SAI was founded at the University School of Music in Ann Arbor, Michigan, by the seven following women. Click their names to see more information about them.

Mary Storrs Andersen
Elizabeth Campbell
Frances Caspari
Nora Crane Hunt
Leila Farlin Laughlin
Georgina Potts
Minnie Davis Sherrill

Sigma Alpha Iota has many wide-reaching aims. To give a better idea of the reason behind SAI and the goals it sets out to accomplish, these are listed below, as written on the national website.

Purpose of Sigma Alpha Iota

TO FORM chapters of women college students and alumnae who have a sincere interest in music.
TO UPHOLD the highest standards of music.
TO FURTHER the development of music in America and throughout the world.
TO GIVE inspiration and encouragement to members.
TO ORGANIZE the cultural life of Sigma Alpha Iota members as a contributing factor to their educational growth.
TO SUPPORT the ideals and goals of the member's Alma Mater;
TO ADHERE to the highest standards of citizenship in school, community and fraternity life.

SAI Vision

The Vision of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity is to be recognized throughout the world as the foremost fraternity that:
Supports and encourages women musicians of all ages, races, and nationalities
Supports and promotes successful and innovative educational programs in music for all stages of life
Cultivates excellence in musical performance
Promotes programs and activities that stress the love and importance of music in our lives
Recognizes technological advances in the field of music
Dedicates financial resources that ensure the continuation of programs necessary to support the objectives of the fraternity in perpetuity
Has as its members people who exemplify professional and ethical behavior in the spirit of the Sigma Alpha Iota founders.