January 29, 2026
Media Contact:
Jason Papagan
Manager of Communications
Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society
jpapagan@sigmaxi.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society is pleased to announce the promotion of Jasmine Shah to deputy executive director, effective February 1, 2026.
Shah’s promotion culminates a remarkable tenure spanning more than thirty-five years at Sigma Xi. Since joining the Society in 1990, she has served in a series of roles including accounts payable clerk and financial manager, where she developed a solid foundation in organizational finance and administration.
In 1996, she was promoted to director of budget and finance, a role she held for 16 years, overseeing the Society’s financial planning and fiscal stewardship. In 2013, Shah’s responsibilities expanded when she became director of finance and administration, a senior leadership position integrating financial oversight with broader operational strategy. In 2014, she temporarily served as co-director of Sigma Xi headquarters operations.
In her new role as deputy executive director, Shah will partner closely with the executive director to guide organizational strategy, direct membership and chapter services, coordinate Society governance, and strengthen key programs and partnerships that support scientists and engineers around the world.
“Jasmine has been a cornerstone of Sigma Xi’s leadership team for many years and a valued partner to me,” said executive director and CEO Jamie Vernon. “Her knowledge of our history, programs, and organizational culture—coupled with her managerial effectiveness—makes her uniquely qualified to step into this expanded leadership role. We are thrilled to recognize her contributions with this well-deserved promotion.”
Shah’s contributions have been recognized both within Sigma Xi and beyond. In 2009, she was named Top CFO in the Products and Services category for the Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina region by Business Leader Media and BDO Seidman, LLP. She is a lifetime honorary member of Sigma Xi, a distinction bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to science, science education, and the research community. In 2021, she was honored as a co-recipient of the Evan Ferguson Award for Service to the Society, recognizing her outstanding service and dedication to the mission of Sigma Xi.
“I am deeply honored to assume the role of deputy executive director,” said Shah. “My journey at Sigma Xi has been both personally and professionally meaningful. I look forward to continuing to work with our members, partners, and staff to strengthen the scientific enterprise and support the complex community of researchers who advance discovery every day.”