Lambda Theta Alpha

Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc. (ΛΘΑ) was established in 1975. The idea for Lambda Theta Alpha began in the 1970s when colleges and universities experienced an influx of Latino enrollment. As colleges and universities began to get an increase from first-generation students, women of color were low in retention due to no support system. The organization was founded at Kean University by seventeen women of Latin, Caribbean, and European descent as a support system for women in higher education.^[2] The sorority is Latin by tradition, not by definition in that it remains open to women of all races and ethnicities. It became an academic sorority in order to focus on retaining women in higher education. The organization also stresses social justice and activism dating back from how the organization came to be. Lambda Theta Alpha is proud to be recognized as the First Latina Sorority in the Nation.

Lambda Theta Alpha partakes in traditions such as having hand signs and calls, as well as saluting and strolling; but not stepping, out of respect to the "Divine Nine" or the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Saluting demonstrates unity and respect, while strolling demonstrates unity and pride. All these traditions are extremely respected and held dearly by the organization.^[3]

Lambda Theta Alpha was also previously under the umbrella of NALFO, which is the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations. Lambda Theta Alpha had won recognition with the Sorority of the Year award from 2000–2001, 2002–2003, 2003–2004, 2009–2010, 2011–2012, 2012–2013 and 2013-2014.^[4][5]

Founding Mothers

The seventeen Founding Mothers came together in an effort to create the first Latin Sorority in the nation. The Founding Mothers are more than historical icons to the sisterhood, they are distinguished professionals within their fields and they continue to contribute to their respective communities on the social, political, and educational level. They also continue to support the progress of growth of the sorority as active members, participating in National and local events.

Picture of Lambda Theta Alpha Founding Mothers and Line 1

National philanthropy

LTA and the St. Jude Give Thanks Walk

Lambda Theta Alpha members serve thousands of hours each year to a variety of philanthropic causes and needs. In the effort to create a more united and bigger impact nationally, Lambda Theta Alpha selected a national philanthropy. In January 2010, LTA became an official collegiate partner to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, becoming the first individual Latino Greek organization to commit fully to the hospital's efforts.^[6] With this partnership, LTA provides resources of community service and activism and more importantly, another direct link to the Hispanic community for St. Jude. LTA has pledged to raise awareness about childhood cancer and St. Jude in the Latin community, as well as fundraise for the hospital through a variety of events and programs.

Chapters

References

External links

• Lambda Theta Alpha — national website