December 12, 2014

As Sigma Xi president, I am pleased to report that the Annual Meeting and International Research Conference held recently in Arizona were remarkable successes on many different levels. Perhaps the most exciting events involved the young researchers who presented their posters and engaged extensively with delegates and attendees from throughout the Society. These collegiate and high school students (all remarkably accomplished!) were not only enthusiastic about their own scientific research projects, but were also eager to learn about the work of others. Renewing and expanding the Society’s commitment to ensure that these young researchers become and remain active Sigma Xi members is vital to the future of the Society. 

The Society also had the privilege of recognizing several individuals who have made significant contributions to scientific research and how science is effectively communicated to the public. These individuals have helped define the importance of scientific research over many decades and have pioneered new ways to convey the significance of science to the public using the still emerging technologies of social media. Detailed information on all these Sigma Xi awards is available at https://www.sigmaxi.org/programs/prizes-awards.

Finally, there was important progress made on formalizing a variety of new programs and procedures concerning how the mission of Sigma Xi can become more relevant to the interests of its members and the public in general. The Board of Directors reached decisions that are designed to strengthen the financial well-being of the Society. As we collectively move forward, I encourage all Sigma Xi members to be actively engaged with your respective chapters and with the national headquarters.

In the meantime, I look forward to joining you at the next Annual Meeting in Kansas City in October 2015. 

George H. Atkinson

Photo: Sigma Xi President George Atkinson, left, presented a medal November 8 to Steven Romanelli of Fordham University for his Superior presentation in Sigma Xi's 2014 International Research Conference. (Photo by Katie-Leigh Corder/Sigma Xi.)

Related Reading: Sigma Xi Meets in Arizona for Annual Meeting and International Research Conference.

This letter was published in the Sigma Xi Today section of the January-February 2015 issue of American Scientist.