Before the 70's, the hispanic community had little presence in the higher education scene, but with the sudden influx of Latinos in colleges and universities, there was much need for an outreach program for minorities. Kean University was one of the first to develop a bilingual studies program. It was then that a group of young, educated women came together to discuss the formation of a sorority for Latina women.
Ileana Almaguer
Cecilia Alvarez
Carmen Baez
Karen Capra
Doris Cruz
Arlene Fernandez
Eneida Figueroa
Maria Gautier
Teresa Gonzalez
Dr.Thomasa Gonzalez
Diana Ibarria
Lilian Marrero
Ofelia Oviedo
Linda Perez
Aurora "Dory" Rodriguez
Maria del Carmen Vega
Marilyn Wyatt
Traditionally, the role of women was only known as that of maintaining a household. In 1975, however, a vision was born. This vision was of a sisterhood that would cater to the needs of Latinas and the Universal Woman. With the faith and determination of 17 Ladies, this vision became a reality. These Ladies would soon become known as the 17 Founding Mothers of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated...the FIRST Latin sorority in the nation .
The organization's focus was to integrate itself with the social, educational, political, and community service arena that students had already been involved with. Together as a front, the ladies would make their voices heard. With over 80 chapters across the nation, including Puerto Rico, and 30 years since founding, LTA continues to strive with the same goals and principles of Unity, Love, and Respect.
Karen Cruz
Carla Cotto
Maritza Ubillus
Alma Reyna
Marisol Medina
Aldana Larrea
Noelia Rodriguez
Adaliss Pabon
Jennifer Bolanos
Toneh Williams
Freyda Pagan
Teresa Puente
Monica Prieto
Jennifer Schambon
In the spring of 1999, Beta Theta Chapter was established through the hard work and persistence of our 15 Founding Sisters, known as "The Mighty Fifteen". It was not until January 12, 2000, however, that Beta Theta actually received recognition at the University of Central Florida. Unfortunately, these ladies had to deal with the same hardships and obstacles as our Founding Mothers did almost 24 years ago. "The Mighty Fifteen" paved the way for future Hispanic and multi-cultural sororities and fraternities on campus. Once acknowledged, Lambda Theta Alpha, Beta Theta Chapter opened the doors of opportunity to not only Latinas but also all minority women on the UCF Campus. In fall 2000, Line One was born.
These 11 ladies would be known as "The First Dynasty". At this time, Beta Theta Chapter would also take on the nickname the “Blaaazin' Beta Theta", recognizing its achievements at UCF. Beta Theta felt very welcomed and appreciated for all of the hard work they had done. They received awards such as "Small Organization of the Year 2000" and Jennifer Bolanos received "Academic Sister of the Year 2000." This same year, our mentoring program "Aspiring Latinas Ahora y Siempre" of "A.L.A.S." began a very successful path for Beta Theta Chapter, recognizing the importance of educating our youth.
In Fall of 2001, Beta Theta Chapter then gave birth to 4 more ladies, "The Everlasting Four". At that time Beta Theta along with REACH Peer Education joined forces to apply for a grant to spread the word of HIV Awareness. Out of all the applications in the United States, this team was hand-picked to receive the grant.
In Spring 2002, our next line showed us "The Way to Be" and also helped to participate in UCF's first "Block it Out with a Beat." That same semester brought the chapter exciting news. Beta Theta had won "Chapter of the Year." In the Fall of 2002, "The Six Bold Souls", were born. With many graduating sisters, they had the role of continuing this chapter's legacy. They also gave birth to our Make a Difference Day Program for the children of Stonewall Jackson Middle School, which at the time had about 80% Hispanic students.
After many struggles, Beta Theta was able to bring, in Spring 2004, "The FOURtress of Resilience." These four ladies were vital to bringing youth and enthusiasm back into the chapter. Fall '04 brought us "La Escencia De La Fortaleza", 4 more beautiful and enthusiastic ladies who would leave their footprints in Beta Theta's history forever.
Now, in Fall '05, Da Blaaazin' is proud to introduce to you, "Las Nueve Damas Inolvidables"...9 strong and unforgettable Ladies who are ready to impact the community...