Sigma Alpha Iota was originally founded in Ann Arbor, MI with the mission to encourage, nurture, and support the art of music. The Zeta Chapter of Sigma Alpha Iota was founded in 1911 at the College of Musical Arts in Indianapolis, IN, which later became the Jordan College of Music in 1951 through a series of ownership transitions.

Notably, a primary purpose of the chapter is “to form chapters of women college students and alumnae who have a sincere interest in music,” leaving the fraternity to be primarily a sisterhood throughout time. The Zeta chapter at Butler University is currently still active as a social fraternity, composed of students who participate in the Butler Symphony Orchestra, Butler Wind Ensemble, Butler Jazz Bands, Butler Chorale, University Choir, Lyric Theatre, Butler University Marching Band, and the Butler University Basketball Band.