03/06/2025
Today, we honor our Founder Mary Lou Allison Gardner Little born on November 2, 1896. At the age of three, Little suffered the tragic loss of both her parents. After their death, she was raised by a family friend. In 1915, Founder Little graduated from Shortridge High School in Indianapolis, IN. She went on to earn her teaching certificate from the Indianapolis Normal School in 1918. Upon receiving her certificate, she immediately began working as a teacher.
Known as Sigma Gamma Rho’s primary founder, in 1922, Little gathered a group of her best friends to discuss the formation of a sorority. Their focus was to form an organization to encourage teachers to go beyond their normal school training and earn their degrees so that they could better serve the youth they taught. The seven young women’s hard work paid off on November 12, 1922, with the founding of Sigma Gamma Rho.
The founders spent the first three years organizing their new sorority. In 1925, at the first Boule in Indianapolis, IN. Founder Little who was serving as the acting president, was officially elected as the first president of Sigma Gamma Rho. She served in the role from 1925-1926.
Upon completion of her term, Little moved to Los Angeles, CA with her husband to attend the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). In 1928, she completed her undergraduate degree. Upon graduation, Founder Little immediately began teaching in the Los Angeles school system. Her career spanned almost forty years.
Founder Little’s vision serves as leadership inspiration for members of Sigma Gamma Rho. Today, awards are given in her name. The Mary Lou Allison Loving Cup Award is presented at each Boule to the chapter reporting the most successful programs.
Founder Little died in 1992 at her home in Los Angeles, CA. She left a legacy of sisterhood, leadership, and service that has lasted almost 100 years.
