Sister Testimonials - Lori A. Rodriguez

I first heard about Omega Phi Beta Sorority my freshman year at SUNY Albany (Fall 1990). During my first semester I met several sisters including Frances Echevarria, Samantha Lopez, Ileana Adorno, Rene Padilla, Jane Vega, Annette Ettrick, Bevene B. Babblington.

I often had dinner with Samantha, Frances, Ileana and Annette. They spoke of their sorority with such pride and conviction. The two topics that often came up when they spoke of Omega Phi Beta, were culture and the uplifting of the Latina Woman. These were not issues that were ever discussed in my high school, nor in any of my social settings. I was in awe of their understanding of the many struggles that young latina women face, and their ability to discuss these topics in an educated and sophisticated manner.

I realized that there were differences between Omega Phi Beta and other sororities and organizations. That major difference was that Omega Phi Beta in essence was designed to EMPOWER and STRENGTHEN women. Omega Phi Beta began to infiltrate a marginalized community who had no outlet, no connection, and NO LEADERS. This community was the women of color on the SUNY Albany Campus. OMEGA PHI BETA SORORITY, Inc. became their leader.

However, I must admit that it was one life altering conversation with Jane Vega, in the lobby of Dutch Quad, that allowed me to see the depth of Omega Phi Beta. It was this conversation about womanhood, culture, pride, dignity and SELF LOVE that helped me realize the importance of Omega Phi Beta, and how it had already begun to change my life. It was after this conversation that I decided that I would begin my journey toward enlightenment!

My line, Genesis - Spr. 1991, crossed on May 10, 1991, and what a Glorious day it was. Ladies (and gentlemen), this day was the most amazing day of my life. I felt rejuvenated, and alive. I have yet to recreate that feeling in over 10 years. My line sisters Erica Clemmer #1, Letitia L. Graham #2, and Aziza Fishman # 4, all made the experience amazing, and quite honestly, UNFORGETTABLE. The membership intake process was a mind-blowing experience for me, and We were taken through a very special journey, that will never be forgotten.

After we crossed, we assisted in a membership intake process in the Summer of 1991- Gamma Chapter and in the Fall semester of 1991, it was time to get to work. I was heavily involved in the Sorority, and worked hard with my line sisters, and the founders to keep OPB going strong.

That following semester, another sunflower patch blossomed. The creative and inventive Delta Chapter, Spring 1992; the first and only line for which I was a Dean. In case you did not know it already: Renee, Cher, Caridad, and Yvonne... YOU WOMEN ROCK!!!

As the years went on, I held various positions and did my best to help the sorority grow. As an undergraduate I served as President for the Alpha Chapter for 2 years and 1 year as secretary. When I graduated from SUNY @ Albany I served as National Board President.

As you already know, I took some time off in order to get my career in order, BUT NOW I'M BACK!!!

Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated holds an incredibly special place in my heart. And it is important for me that you all understand that it is with true honor, and great pride that I call my self a sister of this organization...

My only wish is that someday you can all experience what I feel in MY SOUL each time I say the name Omega Phi Beta.

PAZ Y AMOR

Lori A. Rodriguez
Aguila...because I soar above all the rest!!!!!
Alpha Chapter- Spring 1991

P.S. Although every founder of Omega Phi Beta had a part in my membership education process, there are some women I would like to thank personally for helping shape the person that I am today. These women expected only the best and certainly made it clear when we did not deliver excellence. They are as follows:

• Frances Echevarria,
• Ileana Adorno,
• Samantha Lopez,
• Annette Ettrick,
• Sylvia Toledo,
• Jane Vega,
• Renee Padilla,
• Bevene B. Bablington.