History, Purpose, Mission Statement

History

Sigma Alpha Iota was started on June 12th 1903 at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. There were founders, also referred to as "THE SEVEN." Minnie Davis Sherrill, the original Alpha Chapters President, Elizabeth A. Campbell, the Alpha Chapters first Vice President, Frances Caspari, the first secretary and treasurer of the Alpha Chapter, Nora Crane Hunt, Georgina Potts, Mary Storrs Andersen, and Leila Farlin.

Purpose

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

The Mission of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity is to encourage, nurture and support the art of music.

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 in 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

2022-25 national objective

1. Build a lifetime commitment to Sigma Alpha Iota

2. Prioritize all aspects of chapter programming

3. Recommit to the proper presentation of our ritual

4. Rekindle sisterhood within your chapter

5. Support SAI Philanthropies, INC.

All of the above information regarding history, purpose, mission statement, and national objectives have been taken from the official SAI National Website.