A national Latino-interest fraternity founded on the principles of unity, education and cultural pride is taking root at the University of Tennessee at Martin, as students launch a new chapter of Alpha Psi Lambda aimed at creating a stronger sense of belonging on campus.

The organization, established in 1985 at Ohio State University, is the nation’s first co-educational Latino-interest fraternity and has expanded to campuses across the U.S. Its mission emphasizes academic achievement, cultural awareness and leadership development while providing students a supportive “family” structure in college.

At UT Martin, student leaders say the new chapter is already filling a need for connection.

“I feel very honored because the members had to vote me in for that,” said Yadira Balderas Cruz, the chapter’s captain, which is a role comparable to president. “I’m really excited because there’s something different, and I’ve always wanted to be a part of something bigger.”

Cruz said the idea of bringing the organization to campus began through a student conversation and quickly turned into action. She said she saw it as an opportunity to create a space where students could find both academic encouragement and cultural understanding.

“It’s sometimes hard to find a place where students like me fit in,” Cruz said. “We thought this would be a great way to find a safe space and a community here on campus.”

For Cruz, the fraternity also connects closely to her personal background and long-term goals in education. She is a K-5 education major, and she said those studies influence her leadership style.

“Being an education major makes you have to be adaptable,” Cruz said. “You also need to not only think about yourself, but think about others’ ideas and perspectives. That’s something I brought into this.”

She said the chapter is still in a transitional stage as it works toward full recognition by the university, which has created challenges in securing meeting spaces and resources. However, collaboration with other campus groups has helped keep efforts moving forward.

“We are very limited on the things you could do,” Cruz said. “But a lot of organizations are willing to help.”

Among those involved is Nallely Ortiz, who serves as anchor, or vice president, of the new chapter. Ortiz said her role focuses on supporting leadership and helping guide the organization when needed.

“It means that I can support our captain and, together, promote our culture, organize events and lead the organization with the support of my brothers and sisters,” Ortiz said. “I am happy to be a symbol of stability and strength in our organization.”

Ortiz, who was born and raised in Mexico, said the fraternity allows her to share values that are deeply rooted in her upbringing.

“Unity, the importance of family, and respect to other people… those are very important values in the Latin culture,” Ortiz said. “I am happy to be able to promote these values with more people.”

Although she was not involved in initially founding the chapter effort, Ortiz said she chose to join after learning about the organization through an informational meeting.

“I decided that I wanted to join them and help make this a reality,” Ortiz said. “I am happy to know that Latinos, and anyone who is looking for a family, can join us and feel supported.”

Both student leaders said the chapter is about more than just cultural identity; it is about building community for students who may feel overlooked.

Cruz said the goal is to create a lasting support system on campus.

“We just need to create a community for students like us who sometimes may not find a community here at the university,” Cruz said.

As the chapter continues to grow, students involved believe it will strengthen inclusion efforts at UT Martin by giving more students a space to connect, lead and feel at home. Students say they hope the chapter will remain a lasting home for connection, leadership and cultural pride across the UT Martin campus community.