On Monday, April 25, 2016, The Mosaic Chapter of Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority, Inc. commemorated founding member Lucy Dipini, who helped launch the chapter at Kean University in 1991.

“The vision that Lucy had has flourished and we miss her. We’ll be with her soon,” said other founding sister Andrea Boldin.

Dipini is seen as an angel watching over the entire Mosaic Chapter in heaven. The women gathered around a photo of Dipini accompanied by candles, lollipops and multiple bundles of balloons. The sisters encouraged those around campus to write a message to a loved one who has passed. As the balloons drifted away into the sky, a voice called out, “Say hello to everyone in heaven!”

As the balloons drifted away into the sky, a voice called out, “Say hello to everyone in heaven!”
Jailene Burgos | the Cougar’s Byte

As they strolled down Cougar Walk, one thing became apparent: the bond of these women is nearly indestructible. Mu Sigma Upsilon chanted as it made its way over to the sorority’s commemorative rock where all the Greek organizations have space to flaunt their histories. Through prayers and silence, Mu Sigma Upsilon promised to never forget the woman who started it all.

Twenty-five years ago, Dipini came to college with a dream: to find somewhere she could truly belong. Known for her strong sense of leadership and sense of humor, Dipini took it upon herself to try to help guide others along their journey. Suitemate turned sister, Stacey O’Reggio remembered Dipini’s confidant through tears, saying that she was the glue that held them together.

The sisters of Mu Sigma Upsilon remember Lucy Dipini 
Jailene Burgos | the Cougar’s Byte

“I couldn’t really find an organization that I fit in with,” started O’Reggio. “My suitemate started taking an interest in Mu Sigma Upsilon so I went along and it was a perfect fit.”

For the last couple of years, the organization has struggled to keep its roster afloat, but this does not affect the bond of sisterhood between the founders, other chapters, and the Mosaic Chapter at Kean University. President Katherine Caguana, Vice-president Nina Townsend and newly found member Jailene Burgos are fully committed to keeping the dreams alive with events, fundraising and keeping strong relationships with girls on other campuses.

“I’ve only been with [Mu Sigma Upsilon] a year but I feel like I’ve known them my entire life,” said Caguana. “I didn’t know Lucy myself but the founders live their lives by who she was.”

When a sister of Mu Sigma Upsilon passes, they become a part of the Bellatrix chapter. The Bellatrix was created to honor the dearly departed sisters who have passed due to an unfortunate circumstance. Dipini passed away in 1997 from a tragic motor vehicle accident; she was only 27. Even though she has been gone for quite some time, she will never be forgotten by the future generations that keep her legacy alive. 

Mu Sigma Upsilon founders of the Kean chapter
Jailene Burgos | the Cougar’s Byte