The Amazonian Spring 2014

Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Incorporated

Inside Shining a Light on CMT Greek Unity: Don’t Be Afraid to Let Go of Your Folder Siksika Celebrates 30 Years Our Chapters: Aborigena, Concordia, Dhyani

Spring 2014

From Our President

Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc. National Governing Council 2013-2015 Zuly Salazar Destinidas National President Dagersy Jaquez Themiskyra National Vice President Lorimar Santiago Concordia National Secretary Jackie Lopez Amazona National Officer of Membership Tashanna Williams Xurima National Assistant Officer of Membership Josie Acosta Haumea National Officer of Expansion Ashley Hill Haumea National New Chapter Advisor Jennifer Rencher-Ndombi Siksika National Historian Sabrina Colón Dhyani National Officer of Communications Monifa Ellis Zaona National Step Director Nicole Mitchell Dhyani National Officer of Community Affairs

My Esteem Sophisticated Sisters, I would like to start off by wishing everyone a joyous new year and an even more successful academic semester. This past year has shown MSU many challenges yet we remained loyal to our Amazon strength. Strength that will continue to carry us through many more accomplishments this 2014.

From experiencing our first ever national sisterhood retreat, to crossing the 54th MSU Chapter, adding two more states to the MSU map, and celebrating our 32 years of diverse sisterhood; MSU shows no sign of slowing down.

As we conclude our term in promoting the Keep a Breast Foundation for breast cancer awareness and our lovely Founding Mother Sylvia Vigo-Smith’s victory over cancer; MSU has lots to be grateful for. Let’s continue to strive for excellence in our academic and professional careers; breeding leaders into our communities. Our passion for uniting women and celebrating our differences as well our commonalities will engrave our mission of diversity.

May this New Year bring each and every one of you much happiness, health, and prosperity, and bring us closer together as sisters. I hope to see the organization grow even more engaged within the communities and universities we serve year after year, with the baby blue flames continuing to burn in our hearts and our daily lives.

Lastly, I would like to leave you with an excerpt of President Obama’s speech at the Nelson Mandela memorial service, “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time.

We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

In Sisterhood,

Zuly Salazar NGC President 2013-2015

Ely Duran Las Conquistadoras National Officer of Public Relations Denisse Babiche Hasinai National Programming Chair

Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Incorporated was founded on November 21, 1981, at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ as the first multicultural minority Greek letter society in the nation.

Adrienne Cummings Anansi National Officer of Retention

Founding Mothers Eve Bracero, Lillian Sierra, Karinee Candelario, Ruth Gonzalez, Sylvia Vigo

Inside this Issue 1

Greek Unity: Don’t Be Afraid to Let Go of Your Folder

3

Shining a Light on CMT

6

Cover Story: Fight Like an Amazon

8

Sister Profiles: Toni Diaz, Ynanna Djehuty

10

Our History: Siksika Celebrates 30 Years of Sophistication

12

Our Chapters: Aborigena, Concordia, Dhyani

15

Graduates & Chapter Achievements

Editor’s Desk The response to the new look and layout of The Amazonian has been amazing. I am very grateful to everyone who not only contributed but those who read and provided feedback as well. I plan to keep this positive energy going as I look for great stories to feature and provide an outlet for Sisters to reach not only our organization but interests, universities, families and friends.

Please continue to send in your ideas. As The Amazonian finds its voice, I hope to expand the publication. Keep the feedback coming!

In Sisterhood,

Sabrina Colón

National Officer of Communications

The Amazonian Official newsletter of Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc Editor Sabrina Colón National Officer of Communications Contributing Writers Sylvia Vigo-Smith, Founding Mother Michele Kekac, Matriarca Chapter Karimah Prescott, Siksika Chapter Cara Orduno, Dhyani Chapter Maria Rosa, Aborigena Chapter Johany Rodriguez, Concordia Chapter Janice Maestrey, Siksika Chapter Pilar Pereira, Siksika Chapter On the cover: Sylvia Vigo-Smith photographed by Trale Williams www.tralewilliams.com The Amazonian is published three times a year. Send inquiries and submissions to: Communications@MSU1981.org www.MSU1981.org 163 East Main Street #312 Little Falls, NJ 07424

www.MSU1981.org

www.facebook.com/MSU1981

@MuSigmaUpsilon

@MuSigmaUpsilon

Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc.

Greek Unity

Don’t Be Afraid to Let Go of Your Folder An Undergraduate’s Experience at the NMGC Winter Conference Karimah Prescott From December 6 - 8, 2013, I had the privilege of spending my time in Orlando, Florida for the National Multicultural Greek Council (NMGC) 2013 Winter Conference.

As the only undergraduate in attendance, I spent the weekend in the presence of primarily national board members of the organizations of NMGC. For some this would have been an intimidating experience; however, I used it to speak on behalf of the undergraduates whenever I could.

By listening to the comments and concerns voiced by many of the NMGC members over the weekend, I was able to realize a larger picture.

As undergraduates, there are times we find ourselves trying to compete with organizations relatively similar to our own. Whether it be trying to outnumber the other organizations or simply just be “better” than them because we know how amazing our organization is. However, there comes a time when we have to realize we can’t be afraid to let go

Jennifer Rencher-Ndombi, Karimah Prescott, Josie Acosta

of our folders. We hold everything pertaining to Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc. sacred and near and dear to our hearts, as we should.

However, after listening to Greeks of various organizations such as Omega Phi Chi, Delta Sigma Chi, Lambda Tau Omega, Psi Sigma Phi, Gamma Eta and Theta Nu Xi, I realized we face or have already faced many of the same issues. I also realized some of the organizations have aspects that we as an organization could learn from. We could discuss these issues with one another, to help build each other up as opposed to holding onto the information.

still young and looking to grow.

Collectively we have a much larger impact than individually.

Looking at a council such as the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) for example, most of the organizations within the council would not be where they are today without the help of one another.

If you ask a member organization of NPHC to speak about the other organizations within the council, that organization most likely will be able to name all eight other organizations as well as their founding dates and location.

Meanwhile, there are NMGC Greek members that surely cannot list all member organizations Collectively we have a much and have never even heard larger impact than individually. of most of the organizations within the council. We as multicultural Greeks need to As multicultural organizations, create stronger alliances with one we were all founded for social another to educate the community change and to collectively voice on the changes our organizations our opinions for change. Instead stand for and I believe this starts of competing with one another, at an undergraduate level. There strength in numbers would benefit comes a point when you realize us all as we are all organizations The Amazonian – Spring 2014 | 1

no matter what organization you are a part of, at the end of the day we are all trying to enhance our communities. Think back to monumental moments in history such as the Feminist Movement and the Civil Rights Movement.

These movements became large entities because of smaller entities that comprised them. One person

did not create each movement; rather, numerous people and events developed them into what we study today. It is a simple concept however I was able to realize this at the NMGC Winter Conference more than I had before. Thank you to the National Governing Council of Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc. for giving me the opportunity to

attend the conference. Also, thank you to Jen Rencher-Ndombi and Josie Acosta for making me feel extremely comfortable to voice my comments at the conference and encouraging me to sign up for a committee within NMGC. To my fellow undergraduate sisters, change begins with us so don’t be afraid to let go of your folders!

The 1980s and 1990s saw the emergence of a multicultural fraternity/sorority movement. It seemed like new fraternities and sororities were popping up everywhere. But, not the typical fraternity and sorority. The end of the twentieth century gave birth to a colorful movement – that of multiculturalism.

Newly formed fraternities and sororities were looking to write a new page in the Greek-letter society history books. The message that they announced was the inclusiveness of all cultures, races, religions, and creeds.

Realizing the importance of uniting the new faces of Greek Life 13 GLOs came together to create a national multicultural council. The NMGC was conceptualized in 1998 with intentions to unite Greek-letter Fraternities and Sororities under one national entity.

The NMGC serves in an advisory capacity to its member organizations. Each member organization is autonomous as a Greek-letter society.

The goals of the NMGC are as follows: • To provide a forum that allows for the free exchange of ideas, programs, and services between its constituent fraternities and sororities; • To promote the awareness of multicultural diversity within collegiate institutions, their surrounding communities, and the greater community-at-large; and • To support and promote the works of its member organizations. ΓΣΤ Delphic of ΓΣΤ Multicultural Fraternity

ΓΗ Gamma Eta Multicultural Sorority

ΛΤΩ Lambda Tau Omega Sorority, Inc.

ΨΣΦ Psi Sigma Phi Multicultural Fraternity

ΔΞΦ Delta Xi Phi Multicultural Sorority

ΘNΞ Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority

ΜΣΥ Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc.

ΩΦΧ Omega Phi Chi Multicultural Sorority

ΔΣΧ Delta Sigma Chi Multicultural Sorority

ΛΨΔ Lambda Psi Delta Multicultural Sorority

ΦΣΧ Phi Sigma Chi Multicultural Fraternity

ΛΣΓ Lambda Sigma Gamma Sorority Inc.

2 | Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc.

Michele being presented with the CMTA I Am A Star Award.

Michele Kekac I was very young when the pain started. We lived in a small town in Brazil at the time and the doctors told my mom it was growing pains.

I was very clumsy and fell all the time, my legs just seemed too weak for my body. My feet had very high arches, as were most of the feet on my mother’s side of the family.

We just laughed about them and chucked it off to just having ugly feet. We never thought anything of it. We moved to the USA in 1996 and lived in New Jersey.

Throughout school and into college seeing everyone else being able to do so much more physically than I could really made me wonder if I was just weak or if there was more to it. It would be another three years before I would begin

the process of finding out what was really going on. I crossed into MSU in the Fall of 2001. I was very active in my first few years as a sister and as my condition progressed, I began to be more limited in what activities I could participate in, within Mu and outside of it as well.

I started to work in NYC while I was still in college and commuted for many years. For most of that time, I had severe pain from calluses in the balls of my feet. In 2005, after years of suffering and countless doctors, I was finally diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) Syndrome Type 1A. Like most people, I had never heard of it.

The doctors explained that CMT is an inherited disorder of

the peripheral nervous system characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass and pain in the extremities. CMT patients slowly lose normal use of their hands and feet as nerves degenerate and muscles weaken. Currently incurable, this rare disease is one of the most commonly inherited neurological disorders affecting approximately 1 in 2,500 people or an estimated 2.6 million people worldwide. By contrast, Multiple Sclerosis, a better-known neurological condition, affects 2.1 million people worldwide.

CMT usually affects several members of the same family. Years later, my younger sister and my mom's cousin were also diagnosed with this disease. We believe several The Amazonian – Spring 2014 | 3

family members have CMT, but have not been diagnosed. They are not affected to the extent that I am and most of them live in Brazil. Testing would be a lot more complicated and expensive there.

At first I wanted to ignore CMT. I was happy that I had a name for what was ailing me but I wasn’t quite ready to deal with it yet. I was in my early-20’s, starting a new relationship with my future husband John and I just didn’t want to think of my future as a big “What If.” As time passed, CMT progressed little by little. New pains started to appear, my calves started cramping a lot more, I developed a constant chronic pain in my thighs and my feet started to have neuropathic pain, such as tingling and numbness.

In early 2010, I decided to undergo major reconstructive surgery on both feet, to help lower the high arches and in hopes that the calluses would go away. The recovery would be very time consuming and take about three to four months for each foot so I decided to quit my job in NJ and move to Shelton, CT to be closer to my John’s work. I also decided to start a blog, This is My Journey: My Life with CMT, to chronicle my journey through surgeries. The main reason I wanted to create the blog was to include all the details and feelings from appointments and experiences, without having to tell the story multiple times to John, my parents and my sisters. I never imagined how much bigger this blog would become.

Soon, it became an escape valve where I poured my heart, anguish, hopes and fears. And then an amazing thing happened, other CMT’ers started to respond and 4 | Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc.

reach out to me. Most, like me, had never talked or met another CMT patient. The blog became a way to connect to people who shared the same reality.

have had to make was to retire at the ripe age of 31 from a job that I loved due to the pain and fatigue. My firm tried to work with me and put me on a part-time schedule and eventually, Due to the lack of knowledge even that proved to be too challenging. They and awareness about this disease, were so wonderful to many people go undiagnosed or me and decided to select the Charcot-Mariemisdiagnosed for years, suffering Tooth Association without receiving the proper help.

(CMTA) as the nonprofit organization spotlighted at one of their largest events. The Fueled by this new experience, Women’s Tea in 2012 was a huge I decided to be more active in success and exposed CMT to so the CMT community. I met many women professionals who had some amazing bloggers online never heard of it. This event helped and we created close friendships. raise $1,800 for the CMTA. Together with these wonderful women, I helped to create a group After experiencing the positive blog “Clicks for CMT: Bloggers reaction from this event, I decided Raising Awareness.” This group to make an even bigger impact. In of motivated women helped an effort to raise public awareness raise much awareness during last and much needed funding to year’s CMT Awareness Month by further the research of the diagnosis blogging about our stories and and treatment of Charcotexperiences.

Marie-Tooth disease, John and I partnered with the CMTA to host Charcot-Marie-Tooth is a disease a community fundraising event that makes you feel alone. It’s one called Slice of Hope in our town of the biggest diseases no one has in September 2013. The event was ever heard of. For some patients, it a casual, family-friendly evening, can be an invisible disease, which which included delicious pizzas is my case. I still look the same and and dessert pies and over 50 prizes you really couldn’t tell there was to be raffled, all provided by local anything wrong with me by just businesses. We were completely sold looking at me. As I’m affected with out and still had many walk-ins, we chronic pain and chronic fatigue were able to get TV and newspaper my struggles happen internally. coverage in local media and raised The tough days are usually spent $14,000 in total, with donations at home and only your closest still coming in. All proceeds from loved ones really see the agony of the event benefited the CMTA living with constant chronic pain.

STAR Research Program.

This online community helped me to have friends to rely on and to The CMTA is committed to talk to in times of need. They also its mission of generating the became my cheerleaders during resources to find a cure, to create good times. awareness and to improve the quality of life for those affected One of the hardest decisions I

by CMT. Founded in 1983, the CMTA is the leading source of information about CMT for more than 25,000 patients, families and clinicians. The CMTA offers a variety of educational materials and conferences, coordinates support and action groups in North America, provides physician referrals and works closely with the clinical and research communities.

Their vision is a world without CMT. The Slice of Hope event provided great exposure for our cause, with interviews and articles on WTNH 8, New Haven Register, Valley Independent Sentinel and the Shelton Herald. Governor Dannel P. Malloy also publicized his support for CMT patients statewide by declaring September as CharcotMarie-Tooth Awareness Month in Connecticut and Governor Chris Christie did the same in New Jersey.

The declarations helped to alert more residents to the impact of the disease.

Due to the lack of knowledge and awareness about this disease, many people go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years, suffering without receiving the proper help.

Many times, even physicians are not aware about CMT and this needs to change. It is critical to find the right team of professionals to help you with physical therapy, orthotics, leg braces, and/or surgeries, if needed.

CMT can be a debilitating condition and take away your independence little by little. My life has changed drastically since my diagnosis. I have gone through three surgeries and recoveries, I can no longer stand or walk for very long and use a scooter when going out anywhere that standing or walking is required. My main job is to keep

myself healthy by going to physical

as possible and to not let it get my

therapy and pool therapy weekly and managing house chores at a slower pace to make sure I am not left drained or in too much pain at the end of the day. I have been lucky to finally find a combination of exercise and medications that actually help me manage and live a pretty normal life. I am even luckier to have an amazing support system in my husband, parents and friends who are always there for me.

spirits down. As with anyone that battles a chronic illness, life is full of ups and downs but we have to learn to appreciate the positives and just know that God is leading the way.

I knew that growing our family would be a challenge as I’d have to get off my medication and deal with the normal fatigue of being a new parent but I can’t imagine letting this disease take that away from me.

So I am happy to report that I am currently expecting a baby girl in May 2014 and we couldn’t be more thrilled.

The CMTA is getting closer and closer to finding a treatment for this disease and I cannot wait until they do. By building awareness and raising funds, we can hope to offer help to the millions of children and adults struggling with this condition every day. More awareness means more hope; it means a better future!

This is my journey: http:// myjourneywithcmt.blogspot.com/ CMT Clicks: www.cmtclicks.com Learn more about Charcot-MarieTooth Syndrome at www.cmtausa. org

CMT has taken a lot of my normal activities away but I keep fighting to maintain some normalcy as much The Amazonian – Spring 2014 | 5

I am Sylvia Vigo-Smith, one of the five founders of Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc. I was number five on line which may seem insignificant but plays a major role in my story, my cancer story. I’m sharing it because I imagine that I might inspire and possibly give hope to those who need it. I also wish to educate which is not only what I do for a living, but one of our goals.

The year 2011 started out as an awesome year; I turned 50 in February but started the party in January by swimming with dolphins, something I’ve wanted to do for as long as I can remember.

I had a wonderful birthday party with lots of family and friends, and my line sister was coming home from Iraq. Physically, I was reaching the top of my game, losing weight, off of my BP meds, doing Zumba, working with a physical trainer and somewhat eating right.

MSU’s 30th Anniversary Banquet was being planned and was going to be hosted right here in Orlando, Florida. It was October 2011 and I 6 | Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc.

was scheduled for my annual breast exam with a new specialist.

Why a breast specialist and not my regular gynecologist? The previous year, my mammogram showed a questionable spot which started a series of tests, ending with a biopsy at the breast specialist. Luckily, at that time the biopsy results were negative for any cancerous cells. My October 2011 visit showed another spot in a different area of the breast, so the doctor said she wanted to do another biopsy.

Again? No problem, it was fatty tissue the first time; it’ll be fatty tissue again.

We scheduled the appointment for a biopsy but there was a conflict with my insurance and by the time it was resolved, it was already February 2012. I spent the weekend before my appointment with Lillian and Gladys, and I mentioned to them that I was a little concerned about my appointment because I could actually feel the lump for the first time since my October appointment. We agreed it was

probably nothing, but when I went to my appointment the doctor was concerned too, and told me it looked like cancer.

What?

The biopsy was scheduled for the next week, February 14th, Valentine’s Day. Unlike! I would then return on February 28 (the day after my birthday) for the results.

Double unlike.

Not wanting to alarm anyone I told a few of my closest Mu sisters, family and coworkers. Then, the prayer chains began. People prayed, with me, over me, around me, online and off line. Those who didn’t pray sent positive energies my way. I was starting to feel much better.

The day arrived and my daughter Rosie came with me to the appointment. The nurse had me disrobe to the waist and we waited for the doctor to come in. She walked in with the P.A. and told us that I had stage one Triple Negative Cancer in my left breast. I was in

shock. Me? Breast cancer? They must be mistaken. I was exercising, eating better, and nobody in my family had breast cancer! I heard the doctor talking in the background…

I tuned her out, the only thing I heard was, “blah, blah, blah, blah.”

Then I heard her say, “You’re not going to die. We can beat this. We found it early and with the new treatments and technology that we have today you will be just fine.” If I hadn’t waited I probably would have gotten away with less of a procedure. Still, relief and hope took over.

of prayers.

With my doctor’s help, I chose to have a single breast mastectomy with reconstructive surgery. This meant three breast surgeries. The treatment would eventually include eight sessions of chemotherapy, which rendered me hairless from head to toe (if you know what I mean). I walked into the hospital that day with confidence, my daughter, Lillian, my goddaughter and her family.

A little nervous, I shed a few tears while giving hugs and kisses at the door. When the nurse The moral of the story is told me I would be in knowledge and early detection is the room #5, I smiled and knew that was my sign key. Don’t take things for granted ... that everything was going to be just fine.

I was then told it might be one month until my surgery but when the P.A. came back to the room, I had been scheduled for March 8; nine days away! I had no time to process, the next few days were a whirlwind of doctor appointments, tests, phone calls and lots and lots

The moral of the story is knowledge and early detection is the key.

Don’t take things for granted because you may not be so lucky the second time around. I found out that although the chances of breast cancer are increased due to family history and genetics, no one

is immune. Male or female, anyone can fall victim to this horrible disease. I want to thank you, my sisters, for choosing Keep A Breast Foundation as our philanthropy in honor of me and the many others who “fight like a girl.”

When I think of how my life has changed, I realized that I am a survivor, a true Amazona. And with my own personal faith and the love, support, prayers and positive thoughts of my friends and families I am here today to share my story and am ready for whatever comes my way.

MSU’s National Philanthropy for 2012-2014 is The Keep a Breast Foundation. The Keep A Breast Foundation is the leading youth focused, global, nonprofit breast cancer organization. Their mission is to eradicate breast cancer for future generations.

To find out more about The Keep A Breast Foundation and how you can help, please visit their website www.keep-a-breast.org or email us at communityservice@msu1981.org.

The Amazonian – Spring 2014 | 7

Sister Profile Undergraduate

Toni Diaz Ākāsa Chapter Founding Sister Fall 2013

8 | Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc.

Why did you choose to join Mu Sigma Upsilon?

When I first began college I never thought I would be part of a Greek organization. After attaining my associated degree at a community college, I transferred to a new school and moved to Denver. I wanted to continue to be active in my new community as I had been in my old town of Longmont, CO. Longing to increase my social capital and be part of the growth and betterment of the people around me, I started looking at the different organizations on campus but could not find something that fit me. I had first heard about T.I.A.R.A.s of Metropolitan State University of Denver, from my cousin Taylor Torres, a brother from LSU. I looked into the organization and what they were about. I really liked that this was a multicultural organization that was different than anything my campus had. MSU embraces diversity, and women whom are intelligent, and driven leaders that are active in the community and on campus making a great change.

The diverse environment on Auraria Campus, a tri-institutional campus, was a critical factor in my choosing to transfer to the University of Colorado at Denver rather than the campus in Boulder, Colorado where many of my family members had gone to. Auraria needed an organization that was unique and could embrace its best asset, its diversity. In my opinion, MSU is “the sorority for non-sorority girls”, I feel that it goes beyond the typical mold you think of when you hear the word sorority. I am proud to be a sister of MSU and to continue

paving the way for women in the future.

What significant contributions have you made to your chapter, university or community?

The expansion process to bring MSU on my campus had begun a long time before I became a student on Auraria campus. I did not always expect to result as the sole founding sister, but in the end, I stuck it through and ensured that all the hard work put into this resulted in what it was meant to be—the first MSU chapter in Colorado, The Ākāsa Chapter. As the first multicultural organization to be recognized on my campus, there is finally an organization that truly encompasses what our campus is known for, its diversity. I am proud to be able to bring this amazing organization to my campus and community and continue enriching lives through sisterhood.

What is your most memorable part about being a sister of MSU? As a new sister of MSU this semester I already have many moments that I will never forget. One of the most memorable days I’ve had thus far was when I was still going through my process and I had found out I was going to be a solo. That day sisters and brothers from all around the country reached out to me with nothing but support and motivation.

After feeling very much alone everyone made me feel so loved and cared for from hundreds of miles away. I was in tears of joy the rest of the night and I knew I was meant to be part of this organization.

Sister Profile Alumna

What drove you to found a chapter of MSU? I wanted to found a chapter with my line sisters because it was an opportunity to introduce and educate on issues that weren’t normally talked about. I decided that I wanted to learn more about being in solidarity with women who also had a diverse worldview.

What led you to pursue a career as a certified birth doula?

I realized I wanted to use my natural ability to help those around me feel calm to help women in labor. I was learning about my own reproductive health and as I gained knowledge about my body, I wanted to share and teach as well.

in the world and such womencentered care is necessary for the reclaiming of health for women collective. Women of color would especially benefit from midwives holistically as well as economically. I want to serve my community at this very important moment and be able to influence women in low-income communities who otherwise do not have access to resources that they have a right to.

Tell us about your women’s advocacy efforts?

Most of my activist work has been through writing articles and presenting at colleges and universities. I consider my work with childbirth activism work because I am able to help women become I realized I wanted to use my I also write natural ability to help those around empowered. about my own journey me feel calm to help women in labor. in an effort to encourage women around me to Childbirth is incredibly important share and relate to each other. for the healing of our world. It is

Ynanna Djehuty Orisha Chapter Founding Sister Spring 2004

the last rite of passage we as women cross-culturally still have and to be a doula gives me the opportunity to hold space for such an important transformation.

Tell us about your goal of becoming a midwife?

I knew I wanted to be a midwife during my doula training. Being a midwife would give me the opportunity to influence the health and wellness of a woman as her primary healthcare provider. The current condition for women, especially marginalized women, in the United States and worldwide is bleak, with a slow but steady emergence of solutions. There is specifically a shortage of midwives

Ynanna was recently featured as one of “10 Leaders Who Redefine Leadership” by WorldPulse.com for her work advocating for women’s issues.

To learn more about her journey, read articles and to donate to her AfroLatina Student Midwife Fund visit www.thesewatersrundeep.com.

In October 2009, Ynanna wrote ‘Hija De Mi Madre’ (My Mother’s Daughter), a combination of memoirs, poems and research material that explains the effects of race on identity from an academic standpoint. Her writing has also been featured on TheFeministWire.com, TheNewLatina.com and WorldPulse. com.

The Amazonian – Spring 2014 | 9

Our History

Lachelle Uzcategui-Gaymon, Brenda Rodriguez, Providencia Castro, Lillian Sierra, Yvette Quinones

30 Years of Sophistication Siksika Chapter’s Diamond Anniversary The Siksika Chapter at William Paterson University proudly celebrated its 30th Diamond Anniversary on November 30, 2013 with a banquet hosted at The Bethwood in Tototawa, NJ. Over 150 guests attended, including Sisters and Brothers from chapters throughout Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc. and Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Fraternity, Inc. along with family and friends.

The event was opened by the Siksika Banquet Committee thanking all those that attended and assisted in the planning of the night. The Committee also paid tribute to those that made the Siksika Chapter a reality, the Founding Mothers and Founding Sisters. A beautiful diamond trophy was awarded to Founding Mother Lillian Sierra for her role as Cacique of the Chapter’s founding line. Both 10 | Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc.

Founding Sisters Brenda Rodriguez and Lachelle Uzcateguigaymon also received this award as recognition for their Outstanding Vision, Dedication and Commitment to the Siksika Chapter and the organization as a whole. The acknowledgements continued with the presentation of the Legacy Awards. Selected through an online survey by members of the Siksika Chapter, the Legacy Awards were presented to sisters that were instrumental and inspirational during their decades. Recipients included Yvette Quinones for the 1980’s, Xiomara Gonzalez for the 1990’s and Jennifer Rencher for the MUllennium. All nominees for these awards also received a certificate of recognition.

The night also featured a step/ stroll exhibition performed by Sisters from different chapters of

the organization, a delicious sit down dinner and a DJ providing a variety of music to represent the diverse backgrounds and different generations within the chapter.

Sister received a small favor as a sign of appreciation for attending while the first 20 Brothers received a celebratory cigar.

It was a night where we all made unforgettable memories filled with dancing, laughing, reconnecting with old friends and making new ones.

Living Legends As part of the anniversary weekend events, the Siksika Chapter hosted a live broadcast of MSU’s History Session on Friday, November 29, 2013.

The session featured panelists Founding Mothers Lillian Sierra, Ruth Gonzalez-Hendricks and Sylvia Vigo-Smith as well as LSU Founding Fathers Roberto Muniz and Jose Sabater, Carlos Hendricks, Taino Chapter and videographer

Luis Rodriguez of the Intocables Chapter.

The evening began with the introduction of how LSU and MSU transitioned from Fellowship to Fraternity and Sorority, which then lead to a question and answer period. One of the highlights of the night was meeting the Cacique of our Founding Mothers and having the privilege of asking him questions about his experience with the line.

The second panel featured Siksika Founding Sisters Brenda Rodriguez and Lachelle Uzcateguigaymon and Cacique Lillian Sierra, who led an interesting discussion of the

expansion process to the campus of William Paterson College.

The evening was concluded with an informational report given

by National Historian Jennifer Rencher-Ndombi who shared historical facts of where the Siksika Chapter stands today.

Founding Mothers Lillian Sierra, Ruth Gonzalez-Hendricks and Sylvia Vigo-Smith

Siksika Banquet Committee: Janice Maestry, Pilar Pereira, Xiomara Gonzalez, Yasmin Salomon and Velanae Burgos A special thank you goes out to Founding Mother Lillian Sierra, for bringing the idea to us of incorporating a History Session during our 30th Anniversary banquet weekend. Thank you for your constant feedback and encouragement, and most importantly for continuing to fuel my passion for Mu. It’s always a pleasure to work with you.

Last, but not least, to one of the people who helped make this event possible, my line sister, Pilar Pereira. Your positive attitude, your ability to multi-task, and your commitment and dedication to not only MSU, but your family as well, did not go unnoticed this year. You’re a phenomenal woman, who unselfishly manages to accomplish things for Mu, even on the day of your birthday. You’re like Superwoman who overcomes every obstacle with much grace and respect.

Thank you all who attended this celebration wonderful celebration, you all made it truly special and an overall success.

- Janice Maestry

The Amazonian – Spring 2014 | 11

Our Chapters

at UNC Charlotte. And now as sisters they know that even more hard work, patience and dedication is required of them to become an even more successful chapter. Just looking back at their history is inspirational, even when the odds are against them, Dhyani prevails.

Mandonna Amirehsani, Takeiah Perry, Alycia Cody, Shenica Johnson, Sheram Serrano, Cara Orduño, Brittany Broner

Dhyani

Breathing New Life

Prior to founding the Dhyani Chapter in 2007, 750 miles separated Mu Sigma Upsilon’s northern chapters from their closest southern sisters. As the first chapter in North Carolina, Dhyani helped bridge the 11 hour gap between schools and jump started the organization’s effort to create a presence along the entire East Coast. Dhyani sisters have remained active in the almost seven years since their founding, being instrumental in the establishment of several other chapters and holding positions in all levels of the organization.

During those years, the organization has also been hard at work to achieve recognition for MSU at

Concordia Leading by Example

12 | Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc.

the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. After several years and a few false starts, seven women proved they were ready for the challenge and Maitreya was born.

The Fall 2013 line of the Dhyani Chapter consists of seven amazing women who are eager to carry on the Founders’ vision of bringing something extraordinary and fresh to their campus.

On November 18, 2013, the Maitreya line was revealed to campus: Mandonna “Marici” Amirehsani, Takeiah “Survivor” Perry, Alycia “SaMUrai” Cody, Shenica “MUtiny” Johnson, Sheram “MUse” Serrano, Cara “Siren” Orduño and Brittany “Serenity” Broner, restoring Dhyani’s place

The year 2013 marked the 14th anniversary of the Concordia Chapter’s establishment at the University of Connecticut.

Although the chapter is hard at work preparing for the semester ahead, their celebration efforts included a time to reflect on their

These women are determined to build a successful chapter, and to show everyone that they are here to stay. Two of the undergraduate sisters will be graduating in May 2014, leaving five sisters on campus while the school requires eight, so it is vital that the chapter receives as much support as possible from all of Mu Sigma Upsilon in order to increase membership and to continue the Dhyani legacy.

“Our work is not over. We will make sure that Dhyani becomes a large presence on UNC Charlotte’s campus and make this chapter into something that will be here for years to come,” says Cara Orduño.

“We would like to thank every sister of our baby blutiful organization for welcoming our chapter back. We would also like to thank the sisters from other chapters that came to our probate.

A special thank you to Jennifer Backus, Joshira Maduro and Ashley Hill for guiding us through our expansion process, and last but not least, thank you to our dangerously beautiful Dhyani Founding Sisters.

All of us in the Dhyani Chapter will make you proud”

successes as well as time to prepare for their future.

• Over 128,000 people including 50,000 children are in need of emergency food assistance in Hartford, CT. This year, in partnership with Foodshare’s

Walk Against Hunger, Concordia raised enough money to provide a month’s worth of food for ten families in need.

• A total of eight boxes filled with toiletries, board games, used DVD’s, snacks and other items were shipped to our troops overseas via the chapter’s Support the Troops event held in conjunction with the Veteran Student Organization.

• Today, about one in eight women will get breast cancer in their lifetime. Concordia’s 3rd Annual Stroll for a Cause, co-sponsored with the Xi Chapter of Latino America Unida, Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity Inc. generated over $1,000, with a portion donated to our philanthropy – the Keep a Breast Foundation, the leading youth-focused, global, nonprofit breast cancer organization.

Monetary donations were also made to the Children’s Medical Center, the National Association of Sickle Cell Anemia, Aid for AIDS, March of Dimes and Women and Girls Lead.

been recipients of scholarships like Travelers Edge, are members of the Honors Program and have achieved the prestige recognition of making it to the Dean’s List.

various awards such as Excellence in Leadership Development, Best Cultural Event, Best Collaborative Event and Outstanding Chapter Management.

Two members were recently accepted into the Order of Omega, an organization recognizing excellence in the Greek community. Their membership is comprised of the top 3% of Greek students. A true distinctive honor to hold in the Greek community.

What began with three dedicated women seeking to bring an organization that empowered and uplifted women from all cultures to the University of Connecticut, now is comprised of 25 sisters from 14 different cultures, residing in different parts of the country – living out our goals of academic excellence, unity amongst all women, and to be active in the university and community through their daily lives.

Sisters have gone on to pursue graduate degrees at schools like Boston University, and pursue careers in law, fashion design, marketing, education, social work and more.

Concordia’s dedication and continuous efforts to support their sisters and community has have been recognized by the university since their re-establishment three years ago. They have been recipients of

As they welcome their two newest sisters and reflect upon 14 years of excellence, Concordia knows that no matter what challenges come their way, they will remain united.

This is just a glimpse. The chapter has been heavily dedicated to being active in their community and bringing awareness to issues that affect so many. They have also not forgotten the commitment they have to each other as sisters and as their community’s next women leaders.

Over the years, sisters have been involved in campus organizations like the Multicultural Business Society, the National Association of Black Accountants, Bringing Awareness into Latino Ethnicities, Global Brigades and many others.

They have also been recognized

by UConn Greek life as a Greek Emerging Leader and as Neophyte of the Year. Academically, sisters have

Daniella Lomo, Rinsha Ballani, Catherine Holt, Stephanie Elcock, Catherine Evans, Christal Nworjih, Johany Rodriguez, Lorimar Santiago, Andrea Llivichuzhcha, Jessica Ofray The Amazonian – Spring 2014 | 13

Aborigena Giving Back

One of the organization’s oldest chapters, the Aborigena Chapter was founded by a solo in 1991. As of Fall 2013 the chapter has grown to 20 lines and its strongest asset is the great alumni support that the undergraduates receive. Founding sister, Ana Ramirez Wilhelm, is still a vital part of the chapter’s success.

Throughout the years, the chapter and its individual sisters have won numerous awards and Aborigena prides itself on being small but productive.

The Fall 2013 semester exceeded all expectations with the R.I.S.E. (Relieve, Inspire, Serve, Empower) Benefit for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan. Having many sisters of Filipino descent, the chapter felt the impact of the typhoon directly.

Executing such a large-scale event in a week and a half was not going to be an easy feat, so the sisters joined efforts with their chapter brothers (Pioneros Chapter of Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Fraternity Inc.). While planning the benefit dinner and organizing other fundraising options, the idea of ordering custom wristbands imprinted with “United for the Philippines” came about. Along with this fundraising effort, the 14 | Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc.

chapter offered bulk orders of empanadas. Hundreds of bracelets and empanadas later, the chapter had raised an estimated $1,500 and realized the potential success of a benefit dinner. With less than two weeks to prepare, meetings were arranged with school administration and other student organizations to cooperate and raise awareness on campus leading up to the event.

With funding from the Student Governing Association, the chapter began to search for performers, catering, donations and decorations with the goal of throwing a successful and fun event.

The night of the benefit, all of the hard work paid off, with the collection of a little over $1,000 in donations and multiple bags of donated goods from the dinner alone.

The best part of the fundraising efforts (and a motivating factor) was that the National Governing Council matched $1,000 of what was already raised, leading to a grand total of over $3,500!

“When the undergraduate sisters first conceived the idea, we did not imagine how successful the end result would be, and were not sure how we would be able to pull it off, but thanks to our wonderful alumni and local sisters, we far exceeded the goals we set when we began this undertaking. We appreciate the support and guidance that we receive, not only for this event, but throughout the semester and the years. Seeing everyone pull together to help make this so successful reminded us how amazing this sisterhood really is.

The chapter only hopes that we can continue to thrive and succeed throughout the future years within this organization and our local and global communities,” Maria Rosa, Aborigena Chapter President.

Fall 2013 Graduates

Raquel Valls (Haumea Chapter)

Bachelor’s Degree

Raquel Valls, Master of Social Work from Florida International University

Master’s Degree Farishta Anwar (Quinquatria Chapter) Anne Kirkwood (Haumea Chapter)

Jennifer Backus (Boétia Chapter) Shanna Bridglal (Ionia Chapter) Kristin Delfino (Kimimela Chapter) Olivia Diaz (Genesis Chapter) Jennifer Fana (Destinidas Chapter) Jerilee Fonseca (Matriarca Chapter) Jessenia Garcia (Lazuline Chapter) Soltier Guillen (Nysa Chapter) Tiara Jones (Yemaya Chapter) Myeesha Martin (Vathara Chapter) Gissell Minaya (Amazona Chapter) Meshelle Naylor (Haumea Chapter) Joanna Olivera-Rojas (Mosaic Chapter)

ChapterAchievements

Jacksina Perez (Lazuline Chapter) Kayla Prins (Siksika Chapter) Jul Rolls (Siksika Chapter) Madeleine Yakal (Nysa Chapter)

Soltier Guillen, Bachelor of Science from SUNY Oneonta

Concordia

Nysa

University of Conneticut

State University of New York at Oneonta

Andrea Llivichuzhca - Order of Omega

Madeleine Yakal - Daniel H. Weiskotten Scholarship, Field

Hasinai Stephen F Austin State University Iris Favela - Dean’s List Spring 2013

Ionia East Strousburg University

Experience Award, Silver Leadership Level & Sean’s List Fall 2013

Siksika William Paterson University Vanessa Grafals - Order of Omega Honor Society

Gold: Top Sorority on Campus - Pillars of Excellence

Yemaya

Order of Omega Greek Leadership Award

Lehigh University

Amber McAlister - Order of Omega Excelling Greek Leader

Best Performance by Duo or Group

Matriarca

Silver Status - Intellectual Development

Montclair State University Jerilee Fonseca - Montclair State University Outstanding Female Greek Leader & Outstanding Leadership and Excellence Award from Latin American Student Organization

Silver Status - Community Development Angelica Matos - Silver Chapter of Distinction, Multicultural Greek Council Alumni Advisor of the Year Award, Best Director, Elizabeth Major Nevius Award The Amazonian – Spring 2014 | 15