Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society
Celebrating excellence in scholarship, leadership and professional nursing.
About Sigma Theta Tau International
Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) is one of the world’s most respected organizations for nursing scholarship and leadership development. Sigma recognizes and supports nurses who demonstrate academic excellence, clinical competence, and a commitment to advancing the profession. With more than 600 chapters in over 100 countries, Sigma offers global opportunities for connection, research, continuing education and service.
UAFS's Alpha Gamma Zeta Chapter
The Alpha Gamma Zeta Chapter at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith was chartered in 2024, marking a significant milestone for the Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing. Sponsored by Mercy Fort Smith, the chartering and inaugural induction formally recognized UAFS as part of Sigma’s international community of nurse scholars and leaders.
Alpha Gamma Zeta celebrates the achievements of outstanding nursing students, faculty and nurse leaders in our region. Membership in the chapter is a mark of academic distinction and professional excellence and reflects the values of integrity, leadership and lifelong learning that define UAFS Nursing.
Annual Induction Ceremony
Each semester, the Alpha Gamma Zeta Chapter hosts an induction ceremony to welcome new members and recognize their achievements in scholarship, leadership and professional commitment.
Ceremony Details:
- Date: Friday, November 14, 2025
- Time: 6 p.m.
- Location: Weidman Center, Pendergraft Health Science Center
Chapter Leadership
Sigma Board Members
- President: Tammy Rogers, DNP, RN, CNE, CHSE
- Vice-President: Patti Conard, Ph.D., RN
- Secretary: Paula Julian, Ph.D., APRN, FNP-C, CPN
- Treasurer: Valerie Beshears, DNP, RN
- Counselor: Ethan Pearson, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Nurse Leaders
- Melanie Agent
- Madison Branham
- Kristin Johnson
Why Sigma Matters at UAFS
Membership in Sigma strengthens your professional identity and connects you to a global community of nurses who are committed to improving health outcomes.
At UAFS, Sigma is especially meaningful because it:
- Highlights the Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing's strong academic and clinical culture.
- Recognizes students and nurse leaders who demonstrate exceptional achievement.
- Enhances résumés and graduate school applications.
- Builds connections with nurse leaders across the River Valley and beyond.
- Supports research, evidence-based practice and scholarly projects.
- Showcases UAFS Nursing as a leader in professional standards and excellence.
Membership Eligibility
Membership in Sigma is by invitation and recognizes academic excellence and leadership potential in both students and nurse leaders.
You may be eligible for student membership if you:
- Are among the top 35 percent of your nursing cohort.
- Have completed at least 50 percent of your nursing curriculum.
- Maintain a GPA greater than 3.0.
- Meet the ethical and professional standards set by Sigma and the Alpha Gamma Zeta Chapter.
Nurse leaders in the community may also be invited to join based on their contributions to nursing practice, education or leadership. Typically, nurse leader inductees have at least one year of professional nursing experience and demonstrate excellence in their roles.
For complete eligibility details, please contact the chapter advisor, Tammy%20Rogers.
Benefits of Membership
As a member of the Alpha Gamma Zeta Chapter, you gain access to:
- Global networking with nurses across Sigma's international community.
- Leadership development programs and chapter service opportunities.
- Continuing professional development courses and webinars.
- Research grants and evidence-based practice resources.
- Sigma's online Career Center, mentors, and advisors.
- Peer reviewed journals such as Journal of Nursing Scholarship and Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing.
Membership in Sigma signals that you are part of a select group of nurses dedicated to excellence.