HOLLYANN HARRIS
Present Position
Associate Dean for Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Creighton University College of Arts and Sciences; Professor of Chemistry
Chapter Affiliation
Omaha Chapter
Background Information
CV
Biography
Statement
I was inducted into Sigma Xi in 1991 and was immediately impressed by the multi-disciplinary nature of the organization. Because of this multi- and inter-disciplinary focus I believe that Sigma Xi has a unique role to play in the promotion of (or advocacy for) science education, science literacy for non-scientists, science policy, and government science funding. At this particular time in US history, it is more important than ever that we speak up for the primacy of science, for science education, and for the use of scientific reasoning and evidence-based decision making in all aspects of public life.
Many candidate statements will talk about ‘re-energizing the chapters’ and, as a chapter-based organization, I do believe that is an important activity but I also think that those in leadership positions can move the organization forward, increasing both the importance and profile of Sigma Xi on a national level. This can have a positive effect on membership as scientists (particularly those who have entered the profession more recently) see the relevancy of the organization not just for what it can do for them but for what Sigma Xi can do for science.
In the past two years I have been privileged to see first-hand the progress that Sigma Xi has made under the leadership of Jamie Vernon, Joel Primack, Geraldine Richmond, and the rest of the Board. During my current term on the Sigma Xi board, I have been very active as the co-chair of the Committee on Scientific Conduct and Professional Ethics. As a member of the Committee on Qualifications and Membership I helped to develop the Fellows of Sigma Xi program.
I am very excited to see the progress that the society has made in the organizational side of the business and would welcome the opportunity to continue to help build the society in the 21st century.
Previous Service to the Society: I have served two terms as the Omaha Chapter President, at two very different times in the health of the chapter. At the National level, I have served on several committees, including the Committee on Qualifications and Members, the Development Committee, and the Committee on Nominations. Currently I am in my first term as Director of the Northwest Region.