One of the most gratifying aspects of the collegiate experience is joining student groups that align with your interests and career goals.
Phi Nu, Walden’s chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma), gives our nursing students the chance to enrich their learning and make a positive impact while they pursue their degree.
Sigma is one of the largest nursing organizations in the world, with approximately 135,000 active members in more than 100 countries. With 3,000 members, Walden’s Phi Nu chapter is among the biggest chapters worldwide. Benefits of membership include scholarships and career services as well as professional development and volunteer opportunities.
“Growing Sigma Phi Nu’s community is a group effort,” explains Sara Thimmes ’16, BSN, who serves as technical director for Sigma Phi Nu. “Our all-volunteer board is amazing. They have a vision for growth and work tirelessly to help get our chapter’s name out, along with the great experiences that come with it.”
Prospective members are invited to join Sigma Phi Nu based on their status as baccalaureate or graduate nursing students. They must also meet the academic criteria pertaining to GPA and other scholastic achievements. “Sigma looks great on a résumé, and the networking opportunities are limitless,” Thimmes says.
But for many nurses involved with Sigma Phi Nu, including Thimmes, it’s the opportunities to volunteer and connect with other nurses that leave an indelible mark. “The most rewarding part of my involvement with Sigma Phi Nu is giving back,” Thimmes says. “For example, our current work with DC Project Connect allows me to give back to an underserved population on a monthly basis.”
DC Project Connect, which supports families affected by incarceration, has also collaborated with Sigma Phi Nu on “Coffee Talk,” a program that brings together nurses and women with limited resources to discuss current health topics, including COVID-19, dental health, and more. “The work we do with them is something I will treasure forever,” says Thimmes.