Honor Society of Nursing History

The Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International, is the second largest nursing organization in the United States. The Honor Society has over 400 chapters that are affiliated with colleges and universities around the globe. Sigma Theta Tau International was founded at Indiana University in 1922 by six nurses who were committed to promoting nursing scholarship, leadership, and research. The current mission of the honor society is to provide leadership and scholarship in practice, education, and research to enhance the health of all people, and to support the learning and professional development of members who strive to improve nursing care worldwide. Strategic directions include: knowledge, leadership, community, and service.

In March 1988, the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International granted a charter to the Iota Nu Chapter at The University of Texas at Tyler. Starting with 142 charter members, the Iota Nu Chapter membership has grown to over 770 members. Chapter meetings are held at various locations in East Texas throughout the year and feature respected nurse scholars as speakers. The meetings offer an opportunity to interact with nurses from different work settings and different specialty areas. An annual research conference brings internationally known researchers to the community and research grants help support member’s research. Community service projects have raised thousands of dollars over the years and have contributed to both local and international causes. An annual awards banquet provides members the opportunity to celebrate nursing and nurses in East Texas. In 2006, the chapter was recognized by Sigma Theta Tau International for its outstanding work with a Regional Chapter Excellence Award. During Sigma Theta Tau's 39th Biennial convention, held in Baltimore in November 2007, Iota Nu Chapter was awarded Key chapter status, reflecting the outstanding achievements of the chapter and its members.