During the fall of 1989, the foundation of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc. was commenced by collegiate women who recognized the need to form an organization that provided empowerment to women of all cultural backgrounds. The humble beginnings of Sigma Lambda Gamma were built at the University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa where the vision was to create a network of academic and social support for Latina women. Under the guidance of Esther Materon Arum and Mary Peterson, the vision came to fruition on April 9th, 1990, as the University of Iowa Panhellenic Council officially recognized the organization as a sorority.

Through the continued commitment and leadership of the founding mothers, Gloria Cuevas, Julieta Maria Miller-Calderon, Maria Ester Pineda, Danell Marie Riojas-Carbajal, and Guadalupe (Lupita) Cruz Temiquel, the operation of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc. has thrived on many college campuses and provides an avenue for educational excellence to women of many nationalities. Our members recognize the need for togetherness and support among women of varying cultures at the university level and they remain dedicated to the overall success of women in a global environment.