History of the Iota Charter
Sigma Psi Zeta is the first and only multicultural Asian Interest Sorority on the University of Rochester campus. We emphasize leadership, scholarship, advocacy, community service and cultural awareness.
Sigma Psi Zeta works to promote awareness of the Asian/Asian American cultures and heritages amongst the students and faculty of our campus. We believe the strength of our foundation derives not just from the unity of our sisterhood, but also from the individuality of our members.
The Iota Charter of Sigma Psi Zeta was established by Wincheng Lin and Jeanette Moy on December 1, 2000 at the University of Rochester. These women, united by their desire to affect change on their campus and the surrounding communities, create a lasting sisterhood, and promote unity among women and those of the Asian/Asian American community, set forth to bring a charter of Sigma Psi Zeta to their campus in the Spring, 1999. As friends, and later as roommates, they occasionally discussed the creation of an asian-interest sorority. They wanted an organization that would be beyond the bonds of friendship and instead hold bonds of sisterhood. Jeanette's older sister was a Sister of the Alpha Chapter of Sigma Psi Zeta, and after careful consideration, the two desired to join the organization that Sister Zoe had joined years before. It was not until Fall 2000, however, that their vision was realized. Their friendship was unparalleled, and with each other's support, no challenge was insurmountable. With much perseverance, determination and work, these ladies, known now as Trax and Fenix, became the Iota Charters.
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The Iota Charters personal philanthropy, in addition to our National Philanthropy, is to raise awareness for the need for minorities in the National Bone Marrow Registry. In the past few years the Iota Charter has been commended numerous times by the faculty at the University of Rochester, student organizations, and community for our dedicated work.
David Li Bone Marrow Drive
Wincheng Lin Coffee Night Informational & Bone Marrow Drive
In accordance to our National Philanthropy, we have hosted, and supported, many inclusive events for our campus community to partake in.
Domestic Violence Awareness Week
Purple Ribbon Project
Fundraising for two local organizations: Sojourner House and Alternatives for Battered Women (ABW)
Relay for Life
Cultural Events are another aspect in which the Iota Charter strives for excellence in programming.
Tea Tasting with Wake Up in Wilson
Night Market during Winterfest Weekend
Tai-Chi Workshop
Lantern Painting
Iota Charter has also had the opportunity to host two Regional Rallies.
NERR Spring 2006
NERR Fall 2007
In addition, our members also partake in, and hold various leadership positions (both past and present) in other extracurricular pursuits such as:
Alpha Phi Omega, Brother
American Museum of Natural History, Volunteer
Black Students' Union, member
Campus Times, Comics editor
Chinese Students' Association, President
Chinese Students' Association, Vice President
Chinese Students' Association, Sophomore Senator
Chinese Students' Association, Freshman Publicity Chair
Chinese Students' Association, Publicity Coordinator
Common Connections Office, Receptionist
D'Lions Club, Member
D'Lions Club, Student Activities Chair
Filipino American Student Association, Vice President
Filipino American Student Association, Secretary
Grassroots, Member
JumpStart, Team Leader
Korean American Students' Association, Member
Multicultural Greek Council, Secretary
Music Ensembles, Violin
Polish Club, Member
ResLife, Resident Advisor
ResLife, Summer Assistant
Rochester Chinese Christian Church, Retreat Committee Chair
Tae Kwan Doe Club, Vice President
Time Warner, Intern
University of Sydney, Study Abroad Student
Women's Caucus, member