Founding Fathers:
Bro. Mario Buendia Bro. Enrique Carbajal Bro. Thomas Carrasquillo Bro. Manuel Chavarria Bro. Jose Fong Bro. Rudolfo Garza Bro. Luis Jimenez Bro. Luis Marquez Bro. Baltazar Mendoza Madrigal Bro. Eric Montes Bro. Kuy Ou Bro. Olakunle Oyeyemi Bro. Jaime Ramirez Bro. Olivero Rivera J.J.R.C. Bro. Eugenio Soria Bro. Juan Valdez Bro. Ricardo Zamudio |
In the autumn of 1985, an ambitious young man named Baltazar Mendoza-Madrigal embarked on a remarkable journey, envisioning the establishment of a Latino-based fraternity at the prestigious University of Iowa. Inspired by the transformative impact of organizations like Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. on their communities, Mendoza-Madrigal believed that a similar endeavor could serve the interests of the Latino population. Undeterred by the uncertainty of the path ahead, he delved into extensive research, laying the groundwork for a groundbreaking initiative. Months of unwavering dedication culminated in a momentous event on March 7, 1986, as Mendoza-Madrigal called for a special meeting at the Chicano Native American Cultural Center, now renowned as the Latino Native American Cultural Center. This gathering brought together passionate Latino students, all eager to explore the possibility of creating a social fraternity that would celebrate and promote the richness of Latino culture. At the time, the Latino community was fragmented, with several social groups representing various interests. However, the enthusiasm for establishing a unifying social fraternity quickly spread like wildfire across the University of Iowa campus, generating a palpable sense of excitement. It was evident that a historic moment was on the horizon, destined to bring about positive change and foster a sense of belonging within the community. After meticulous planning and fervent discussions, the ideology and philosophy of this aspiring fraternity took its final form on April 4th, 1986. This momentous date became forever etched in history as the official founding of Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity Inc. at the University of Iowa. Little did they know that this moment would serve as the genesis of a remarkable journey spanning 27 years and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.
Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity Inc. would go on to become a beacon of unity, leadership, and cultural pride for its members. Throughout the years, it would extend its reach beyond the University of Iowa, impacting campuses across the nation and even internationally, embodying the spirit of brotherhood and fostering a deeper appreciation for Latino heritage and identity.
Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity Inc. would go on to become a beacon of unity, leadership, and cultural pride for its members. Throughout the years, it would extend its reach beyond the University of Iowa, impacting campuses across the nation and even internationally, embodying the spirit of brotherhood and fostering a deeper appreciation for Latino heritage and identity.