Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. was established June 1, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois by its founder Lola Mercedes Parker along with other six women, Ethel T. Edwards, Mildred G. Hardin, Harriet M. Robinson, Ophelia Harrison, Burdette Trigg and Marjorie Tyndall. The group became the first chapter of the Sorority, Alpha Chapter, making Iota Phi Lambda the first African-American Greek-letter business sorority and first national business and professional women’s organization.
Iota Phi Lambda Mission; Unite in sisterhood qualified business and professional women in order to enhance and improve the status of women in our highly complex, competitive business and professional world; Promote increased interest in the broad field of business education among high school and college young women through planned programs and scholarships; Encourage the development of personal goals and leadership potential; and establish and promote civic and social service activities for youth and adults.
The Sorority’s national theme: Professional Business Women Propelled by Ingenuity: Intentional Purpose.