One Hundred Fourth Annual Meeting
November 13-16, 2003
Hyatt Regency Los Angeles at Macy's Plaza
Los Angeles, California

A Summary Report

The 104th Annual Meeting of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society took place at the Hyatt Regency at Macy's Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, California from Wednesday, 12 November, to Sunday, 16 November 2003. The Assembly of Delegates was convened on 14, 15, and 16 November with Sigma Xi's President, Dr. Peter Raven, in the Chair. The Proceedings of the Assembly are annexed to this report. Delegates also participated in the six Regional Assemblies of Delegates, each of which was convened on 14 and 16 November and in meetings of the Society's Constituency Groups, five of which were convened on 15 and 16 November. During the Annual Meeting, the following meetings also were held:

November 12 & 13	Board of Directors - Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society
November 12	Board of Directors - Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society, Incorporated
November 12	Executive Committee
November 14	Committee on Awards
November 13 & 16	Committee on Regions
November 15	Sigma Xi Fund of Canada

On Wednesday afternoon and Thursday, November 12 and 13, Sigma Xi sponsored a forum, Science & Engineering: Keys to International Understanding, which was funded by Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation. Contributing organizations to the forum included the Association for Women in Science (AWIS); California Council on Science & Technology (CCST); Colombian Association for Science Journalism/Asociación Colombiana de Periodismo Científico (ACPC); International Institute, California State University San Bernardino; Long Term Ecological Research Network (LTER); Mexican National Council for Science & Technology/Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT); Science Institutes Group; Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS); United States - Mexico Foundation for Science/Fundación México - Estados Unidos para la Ciencia (FUMEC); and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Through plenary and concurrent sessions, the forum, coupled with related activities and publications, served as the culmination of Sigma Xi's Packard International Science Networking Initiative and the bridge to the Society's future international programs with a focus on the role of scientific and engineering communication and collaboration as an enabler for international understanding.

Throughout the forum, the United States - Mexico Foundation for Science/Fundación México - Estados Unidos para la Ciencia (FUMEC) and Just Garcia Hill (JGH): The National Web Site for Minorities in Science had exhibits on display for participants, students, and delegates. Also, as a supplement to the 2003 forum, Sigma Xi advised participants of an "International Resources Site" on the Society's Web site that provides a compilation of links of interest to scientists and engineers around the world pertaining to research and education, with a particular focus on the needs of developing countries. Sigma Xi will endeavor to keep this resource site updated and current in the future.

The 2003 forum opened on Wednesday afternoon, November 12, with welcome and opening remarks by Dr. Patrick D. Sculley, Executive Director of Sigma Xi, and Dr. Peter Raven, President of Sigma Xi. Following these remarks, the first plenary session, "What's Going On in the World? Scientific Outreach of Global Organizations," was held. With Peter Raven as moderator, this session examined programs that are building up scientific collaboration and communication in multiple regions of the world, and discussed successful approaches and challenges yet to be met. The opening session included lectures by Phillip Griffiths, Director of the Institute for Advanced Study and Chair of the Science Institutes Group, on "Strengthening Science and Technology in the Developing World," and Carol A. Medlin, Institute for Global Health at the University of California, San Francisco on "A Virtual Global Network for Health Research."

The opening plenary session was then followed by two concurrent sessions that provided the opportunity for small group discussions. The first concurrent session included the topics "A Global Science Corps for Developing Countries," organized and presented by Phillip Griffiths, Director of the Institute for Advanced Study and Chair of the Science Institutes Group, and "Sharing Scientific Information Across National and Disciplinary Boundaries," organized by Rosalind Reid, Editor of American Scientist and Journalist in Residence at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara. The second concurrent session included the topics "Collaborative Research: South-South & South-North," organized by the Third World Academy of Sciences and "Professors Across Borders: Funding Internationalism on Campus," organized and presented by William Peterson, Co-Director of the International Institute at California State University San Bernardino and Elsa Ochoa-Fernandez, Director of International Student Services and Co-Director of the International Institute at California State University San Bernadino.

The first afternoon of the 2003 forum concluded with an evening "International Gala," that included dinner and cultural entertainment provided by Kalika with Kawaka laua 'o Leinani Dancers.

Thursday morning of the forum opened with the second plenary session, "Regional Efforts and Scientific Development," moderated by Francisco Ayala, President-elect of Sigma Xi. In this session, speakers discussed their organizations' work building scientific capacity in Latin America and Eastern Europe, including lessons of general value and those unique to the region. Topics covered in this session included "Knowledge Sharing and Collaborative Research to the Benefit of a Better Environment in Latin America," by Mary T. Kalin Arroyo, Full Professor of Biology at the University of Chile, and "Scientific Cooperation Amid Social Change: The Case of the Former Soviet Union," by Gerson Sher, President of the U.S. Civilian Research & Development Foundation.

The second plenary session was likewise followed by two concurrent sessions. The first session included the topics "A Model for Trans-Boundary Marine Science Cooperation (Part I): The Red Sea Marine Peace Park Cooperative Research Program," organized and presented by Michael Crosby, Executive Director of the U.S. National Science Board, and "Regional Communication of Science to the Public," organized by Lisbeth Fog, President of the Colombian Association of Science Journalism/ Asociación Colombiana de Periodismo Científico (ACPC). The second set of concurrent sessions included the topics "Collaborations to Improve the Scientific Enterprise in Southern and Eastern Africa," organized and presented by Linda Mantel, Past President of the Association for Women in Science (AWIS), and Nelson Torto, Secretary-General of the Southern and Eastern Africa Network of Analytical Chemists (SEANAC), and " A Model for Trans-Boundary Marine Science Cooperation (Part II): Butterflyfish and the Need for a Gulf of Aqaba Research Consortium," organized by Michael Crosby, Executive Director of the U.S. National Science Board.

During the lunch period, forum participants had the opportunity to participate in a Networking Lunch that allowed them to meet fellow participants and speakers. For the Networking Lunch, tables were devoted to the following discussion topics that further expounded on the themes of international science collaboration and communication: "Scientists Participating in High Tech Business Development," "Matching Higher Education Programs in MEMS and Nanotechnology," "Establishing a Research Program at an International Site: Challenges, Opportunities and the Unknowns," "Improving International Access to Scientific Information," "Changing Research Priorities: How to Anticipate the Next 'Hot Topic,'" "Models for Trans-Boundary Marine Science Cooperation," "South-North Collaborations: Making Connections that Can Help Fund Your Research," "Strategies for Mitigating and/or Preventing Brain Drain," "Communication of Science to the Public," and "Networking for Sustainable Development."

Following lunch, José Sarukhán, Professor of Ecology at the Instituto de Ecología at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), moderated the final plenary session, "Scientific Capacity and Collaboration with Mexico." This session provided an overview of past and present scientific capacity in Mexico as well as focusing on some of Mexico's programs to build international collaborations. The session included lectures by Jaime Parada Avila, Director General of the National Council for Science & Technology/Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT) on "Toward Science & Technology Cooperation Between Mexico and the U.S.," and José Antonio de la Pena, Full Professor at the Instituto de Mathemáticas at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), on "Science Growth in Mexico." At the conclusion of the third plenary session and prior to the final concurrent sessions, Dr. Raven provided participants with a summary of the 2003 forum.

After the final plenary session, two concurrent sessions were held, the first of which included the topics "New Science & Engineering Capacities for Environmental Health & Risk Communication," organized by the United States - Mexico Foundation for Science/Fundación México - Estados Unidos para la Ciencia (FUMEC), and "California and Mexico: Education, Science & Technology," organized by Susan Hackwood, Executive Director of the California Council on Science & Technology. The final concurrent session included the topics "U.S. - Mexico Collaboraton in K-12 Science Education," organized by FUMEC and "Human Capacity Building to Strengthen the Mexican Long Term Ecological Research Network (LTER) through a Collaborative Research Agenda with the U.S. LTER Network," organized by Manuel Maass, Senior Scientist at Centro de Investigaciones en Ecosistemas at UNAM.

When the final set of concurrent sessions was finished, participants reassembled for the presentation of the 2003 John P. McGovern Science and Society Medal to Norman E. Borlaug, Nobel Laureate and Distinguished Professor of International Agriculture at Texas A&M University. Dr. Borlaug then presented the 2003 John P. McGovern Science and Society Lecture, "Agriculture and Peace - 21st Century Challenges."

The 2003 forum concluded after the McGovern Lecture with a reception that was open to all forum, annual meeting, and student participants with musical entertainment provided by the Mariachi Comacho Trio.

As a follow-up to the 2003 forum, Sigma Xi is exploring the feasibility of having written summaries and audiotapes of the forum plenary sessions available on the Society's Web site during spring 2004. This would enable individuals around the globe to have access to the plenary sessions of the forum and to download the information if they wished to do so.

On Friday morning, Dr. Darleane Hoffman, Nuclear Chemist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, received the 2003 William Procter Prize for Scientific Achievement and delivered the Procter Prize Address, "Chemistry Beyond the Actinides - One Atom-at-a-Time." Prior to presentation of the Procter Prize, Liv Stavsetra, a Ph.D. student in Chemistry at the University of Oslo, received a $5,000 grant-in-aid of research from the Procter Fund as the young scientist designated for this award by Dr. Hoffman.

On Saturday afternoon, Dr. Alexandra L. Basolo, Associate Professor in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, received the 2003 Young Investigator Award in the area of the life and social sciences. After receiving the award, Dr. Basolo presented the Young Investigator Award Lecture, "Tropical Fish Tales: Investigating Sexually Selected Traits at Multiple Levels."

Saturday evening the annual banquet was held during which the Society recognized and thanked Dr. W. Franklin Gilmore, Immediate Past President of Sigma Xi, for his services to Sigma Xi as the Society's President from July 1, 2002 to June 30, 2003. In addition, Mr. Robert Lee Hotz, Science Writer for the Los Angeles Times, and Mr. Edwin H. Kiester, freelance science journalist, were initiated as the 30th and 31st Honorary Members respectively of the Society. During and after the banquet, musical entertainment was provided by Gregg Young & The 2nd Street Jazz Band with Andrea Palm. On Friday evening, delegates and student research conference participants had the opportunity for after-dinner networking, relaxation, coffee, cash bar and music at "The Sigma Xi Café" with musical entertainment provided by the California State University Northridge Jazz Quartet.

Three workshop sessions were held during the annual meeting on topics involving the Society or issues involving science and society. The first workshop session for delegates on Friday morning included the following topics: "Chapters 101: Chapter Management," "Sigma Xi Postdoc Survey," "Chapter Program Opportunities," and "Chapter Opportunity: Using Computational Science in the Undergraduate Classroom." The second set of workshops on Friday afternoon was for delegates and Student Research Conference participants and included the following topics: "Communicating Science: Telling the Research Story in Pictures," "International Research Collaborations and Exchange," "Supporting Diversity in Science and Engineering: Strategies That Work and Why," and "Making A Difference: Leadership Profiles in Science and Engineering." The final set of workshops for delegates was held on Saturday afternoon and included the following topics: "Chapters 102: Programs," "Engaging the Public: Your Chapter and Public Outreach in the Community," "Membership: Survey Results and Nomination Techniques," and "Sally Ride TOYchallenge: Developing Middle School Engineering Skills."

During the lunch break on Saturday, a special optional lunch event was held for delegates, "Science and the Media." Hosted by Sigma Xi's Public Understanding of Science Program, this "Brown Bag" forum, part of a series organized by the Council for the Advancement of Science Writing, featured Sigma Xi Honorary Members Paul Raeburn and Robert Lee Hotz who gave short presentations, then fielded questions from the audience concerning the problems specific to journalists covering science and to scientists communicating through the media. In addition, an orientation session for new delegates was held on Friday morning immediately prior to the first Assembly of Delegates.

Throughout Friday and Saturday Sigma Xi's 2003 Student Research Conference was held with sponsorship by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences of Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. Participating in the conference was a total of 350 students, parents, members, and exhibitors; these included 200 collegiate and high school presenters from 90 colleges and universities and 1 high school. A total of 30 states, Puerto Rico, and one foreign country were represented at the 2003 Student Research Conference. Sigma Xi delegates and local members judged the poster presentations throughout Friday and Saturday. Immediately following the Young Investigator Award lecture on Saturday afternoon, 24 awards of $250 and a blue ribbon were presented by Dr. Raven and Dr. Sculley to those students judged to have superior posters. Ribbons recognizing good or excellent posters were also placed on exhibits. Following the awards ceremony, students, delegates, and guests had the opportunity to review the poster session one last time, including those exhibits that received awards. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences sponsored the student awards and the General Motors Research & Development Chapter of Sigma Xi sponsored two special engineering awards.

In addition to presenting their posters in four sessions on Friday and Saturday, students had the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities during the two-day conference. Some of these activities were scheduled for students and delegates, while others were arranged only for the participants in the student conference. The activities with annual meeting delegates included the Procter Prize Lecture on Friday morning, the second set of workshops on Friday afternoon, the "Sigma Xi Café" on Friday evening, the Young Investigator Award Lecture on Saturday afternoon, the awards ceremony for student participants also on Saturday afternoon, and the banquet on Saturday evening. In addition to these activities, students also participated in a "Welcome and Orientation" session on Friday morning that included remarks by the Society's President, Dr. Peter Raven, and Sigma Xi's Executive Director, Dr. Patrick Sculley, and a special plenary lecture, "The Glamorous World of the Forensic Anthropologist: The True Story," by Dr. Alison Galloway, Sigma Xi Distinguished Lecturer, on Saturday afternoon. Also, on Friday and Saturday, students participated in "Networking Lunches" where they had the opportunity to meet fellow participants and network with conference exhibitors and career scientists at designated interest tables.

Throughout Friday and Saturday, students and delegates had the opportunity to interact with the following 17 exhibitors for the Student Research Conference: FASEB MARC Program; National Institutes of Health, Office of Education; USDA, Agricultural Research Service; Renesselaer Polytechnic Institute; American Society for Microbiology; Pacific Northwest National Laboratory; Teach for America; University of San Francisco, Graduate Science Programs; AAAS/Minority Scientists Network; Army Medical Recruiting; Just Garcia Hill Web Site - Virtual Community for Minorities in Science; Sally Ride Science Club - TOYchallenge; The University of Chicago, Biological Science Division; The University of Texas at Austin Graduate School; University of Texas Southwestern Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences; Department of Energy Computational Science Graduate Fellowship; and the American Journal of Undergraduate Research.

Also, throughout the Annual Meeting, delegates and students had the opportunity to review 14 chapter poster presentations, 20 scientific posters presented by delegates, and 5 display boards of Sigma Xi and its activities that were prepared by the Society's administrative offices. During the meeting, several opportunities were available for delegates to "Meet the Staff" where delegates could meet informally with members of the Society's administrative staff to have questions answered or share ideas and information. This year a "Sigma Xi Quiz" was also held where delegates could find the answers to 25 questions on the quiz from a variety of sources, such as workshops, PowerPoint™ presentations, display boards, and from staff. At the banquet on Saturday evening, a drawing was held for those who obtained at least 90% correct answers on the quiz and prizes awarded to those selected.

Throughout the Annual Meeting, 9 international scientists participated in a variety of activities as part of Sigma Xi's Packard Initiative to network scientists in developing countries with each other and the global scientific community. In addition to participating in the 2003 forum and annual meeting activities, and in activities to learn about Sigma Xi and preparing plans to develop groups in their countries, these scientists also participated in a special breakfast orientation on Friday morning and in a networking lunch on Saturday.

Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society
One Hundred Fourth Annual Meeting

November 13-16, 2003
Hyatt Regency Los Angeles at Macy's Plaza
Los Angeles, California

Proceedings of the Assembly of Delegates
1. The Assembly of Delegates to the November 2003 Annual Meeting of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society was convened at the Hyatt Regency at Macy's Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, California in three sessions on 14, 15, and 16 November 2003. The Chair of the Assembly was Dr. Peter Raven, President of the Society.

   SESSION I

   Introductory Remarks by the President

2. Dr. Raven introduced himself to the Assembly, then welcomed delegates, spouses, and friends to the 104th Annual Meeting of Sigma Xi. He then introduced Mr. Wally Rothbart, Sigma Xi's Parliamentarian, Dr. Patrick Sculley, the Society's Executive Director, and Dr. Richard Meyer, the Society's Treasurer, who would participate in various aspects of the Assembly proceedings. The President then indicated that Sigma Xi had completed a highly successful forum on the preceding day and a half on international science with outstanding speakers from around the world. Part of this forum concentrated on Mexico and the development of science in Mexico, which seems appropriate for a forum in this part of the United States.

3. Continuing, Dr. Raven indicated that Sigma Xi hopes to use the wisdom obtained in the forum to disseminate a number of important messages that arose in this meeting to a variety of media outlets in the time to come. During this forum, there were various approaches expressed to resolve international issues that will certainly arise as the world population grows towards 8.5 billion with people needing to relate to one another in a variety of areas such as trade, agriculture, etc. He then expressed the hope that Sigma Xi will derive a lot of lessons from the 2003 forum that may be used by local chapters for activities within their institutions and communities.

   Procedural Remarks by the President

4. The President then advised delegates that, in order to streamline the business of the Assembly, the Reports of Officers and Standing Committees have been available for delegates, chapters, and members to review on the Society's Web site since early September and therefore will not be reviewed in the Assembly. Also, the minutes from the previous meeting in November 2002 were approved by a special committee of delegates from that meeting and have been available on the Society's Web site since June 2003. Therefore, the Assembly will not need to review and approve the minutes from the previous meeting. Also, this annual meeting will feature chapter and scientific posters that will be available for viewing and discussion by delegates. On Friday and Saturday, Sigma Xi's Student Research Conference will take place and include over 200 research posters by undergraduates and high school students, among other events. The President then urged delegates to take the opportunity to attend these sessions and particularly to interact with the students.

5. At the request of Dr. Raven, the Deputy Executive Director, Dr. Evan Ferguson, then explained the voting procedures to be used by delegates to select a President-elect, and for any written ballots in the Assembly of Delegates. To cast their vote for President-elect, delegates were to use the single white ballot sheet they received in their registration packets that included the names of the two nominees, Dr. Alexander and Dr. Margulis. They were to indicate their selection on the ballot in the spaces indicated. Ballots for election of the President-elect were to be placed in the ballot box in the registration area by 5:30 p.m. Saturday in order to be counted and results of the election would be announced in the final Assembly on Sunday morning. The small, green ballot books were to be used for any elections in the Regional Assemblies and the small, white ballot books were to be used in the Constituency Groups. Information on the nominees for President-elect is contained in pages 43-46 of the program and the Deputy Director urged delegates to read this information carefully before casting their ballots. For any ballots taken in the Assembly, the President will first ask for a standing vote and, if he is unable to determine a clear majority either way, he will call for a written ballot. If a written ballot is required, the President will announce which number ballot was to be used and delegates were to mark their ballot; ballots in the Assembly would be collected by the Tellers, scanned electronically, and the results reported to the Assembly. There were no questions concerning the balloting procedure.

6. Continuing, Dr. Raven reminded the Assembly that there is a single recommendation from the Board of Directors to be considered by the Assembly. That recommendation is the eight-point motion on annual dues for the year beginning 1 July 2004, which is contained on page 20 of the program. He added that there were only 60 minutes in this first Assembly but there would be additional Assemblies on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Therefore, during this first Assembly, agenda items #1-6B would be taken up, including the recommendation of the Board to the Assembly, and any questions for clarification in regard to this issue would be answered. Thus, the business of the Society would be placed before the Assembly in this first session. Discussion of this issue would then take place in the Regional Assemblies of Delegates and in the second and third Assemblies of Delegates, if needed. Voting on this issue would take place in the second or third Assemblies depending on how much discussion will be needed on this issue by the Assembly. This process should provide ample time for discussion of the issue before voting on it. Finally, the President advised delegates that agenda items #10 B-D would take place in the Regional Assemblies of Delegates and in the Constituency Groups with the results of these elections reported in the final Assembly on Sunday morning.

   Approval of the Agenda of the Assembly of Delegates of the 104th Annual Meeting

7. The President reminded delegates that the proposed agenda for the Assembly was contained on page 18 of the Annual Meeting Program that each delegate received at registration and this information also has been available on the Society's Web site for delegates, chapters, and members to review since early September. Without objection, the proposed agenda for the Assembly of Delegates of the 104th Annual Meeting was adopted.

   Report of the President

8. 8. Dr. Raven reminded delegates that the Report of the President for the year ending 30 June 2003 was on pages 21 and 22 of the program booklet and has been available on the Society's Web site since early September. In an addition to his report, Dr. Gilmore highlighted a few items that he thought were significant for the Society in the year ending 30 June 2003. The first was the hiring of Dr. Patrick Sculley as the Executive Director of Sigma Xi who has brought a new enthusiasm to the Society. He expressed his great enjoyment in the opportunity to work with Dr. Sculley and the Society's excellent and dedicated staff during the past year. Secondly, during the past year, Sigma Xi put together a strategic plan that should guide Sigma Xi over the next several years. This plan has a number of goals for Sigma Xi and places great emphasis on Sigma Xi's programs most of which are intended to involve the Society's chapters. Finally, the Society initiated, and will complete shortly, a new Sigma Xi Center for which Dr. Sculley played a significant role in making this dream a reality for the Society. He reminded delegates that, in November 2002, the Board approved a plan to build the Center and on 1 December 2003 the staff will move into the new facility, which will be a wonderful new home for Sigma Xi for the next 100 years. Dr. Gilmore closed his remarks with the view that overall it was a very successful year for Sigma Xi and it was his great pleasure to serve as President of the Society during the year ending 30 June 2003. He then thanked the delegates for the privilege of serving as the President of Sigma Xi. There were no questions asked concerning the Report of the President.

   Report of the Treasurer

9. The President reminded delegates that the Report of the Treasurer was on pages 28-30 of the program booklet and also in a one-page handout that they received in their registration packets. This information also has been available of the Society's Web site since late September. He then invited the Society's Treasurer to comment on his report to the Assembly. Dr. Meyer opened his brief remarks with the view that Sigma Xi is a vibrant Society with a strong sense of direction, has a well developed strategic plan that is also well managed, and has sound fiscal control over its finances. In his view, the Society is very fortunate to have outstanding Officers, a thoughtful and progressive Board of Directors, and an excellent staff. The Treasurer added that he was pleased to share with the Assembly that the Society had an audit report for last year that contained no errors of any type.

10. Concerning the Society's finances for the year ending June 30, 2003, Dr. Meyer indicated that Sigma Xi's revenues appeared very low and appeared to have exceeded the Society's expenses. However, in accordance with new accounting procedures, the losses on the Society's endowments last year had to be reported as negative income. In fact, the Society's total income did not change from the previous year but because of the decline in the market value of our endowments we had to subtract these losses from our earned income, which therefore decreased the Society's reported net revenue for last year. If the decrease in the market value of Sigma Xi's endowment had not been subtracted from its total income, then the revenue and expenses for last year would have been about equal. In fact, last year's budget was so well managed that the Society's year-end budget was within 0.43% of its projected budget for the year ending 30 June 2003. The Treasurer added that the Society's net assets have grown as Sigma Xi completes its new building and that the Society is now moving from a lease arrangement to an ownership arrangement in which the new building will be an appreciating asset for the Society in the future. He also reported that:
    • The Society's capital campaign fund currently has approximately 2.7 million dollars towards decreasing the debt instrument on the new building;
    • At its last session, the Board of Directors approved an enhanced investment program for the Society's capital campaign;
    • Sigma Xi has increased its endowments by 18.1% since 1 January 2003.

11. Dr. Meyer closed his remarks by informing delegates that he and the Society's Executive Director will visit with each regional assembly during the meeting to answer any questions delegates may have in regard to the Society's finances, or about the new building. In response to a question, Dr. Meyer indicated that Dr. Sculley will discuss Sigma Xi's strategic plan in his remarks to the Assembly and that copies of the plan could be made available to delegates during the meeting.

    Report of the Executive Director

12. At the invitation of Dr. Raven, the Executive Director provided additional remarks to the Report of the Executive Director that was contained on pages 23-27 of the program booklet and had been available to delegates, chapters, and members on the Society's Web site since early September. Before beginning his remarks to the Assembly, Dr. Sculley provided clarification concerning the current status of the Society's strategic plan. He indicated that Sigma Xi had received a number of proposed editorial changes to the plan from chapters, members, and committees and the Committee on Strategic Planning had reviewed these suggestions at a meeting in June 2003. The committee's recommendations concerning these proposed changes were presented to the Board of Directors at this annual meeting and, after Board action, the Society now has the latest, finalized version of the plan that can be made available to delegates during this meeting.

13. In opening his remarks to the Assembly, Dr. Sculley indicated his pride with being the Society's Executive Director for one year - a year of personal growth for him as he has learned about the Society, and a year in which he has met the staff, the leadership of Sigma Xi, new colleagues, and has made many new friends. He explained that, everywhere he has gone in Sigma Xi, he has been impressed with the talent, enthusiasm, and dedication of the membership of the Society for addressing science and engineering through the programs of Sigma Xi. Dr. Sculley thanked the membership for how well they represent the Society and expressed a special note of thanks to the chapter leadership, committee members, and the elected leaders of Sigma Xi for their leadership and vision in leading the Society. He also thanked the Society's administrative staff for their efforts on behalf of Sigma Xi, including the planning of this complex annual meeting and in providing the finest service possible for the Society's chapters and membership.

14. Continuing, the Executive Director indicated that Sigma Xi is having great success in all the Society's program areas, many of which are highlighted in his written report to the Assembly. He then provided the following brief updates on the five main program areas in Sigma Xi and with American Scientist:
    • Education. Sigma Xi continues to support a variety of program areas in education from kindergarten through the postdoctoral experience and early career development of researchers.
    • Ethics. Sigma Xi's ethics program was recognized by the American Society of Association Executives with its Advance America Award for excellence.
    • Public Understanding of Science. Sigma Xi's popular daily "Science in the News" was expanded to include "Science in the News Weekly" and Sigma Xi is working with the American Association for the Advancement of Science to put forth a bid to bring to North America in 2008 the biannual meeting of the International Network for the Public Communication of Science and Technology.
    • Health of the Research Enterprise. Sigma Xi continues to provide grants-in-aid of research to young researchers thereby starting the careers of thousands of young students in the sciences and engineering.
    • International. The 2003 forum is the culmination of the Society's Packard Grant and over the time of this grant the Society has extended the hand of companionship of Sigma Xi to colleagues around the world and established its first Sigma Xi International Partner in the nation of Georgia. Also, as an organization that is apolitical, dedicated to honor, and comprised of experts, Sigma Xi has been invited by the United Nations to put together an expert group to examine adaptation and mitigation strategies to global climate change.
    • American Scientist. The continued excellence of the Society's magazine was recognized this year by 3 awards for excellence from the Society of National Association Publications. Also, the magazine's Online project has progressed tremendously and Sigma Xi now has 6 years of the magazine online and a new cross-reference function where clicking on a reference in the magazine will take the reader directly to the original source of the reference.

15. Dr. Sculley then emphasized that the Society's programs reflect the many ways that members choose to serve society by advancing science and engineering and these programs require the skills of a talented group of scientists and engineers. Unfortunately, the biggest challenge facing Sigma Xi is its declining membership that decreases this talented pool of researchers for the Society. He indicated that he was glad to report that, last year, the Society dramatically reduced the rate of decline in its membership but the fact is that the Society continues to lose members. Dr. Sculley advised delegates that the recent membership survey indicated that only 15% of the membership has nominated anyone in the past 15 years. Obviously, Sigma Xi needs to turn this situation around and he urged delegates, if they believed in the mission of the Society, to share the honor of election with their colleagues and students.

16. The Executive Director then advised delegates that the Society's membership decline poses a fiscal threat to Sigma Xi because the majority of the Society's annual budget comes from member dues. He advised the Assembly that Sigma Xi has attacked this threat pro-actively and that Sigma Xi is in sound financial health. One of the ways that Sigma Xi has addressed this possible financial threat is that the Society has very wisely competed all services provided by vendors to Sigma Xi and this has resulted in substantial savings to the Society. Also, Sigma Xi has turned to novel ways to grow non-dues revenue by providing benefits that enhance member services but also provide a financial return to Sigma Xi.

17. In addition, Sigma Xi has addressed the rising costs associated with its inadequate, rented facility in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina that the Society occupied beginning in 1990 on an interim measure. In November 2002, the Society's Board of Directors made the decision to purchase land and build a new home for Sigma Xi in Research Triangle Park. The poor economic situation in Research Triangle Park at that time enabled Sigma Xi to borrow money at unprecedented low rates, assemble a team of contractors, architects, etc., and to build its new building at unprecedented speed so that Sigma Xi will occupy its new Center on December 1, 2003. By erecting its own new building, Sigma Xi has fixed its facility costs over the long run with substantial savings to the Society. Dr. Sculley then showed several slides of the new Sigma Xi Center, emphasizing the design of the building that reflects the traditions and history of a venerable organization like Sigma Xi, incorporates site sustainability, the companionship within the Society, and also reflects the forward thinking of Sigma Xi as it addresses the issues that affect science and engineering. During this presentation, he also emphasized that Sigma Xi's new building will not only house the administrative offices of the Society but also has substantial public meeting space to be used by the Society and other organizations that share Sigma Xi's mission.

18. The Executive Director closed his remarks by indicating that he was proud of the new Sigma Xi Center and proud to be part of the Society. He also was proud of the accomplishments and achievements of the Society's membership and that, in his view, the new building reflects the excellence that the membership provides to Sigma Xi. In response to a question, Dr. Sculley indicated that the Sigma Xi Center will use conventional power sources but the building is designed to be highly efficient, thus reducing operational costs to Sigma Xi. There were no further questions or comments in regard to the Report of the Executive Director.

    Appointment of the Credentials Committee, Tellers, and the Committee on Resolutions

19. The President announced that the following individuals had been appointed to the Committee on Resolutions for the 2003 Assembly of Delegates:

    Anthony M. Iacopino, Chair, Marquette University Chapter
    Mitty C. Plummer, University North Texas Chapter
    Andrea C. Wade, Triple Cities New York Chapter

20. Dr. Raven then announced the appointments of the following individuals to constitute the Credentials Committee for the November 2003 Assembly of Delegates:

    Hilary S. Davidson, Chair, Charlotte Chapter
    Beverly C. Delidow, Marshall University Chapter
    John A. McLean, University of British Columbia Chapter

21. The following delegates, two from each region, were then announced by Dr. Raven to serve as Tellers in both the Assembly of Delegates and the respective Regional Assemblies of Delegates:

    MID-ATLANTIC REGION
    Monika I. Konaklieva, American University Chapter
    George H. Watson, Jr., University of Delaware Chapter

    NORTH CENTRAL REGION
    Deborah A. Neher, University of Toledo Chapter
    John R. Meier, Cincinnati Federal Environmental Chapter

    NORTHEAST REGION
    Jacqualine B. Grant, Cornell University Chapter
    Emmanuel C. Ojadi, University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth Chapter

    NORTHWEST REGION
    Anthony F. Starace, University of Nebraska Chapter
    Pamela R. Willoughby, University of Alberta Chapter

    SOUTHEAST REGION
    Patricia J. Baynham, Northern Kentucky University Chapter
    Douglas D. Rhoads, University of Arkansas - Fayetteville Chapter

    SOUTHWEST REGION
    James G. Dunham, Southern Methodist University Chapter
    Cynthia Hunter, Head Teller, University of Hawaii Chapter

    Reports and Recommendations from the Board of Directors

22. The President reminded the Assembly that the motion from the Board of Directors would be presented this morning and questions answered for clarification of the motion. Discussion on the motion would take place in the remaining two Assemblies of Delegates, if needed, and the Regional Assemblies of Delegates. The motion would be voted upon during the second or third Assemblies, depending on the amount of discussion needed for the motion.

23. Annual Dues for 2004-2005 (FY 2005). Dr. Raven reminded the Assembly that this motion was contained on page 20 of the program booklet that delegates received at registration and this information also has been available on the Society's Web site for delegates, chapters, and members to review since early September. An explanation of the motion was contained on page 19 of the program booklet and also has been available on the Society's Web site since early September. The President then invited the Society's Treasurer to introduce the eight-point motion on annual dues and fees for the year ending June 30, 2005 (FY2005) on behalf of the Board of Directors.

24. In introducing the motion, Dr. Meyer cited the fact that scientists and engineers are always looking for an improved model to use and, in his view, linking the Society's annual dues to the Higher Education Price Index (HEPI), as recommended by the Board of Directors, is an improved model over the model used in the recent past by the Society. He then invited the Society's Executive Director to explain the motion and the rationale behind it. Dr. Sculley then advised the Assembly that, for the past several years, Sigma Xi has linked annual increases in member dues to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is a mythical basket of goods that an urban shopper would purchase. The HEPI, however, is based on the type of items that colleges and universities would need to purchase and is used by most academic institutions in their budget planning. Citing several examples, Dr. Sculley indicated that, as a Society, Sigma Xi is much more like an academic institution in its operations than a shopper for an urban household. Also, the HEPI may be higher or lower than the CPI each year but it does parallel the CPI over time. Dr. Sculley then advised delegates that this year the HEPI was 2.5% while the CPI was 2.2% so using either index would result in the same amount of increase in annual dues in the proposed motion before the Assembly. However, by approving the Board's recommendation, delegates are, in fact, buying into a better model that better fits Sigma Xi's needs.

25. Continuing, the Executive Director explained that, in the proposed motion for annual dues for 2004-2005, the Board is recommending:
    • That basic annual dues, Local Support, and Life Membership be increased by the HEPI as of 30 June 2003 (2.5%);
    • That the initial and promotion fee be increased from US$7.50 to US$10.00. The last time that this fee was increased was 1989;
    • That student dues be increased from US$20 to US$25; the last time student dues were increased was 1991. Student members prior to 1 July 2004 would continue to pay at the US$20 rate as long as they are students.
    There were no questions concerning the motion.

26. Dr. Raven then adjourned the Assembly until the second session on Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m.

    SESSION II

27. Dr. Raven opened the second session of the Assembly of Delegates by reminding delegates that in this session, the Assembly will first take up agenda item #7 (Recognition for Outstanding Membership Elections) and #8 (Presentation of Chapter Certificates of Excellence, Program Awards, and Diversity Program Awards). The remainder of the session will be spent with discussion, and possible voting, on the recommendation from the Board of Directors.

    Recognition for Outstanding Membership Elections

28. Dr. Raven invited Dr. Anthony Iacopino, a member of the Society's Committee on Qualifications and Membership, to oversee the presentation of the chapter awards. In his opening remarks to the Assembly, Dr. Iacopino indicated that, with 516 chapters, Sigma Xi has a tremendous infrastructure of activity in institutions around the world and that the Committee on Qualifications and Membership recognizes chapter excellence each year with a variety of awards. He then reminded the Assembly that each year Sigma Xi recognizes chapters that induct the most new members into the Society by awarding them Certificates of Recognition. This recognition is important because Sigma Xi is unique among scientific societies because chapters elect 90% of the Society's new members. He also reminded the Assembly that it is the responsibility of the chapters to maintain and build the membership of Sigma Xi. Dr. Iacopino then announced the 15 chapters to be recognized while the President presented Certificates of Recognition to delegates from those chapters in attendance at the 2003 Annual Meeting. The following chapters were recognized: Brown University Chapter, Carleton College Chapter, Claremont Colleges Chapter, Delta Chapter, Fordham University Chapter, Georgetown University Chapter, Hamilton College Chapter, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Chapter, Mount Holyoke College Chapter, North Carolina State University Chapter, Smith College Chapter, Swarthmore College Chapter, Southern Maine Chapter, Saint Joseph's University Chapter, and the Union College Chapter.

    Presentation of Chapter Program Awards

29. 29. Continuing, Dr. Iacopino reminded the Assembly that the Committee on Qualifications and Membership recognizes chapters that have hosted a single, outstanding program during the past year. Winners of these awards are selected by the Committee on Qualifications and Membership from a pool of nominees submitted by the regional directors after reviewing the chapter annual reports submitted within their region. With Dr. Raven presenting certificates to delegates from those chapters in attendance at the meeting, Dr. Iacopino then recognized the following 7 chapters, indicating for each chapter why they were selected to receive an award: Kirksville Chapter, McGill-Montreal Chapter, Saint Joseph's University Chapter, South Dakota State University Chapter, South Florida Water Management District Chapter, University of Georgia Chapter, and the Vassar College Chapter.

    Presentation of Sigma Xi Chapter Diversity Awards

30. 30. Dr. Iacopino then introduced Dr. Susan Kilham, Chair of the Society's Committee on Diversity, to present the Chapter Diversity Program Awards. In her brief remarks to the Assembly, Dr. Kilham advised the Assembly that, in an effort to raise the visibility of diversity issues within Sigma Xi, the Committee on Diversity offers program awards to chapters that have organized outstanding programs that promote diversity within the science, engineering, and research communities. A review of chapter annual reports revealed that many chapters are hosting outstanding programs that address issues impacting women and minorities of all ages from elementary school through entry into the professional world. This year the Committee selected two chapters to receive this award. With Dr. Raven presenting certificates to delegates from those chapters, Dr. Kilham then recognized the following two chapters, indicating for each chapter why they were selected to receive a Chapter Diversity Program Award: The Tuskegee University Chapter, and the University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez Chapter.

    Presentation of Certificates of Excellence

31. Continuing, Dr. Iacopino advised the Assembly that the Committee on Qualifications and Membership awards Certificates of Excellence each year to chapters for their overall outstanding activity during the past year. In selecting these chapters, the Constituency Directors reviewed the annual reports from chapters in their constituency and nominated 5 chapters from their group to the Committee who made the final selections. The Committee selected these chapters based on the following criteria: impact of the chapter's program on the community; level of innovation or initiative; breadth and variety of programs; and overall quality of the chapter's program. Dr. Iacopino then recognized the 8 chapters, indicating for each why they were selected to receive the award, while Dr. Raven presented Certificates of Excellence to delegates from the chapters who were in attendance at the meeting. The following chapters were recognized: Fairfield University Chapter, McGill-Montreal Chapter, Middle Tennessee State University Chapter, Saint Joseph's University Chapter, University of Denver Chapter, University of Georgia Chapter, University of Texas Medical Branch Chapter, and the Vassar College Chapter.

32. Dr. Iacopino then advised delegates that the administrative staff has created case studies for many of the programs organized by last year's winners and will do so also for this year's winners. The staff also has additional resources that are designed to support busy chapter officers; these resources may be found in the Chapter Toolkit and on the Society's Web site. Also, delegates from chapters receiving awards are wearing special ribbons on their name badges and he urged delegates to congratulate them and to talk with them about how their chapters have been so successful. Dr. Iacopino, on behalf of the Committee on Qualifications and Membership, closed his remarks by congratulating and applauding the chapters receiving awards.

    Reports and Recommendations from the Board of Directors (Resumed)

33. Annual Dues for 2004-2005 (FY2005). Dr. Raven advised delegates that the remainder of the second session would be used for discussion of the recommendation from the Board of Directors to the Assembly in regard to the 8-point motion on annual dues. Depending on the time needed for discussion of this item, a vote on this item may take place during this Assembly or be deferred until the final Assembly on Sunday morning. He then asked if there were any questions or comments in regard to the 8-point motion on annual dues.

34. In response, the delegate from the Hungarian Chapter expressed his concern over the proposed increases in the initial and promotion fees (points 3 & 4 in the motion) because this increase might place a burden on small chapters. He indicated that there should be a mechanism to avoid this situation because adding members to the Society is extremely important to Sigma Xi and these increases might inhibit small chapters from electing new members to the Society. He then suggested that perhaps the Committee on Finances might revisit this increase and make appropriate recommendations for the next Assembly. Drs. Meyer and Raven both indicated that this was an excellent suggestion and would be pursued by the Committee on Finances. The delegate from the McGill-Montreal Chapter then asked if the Society had considered linking increases in student dues each year to the HEPI, rather than US$5 increases that might alienate student members. That is, smaller increases each year might be more acceptable to students than larger increases every few years. In response, Dr. Meyer explained that student dues had not been increased since 1991 and the proposed US$5 increase is much less than if student dues had been increased each year since 1991 by the cost of living index. Dr. Meyer added that the Committee on Finances will consider this suggestion at its next meeting for possible recommendations to the Society's Board of Directors.

35. Without additional questions or comments, the Assembly then unanimously approved by a standing vote the motion on annual dues for 2004-2005 (FY2005).

36. Dr. Raven then adjourned the Assembly until Sunday morning at 10:15 a.m.

    SESSION III

37. 37. The President advised the Assembly that, during this session, they would undertake the remaining items on the agenda that included agenda items #10 - 13.

    Election of Officers.

38. The President announced that the following individual had been elected by the Assembly of Delegates to serve as President-elect of the Society from July 1, 2004 to June 30, 2005:

    Lynn Margulis, University of Massachusetts Chapter

    Election of Directors of Geographic Regions and Constituency Groups

39. Dr. Raven then announced that the following individuals had been elected by their respective region or constituency group to serve as Directors of the group, and as members of the Board of Directors, for three years from July 1, 2004:

    AREA GROUPS, INDUSTRIES, STATE & FEDERAL LABORATORIES CONSTITUENCY GROUP
    Donald Jesse McGraw, San Diego Chapter

    COMPREHENSIVE COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES CONSTITUENCY GROUP
    Ernest Henry Gilmour, Eastern Washington University-Spokane Chapter

    NORTH CENTRAL GEOGRAPHIC REGION
    Linda Kay Meadows, Ohio State University Chapter

    SOUTHWEST GEOGRAPHIC REGION
    James F. Baur, San Diego Chapter

    Election of Associate Directors of Geographic Regions and Constituency Groups.

40. The President also announced that the following individuals had been elected by their respective geographic region or constituency group to serve as Associate Directors of the region or group for three years from July 1, 2004:

    BACCALAUREATE COLLEGES CONSTITUENCY GROUP
    David Colin Lever, Ohio Wesleyan University Chapter

    CANADIAN/INTERNATIONAL CONSTITUENCY GROUP
    Geza Gordos, Hungary Chapter

    MID-ATLANTIC GEOGRAPHIC REGION
    Charles E. Kriley, Grove City College Chapter

    NORTHEAST GEOGRAPHIC REGION
    Albert David Notation, Quinnipiac Chapter

    Election of Members of the Committee on Nominations by Geographic Regions and Constituency Groups.

41. Finally, Dr. Raven announced that the following individuals had been elected by their respective geographic region or constituency group to serve three years on the Committee on Nominations from November 16, 2003:

    NORTHWEST GEOGRAPHIC REGION
    Linda H. Mantel, Columbia-Willamette Chapter

    RESEARCH & DOCTORAL CONSTITUENCY GROUP
    Andrew Ulrich Meyer, New Jersey Institute of Technology Chapter

    SOUTHEAST GEOGRAPHIC REGION
    Ann Houston Williams, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapter

    Report of the Committee on Resolutions.

42. The Deputy Executive Director, on behalf of the Committee on Resolutions, moved the adoption of the following commemorative resolutions on behalf of the Committee:

    BE IT RESOLVED that the 104th Annual Assembly of Delegates of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society commends Dr. Peter Raven for a very successful meeting. Be it further resolved that this Assembly commends the Officers of the Society and the Sigma Xi staff for their assistance in organizing and running the meeting.

    BE IT RESOLVED that the 104th Annual Assembly of Delegates of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society commends the Society's Board of Directors and Dr. Patrick Sculley, Sigma Xi's Executive Director, for their vision and leadership in building the new Sigma Xi Center in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina that will be completed shortly after this meeting.

    BE IT RESOLVED that the 104th Annual Assembly of Delegates of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society commends the following chapters in recognition of their anniversary celebrations as chapters of the Society:

    100 Years
    University of Chicago Chapter
    University of Michigan Chapter
    University of Illinois Chapter

    75 Years
    University of Arizona Chapter
    Lehigh University Chapter
    University of Maryland Chapter
    Kansas State University Chapter
    University of Illinois at Chicago Chapter
    

    50 Years
    University of Arkansas at Fayetteville Chapter
    University of Rhode Island Chapter
    Colorado State University Chapter
    Georgia Institute of Technology Chapter
    Tuskegee University Chapter
    M.W. Kellogg Chapter
    Alcoa Chapter
    GTE Laboratories Chapter
    Rollins College Chapter
    San Jose State University Chapter

    25 Years
    California State University at Dominguez Hills Chapter
    Murray State University Chapter
    Minot State University Chapter
    

    The resolutions were adopted unanimously by the Assembly.

    Report of the Credentials Committee

43. 43. The Chair of the Credentials Committee, Hilary Davidson, reported that 147 chapters were represented by 158 delegates and additional delegates at the November 2003 Annual Meeting. The membership-at-large was represented by 2 delegates. The Committee noted that a delegate representing the Hungarian Chapter also was in attendance at the November 2003 Annual Meeting. Therefore, there were a total of 147 chapters represented at the November 2003 Annual Meeting and 160 delegates and additional delegates in attendance at the meeting. The Report of the Credentials Committee was accepted unanimously by the Assembly.

    Remarks by the President-Elect

44. The President-elect focused most of his remarks to the Assembly on the Society's strategic plan. He opened his remarks by citing a comment in one of the Regional Assemblies where a delegate indicated that Sigma Xi was experiencing a moment of great leadership, great energy and great enthusiasm. In their view, the reasons for this were the new Sigma Xi Center, an energetic leader in Dr. Sculley, and a strategic plan that will guide the Society for the next several years. Dr. Ayala agreed with this assessment and indicated that, as incoming President, he sees his mission as implementing the strategic plan, which overlaps greatly with his stated objectives for Sigma Xi in his candidacy for President last year. He promised to work with the Society's leadership and administrative staff so that together they could reach the stated goals and objectives outlined in the plan.

45. Citing an objective in the first goal of the plan to increase membership to 80,000 and to have 5,000 overseas partner affiliates, Dr. Ayala indicated that on Friday he had met with representatives of Sigma Xi and Mexico and they agreed on a goal of initiating 10 chapters in Mexico by the time of the next annual meeting. He added that accomplishing this goal would be an important step in the internationalization of Sigma Xi. Mentioning the goal of having at least one sustaining program with substantial chapter involvement in the areas of ethics, education, public understanding of science, and health of the research enterprise, the President-elect advised the Assembly that the Board of Directors has now established new committees for the areas of ethics, education, and the public understanding of science that should assist in Sigma Xi achieving this goal.

46. Continuing, Dr. Ayala mentioned that another goal in the strategic plan refers to American Scientist, which, in his view, is a great and outstanding magazine and one in which he has been fortunate to publish several articles, including a 1993 article, "Science and the Courts," with Bert Black. He indicated that, in his view, American Scientist is a wonderful magazine with a very good Editor but seems to have modest revenue from advertising. Citing his experience as President of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the President-elect indicated that, in his view, Sigma Xi could do better in getting advertisers for the magazine and in increasing the magazine's subscription base. Another objective in the strategic plan that Dr. Ayala mentioned was to build and occupy the new Sigma Xi Center by October 2004. In his view, this objective is certainly attainable and Sigma Xi will, in fact, achieve this objective 10 months in advance of the stated time to occupy the new facility.

47. The President-elect then indicated that, during the meeting, he has been impressed with the responsiveness of the administrative staff to his, and others, requests and that Sigma Xi is fortunate to have a truly wonderful staff and an energetic Executive Director; it is indeed a joy to work with them. In closing his remarks, Dr. Ayala indicated that in working with the Executive Director, the staff, the Board, and the Society's committees, he believed that Sigma Xi can achieve the goals and objectives outlined in the strategic plan, or at least most of them, and in doing so will make the Society even more relevant to scientists and engineers in the future.

    Closing Remarks by the President

48. The President thanked Dr. Ayala for his insightful and welcome comments on Sigma Xi's strategic plan and indicated his view that it is an extremely well thought out document. He also complimented the administrative staff as a remarkable group of highly motivated people, which augers extremely well for the future of the Society. Dr. Raven then congratulated the staff, committees, Board, and everyone who worked so hard in putting together the 2003 forum, annual meeting, and student research conference. In particular, he congratulated the delegates who participated in the meeting because, in his view, their participation is the essential ingredient for making the meeting and Sigma Xi work. In his view, Sigma Xi works because it is intrinsically a grass roots organization and all that the staff, Board, and committees can do is to support the chapters in their efforts. Therefore, Sigma Xi as an organization will succeed only as its chapters are successful. The Society will therefore continue to provide its chapters with leadership, good publications, good materials that are distributed on the Web and in print, and in providing ways in which members can enrich the lives of their chapters, their institutions, and their communities.

49. Continuing, Dr. Raven indicated that the Society has been through a period of change but it now seems poised on the brink of an exciting future. He indicated his belief that holding the forums by themselves at the new Sigma Xi Center will work extremely well in bringing visibility for the Society. Also, coupling the annual meeting with the student research conference will enable delegates to interact more with the student participants in the research conference and that is a good sign for the future of the Society. The President then thanked the Parliamentarian for his services during the Assemblies of Delegates.

    Adjournment

50. The President then thanked delegates once again for their attendance and participation in the meeting and declared the 104th Assembly of Delegates adjourned.