There are a wide variety of student organizations at Syracuse University – from political to cultural to Greek life. Scroll down to learn more about our vibrant student life.

ADVOCACY/POLITICAL
La LUCHA (Latino Undergraduates Creating History in America) La LUCHA, formerly known as the Hispanic American Society, was founded in 1989 at Syracuse University to empower and educate Latinos, and others, about their shared culture and address their needs. La LUCHA’s mission is to “work towards building an empowered and united community of people by maintaining our culture, by serving our community, and by promoting changes that will lead to the betterment of Latinos.” Contact: Katherine Abreu, President, LaLUCHASU@gmail.com
National Association for the Advancement of Colored People – SU Chapter (NAACP) The NAACP, founded in 1909, is the oldest, largest and most respected civil rights organization in the United States. The Syracuse University chapter was established in 1985 and seeks to promote campus diversity, grow NAACP membership, encourage involvement with the surrounding Syracuse community, and to increase awareness through cultural events and political activism. Contact: Stephanie Conn, President
Student African American Society The Student African American Society (SAS) was founded in the spring of 1967 by 150 undergraduates as Syracuse University's Black Student Union. It is the first organization of its kind at a predominantly white private university. SAS had an initial list of goals which included 1) establishing an African American Studies Department 2) receiving funding from the University annually and 3) instituting a Black Cultural Center. Today, SAS remains the preeminent advocate for Black people and people of color at Syracuse University. Contact: Anju Franklin, President,
ARTS & CULTURE
African Student Union The African Student Union (ASU) is dedicated to promoting and developing fellowship among African students and to cultivate in them the spirit of service in public interest. ASU seeks to build strong bonds between other organizations of color at SU and SUNY -ESF and works to increase the awareness of African students' interest and concerns. ASU also seeks to educate people about the continent of Africa and illuminate all the positive things that are so often overshadowed by the media. Contact: Kofi Dormah, President
Black Celestial Choral Ensemble The Black Celestial Choral Ensemble (BCCE) was founded in April 1977. The choir’s purpose is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ through song and to cultivate awareness of the Black experience and its impact on gospel music in America. Contact: Nina Rodgers
Black Legacy Founded in 2013, Black Legacy aims to bring back the classic sounds of Motown, and embody the sophistication and style of Black singers of the past in order to pay homage and re-introduce, a seemingly forgotten, genre of music. Contact: Ray Anthony Lezama
Black Reign Step Team Black Reign Step Team was founded in 2005. Black Reign seek to exude the power of stepping through energetic performance for both the Syracuse University area and the large upstate community; to provide an environment where people from diverse backgrounds can express themselves through stepping. Contact:
Caribbean Students Association The Caribbean Students Association (CSA), founded as the West Indian Association in 1978, was renamed in 1985 to better represent the region’s diversity. The purpose of CSA is to educate and maintain a positive environment for members, the University community, and the larger Syracuse community. Contact: Chelsea Gill, President
Creations Dance Company Creations Dance Company was founded in 1977 by ten Black women that sought to increase cultural awareness and diversity at Syracuse University through dance. Today, as a co-ed company, Creations performs a variety of dance forms including African, contemporary ballet, hip hop, lyrical, modern jazz and traditional Black dance. An annual recital is held at the end of each fall semester. Contact:
Haitian American Student Association The Haitian American Student Association (HASA) was founded in 1995. HASA seeks to represent all aspects of Haitian culture to the Syracuse University community through meetings, cultural dinners and panel discussions. HASA also hosts an annual “Haiti Night” in the spring. Contact: Yvline Tanis, President
Kalabash Dance Troupe Founded by the Caribbean Students Association in 1988, Kalabash Dance Troupe seeks to bring awareness of the Caribbean through dance. Kalabash, which features male and female dancers, perform a variety of dance forms including African, calypso, hip hop, reggae and soca. Contact: Aneisha Goffin, Coordinator, kalabashment@hotmail.com
Raíces Dance Troupe Raíces Dance Troupe, founded in 1997, is the first and only Latino dance troupe at Syracuse University. Raíces strives to promote Latino cultural awareness and understanding through music and dance. Contact:
Redemption Founded in 2009, Redemption is a co-ed A Cappella group rooted in the principles of Bob Marley's "Redemption Song." Redemption seeks to promote and raise awareness of African American music and music of the African diaspora through A Cappella music and performance by stressing organic music, community, oral traditions and innovation. Contact:
MEDIA
The Black Voice The Black Voice, a student publication, was founded in 1968 to serve as a forum for the expression and discussion of Black ideas and thought, and issues related to Black people on campus, in the community and around the world. Today, The Black Voice current publishes online and as a newspaper. Contact: Danielle Reed, Editor-in-Chief, contact@blackvoicesu.com
La Voz La Voz is a student magazine, founded in 1991, aimed at educating and informing the Syracuse University community of issues that pertain to the Latino community. Contact:
Renegade Magazine Founded in 2014, The Renegade Magazine is a general-interest, semesterly magazine focusing on Black heritage and culture. Contact:
PRE-PROFESSIONAL
Black Communications Society Founded in 1975, the Black Communications Society (BCS) is committed to promoting and encouraging careers in the media for students of color. The goals of BCS include building strong ties and fostering excellence amongst members; building bridges between communications students, faculty and alumni of color; monitoring the coverage of people of color by media outlets; to provide members with opportunities to meet with professionals, and; provide scholarship and media internship information. Contact: Joshua Walls, President
BLISTS BLISTS (Black and Latino Information Science & Technology Support), based in the iSchool, was founded in 1992 with the purpose of providing a support group to students in the IT field. BLISTS focuses on educating students about information science and technology, providing computer literacy support and building a robust corporate and alumni network. Contact:
Fashion's Conscience Founded in September 2000, Fashion's Conscience (FC) was established to educate Syracuse University and the larger community about the contributions of people of color in the fashion world. Some of FC’s events include Fashionably Loud, Conscience Conversations and the annual Player’s Ball. Contact: Charon Singleton, President
National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) The National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. (NABA) is a leader in expanding the influence of minority business professionals. NABA represents the interests of minorities participating in the fields of accounting, auditing, business, consulting, finance, and information technology whose membership ranks include practicing professionals, under-graduates, and graduate students preparing for careers in these areas. At SU, NABA addresses the professional needs of our members and builds leaders to shape its future. Contact:
National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) The National Association of Black Journalists is an organization dedicated to providing quality programs and services for and advocate on behalf of Black journalists, aspiring journalists and media professionals. The Syracuse University chapter, founded in 2002, is committed to connecting its members with media professionals through networking panels, forum discussions, skill-building workshops and speaking engagements. NABJ-SU also works to educate campus media to the importance of fairness in the workplace and diversity in coverage. Contact: Wayne Smith III, President
National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) The National Association of Hispanic Journalists is dedicated to the recognition and professional advancement of Hispanics in the news industry. Founded in 2005, the Syracuse University student chapter promotes the awareness of Latinos in the media, supports diversity in communications for all students of all backgrounds, and serves as a platform for students to become involved in the diversification of the market both on and off campus. Contact: Chantal Felice, President
National Association of Negro Business & Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc. – Beta Psi Chapter (NANBPWC) Founded in 1935, the National Association of Negro Business & Professional Women’s Clubs Incorporated in New York City is a national network devoted to protecting their collective interest and encourages and develops opportunities for black women in businesses and professions. The Beta Psi chapter was established at Syracuse University in 1981. The Syracuse University chapter of NANBPWC is dedicated to community service by working with local youth and young adults to provide services and resources that enable them to pursue productive careers. Contact: Alyssa Hudson, President
National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) The National Society of Black Engineers is an organization that seeks to increase the number of culturally responsible engineers, to excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community. NSBE-SU was established in 1980 and has three primary goals: recruitment, retention, and successful graduation. NSBE-SU achieves its goals by hosting meetings, mentoring high school students and organizing workshops. Contact: Theodros Belay, President
The Rebecca Lee Pre-Health Society The Rebecca Lee Pre-Health Society is a student organization dedicated to promoting and encouraging diversity in the health professions. The organization aims to encourage members to attend professional health schools, including medical, dental, veterinary, optometry and physical therapy. Rebecca Lee is a branch of the Students National Medical Association (SNMA), and, often collaborates on events and programs with Upstate Medical University College of Medicine. Members participate in related networking opportunities, community service projects, mentoring from medical students and MCAT/GRE preparation workshop. Contact: Fonette Ebah Fonjungo, President
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineer is a national organization of engineers that serve as role models for the larger Hispanic community. The Syracuse University student chapter was established in 1987 and is dedicated to empowering Latino students through STEM awareness, access, support and development. Contact: Jessica Colindres, President, shpesyracuse@gmail.com
SPECIAL INTEREST
Sex SYMBALS Founded in 2008, Sex SYMBALS (Sexually-Conscious, Youthful, Mature, Black and Latino Students) seeks to empower people of color in the Syracuse University and SUNY-ESF communities and the surrounding Central New York region, to live healthy sexual lives. Sex SYMBALS's goals include 1) taking an active stance in curtailing the spread of HIV and AIDS, and other sexually transmitted diseases, 2) preventing sexual abuse and 3) promoting conscientious decision-making regarding sex by providing on-site preventative education, technical assistance and outreach support. Contact: Shaniqua Headley, President
GREEK-LETTER
Greek- Letter organizations of color participate in two governing councils: the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations (NALFO). Each organization is listed by council. NPHC Contact: NALFO Contact:
Fraternities	Sororities
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Delta Zeta Chapter Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated was founded in 1906 at Cornell University and is the first Black Greek-letter organization. Its first Syracuse University chapter was established in 1910; its current chapter formed in 1949 and was reorganized in 1973. The Fraternity’s aim is to reinforce the principles of scholarship, fellowship, good character, and the uplifting of humanity. Contact:	Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Iota Upsilon Chapter Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated was founded in 1908 at Howard University, and is the first Greek-letter organization for Black college women. The Iota Upsilon chapter was founded in 1975. The Sorority’s purpose is to cultivate and encourage high scholastic and ethical standards; to promote unity and friendship among college women; to alleviate the problems concerning girls and women; to maintain a progressive interest in college life, and; to be of service to all mankind. Contact:
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. Theta Rho Chapter Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Incorporated was founded in 1963 at Morgan State University. The Theta Rho chapter was established at Syracuse University in 2014. The Fraternity seeks to advance the development and perpetuation of scholarship, leadership, citizenship, fidelity, and brotherhood among men. Contact:	Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Kappa Lambda Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated was founded in 1913 at Howard University. Its first Syracuse University chapter was formed 1923; its current chapter was founded in 1973. The Sorority has the distinction of being the first Black sorority at Syracuse University. The chapter's major programs are based on the organization's Five-Point Programmatic Thrust: economic development; educational development; international awareness and involvement; physical and mental health, and; political awareness and involvement. Contact: Elizabeth A. Odunaiya, President
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Delta Beta Chapter Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated was founded in 1911 at Indiana University. The Delta Beta chapter was established at Syracuse University in 1951 and reintroduced in 2010. The Fraternity’s motto is “achievement in every field of human endeavor.” Contact:	Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Theta Tau Chapter Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated was founded in 1922 at Butler University. Syracuse University’s Theta Tau chapter was formed in 1982. The Sorority’s aim is to enhance the quality of life within the community. Public service, leadership development, and education of youth are the hallmarks of the organization’s programs and activities. Contact:
Omega Phi Psi Fraternity, Inc Kappa Chapter Omega Phi Psi Fraternity Incorporated was founded in 1911 at Howard University. The Kappa chapter was established at Syracuse University in 1922; the chapter was revived in 1968. The Fraternity is guided by the principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance and uplift. Contact:	Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Pi Iota Chapter Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated was founded in 1920 at Howard University. The Pi Iota chapter was established in 1979 at Syracuse University. The Sorority aims to encourage the highest standards of scholarship through scientific, literary, cultural and educational programs; promote service projects on campus and in the larger Syracuse community; foster sisterhood and exemplify the ideal of Finer Womanhood. Contact: Anju Franklin, President
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Theta Xi Chapter Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated was founded in 1914 at Howard University. The Theta Xi chapter was formed at Syracuse University in 1975. The Fraternity seeks to embody its motto of “Culture For Service and Service For Humanity” and promote brotherhood, scholarship and service. Contact:
Fraternities	Sororities
Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity, Inc. Pi Chapter Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity Incorporated was founded in 1985 at The University at Buffalo. The Pi chapter was established in 2014 at Syracuse University. The Fraternity seeks to be a network of professionals that promotes brotherhood, scholarship and service to the community. The Fraternity promotes brotherhood by providing its members personal and professional support on an undergraduate and alumni level. Contact:	Lambda Pi Chi Sorority, Inc. Zeta Chapter Latinas Promoviendo Comunidad /Lambda Pi Chi Sorority Incorporated was founded in 1988 at Cornell University. The Zeta chapter was established in 1997 at Syracuse University. The Sorority is dedicated to promoting public service and cultural awareness, with an emphasis on Latino history, contributions, and experiences. Contact:
Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Fraternity, Inc. Archias Chapter Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Fraternity Incorporated was founded in 1979 at Rutgers University. The Archias chapter was established in 2004. The Fraternity's goals are Brotherhood, to contribute to and promote academic excellence, to promote cultural awareness and to be role models. Contact:	Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Xi Chapter Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated was founded in 1989 at The University at Albany. The Xi chapter was established at Syracuse University in 1999. The Sorority’s aim is to serve and educate people of diverse backgrounds through sisterhood, leadership and guidance. The Sorority also seeks to promote unity of all cultures, focus on women’s empowerment and raise the standards of excellence in academic, social and personal endeavors. Contact:
Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. Alpha Beta Chapter Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity was founded in 1975 at Kean College. The Alpha Beta chapter was established in 1996. The Fraternity’s ideals of are: Academic Excellence; Brotherhood; Leadership; Latino Unity, and; Service. Contact:	Sigma Iota Alpha Sorority, Inc. Rho Chapter Sigma Iota Alpha Sorority Incorporated was founded in 1990 at four colleges in New York State. The Rho chapter was established at Syracuse University in 1996. The Sorority is committed to providing service to the community and educating all about the many diverse Latino cultures. The goals of the Sorority are to strive toward increased awareness of Latino cultures; promote sisterhood and leadership among members, and; serve as models of excellence in academics and achievements among women. Contact:
Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. Theta Chapter La Unidad Latina/Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity Incorporated was founded in 1982 at Cornell University. The Theta chapter was formed in 1991.The Fraternity seeks to help meet and address the needs of Latino students in higher education and to meet the needs of Latino community through cultural awareness, community service and promotion of the Latino culture and people. Contact:	Sigma Lambda Upsilon Sorority, Inc. Eta Chapter Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latina Unidas Sorority Incorporated was founded in 1987 at Binghamton University. The Eta chapter was established at Syracuse University in 1992. The Sorority is dedicated to uplifting traditionally marginalized groups, especially Latinos and women, by serving as a voice and means for empowerment. The Sorority is committed to the goals of sisterhood; academic excellence; leadership; service to the community and campus, and; cultural enrichment. Contact:
Phi Iota Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Kappa Chapter Phi Iota Alpha Fraternity Incorporated was founded in 1931 at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and it’s the oldest Latino fraternal organization. The Kappa chapter was established in 1994. The Fraternity is dedicated to the empowerment of the Latino community by providing social and cultural programs and activities geared toward the appreciation, promotion and preservation of Latin American culture. Contact: