Greetings Sorors:

In 1929, our founder, Mrs. Lola M. Parker of Chicago, IL, saw a need and responded to that need by organizing an organization to help African American women improve their skills in order to become more marketable in the business world. Thus, Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. was created, providing opportunities in training and a nurturing environment for these women. 

 I am honored to be a member of that founding chapter of Iota, Alpha Chapter and to serve as Director of the Central Region. The legacy of our founder continues to be a beacon of shining light in Alpha Chapter and all the Chapters of the Central Region. In the spring of 1980 a decision was made to combine the Western and the Northern Region. The Central Region is the result of that merger. Because of that merger, the Central Region is the youngest of the 5 Regions, even though we are the home of the founding Chapter. The Central Region includes the following states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin. 

 The sorors of the Central Region truly reflect the ideas promoted by our National President Dr. Doris Browning Austin.  We are “Iota Women, Vigilant, Visible, and Committed to Action.”  The sorors of the Central Region have focused on an aggressive agenda to achieve the goals of our National President. We are involved in sponsoring programs and projects to foster and develop leadership skills, business training and future leaders of society.  We continue to support social and business networking to accomplish the goals of Iota.  As we all know, children are our future, so we provide many programs to help our young people financially, socially, academically and emotionally.   

 As we began a new sorority year, we remain committed to showcasing the works and programs of Iota. We will continue to build on the legacy of our founder, Mrs. Lola M. Parker, with enthusiasm and pride. 

 We look forward to having a wonderful 2010-2011 Sorority year!!!!

 Sisterly,

Dorothy M. White

Director, Central Region