Picture of the month
Welcome
The Gamma Eta Chapter of Lambda Theta Alpha at University of
Houston would like to welcome you to our
site! This site will be constantly updated with pictures; events and
news so please come back and check.
As the first Latina sorority in the nation since 1975, the purpose
of Lambda Theta Alpha shall be to provide a sisterhood based on the principles
of Unity, Love and Respect. We strive to develop strong
leaders who will then provide and practice political, and cultural activities.
We promote unity among all people through charitable and educational programs.
We seek to maintain a high standard of learning and serve as a voice for
all students.
As you X the window, please take your time to sign our guestbook!
Thanks for visiting! -Gamma Eta Chapter
Contact Info: Gamma Eta Chapter President Mariela Taviera
@ lambdalady_fa05l4@yahoo.com
For general questions, contact us at gamma_eta@lambdalady.org
National History
Excerpted from www.lambdalady.orgThe year 1975 saw the birth of what started as a visionan idea of an organization, a sisterhood that would cater to the needs of Latinas and the universal woman. Thanks to the tremendous strides made by our seventeen founding mothers, this dream was realized, and took form as the entity. Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated, the first Latina sorority in the nation. There were several causes leading to the realization that such an organization was necessary. Traditionally, the role of the Latina woman was that of maintaining the family institution and falling into the realm of the Machismo stigma. As the Latino migration to the United States increased, so did the emergence of independent Latina women, eager to be at the forefront of an era of a new educational, political and social consciousness. In the early 70's, colleges and universities experienced an influx of Latino enrollment. With this growth, the need for support groups and outreach programs were at an all time high, primarily for the low percentage of Latina women in higher education institutions.
In 1975, Kean University in Union, New Jersey introduced and began to implement bilingual studies, as well as a Latino and Caribbean studies department. It was at this university, in this historical time period, that a group of women convened to discuss the formation of a sorority for Latina women. Its focus would be to actively integrate itself into the social, political and community service arena that other students had been involved with. Together, as a united front they could compete, collaborate and assist with any student run programs, thus making their voices as loud and profound as the majority voice; their concerns equally as important.
Lambda Theta Alpha was recognized at Kean University as the First Latina Sorority founded in the United States. This organization was the first to recognize the need for a support system, thus creating one. The desire to progress, dedication to their community, and the aspiration for the advancement of the Latina women marked the beginning of Lambda Theta Alpha. It allowed the independent Latina woman of a new era to have a sense of belonging and with that, achieve her highest potential. It would define a new role for the Latina woman, one with education, goals and vision in hopes of great success.
Now, 30 years later, we have seen the outcome of such an organization. Lambda Theta Alpha has contributed to the advancement of all people by helping to produce educated women of many races, ethnicities, and creeds. These women are political leaders, doctors, lawyers, teachers, accountants, etc. LTA has also paved the way for many other Latina organizations, which would later pursue the empowering movement that we set the trend for. From 1975 to date, Lambda Theta Alpha has upheld its purpose and mission, each day realizing the Founder's dream—that it may serve as a quintessential trailblazer for all women.
Chapter History
While attending the University of Houston during the fall 2000, a group of young women collaborated to implement an organization that promoted the Hispanic woman. This organization would promote productive involvement and be a positive role model in the community.
Through extensive research already provided on campus, the ladies realized that their needs would not be met. The young women began to do research off campus and came across Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc. They were really drawn in by their three principles: Unity, Love, and Respect. After a unanimous decision, the young women began making preparations in order to meet the qualifications for founding a chapter at the University of Houston.
The "Interested Ladies of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc." group was established, and, after 450 plus hours of community service, 6 fundraisers, and 10 socials, the young women were given the privilege of bringing this organization on campus. From the interest group, a group of strong willed women emerged. On August 4th of 2001, Lambda Theta Alpha - Gamma Eta chapter was established at the University of Houston by founding sisters Cynthia Diane Alcocer and Maria Fernanda Rodriguez.
Sister Profiles
"Las Dos Preciosas"
Name: Cynthia Diane Alcocer
Number: #1
Line Initial: "I"
Ethnicity: Mexican American
Birthdate: April 19, 1980
Major: N/A
Nickname: "So Fresh & So Clean"
Why did I choose LTA?
I chose LTA because it is a wonderful organization that upholds the principles Unity, Love, and Respect. LTA holds a true sisterhood that reaches out to all Women. It is an organization based on quality and not quantity. Furthermore it is a family that I can always be part of.
1975 Baby!!!!!!
Name: Maria Fernanda Rodriguez
Number: #2
Line Initial: "E"
Ethnicity: Guatemalan
Birthdate: December 18, 1981
Major: Psychology
Nickname: "Drop it like its Hot"
Why did I choose LTA?
I chose Lambda Theta Alpha primarily because it strives for Academic Excellence. I also like the fact that LTA has a great involvement with various community services. LTA does not focus on quantity sisters and that makes it better for me to get to know each sister on an individual level.
LTA is the only Way..............
::Line One::
"Soooole Survivor"
Name: Jessica Karina Martinez
Number: #1
Line Initial: "F"
Ethnicity: Mexican American
Birthdate: November 28, 1980
Major: Broadcasting/Media Productions
Nickname: "Stonecold"
Why did I choose LTA?
The FIRST and ONLY Latin sorority..
::Line Two::
"The Vibrant Five"
Name: Julia Maldonado
Number: #1
Line initial: "D"
Ethnicity: Salvadorean
Birthdate: December 28, 1982
Major:
Accounting
Nickname: "Rocksteady"
Why did I choose LTA?
Name: Daira "Dee" Valdez
Number: #2
Line initial: "F"
Ethnicity:
Guatemalan
Birthdate: September 15, 1981
Major: Bilingual
Education
Nickname: "She - Ra"
Why did I choose LTA?
I chose LTA
because I share the same principles, values, and integrity that this organization not only
holds,
but portrays within the sisterhood. Plus, I do not settle for less than the best, and LTA
is definitely on top!
Name: Isis
Hernandez
Number:#3
Line initial: "A"
Ethnicity:
Mexican
Birthdate: March 23, 1981
Major: Bilingual
Education
Nickname: "Carebear"
Why did I choose LTA?
I joined Lambda
Theta Alpha because God was giving me the opportunity to share this beautiful feeling of
sisterhood with so many great ladies. Also, because I learned and experienced how this
great sorority accomplishes so many wonderful things that are not done selfishly, but for
the benefit of others.
Name: Paloma
Ayala
Number:#4
Line initial: "C"
Ethnicity:
Mexican
Birthdate: January 23, 1981
Major: Management Information
Systems
Nickname: "Fresa"
Why did I choose LTA?
Lambda Theta Alpha is the FIRST Latina sorority in the nation who paved the way for others to follow. LTA is always innovating and has a very solid foundation with strong principles of Unity, Love, and Respect. I also liked the fact that it's not all about quantity, but quality and this makes the sisterhood so much stronger. Lambda Theta Alpha is one big family, and I love that I have sisters all over the country who I can count on. LTA is the only way!
Name: Sandra Chapa
Number:#5
Line Initial: "S"
Ethnicity: Mexican
Birthdate: November 12, 1979
Major: Biology (already graduated from UH)
Nickname: "Covergirl"
Why did I choose LTA?
It's Burgundy and Gray...
::Line Three::
"La Unica"
Name: Diana Yvette Cantu
Number: #1
Line Initial: "C"
Ethnicity: Mexican American
Birthdate: January 1, 1983
Major: Information Systems
Nickname: "Cleo"
Why did I choose LTA?
I chose LTA because of its
dedication to community service and academics. I liked that the sorority was more intimate.......it focused on quality, not quantity. Most of all these wonderful ladies that are my sisters, welcomed me with open arms.
We paved the way...
::Line Four::
"La Fuente de Inspiracion"
Name: Mariela Tavira
Number: #1
Line Initial: "V"
Ethnicity: Mexican American
Birthdate: December 31, 1983
Major(s): Communication & Management
Nickname: Mad Dog
Why did I choose LTA?
It is the first Latina sorority and has been paving the way since 1975
and not only that but it holds true to its principles of Unity, Love, and
Respect. It focuses on academics and strives for the best making each sister
better than they were. I like the fact that it doesn't focus on quantity
which makes the sisterhood so much more valuable and special. Women there
are many, ladies there are few.
Women there are many, ladies there are few...
::Line Five::
"The Matrix"
Name: Amber Crake
Number: #1
Line Initial: "T"
Ethnicity: Guatemalan
Birthdate: July 1st,
Major(s):
Nickname: Buffy
Why did I choose LTA?
Name: Bianca Diaz
Number: #2
Line Initial: "B"
Ethnicity: Mexican - American
Birthdate: September 19, 1985
Major(s): Psychology
Nickname: Muneca
Why did I choose LTA? I chose Lambda Theta Alpha because of its originality. LTA was founded on historical context that is still special to each and every sister everyday; there was a point, a meaning for the creation of such a unique organization. The traditions and ideals of LTA stand out, above the rest. Also, Lambda Theta Alpha is an academic organization; hence, it's incredibly beneficial for women in higher education. LTA is a sisterhood, not a sorority; it's non-exclusionary, always striving to empower the universal woman.
Houston Holla!! ...
Interested Ladies
"Interested Ladies of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc." Being an interest group member can be a rewarding experience, you are able to work closely with friends, give back to the community, and educate yourself. The interest group is open to all ladies. If interested and would like more information about the interest group please contact us at joinlta@yahoo.com or please fill out the form below.
Photos
Gamma Eta group pictures
Gamma Eta Sisterhood
Texas Sisters
Lambda Family
LTA Facts
Colors: Burgundy and Grey
Principles: Unity, Love and Respect
Goals: Scholarly excellence, empowerment of Latinas and the universal woman, cultural and political awareness, and community activism.
Important Facts:
- Founded at Kean University, in NJ in December of 1975.
- Lambda Theta Alpha was the first sorority ever created to cater towards the needs of Latinas in the nation.
- The purpose of the organization is to create a support group for Latinas in higher education, and unite the Latino community on campus.
- Lambda Theta Alpha was established as an academic sorority.
- LTA is not an exclusionary organization.
- The LTA National Philanthropy is the F.U.T.U.R.O. Program: Focused Urban Teens United and Ready for Opportunity.
- Lambda Theta Alpha has a "call", a hand-sign, and performs traditional salutes, chants, and partywalks (strolls).
- Lambda Theta Alpha is a member of the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations (NALFO).
- Lambda Theta Alpha is a fully insured organization which covers all of its chapters.
- Each chapter of Lambda Theta Alpha is recognized by its respective institution. Sisters at each chapter enjoy complete participation in campus activities.
- Lambda Theta Alpha has established Alumnae Chapters.
- Lambda Theta Alpha has established Graduate Chapters.
- Lambda Theta Alpha has established chapters throughout New Jersey, Connecticut, Puerto Rico, New York, Maryland, Florida, California, Pennsylvania, Texas, Arizona, Michigan, Illinois, Virginia, Tennessee, New Mexico, Wisconsin, Georgia, Idaho, North Carolina and Washington.
- Lambda Theta Alpha is proud to be recognized as the 2000-2001, 2002-2003 and 2003-2004 recipient of the Sorority of the Year award from NALFO and Latinogreeks.com.