OUR STORY
On March 25, 1917, seven young, Jewish women—Dora, Amy, Marian, Grace, Inez, Regine, and Lenore—founded Sigma Delta Tau at Cornell University. Facing subtle yet significant discrimination from other Greek organizations due to their Jewish identities, they created a sorority that prioritized respecting the individuality of its members. Rooted in their self-confidence and willingness to take a chance, SDT was built on the values of personal growth, social development, and inclusion. Over a century later, these founding principles continue to guide Sigma Delta Tau.
The Gamma Tau chapter of Sigma Delta Tau at Columbia University was established in 1992, and we are proud to be an integral part of our college community. Sigma Delta Tau empowers each member to reach her fullest potential by enriching the experience of women with similar ideals, building lasting relationships, promoting civic responsibility, and fostering personal growth.
Letter from the president
Hello and Welcome!
My name is Yardena Rubin and I'm honored to be the current President of Sigma Delta Tau's Gamma Tau chapter! There’s something truly special about being part of a community that feels like home, a place where you can be your authentic self and know you’ll be supported every step of the way. Sigma Delta Tau is exactly that—a sisterhood of passionate women from all of Columbia University’s undergraduate colleges who come together to share experiences, advocate for one another, and make a positive impact. As president, I’m incredibly proud to be part of a group that not only brings joy and growth to my life, but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
I’ve always believed that true sisterhood is built on trust, love, and encouragement—those deep, lasting connections that make life richer and more meaningful. When I joined Sigma Delta Tau, I found exactly that. Through this sisterhood, I met my best friend, Arlette, who is now in my sorority lineage. We joined SDT after formal recruitment during our freshman year, and though we hadn’t met before, we instantly clicked. Since then, our friendship has grown into something truly special, and she’s become like family to me. Another unforgettable memory was planning our most recent formal with Zoë, as Directors of Event Planning. Watching all my sisters laughing, dancing, and enjoying the night together filled me with so much pride. It was a reminder of all the hard work, dedication, and love we have put into creating something so remarkable. This sisterhood has given me a family I never knew I needed: women who celebrate my successes, lift me up in challenging times, and encourage me to be my best self. The friendships I’ve made in SDT are more than just connections—they’re lifelong bonds that have shaped me in ways I’ll forever cherish.
Beyond the friendships we share, what makes SDT special is our commitment to making a difference. Our national philanthropies, Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA) and Jewish Women International (JWI), are causes close to our hearts. Through our signature events like It Factor and BookSDT, we’ve raised funds and spread awareness to support vulnerable children, promote women’s empowerment, and advocate for safer communities! Knowing that we are part of a collective effort to create lasting change is a source of pride and purpose for every member of our chapter.
At Sigma Delta Tau, every member is valued for who they are. Whether we’re working together to support our philanthropies, cheering each other on during performances or on sports fields, enjoying a sisterhood movie night, or highlighting academic achievements weekly in our chapter meetings, this sisterhood is built on a foundation of love, respect, and understanding. It’s a place where friendships flourish, leadership skills are cultivated, and memories are made that will last a lifetime.
This chapter isn’t just a part of my college story, it’s a part of who I am. I am endlessly proud of the women I call my sisters and the incredible community we continue to build together.
Xoxo,
Yardena Rubin