Through the years, Iota Phi Lambda has conferred honorary membership on some of the country's outstanding African American women. These five women were National Honorary Members of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc.

Mrs. Mary McLeod Bethune

Founder of Bethune Cookman College and the National Council of Negro Women; government official, international and interracial leader.

Mrs. Mai Padmore

Wife of His Excellency, the Liberian Ambassador to the United States; expert in the field of business administration.

Mrs. Irene McCoy Gaines

Former president, National Association of Colored Women, Inc.

Mrs. M. I. Smith-Morgan

Insurance woman, National Junior Counselor of the Supreme Camp of American Woodmen.

Mrs. Edith S. Sampson

Noted lawyer, former U.S. Alternate Representative to the United Nations; guest lecturer and world traveler.