New Paltz, New York--September 14, 2005

Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc., also known as SIA, will be hosting its 15th Anniversary Banquet at Hillside Manor in Kingston, New York on September 24, 2005. This historic occasion is taking place near one of the schools where the sorority was founded, the State University of New York at New Paltz.

Latina based sororities are a relatively new concept, with Latinos more recently entering college in greater numbers,. Even with their increased numbers, they are less likely to obtain their bachelor degree then other groups and still remain behind in high school graduation rates. Organizations such as SIA help members to not only reach their educational goals, but to inspire and help others in their communities reach those same heights.

"SIA has done countless work to develop leaders, to empower women, to educate others about our cultures and to uplift our communities," said Jessica Mayorga, President and interim CEO of the sorority's newly established foundation Solidaridad Inspiracion Amistad, "Hermanas (sisters) never forget that there are others out there who can benefit from our talents and from our experiences."

SIA was founded on September 29, 1990 by 13 women at the State Universities of New York at Albany, New Paltz, and StonyBrook as well as Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Its dedication to scholarship, service and professional development within the Latino community has grown beyond New York, with chapters in several states including: New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, California, Texas, Illinois, Maryland and Virginia.

Over the years, the organization has been involved with a number of charitable organizations. From undergraduate chapters sponsoring underprivileged children through Children International to SIA's official partnership with Camp Heartland, an organization that assist children affected by AIDS/HIV, this young organization has a proven record of service to it's own community and beyond.

Most recently, SIA has unified with other Latino organizations to assist those that have been affected by Hurricane Katrina on the Gulf Coast. The unified organizations are collecting baby clothing, baby bottles, diapers and related goods, Children's clothing, Children's toys, coloring books and crayons, adult incontinence products, and feminine hygiene products.

Ms. Mayorga sees a positive and exciting future for SIA, "As we continue to grown throughout the nation we are excited to provide the SIA experience to a greater number of women who will perpetuate our impact through service and leadership.

Helen D. Torres, Director of Communications
Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc.
917-446-7013
communications@hermandad-sia.org
http://www.latinogreekunity.org