Programming Ideas for Chapters
- Provide a venue for science, math and engineering faculty/researchers to share their research across disciplines, thereby strengthening the research environment at the chapter’s host institution.
- Support students engaged in research through mentoring and career development.
- Offer workshops to improve undergraduate science, math and engineering education.
- Promote programs on ethical behavior in research and science writing.
- Bestow awards that recognize accomplishments by science, math and engineering faculty/researchers and students, outstanding achievements in research, and excellence in science and math teaching.
- Partner with local organizations such as museums, libraries, businesses and academic institutions to build greater awareness and support for science, math and engineering.
- Engage K-12 students in science and math through judging of science fairs, classroom demonstrations, mentoring of students and participation in innovative STEM education programs.
- Support education initiatives in local schools and educational institutions through Sigma Xi grants made to the chapter.
- Aspire to building a sense of community among members through social activities, participation in science-related community events and contributing to growth and health of the chapter.
- Nominate fellow scientists, colleagues, students, faculty and others engaged in science-related activities to membership in Sigma Xi.
Membership & Chapter Vibrancy
New membership is vital to chapter vibrancy, prevents chapter stagnation and brings new ideas, techniques and concepts.
Promoting Associate Members
Associate members are those who have the potential to excel in science and engineering research. Promoting eligible Associate members to Full grade not only recognizes their individual achievements, it provides them with the following special privileges:
- Nominate members into Sigma Xi.
- Serve as chapter delegate at Sigma Xi’s annual Assembly of Delegates.
- Serve on Sigma Xi committees and hold Board office.
Use research meetings as a recruitment tool. Sponsor (or co-sponsor with other groups) a research meeting (seminar series, symposium, conference, etc). Use this opportunity to promote the resources and opportunities that Sigma Xi provides for members. Collect contact information from attendees and follow up with nominations to membership.
Use chapter activities as publicity drives at host institution. Students, faculty or researchers who attend chapter events are often good candidates for membership. Offer Sigma Xi brochures at every chapter event and a sign-up sheet to get contact information from those interested in joining Sigma Xi. Be sure to follow up with anyone showing interest in membership.
Enlist the academic or corporate administration to help in soliciting nominations. Ask the head of your institution to write a letter of appeal to the faculty or research colleagues. The letter should emphasize the honor of membership in Sigma Xi and the prestige that it brings to the institution to have new members elected to Sigma Xi. The letter should also make the point that electing new members is essential to maintain a vibrant, active chapter.