OUR FOUNDERS
Gina “K.W.A” Han, Sally “Shae” Hsieh, Jean “Curly” Kim, Jenny “Smiley” Kim, Sandra “Bones” Lam, Winnie “Minnie “Liu, Michelle “Elle” Macaraig, Sung-Yon “Hanna” Noh, and Loan “Lolli” Tran
Sigma Psi Zeta was founded on March 23, 1994 at the University of Albany in Albany, New York under the leadership of our founders:
Our Alpha Chapter marked the first Asian-Interest Sorority on the East Coast as well as the first organization oriented towards Asian-American womxn in the history of the University of Albany. Sigma Psi Zeta thrives on the diversity of its members, and we attribute a lot of our success to our organization’s avidity to evolve and expand our cultural identity. There are now more than 2,000 members that have contributed to this organization’s history and will contribute to its prolific future. Sigma Psi Zeta not only supports oppurtunity for endeavors in our University and local communities, but also with personal and professional aspirations. Our SYZters are encouraged to “Lead From the Front” as we simultaneously aim to exemplify our Ten Rays of SYZterhood which serve as the foundation for our ever-evolving sorority.
Our leaders sought to establish an organization to address and validate the collective yet individualistic experience of Asian-American womxn in the world around them; as well as recognize and support their potential for making an impact in that world. In order to provide a means for initiating change themselves, they decided to create an organization to fight against the injustices historically suffered by our gender and race.
The Ten Rays of SYZterhood:
Integrity, Legacy, Scholarship, Philanthropy, Professionalism, Community, SYZterhood, Culture, Citizenship, Activism
Our Motto: “Lead From the Front”
Our Colors: Red & Gold
Our Flowers: Yellow Rose with Baby’s Breath