The Fraternity
Sigma Alpha Iota History
Sigma Alpha Iota was founded on June 12, 1903 at the University School of Music, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Incorporation papers under the laws of the State of Michigan were signed December 1, 1904 and recorded December 15, 1904.
The seven founders of Sigma Alpha Iota are:
Mary Storrs Andersen (d. 1946)
Elizabeth A. Campbell (d. 1949)
Frances Caspari (d. 1948)
Nora Crane Hunt (d. 1949)
Leila Farlin Laughlin (d. 1921)
Georgina Potts (d. 1972)
Minnie Davis Sherrill (d. 1972)
As of August 2019, there are 225 active college chapters and 114 active alumnae chapters of SAI. Each chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota is grouped with local chapters contained within one of 64 provinces. Each province is grouped with other provinces within one of 8 national regions. Since its founding, Sigma Alpha Iota includes over 130,000 initiated members, 17,644 of which are currently active.
A number of different memberships are possible. Please visit the national website at http://sai-national.org for more information.
Our Purpose
The purpose of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity is:
TO FORM chapters of women college students and alumnae who have a sincere interest in music.
TO UPHOLD the highest standards of music.
TO FURTHER the development of music in America and throughout the world.
TO GIVE inspiration and encouragement to members.
TO ORGANIZE the cultural life of Sigma Alpha Iota members as a contributing factor to their educational growth.
TO SUPPORT the ideals and goals of the member's Alma Mater.
TO ADHERE to the highest standards of citizenship in school, community and fraternity life.
Mission Statement & Vision
The mission of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity is to encourage, nurture, and support the art of Music.
The vision of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity is to be recognized throughout the world as the foremost fraternity that:
Supports and encourages women musicians of all ages, races, and nationalities
Supports and promotes successful and innovative educational programs in music for all stages of life
Cultivates excellence in musical performance
Promotes programs and activities that stress the love and importance of music on our lives
Recognizes technological advances in the field of music
Dedicates financial resources that ensure the continuation of programs necessary to support the objectives of the fraternity in perpetuity
Has as its members people who exemplify professional and ethical behavior in the spirit of the Sigma Alpha Iota founders.
Sigma Alpha Iota Symphony
by Esther Requarth, Nu
To study and practice the goodness of life, the beauty of art, the meaning of music.
To sing the song of sincerity and universal peace.
The speak the words that build, that bless and comfort.
The play the harp strings of loving kindness, tolerance, appreciation, and genuine gratitude.
To strive for the joy of simplicity, for the noble, tho be faithful over a few things.
To listen, to be still and know the harmony from within.
To falter never in seeking loving service, wisdom, and understanding.
In a word to be loyal to Sigma Alpha Iota and her teachings; to find joy, hope, inspiration;
to remember that "every good gift and every perfect gift is from above"
and "whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord, and not unto men."
And again, to practice.
This is to be our Symphony.
2022-2025 National Objectives
We, the members of Sigma Alpha Iota, will:
Build a lifetime commitment to Sigma Alpha Iota
Prioritize music in all aspects of chapter programming.
Recommit to the proper presentation of our ritual
Rekindle sisterhood within your chapter
Support SAI Philanthropies, Inc.
Stability | Advancement | Inspiration