Columbia Nursing Inducts 117 into Sigma Honor Society

Columbia University School of Nursing held its annual induction ceremony for the Alpha Zeta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) on May 19, 2025. This year’s event brought 117 students and leaders together to join the diverse and global organization known for supporting and recognizing professionals who are leaders in the nursing profession.  

Inductees heard from a range of speakers including Joan Halpern, DNP, vice president and chief nursing officer at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center who served as the event’s keynote speaker. In her speech, she emphasized the power of nursing and how advocacy acts as tool that nurses can use to help shape health systems:  

“Advocacy is one of the most powerful tools we have. As nurses, we are on the frontlines of care. We know what our staff need, what our patients need, and what our health care systems lack. As a Chief Nursing Officer, I value and prioritize the voice of nursing in every strategic decision. And I bring the voice of nursing into the rooms where decisions are made. Because when nurses speak, people listen. When nurses lead, change happens. I urge you to use your voice to advocate for safety, for equity, for your patients, your peers, and yourselves. Nursing is just not about responding to systems, it’s about shaping them.” 

Inductees also recited the Sigma pledge, signed their name in the chapter’s membership book, and received an honorary cord, signifying their acceptance. At the end, inductees gathered with friends and family at a reception to celebrate this most amazing accomplishment.