929. Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity was founded at
Indiana University in 1911, and the oldest NPHC fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, was founded at
Cornell in 1906.
American fraternities were created as social organizations, and they retain this characteristic to
the present day. Even the so-called “professional” societies, which select their members from a
particular discipline, have a distinct social function.
But in the middle of the 19th century, a change occurred on the American campus that caused
fraternities to acquire a secondary characteristic: the fraternity house. Because of many factors
and circumstances (most of them economical), a number of schools ere unable to maintain
housing for their students. Consequently, campuses were ringed with boarding houses where
students secured their own lodging and meals.
By this time many chapters had grown too large to meet in a student’s room and had started
renting halls. And in 1854, at the University of Michigan, Chi Psi built a 20- by 14 foot log cabin
in which to hold its meetings.
So the students’ reaction to this double need—for meeting rooms and for living quarters—was
to lease, and finally to build, their own homes. Thus evolved the fraternity house and the
substitution of the word “house” for the word “chapter,” as in, “What house do you belong to?”
This expression is common today even on campuses where there are no housed chapters.
The effects of going into the housing business have been many and varied. Owning and
maintaining property required the cooperation of the alumni and alumnae, many of whom in
the past had simply graduated and disappeared. Now they became involved with the
management of the chapters, which indirectly benefited the colleges by keeping alumni and
alumnae interested in the school. Likewise, private ownership of these houses relieved many
schools of the financial burden of building dormitories. In fact, this willingness on the part of
sororities and fraternities to assume responsibility for housing has gradually led to many
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arrangements on the part of the institutions, such as “leased land” agreements, whereby the
school owns the land and the fraternity constructs the building.
But the change from being a group that “met” together to being a group that “lived” together
was a real tuning point in the fraternity movement. It altered the entire concept of fraternity—
with all its advantages and disadvantages. It strengthened unity, discipline, activities, and
friendships. On some campuses the fraternities fostered the extracurricular activities, such as
athletics, the newspaper, homecoming, and school dances. Many colleges concerned
themselves solely with the educational process and took no responsibility for the other facts of
student life.
It is estimated at present that only 60 to 70 percent of our fraternities and sororities live in their
own houses—either leased or owned. The rest have lodges or suites or rent meeting room.
But the spirit of unity engendered by the “house” concept is evident even with unhoused
chapters.
From the earliest days of the fraternity movement, rivalry among the groups to pledge
members led to excesses in “rushing” practices, and finally to charges of exclusiveness and
snobbery, resulting in several legal disputes regarding the right of fraternities to exist.
Beginning in the late 1870s, several schools passed antifraternity rulings and some state
legislatures prohibited fraternities in state institutions. Litigation, in various forms, has persisted
to the present time, although the charges have gradually shifted from “secret societies” to
“discrimination.”
Beginning at the close of World War II, when fraternities experienced a decided rise in
popularity, many educators expressed the opinion that restrictions in membership based on
race, color, or creed had no place on the campus. As private organizations, fraternities
maintained their right to select their own members, but several federal commissions and acts of
congress threatened fraternal rights, and the campus upheavals of the 1960s led to a serious
decline in fraternity membership. Although Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
prohibiting sec discrimination in the schools was amended in 1974 to exempt membership
practices of social fraternities, many schools demanded that discrimination based on race, color,
or creed by discontinued if the fraternity were allowed to remain on the campus. Many groups
founded along religious beliefs were adversely affected by these demands. Nevertheless, such
restrictions have been eliminated, although membership selection is still the privilege of the
individual chapters.
The “national” character of fraternities (and many of them are “international” with chapters in
Canada) evolved gradually. Before the Civil War, as a rule chapters were independent and did
as they please. In fact, it was common for a chapter at one school to establish a chapter at
another school and not even bother to inform the rest of the fraternity. But gradually authority
for the “government” of the groups was vested in convention—usually a type of reunion—and
one chapter would be designated as the “Grand” or “Presiding” chapter, to be responsible for
information. Sometime in the 1870s fraternities began to elect national officers, a practice
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imitated from their beginning by the sororities. After the turn of the century, one by one the
groups established national offices. Many now own their own buildings.
Although sororities patterned themselves after fraternities, and their structure is parallel, there
are tremendous differences between sororities and fraternities. And, yes, it begins with
differences between the sexes.
Men’s fraternities, generally, have followed a “laisez-faire” or “free enterprise” philosophy. The
national organization tends to allow the chapters to run their own affairs as much as possible.
The national offices are run by paid professionals who supervise a staff of paid professionals
who oversee the chapters. There are, of course, volunteer advisors to the chapters and
volunteer house corporation boards, but the men’s groups do not have a tradition of constant
supervision, which characterizes the typical sorority chapter.
Sororities are managed with a somewhat “maternal” philosophy. Each chapter has a board of
alumnae advisors—all volunteers—that supervises the chapters and is directly responsible to the
national organization. The national officers, also volunteers, supervise the various departments
of the sorority
There is not a “fault” on either side; it is merely the difference between the men’s philosophy
and the women’s. When the National Pan-Hellenic Conference was formed in 1902, the first
thing the ladies did was draw up agreements—practical statements of fair play—that no one
would belong to more than one group, that a pledge was binding for a specified period, that no
one would be pledged before she was enrolled in college, and so on. The men’s groups had no
such agreements and felt no need for such strict observances.
Fraternities and sororities were created by students to fill a void in their lives—to foster
friendships, to encourage sociability, to provide an outlet for free expression. Few students
looked upon them then—or look upon them not—as agents for philanthropy, as instruments for
self-improvement, or as training in leadership. And yet that is what they have become through
the friendships, the sociability, and the free expression. Because a student must attain a
satisfactory academic average before initiation, attention to scholarship is emphasized. The
chapter provides an excellent laboratory for leadership training because chapter affairs demand
responsibility.
Currently all groups are going through a period of intense self-appraisal. All associations
connected with fraternity management—NIC, NPC, FEA, NPHC, and AFA among them—are
demanding an end to hazing and irresponsible social behavior. Although this will not be
achieved overnight, signs of improvement are evident. Some colleges and universities have
threatened to eliminate the fraternity system. Some have already done so. And many national
groups have expelled or put on probation chapters that have not observed proper standards.
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But these young people are human beings, and the human animal has always sought
companionship, preferably with those who are congenial. If the fraternity system were
eliminated today, tomorrow something would rise to take its place. And it would rise without
200 years of tradition to mold it, without strong national organizations to supervise it, and
without the intense loyalties which have perpetuated fraternities.
The American college and university would be bereft of its most unique institutions—the
fraternity—which has grown and developed by the side of American education.
Understanding Sigma Lambda Gamma’s Role in the
Fraternity/Sorority Community
1. What positive contributions do we make to the campus community at large?
2. In what ways do we include or exclude other fraternities or sororities from joining our
council (if applicable)?
3. In what ways do we include or exclude other fraternities and sororities from
participating in our events? How do we build bridges with chapters that we may view as
competition, or do we remain at a distance from getting to know them better?
4. How do these bridges positively affect our campus community?
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Reflection Exercise
What is the role of Sigma Lambda Gamma in…

your life?

your Fraternity/Sorority community?

your campus community?

your city?

your state?

your region?

the Nation?

the world?
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Commitment
Commitment
Commitment is what transforms a promise into
reality. It is the words that speak boldly of your
intentions, and the actions that speak louder than
your words. It is making time when there is none,
time after time after time, year after year after year.
Commitment is the stuff character is made of: the
power to change the face of things. It is the daily
triumph of integrity over skepticism.
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Commitment Exercise
1. Give an example of a time you made an important promise to someone and your
commitment made it a reality.
2. Give an example of a time your actions towards a ship sister or initiated sister spoke
louder than your words.
3. What are some things you have made time for when everything else going on around
you made it feel like you had no time?
4. How does commitment impact one’s character? Why is integrity important to you?
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Reviewing Our Principles
Academics
Community
Service
Cultural
Awareness
Morals and Ethics
Social
Interaction
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Always Wearing Our Letters
You're interested in staying in our sorority? We'd love to keep you. You're the type of person we
look for: committed, enthusiastic, a leader. We think you'll do great things here, and we hope
that we'll open some doors for you. You will make lifelong friendships, and hopefully, you'll be
the type of person whose positive impact will be felt here for many years. This is the start of
something really cool.
We know you have your reasons for joining, and we also know that the reasons you’ll stay will
be entirely different. Trust us on that one. People tend to join for the image, the props, and the
social stuff. They stay around for the friendships and because they find a place where they can
impact the lives of others. It's a family. We know this. Soon, you will, too.
Soon, these letters will be yours. But, there's one lesson that we need to impress upon you
before you sign your name on the dotted line, pay that first fee, and get that first t-shirt. It's
the single most important thing we're going to ask of you, so you need to listen and understand
it, now, before you say "yes."
It's the one most important thing that any fraternity or sorority can impress upon its new
members. It's the one lesson that every group must impress upon its newest members. Truly,
our survival as an organization nationwide depends on you understanding this one simple
lesson and taking it to heart.
It's more important than our history, our traditions, our structure, or our rules. Because, if you
don't understand this most fundamental lesson, then none of the other stuff will matter. If you
don't get this one "golden rule of sorority," then your child won't have this kind of organization
to join someday, and all of this will just be a fuzzy memory. Here it is. Ready?
From the moment you say yes to this organization, you are always wearing your letters. I'm
going to repeat it. From the moment you say yes to this organization, you are always wearing
your letters. We're not talking about t-shirts, or sweatshirts, or tikis made in Pink and Purple.
We're not talking about a tattoo on your ankle, some party favor, or a pin you wear on your
dress.
What we mean is that when you say yes to lifetime membership in Sigma Lambda Gamma,
everything you say, do and represent from that moment forward is a direct reflection on your
Sisters, and the thousands of members who have come before you. Everything you put out to
the world is a direct reflection of Sigma Lambda Gamma. Every decision, every achievement,
every mistake you make happens to all of us from this point forward.
When you go to the grocery store, you represent us. If you fall asleep in class or earn a weak
grade, you represent us. When you drive down the road and slow down so a pedestrian can
cross the street, you represent us. When you turn 21 and hit the town, you represent us. When
you become a leader of another campus organization, you represent us. When you insult
someone or talk badly about another sorority, you represent us.
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When you break up with someone and make decisions about how you behave during that
difficult time, you represent us. When you go on Spring Break, you represent us. When you go
home and sit at your mother's dining room table, you represent us. When you get a job and go
to work for a company or organization, you represent us. When you commit your life to that
special person, someday, you represent us.
You are always wearing your letters. From this day forward, always. Every day, in every
situation. They never come off. As surely as if you tattooed these letters on your forehead. It
doesn't matter if you're wearing a jersey with our name on it, or a business suit at an interview.
You have to assume that every person you meet will form a permanent opinion about sororities
– good or bad – based on how you interact with them.
Every good thing you do builds us up. Every dumb thing you do tears us down. We live in a
time when the actions of one woman can destroy a sorority like ours. One person who acts in a
way that is inconsistent with our shared values can end 21 years of tradition and pride. One
choice you make when you’re deciding how to educate associate members can take away
everything that lines of Sigma Lambda Gammas have worked to build.
All the stuff you see that belongs to us can be boxed up or thrown out, because of the choices
you make. If this seems a little intense, that's good. Because it's serious. If it sounds like too
much responsibility, or if you don't think you can behave in a way that reflects well on us at all
times, then walk away now. Do us the favor. We won't think less of you. In fact, we'll thank
you. This sort of commitment isn't for everybody.
But, don't say yes unless you understand. We're not asking you to give up anything. We aren't
asking you to become something you aren't. We're asking you to become something more.
We're inviting you to become part of a group of women who make a promise to take care of
each other, every day. We're asking you to become the very best version of you that you can
be.
We're asking you to take a leap of maturity and to go to that place where you're the same,
honorable, dignified person on Saturday night as you are on Tuesday morning, where you can
proudly display how you treat your Associate Members and your Sisters in front of your families,
administrators, and your fellow Sisters across the Nation. It's a big deal, and not everyone can
do it. Forget everything you've heard up to this point. Forget how much you might desire this,
or how much we might want to keep you in Sigma Lambda Gamma.
Just clear your mind and ask yourself one question. Are you ready to never take them off?
Because when you say yes, you're not just putting letters on a jacket. You're putting them in
your heart. You're forever stamping your identity with them. Everything you are, from this point
on, becomes who we are.
You will make mistakes and Sisters will remind you of your commitment. There will be times
where you will see other Sisters forgetting their promise, and you'll need to remind them. That's
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part of this whole "sorority" thing. We work together to make ourselves better women who
stand for something. We carry each other. We matter to one another.
If we're doing Sigma Lambda Gamma right, then we'll make you a better woman. If you're
doing everything right, then you will make us a better organization. So, please think about it.
Take it seriously. Because if you say yes, these letters belong to you as surely as they belonged
to our Founding Mothers. If you say yes, these letters become your responsibility forever.
That's the promise.
Adapted from Sullivan, T.J. (2010, March 3). You are always wearing your letters. Retrieved
from http://apathymyth.blogspot.com/2010/03/you-are-always-wearing-yourletters.html?spref=fb
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Once Upon A Time
Being able to envision and dream about all the possibilities is the key to our future as a group of
women. As Sigma Lambda Gamma continues to strive, all members will contribute to its future. In
the space below write your personal “Once Upon A Time” for the future of Sigma Lambda Gamma.
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Glossary of Terms
Anchor- the last woman in the ship; the woman who is commonly found to be the source of
motivation for the group as a whole. She is strong, supportive and will aid in the quest of
achieving the goal. This woman will keep the line determined and focused, while providing
support for the decisions needing to be made. She will ensure that her ship will not get off
course nor lose sight of their ambitions during the Associate Member Education Program.
Associate Member- a woman who has been inducted into Sigma Lambda Gamma and is
going through the associate member education journey to become an initiated member.
Alumnae- initiated members who have graduated from their undergraduate institution
Captain- the first woman in the ship; the position of Captain should be granted to the woman
who is most commonly defined as the leader of the group. She is realistic and understands
leadership qualities in the context of achieving a goal. She is well organized, detail-oriented
and methodical in her thinking about the way the goal should be carried out by the group of
Associate Members. The goal in this case, obviously is to become Initiated Members of Sigma
Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc.
Chapter- chartered entity at the local/university group of the larger national sorority.
Colony- an undergraduate entity that is affiliated with Sigma Lambda Gamma working to attain
their charter and become an official chapter.
Gamma Mom/Daughter- The role of the Gamma Mom is to serve as a source of guidance,
love and respect throughout our membership. The bond formed between the two women will
prove to last the test of time and continue throughout our lifetime and not only while an active
undergraduate member of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc.
Gamma Name- an acronym, name or phrase that describes the group’s personality and
characteristics as a whole.
Greek Alphabet- a set of twenty-four letters from the Greek language; these letter are used
to name fraternities and sororities.
Initiated Member- a woman who has gone through the Associate Member Education
Program and has been initiated into lifelong fraternity or sorority membership and is active at
the collegiate level.
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Initiation- the ritual in which an associate member becomes an official member or initiated
member of Sigma Lambda Gamma.
Induction- the ritual in which a woman becomes an associate member of Sigma Lambda
Gamma.
Inter-Fraternal Council- a Federation of men's national and international fraternities.
Legacy- A person whose direct relative is an initiated member of the sorority.
Sister Name- name or nickname given to or chosen by an associate member during or after
their associate member education journey. The line name usually describes the associate
members’ personality and/or characteristics.
Ship Sister- a woman who goes through the associate member education journey with
another, or more, women. Commonly referred to as “Line Sister”.
Multicultural Greek Council (or equivalent)- an umbrella organization for multicultural and
multiethnic fraternities and sororities.
National Pan-Hellenic Council- A coordinating body for the nine
historically African American fraternities and sororities
National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations (NALFO)- an umbrella
organization for historically Latino fraternities and sororities
Pan-Hellenic Council- An umbrella organization for 26 international women's fraternities and
sororities.
Ship- Group of Associate Members going through the Journey into Sigma Lambda Gamma
National Sorority, Inc.
Undergraduate member- an initiated Sister who is currently enrolled at a four (4) year
University/College where there is a chartered entity regardless of credit hours and therefore
shall be reported and are responsible for paying National Dues.
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Notes
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Notes
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