Sigma Honor Society Inducts 125 from Columbia Nursing

The annual induction ceremony for the Alpha Zeta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) was held on May 18, 2026, at Columbia University School of Nursing.  

This year’s event brought together 125 students from Columbia Nursing, with students from Teacher’s College, CUNY-York College, and Montclair State University, and a nurse leader from NewYork-Presbyterian-Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Sabrina Padillo, to join the diverse and global organization known for supporting and recognizing professionals who are leaders in the nursing profession.    

Alpha Zeta Chapter president Tyler Gaedecke, PhD ’25, a postdoc at Mailman School of Public Health, welcomed guests to the event, and Arlene Smaldone, PhD ’03, professor emerita of nursing, delivered the keynote speech, “Promise and Opportunities.” Paula Smith, MS ’26, gave the student address, “Professional Growth with Sigma.”  

Inductees recited the Sigma pledge, signed their name in the chapter’s membership book, and received an honor cord signifying their acceptance. At the end, inductees gathered with friends and family at a celebratory reception.