Sigma Alpha Iota

2 Fall 2023 • sai-national.org D ear Members of Sigma Alpha Iota, As we enter the second year of this triennium, I've been thinking a lot about connections; what connects us to each other, to music, to our purpose as an organization. When asked why I joined SAI, the word connection immediately came to mind. For me it was that initial connection to the amazing individual on campus who introduced me to SAI and later became my big sister. Then the connection SAI gave me to music while I pursued a career in another field. Next, SAI was that steady connection to something familiar as I found my place in this world. Finally, and probably most importantly, there are the connections I made through SAI to lifelong friends and colleagues. All these SAI connections have had a positive impact on my overall well- being. That is why it is so important to me to continue to give back to our Fraternity; to be that memorable connection for others. A great place to make those lasting connections is during an SAI National Convention. We hope you are preparing to attend our 51st National Convention in Minneapolis, MN from July 17-21, 2025. All members are welcome, and we look forward to seeing you there! This fall edition of PAN PIPES signifies the start of a new fraternity year. With that comes new programs, such as SAI Philanthropies, Inc.'s Brick Initiative, life celebrations for those we lost, and congratulations for our national fraternity and philanthropies award winners. Please take the time to peruse this jam-packed issue thoroughly. Enjoy reading about our member's professional accomplishments in the Music Note section, followed by a tribute to two members who left lasting legacies in the field of music. Featured articles in this issue include women in conducting and another trip around the world of music with Jayne Hanlin. Philanthropies award winners are also featured sharing the adventures and achievements afforded to them by our charitable arm. May their stories inspire you to consider applying for a similar opportunity as well as motivate you to personally contribute to our ongoing efforts to provide these opportunities and more to our members. Lastly, congratulations to our national award finalists and winners. The programs and projects you have initiated along with the leadership you have displayed energize us all to continue to move forward, think outside the box, and challenge the status quo in the name of Sigma Alpha Iota. Best wishes to you all in this new fraternity year. May it be filled with music, laughter, friendship, and life changing connections. Much SAI Love, Jessica Chichester, National President A WORD FROM THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT Sigma Alpha Iota Philanthropies, Inc. invites you to leave a lasting legacy at Sigma Alpha Iota National Headquarters through the purchase of an engraved pathway brick. These laser engraved bricks will become a permanent addition to the front sidewalk that leads to the main entrance of National Headquarters. By buying an engraved brick, you will leave a lifetime legacy and help support ongoing maintenance for our fraternity's home. Bricks can be purchased to honor chapters, individuals, or groups of sisters. Bricks can also be donated in memory of beloved sisters who are no longer with us. In addition, bricks can be used to celebrate a fraternity memory in a unique and lasting way! https://donate.brickmarkers.com/sai If you have any questions, please contact SAI National Headquarters at (828) 251-0606. THE BRICK INITIATIVE Building A Giving Community Leave Your Mark At National Headquarters

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