In Memoriam of Soror Lori Ann “Aguila” Rodriguez
Lori Ann “Aguila” Rodriguez was born on February 18, 1972, of Puerto Rican descent. She joined Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (OPBSI) through our Alpha Chapter at the State University of New York at Albany in the Spring of 1991 as the #3 of the Alpha Line “Genesis” – making her and her line sisters the first line that crossed into the sorority after our Founders. Her sister name “Aguila” of Spanish origin meaning “Eagle” speaks to Lori’s character. When asked about why she chose that name she would always reply “Because I soar above the rest”. She was spiritual, grounded, an inspiring messenger, and, just like the eagle, those guided by her were resilient.
She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from the State University of New York at Albany. She then pursued her Masters of Social work at New York University and was a certified Social Worker (CSW)
within 6 months of her graduation. Lori’s passion and dedication did not end there. She was a highly esteemed Social worker for 20 years. Her latest endeavor was serving as a Program Manager for Children’s Crisis Services at Visiting Nurse Services of New York. Lori was praised and loved and over the course of the years received many awards and recognitions for her work with the community,
Lori began her career with OPBSI as President of the Alpha Chapter when she joined. Her passion and dedication to the organization pushed and inspired those around her to take on leadership positions not only locally but on a National level. Lori joined the National Board (now known as the National Council of Officers) in which she served various National Leadership roles including being past National President of the Sorority from 1995-1996. Prior to her role as past National President, Lori helped chartered our Delta Chapter at State University of New York at Binghamton University by being the Dean/Membership Educator for the NME Class in the Spring of 1992. Lori’s love and passion for this organization were embedded in those she came in contact with. Her legacy continued being passed down by all the sisters that were touched by Aguila in any way.
On November 28th, 2020, God called Lori home. She will be eternally cherished and loved as a mother, sister, mentor, and friend. We will never forget her kindness, caring, selflessness, and adventurous soul. Our beloved Aguila will always be remembered for her willingness to always help others out, even those who were not part of the organization. Her love, passion, and spirit live on through her daughters whom she loved very much. Lori will continue to be an inspiring messenger whose eagle spirit will continue to fly above us to guide and watch her family, friends, and sisters and to push and inspire us to be the best version of ourselves.
Lori’s Virtual Memorial was hosted this past December 14th, 2020. If you were not able to join but would like to pay your respects and visit her gravesite in the future, she is buried at:
Ocean View Cemetery 315 Amboy Road, Staten Island, NY 10301 Phone Number: 718-351-1870
For more information please contact our Special Coordinator, Soror Veronica Almeida at president@omegaphibeta.org
Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated
www.OmegaPhiBeta.org
Facebook / Instagram / Twitter: @OmegaPhiBeta
The purpose of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated is to Serve and Educate people of diverse backgrounds through sisterhood, leadership, and guidance. As positive role models, we promote unity of all cultures, focus on the empowerment of our gender and raise the standards of excellence in our academic, social, and personal endeavors. OPBSI envisions a world without oppression, where empowered women celebrate the essence of womanhood and act as resources in the advancement of their communities.