Sigma Theta Tau honor society membership benefits nursing students

Capella University’s recent induction into the Sigma Theta Tau international honor society means Capella nursing students are now eligible to join this professional organization of more than 135,000 members.

Sigma Theta Tau’s mission is to advance nursing excellence through scholarship, leadership, and service.

“Capella University’s induction into STTI is a prestigious milestone for the School of Nursing and Health Sciences.  I’m incredibly proud of the dedicated leaders and faculty in our school who helped bring this dream into reality.  I am so excited that our past and current learners have the opportunity to join this esteemed organization, signifying their commitment to excellence in scholarship and leadership.” – Christy Davidson, Associate Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences

Constance Hall, EdD, MSN, RN, chair of the graduate nursing program for Capella, and John Schmidt, DNP, MSN, RN, EMT-P, associate academic director of site-based learning for Capella, discuss Sigma Theta Tau and the benefits it can provide to nursing students.

What is Sigma Theta Tau?

Hall: Sigma Theta Tau is a global organization for the field of nursing. With more than 500 chapters, Sigma has significant influence on the nursing field. Since its founding in 1922, its mission has been to advance nursing excellence through scholarship, leadership, and service. To achieve that mission, Sigma provides numerous professional development opportunities that focus on the core areas of education, leadership, career development, evidence-based nursing, research, and scholarship.

Both baccalaureate and graduate nursing students at Capella are eligible to join Sigma.

How does Sigma Theta Tau benefit and support the overall field of nursing? Why is this organization important and necessary?

Schmidt: Sigma is one of the strongest advocates for the field of nursing. Sigma and its partners contribute to nursing research through grants, scholarships, and monetary awards.

In addition to authoring journals and other publications dedicated to best practices in nursing, Sigma hosts a variety of education and research conferences, including a yearly congress that presents the latest nursing research from around the world, and a biennial convention that highlights best practices in clinical, scientific, and leadership areas.

How can Capella students specifically benefit from Capella’s affiliation with Sigma Theta Tau? What value does it bring to them?

Hall: Sigma membership provides nurses and nursing students with access to a wealth of information and research, as well as continuing education, leadership development, and networking opportunities.

For example, Sigma offers online continuing nursing education through peer-reviewed interactive learning activities that are presented in a variety of learning formats, including case studies, evidence-based articles, and module courses.

For Capella nursing students looking to advance their careers, whether within their current organization or for those seeking new opportunities, being affiliated with Sigma can help set them apart as committed nursing leaders.

What does Sigma Theta Tau recognition mean to health care employers? What value does membership bring to Capella students and graduates in the workforce?

Schmidt: Sigma performs important work in helping advance the profession of nursing and has done so for nearly 100 years. By becoming members, Capella students align themselves with that commitment to nursing excellence.

That affiliation tells employers, or prospective employers, that these nurses are vested in and care deeply about the future of nursing and delivering the best possible care.

How can a Capella student become a member of Sigma Theta Tau?

Hall: Capella students who are interested in becoming Sigma Theta Tau members are encouraged to explore the eligibility criteria. Both baccalaureate and graduate nursing students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship are invited to apply.

How about Capella nursing graduates? Can they become members of Sigma Theta Tau?

Schmidt: Capella graduates who are working as nursing professionals may apply to join Sigma Theta Tau as a nurse leader. To apply, complete the Nurse Leader Application.

Learn more aboutSigma Theta Tauandonline nursing programsfrom Capella University.