Sigma Alpha Builds Up Sisterhood
Sigma Alpha is a professional agricultural sorority at the University of Wyoming that welcomes women interested in agriculture, no matter their major. The group is rooted in agricultural values, but students from all parts of campus can join to connect through leadership, service and sisterhood.
Sigma Alpha was founded nationally on Jan. 26, 1978, at The Ohio State University. The UW chapter was established in the fall of 1997 and has since grown into a prominent organization known for its blend of professional development and social connection.
The sorority’s motto, “Cultivating professional women in agriculture,” reflects its mission to support students who plan to work in or advocate for the agricultural industry.
“The girls in the sorority were so welcoming to me at the beginning of time at UW,” Marisa O’Brien, a freshman, said.
Professional development is a main focus for the chapter. Sigma Alpha holds workshops and networking events that bring in guest speakers from many areas of agriculture throughout the year. These activities help members learn about different careers, prepare for internships and connect with professionals. Students from majors such as communications, education and engineering often join to see agriculture from new perspectives.
Service is another major pillar of Sigma Alpha’s identity. The sorority supports a national philanthropy, Agriculture in the Classroom. Members participate in volunteer days that promote agriculture, such as assisting with the 3-Man Branding held by the UW Ranch Horse Team. The chapter also engages in campus‑wide service events, such as the Big Event, and in outreach efforts that highlight the importance of agriculture in everyday life.
“Our group of girls are encouraged to join other university clubs and organizations besides the sorority in order to stay involved and develop lots of connections,” O’Brien said.
Beyond its professional and service‑oriented work, Sigma Alpha is known for its strong sense of sisterhood. Members bond through social events and informal gatherings, helping build lasting relationships. Every year, the group participates in various homecoming week events and hosts an Emerald Ball to showcase sorority accomplishments. For many students, the sorority becomes a support system that extends beyond academics and into personal growth and leadership development.
The chapter is also active in promoting agriculture on campus. In Wyoming, where agriculture is a key part of the economy, Sigma Alpha members often act as ambassadors, helping connect students who grew up in agriculture with those who are new to it. By joining campus events and activities, they help make agriculture more visible in the UW community.
As agriculture evolves, Sigma Alpha continues to prepare women for careers in production, research, communication and related areas. By focusing on leadership, service and professional growth, the group helps members make a real difference in Wyoming and beyond.
“Being in Sigma Alpha has benefited me greatly by giving me more confidence and allowing me to build my problem-solving skills,” Morgan Wywialowski said.
If you want to learn more about the chapter, visit the national website at www.sigmaalpha.org or find the UW chapter on Facebook at facebook.com/uwsigmaalphasorority.
