Community isn’t accidental; it’s something that has to be built with intention. In all-girl spaces on campus, leadership, kindness, and inclusion are learned through shared experiences. These clubs don’t just create a sense of belonging–they create a culture. Sisters Together Empower Passion Success—or STEPS, as it’s affectionately known—is the perfect example of this magic in action.
Built on a foundation of empowerment, connection, and heart-led service, STEPS is more than a club. As Angelica Cosico, Vice President of Communications, puts it: “It’s a community of girls who uplift one another, who truly want to see each other shine, and who have a deep desire to give back.” At its core, STEPS operates on one beautiful, simple rule: Everyone is welcome.
While STEPS has roots that go back before the pandemic, the club found its “second wind” in 2022. Since that revival, it has blossomed into a campus powerhouse, known as much for its big opportunities as its even bigger heart, and noticeably a crowded meeting room.
That success comes down to a leadership style that feels more like a huddle than a hierarchy. President Lucia Montoya, now in her second year as President, remembers the early days of finding her footing. “It was a challenge at first, especially as a sophomore,” she admits. But through the inevitable trial and error of leadership, and with a powerhouse cabinet behind her, Lucia discovered the club’s greatest strength: teamwork. “If I want STEPS to be the awesome, well-established home I know it can be, I need the hands and hearts of everyone involved.”
This “all-in” mindset has created a culture that’s equal parts intentional and joyful. STEPS isn’t just about socializing; it’s about genuine bonding. Lucy Padilla cabinet’s Social Media Representative, wrote, “I have grown personally while learning how to empower others as well.” Whether it’s an icebreaker that gets you talking to a total stranger or a “safe and silly” event like blind karaoke, the goal is the same: making sure every single girl feels seen. It’s those small-group moments and goofy memories that break down walls and build lasting trust. Padilla added, “ I joined STEPS because I wanted to become a part of a club that has a strong sense of community where women uplift and support each other”.
Inclusivity here isn’t a passive goal—it’s a mission. Treasurer Mia Diaz is passionate about making sure no one stands on the sidelines. “We really don’t like leaving people out,” she says warmly. Whether they are teaming up with other clubs or just reaching out to a new face in the hall, Mia sees STEPS as a “close-knit friend group” where every member is treated like family.
For girls like sophomore Leila Lopez, that warmth was felt from day one. She still remembers the “amazing vibe” of her very first meeting. “Everyone was just so nice,” she recalls. Even though she could only attend a few meetings as a freshman, the impact stuck with her. “I knew I wanted to be a part of this amazing group of girls,” she says, citing the sisterhood as the reason she kept coming back.
But the impact of STEPS reaches far beyond the clubroom walls. Through fundraisers, toy drives, and community service, these girls are proving they have each other’s backs while making the world a little brighter. As Leila notes, working together for a cause larger than themselves is exactly what makes the club’s bond so unbreakable.
This spirit of collaboration even extends to how they view other groups on campus. Despite the occasional comparison to the Girls League Board, the relationship is one of mutual fans, not rivals. Angelica, who serves in both groups, sees them as two sides of the same golden coin. “They’re both community-driven and focused on helping others,” she explains. Lucia Montoya agrees, adding, “I’m honored to share so many high-achieving, quality members with them.”
As STEPS looks to the future, the goal is to keep growing without losing that “small-group” feel. Angelica says the best part of the journey is the members themselves, calling them “outstanding” and dedicated. It’s proof that when you build a community with kindness and intention, the impact lasts a lifetime. In the world of STEPS, the future isn’t just bright—it’s sisterhood-strong.