Sigma - Alpha Rho Chapter

History

Founded in 1922 by six nursing students, Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) has more than 100,000 active members and 600 chapters at institutions of higher education and healthcare partners from Armenia, Australia, and Botswana to Thailand, the United States, and Wales. Sigma members include clinical nurses and administrators, academic nurse educators and researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and others working to fulfill the organization’s vision of connected, empowered nurse leaders transforming global healthcare.

Vision

Connected, empowered nurse leaders transforming global healthcare.

Mission

Developing nurse leaders anywhere to improve healthcare everywhere.

Sigma - Alpha Rho Chapter

Established in 1966, the WVU School of Nursing's Sigma - Alpha Rho Chapter has initiated hundreds of undergraduates, graduate students, and community leaders. The Chapter is committed to fulfilling the society’s mission by inviting notable nursing leaders to share their insight on the latest trends in nursing. Alpha Rho also fosters scholarly inquiry by providing financial support of ongoing research and recognizing outstanding research efforts with an annual award.

Membership

Membership in Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing is by eligibility and endorsement and is based on the candidate’s academic and professional achievement.

Candidates join in one of two ways: in their educational programs (BSN, MSN, Doctoral) or as a nurse leader in the community.

Membership in the honor society is life-long; however, to be considered an active member, annual dues must be paid. Honor cords are supplied by the Alpha Rho chapter for new inductees.

Requirements

Eligibility criteria for BSN nursing students include:

  • 3.0 minimum GPA
  • Be in the top 35% of the class in their second semester junior year or senior year

Eligibility criteria for graduate students include:

  • 3.50 minimum GPA
  • Have completed at least one-quarter of the curriculum

A Note on Nurse Leaders

Students in graduate programs who are registered nurses, legally recognized to practice in their country, and have a minimum of a baccalaureate degree or the equivalent in any field, shall be eligible to be considered as a nurse leader at any point in the program.

Nurse Leaders are those with a minimum of a baccalaureate degree who have demonstrated marked achievement in nursing education, practice, research, administration, or publication.