Sister Testimonials - Violet Alvino

I was first introduced to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc., by a friend, Raven Roman, on a bus ride from Syracuse University to Cornell University, NY in the fall 1998. She spoke enthusiastically about this sorority as if she were already a member. I was only a first-semester freshman, but I was not interested in sororities, fraternities, or greek life as a whole. In fact, I believed in the stereotypical image that is often portrayed to greeks. I thought, "they only like to step and stroll". Yet, I was extremely curious to find out what my friend was so excited about, and what was different about this organization, than all the others already present at S.U.

A semester later, I attended an informational. I met various sisters, including Monica Miranda, Evelyn Galarza, Bianca Greminger, and Ivy Roman. I was truly impressed with their professionalism and demeanor. I remember Monica Miranda's presence impacted me in such a way, that I felt a deep respect and admiration for the sorority and its ideals. On another occasion, I met Nu chapter's chartering members at Cornell University: Dawn Brawley, Yadira Perez, Dorothy Rivera, and Marcy Lopez. These women were down-to-earth and funny; I had a fabulous time with them. Meeting them solidified my interest. I was able to experience the sorority in both professional and casual atmospheres, and the impact was exactly the same. These were women that I could identify with. I was determined to bring Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc., to Syracuse University's campus.

I then met other women who shared my vision and passion for the sorority, and we formed an interest group. This interest group later became my line sisters, and some of my closest friends. In the fall of 1999, these women and I cross-pledged at Zeta Chapter in SUNY Oswego in efforts to bring OPBSI into Syracuse University's campus. My line, Bajacu, was the only line in the upstate region that semester; it consisted of Giselle Rosado, Raven Roman, myself (Violeta Alvino), Zugely Saez, and Nicole Asencio.

My deans Shannon Smith and Bianca Greminger were extremely supportive, intelligent, and energetic women whom I truly admire. Sorors Betty Diaz, Ivy Roman and Theresa Wright also played an integral part in my process. The more sisters I met throughout my process, the more I knew that I belonged to this sorority and I had made the right decision.

After our initiation into OPBSI in December 1999, we began our journey in establishing Xi chapter at Syracuse University. I became very active in the organization: President of XI chapter in fall 2000, spring 2001, fall 2001, was Dean for expansion line at Utica College in spring 2000, and Dean again for XI chapter's Beta line at Syracuse University in spring 2002, to name a few.

As a chartering member, it was extremely difficult to establish a new chapter into a campus. But since our induction in 1999, we have made various contributions to our community and our campus, including our annual charity event: Christmas Toy & Book Drive, raising money for the Shonnard Boys & Girls club, our Annual Empowerment of Women Banquet, etc. And yes, we do "step and stroll" (our step team, the Soul Stepping Divas won 1st place at the Latinosstep.com competition in 2003). But we are so much more than that. And our efforts have been recognized; hence winning various awards at Syracuse, such as "Greek Leaders of Tomorrow 2000", "Most Improved Chapter 2001", "Outstanding Programming 2002", and many, many more.

Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc., has helped me increase my strengths, and recognize my weaknesses. I have learned some of the most valuable lessons in life throughout my experience as a sister. But most importantly, it has given me friendship and sisterhood in an instant. And it does not end here-- now that I have graduated, and am a rising professional in NYC. I am a sister of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated for life. And when I chant "its in my heart, its in my soul..." I truly love my Black, Forest Green and Gold.
SOLEIL!!!!!

Violeta Alvino
Ayana, #3, Fall 1999
Chartering Member @ Syracuse University
XI Chapter/ Zeta Chapter @ heart