By: Abby Bonilla, National Public Relations Committee
This January, in honor of Alumnae Appreciation Month, Lambda Theta Alpha highlighted alumnae members across the nation. With each submission came words of gratitude for a member who has generously given her time, talent and treasure for the progress and growth of their community and our organization. It was a month of recognition and a great way to enter the new year. We’re highlighting four members featured throughout the month and their impact on our sisterhood.
Keila Berrios (Iota Chapter, Spring 1994) previously served on the National Executive Board, now known as the Board of Directors, as Vice President and Director of Finance, at times concurrently, as well as the first National Alumnae President. She is responsible for leading the development of our sisterhood’s financial operational system as well as co-leading the first major national restructuring initiative. She inspires sisters every day through her embodiment of resilience and determination.
Cecily Dúran (Delta Tau Chapter, Spring 2017) has inspired others by serving her chapter selflessly and wisely as the Alumnae Engagement Officer to improve the experience of graduated members with inclusivity, equity, and compassion. Apart from dedicating her time to Lambda Theta Alpha, she continues to show mindfulness and kindness as she works with the Seneca Family of Agencies Nonprofit.
Dr. Marla Delgado-Guerrero (Gamma Mu Chapter, Spring 2003). Marla is inspiring because she cares deeply about her community. She is a fearless advocate for all individuals that she meets, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Through her work and dedication, she has become a prominent figure in Wisconsin and a leader for Latinx students. Her accomplishments have been recognized through the Outstanding Women of Color award from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Si Se Puede 2019: Wisconsin’s Most Powerful Latinos list. However, the true inspiration comes from her love for our sisterhood. After so many years, she continues teaching the importance of our principles to her chapter.
Shamar Betancourt (Beta Gamma Chapter, Spring 2012). Shamar currently serves on the National Alumnae Affairs Committee (NAAC) as well as the committee chair for Beta Gamma’s sisterhood committee. She is committed to enhancing the alumnae experience by being involved with her home chapter, Alpha Upsilon Alumnae Chapter and the NAAC.
Our alumnae members are critical to the health of our organization, and to you all, we say thank you for your commitment to our sisterhood. Honoring one another is not limited to Lambda Theta Alpha’s Alumnae Appreciation Month, if you have someone who has impacted your life or career for the better, why not send them a few words of encouragement, love and support? Let’s make a difference and aim to operate from a place of gratitude throughout all of 2021.
“Never underestimate the valuable and important difference you make in every life you touch, for the impact you make today has a powerful rippling effect on every tomorrow.” – Leon Brown
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