Delegate Information Guide | Convention 2021

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA, USA | 6-10 November 2021

DELEGATE INFORMATION GUIDE Please have this guide with you for the House of Delegates.

Welcome Thank you for representing your chapter at Sigma’s 46th Biennial Convention and for your time and dedication to giving your chapter a say.

This guide is designed to help you prepare for and fulfill your delegate duties during the House of Delegates sessions on 9-10 November, where you and delegates from around the world will conduct the society’s official business. This guide contains the following items requiring delegate action: the complete international elections ballot, an outline of proposed bylaws changes, and a list of resolutions to be presented for voting.

Prior to the convention, please familiarize yourself and your chapter members with the voting issues and determine how the chapter would like you to cast its votes. For further clarification about proposed bylaws changes or election questions, please post in the Convention Delegate Community on The Circle for a prompt response.

Visit https://TheCircle.SigmaNursing.org/MyGroups and click on “Convention Delegates.”

Please have this guide with you during the House of Delegates. We look forward to seeing you in Indianapolis or welcoming you virtually!

HOUSE OF DELEGATES DATES AND TIMES Session I and Delegate Briefing Tuesday, 9 November In-person start time: 10:30 a.m. EST (1030) Virtual broadcast begins: 11:00 a.m. EST (1100)

Session II Wednesday, 10 November In-person start time: 8:30 a.m. EST (0830) Virtual broadcast begins: 9:00 a.m. EST (0900)

Delegates joining in person will report to the JW Ballroom at the dates and times listed above. Delegates participating virtually will receive login and voting instructions prior to the convention. Election voting will occur during Session I and voting on bylaws changes and resolutions will occur during Session II. Delegates who are not present during voting times may not vote.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Ballot Information...............................................................................................4 Meet the Candidates.........................................................................................5 2021 Ballot................................................................................................................6 Reformatted Bylaws.......................................................................................... 7 Proposed Bylaws Amendments.............................................................. 18 2021 Proposed Resolutions........................................................................ 45 Additional Information for Delegates.................................................... 51

All times listed in this guide were current as of press time.

To make sure you have the most up-to-date information and all relevant delegate resources you need, visit SigmaNursing.org/Delegates.

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BALLOT INFORMATION Electing the leadership of Sigma is one of the most important responsibilities of chapter delegates. The Leadership Succession Committee has prepared a ballot of distinguished candidates, employing a rigorous review and interview process. Only members who maintain an active, dues-paying membership status are eligible for positions on the ballot. Members may not hold more than one elected office at a time. Current Leadership Succession Committee members and Sigma employees are excluded from the current ballot.

ELECTED OFFICES, ELIGIBILITY, AND TERMS OF OFFICE •

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lected positions shall be the officers and E non-officer directors of the Sigma Board of Directors, Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee Chair, Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee members, Leadership Succession Committee members, and Governance Committee members.

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Officers: The president-elect will be elected for a term of two years and then succeed to a two-year term as president. The vice president will be elected for a term of two years. The treasurer and the secretary are each elected for a term of four years. A maximum of four years may be served unless running next for president-elect.

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Directors: Non-officer directors will be elected in alternating biennia: three in one biennium and two in the next biennium. The term of a non-officer director is four years. Non-officer directors may serve a maximum of four consecutive years (one term) on the board unless running next for the president-elect position.

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Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee Chair: The Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee Chair will serve a two-year term and may not serve more than two consecutive terms on the board in this position.

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Committees: A committee member may not serve longer than six consecutive years.

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Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee: The term of office shall be two years.

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Governance Committee: Two members of the Governance Committee shall be elected each biennium for a four-year (4-year) term, and three members of the Governance Committee shall be elected each biennium for a two-year (2-year) term.

The two members elected in the previous biennia for a four-year (4-year) term shall continue their service on the committee.

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Leadership Succession Committee: Three members of the Leadership Succession Committee shall be elected for a four-year (4-year) term, and four members of the Leadership Succession Committee shall be elected for a two-year (2-year) term. The three members elected in the previous biennia for a four-year (4-year) term shall continue their service on the committee.

MEET THE CANDIDATES There are a number of opportunities and resources available to help you and your chapter learn about the candidates and determine how to cast chapter votes. To view candidate photos, statements, and videos, visit SigmaNursing.org/Delegates. There you will also find information about upcoming Candidate Conversations webcasts. These webcasts will provide you with the opportunity to learn more about the candidates for President-elect, Vice President, Secretary, Director, and Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee Chair.

Due to the hybrid nature of this year’s convention, the Regional Meetings that were previously held on-site during convention will instead be hosted virtually before the event. These meetings will be held during September and October and will be hosted by your Regional Coordinator. All candidates running for the Regional Coordinator position will have an opportunity to address the region during these meetings.

Connect with your Regional Coordinator to learn more about how to register for your meeting.

RESTRICTIONS FOR CANDIDATES’ CAMPAIGNING •

The candidate statement, video, and photo are the only materials candidates are allowed.

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Candidates are not permitted to distribute handouts or other material in person or virtually.

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Candidates, friends, chapters, and regions are prohibited from engaging in any campaigning.

This includes email campaigning and social media such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.

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Sigma staff and Board of Directors are prohibited from assisting or supporting any candidate.

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS? Sigma headquarters staff and Leadership Succession Committee members are available to answer questions regarding the election and campaigning.

Staff Contact: Bobbi Arnold (bobbi@sigmanursing.org) Phone: +1.317.634.8171 (International) or 888.634.7575 (US/Canada toll-free)

Leadership Succession Committee Chair: Gwen Sherwood, PhD, RN, FAAN, ANEF LSC@sigmanursing.org

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2021 BALLOT PRESIDENT-ELECT

• Sandra Bibb • Connie Sobon Sensor

VICE PRESIDENT • Gloria Chan • Thomas Kearns

SECRETARY

• Nancy Rollins Gantz • Terry Siek

DIRECTORS (elect 2) • • • •

Debra Anderson Marie-Louise Luiking Donald Rose Elizabeth Weathers

GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE 2-year term (elect 3) • Phyllis Brenner • Sarah Caro • Fang-Yu Chou

4-year term (elect 2) • Leslie Gelling • Karen Gorton

• Juli Maxworthy • Jennifer Saylor • Monica Tenhunen • Jean Reinert • Tanya Smith

LEADERSHIP SUCCESSION COMMITTEE 2-year term (elect 4) • • • •

Tina Antill Keener Brigit Carter Viji George Venessa Lee

4-year term (elect 3) • Robie Hughes • Karen Maxwell • Colleen Maykut

• Brenda Owusu • Kathryn Trotter • Kimberly Velez

• Tamar Rodney • William Rosa • Briana Snyder

REGIONAL CHAPTERS COORDINATING COMMITTEE CHAIR • Shena Gazaway • Carole Liske

SIGMA GLOBAL REGIONAL COORDINATORS (elect only the representative for your region) AFRICA • Agatha Kapatuka Bula ASIA • Kwua-Yun Wang • Janet Wong EUROPE • Liz Westcott LATIN AMERICA/CARIBBEAN • Lidia Guadalupe Compeán Ortiz • Sonia Patricia Carreño Moreno MIDDLE EAST • Yasmin Parpio • Sujatha Shanmugasudaram OCEANIA • Elizabeth Halcomb

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NORTH AMERICA REGION 1 • Susan Rushton • Laura Van Auker REGION 2 • Brooke Newman • Susan Opas

REGION 6 • Cynthia O’Neal

REGION 11 • Janice Jones

REGION 7 • Katrina Embrey • Seongkum Heo

REGION 12 • Jennifer Graber

REGION 3 • Christine Hober

REGION 8 • Cassandra Ford • D’Ann Somerall

REGION 4 • Stephanie Bruce • Cynthia Elverson

REGION 9 • Nasreen Lalani • Briyana Morrell

REGION 5 • Vivianna Carter • Shannon Schraeder

REGION 10 • Sandra Maxwell • Jessica Parsons

REGION 13 • Judith Cornelius REGION 14 • Amita Avadhani • Diane McClure REGION 15 • Lindsey Horrell Camp • Debra Kramlich

REFORMATTED BYLAWS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

SIGMA THETA TAU INTERNATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY OF NURSING, INC. BYLAWS ARTICLE I – NAME The name of this organization shall be the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, Inc. (also referred to as Sigma or the society), and it shall have an official key and corporate seal. The organization is a nonprofit incorporated in the state of Indiana with headquarters located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. ARTICLE II – PURPOSES The purposes of this society shall be to: • Recognize superior achievement.

• Recognize the development of leadership qualities.

• Foster high professional standards.

• Encourage creative work.

• Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession.

• Provide support, including funding, to other organizations exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

• Assist and engage in any other activities which are permitted to be carried on by organizations exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

ARTICLE III – MEMBERS Section 1. Membership Categories There shall be regular members and honorary members. Sigma does not discriminate.

Candidates are qualified for membership so long as eligibility requirements are met.

Section 2. Regular Members Regular members may be students in basic programs, in graduate programs, or be nurse leaders.

A. Student member candidates are required to be enrolled in an institution of higher education where the chapter is located to be considered for membership in that chapter. If there is no chapter at the institution of higher education in which the student attends, student member candidates may be considered for membership in another chapter. Student candidates shall have demonstrated superior academic achievement, academic integrity, and professional leadership potential.

B. Students in basic programs must be enrolled in an accredited baccalaureate or equivalent nursing degree program that leads to the first professional nursing 7 P a g e 1 | 11

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degree, have completed at least one-half of the required nursing curriculum, rank not lower than the highest 35 percent of their class in scholarship, and have achieved excellence according to standards approved by the society. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the chapter’s governance committee following the guidelines adopted by the Sigma board of directors.

C. Students in graduate programs must be enrolled in an accredited program of graduate study in nursing such as master, post-master, doctoral, and post-doctoral; have completed a minimum of one-quarter of the required graduate curriculum; and have achieved excellence according to the standards approved by the society.

Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the chapter’s governance committee following the guidelines adopted by the Sigma board of directors.

D. A nurse leader who is a registered nurse, legally recognized to practice in their country, with a minimum of a baccalaureate degree or the equivalent in any field, and who has demonstrated achievement in nursing shall be eligible for membership.

Students in graduate programs who are registered nurses, are legally recognized to practice in their country, and have a minimum of a baccalaureate degree or the equivalent in any field shall be eligible to be considered as a nurse leader at any point in the program. The nurse leader candidate may be selected for membership by any chapter.

E. Active regular members shall have the right to vote and hold elective and appointive office. Such members shall also receive official society publications, priority for education programs, and priority for research funding. Active regular members may hold membership in more than one chapter by remitting multiple chapter fees and the society fee annually, and may transfer from one chapter to another.

Section 3. Honorary Members An honorary member is a person who is not eligible for regular membership but who has gained national or international recognition in the field of nursing or in any field contributing to nursing. Any active member, through a chapter or the Sigma board of directors, may nominate persons for honorary membership. Honorary membership is awarded only by the Sigma board of directors. A vote of three-fourths of the Sigma board of directors shall be necessary for election to honorary membership. Honorary members shall be inducted and awarded the official key in locations and times decided upon by the board, receive the society’s publications, and be responsible for promoting and supporting the purposes of the society. There shall be no induction or renewal fee for an honorary member.

Section 4. Membership Fees A. Each new member shall pay a society membership fee and a chapter induction fee as described in the chapter bylaws, covering the cost of induction and active membership for one, twelve-month period. For subsequent years, each member shall pay an annual fee to maintain active member benefits.

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B. Adjustments to the fee schedule shall be approved by the Sigma board of directors.

Fee schedule adjustments shall not occur more than once in a biennium and shall not exceed the cumulative Consumer Price Index (CPI) percentage rate. Any adjustments, accompanied by rationale, will be provided to membership sixty days in advance of the effective date.

Section 5. Membership Inactivity and Revocation A. Inactive members who have not paid annual chapter and international fees shall become active at any time by paying current renewal fees. Members may also formally request to discontinue membership.

B. Membership in the society may be revoked by the member’s chapter for just cause and after due process. Revocation shall require a three-fourths vote of those present at a meeting of the chapter.

C. A member whose membership has been revoked may appeal to the Sigma board of directors, whose decision shall be final.

ARTICLE IV – OFFICERS Section 1. Positions The elected officers of the society shall be: the president, the president-elect, the vice president, the secretary, and the treasurer. Officers must be regular members of Sigma.

A. President – The president shall be the presiding officer and shall administer all business as provided for by the bylaws.

B. Vice President – The vice president shall perform the duties of the president in the president’s absence.

C. Secretary – The secretary shall serve as the corporate secretary and fulfill duties as authorized by the Sigma board of directors.

D. Treasurer – The treasurer shall serve as the corporate treasurer and fulfill duties as authorized by the Sigma board of directors.

Section 2. Election and Terms of Office A. Elections shall take place at biennial house of delegates meetings. A majority vote shall elect officers. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot.

Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. Terms of office shall begin at the close of the meeting at which the elections occur.

B. A member holding an elected position who has served more than half a term in that position is considered to have served a full term. Terms shall be as follows: • The president-elect shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office, after which shall succeed to a two-year term as president.

• The vice president shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office. The vice president may serve a maximum of two 9 P a g e 3 | 11

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consecutive two-year terms in that position, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office. Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two non-officer directors and the treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three non-officer directors. The secretary and treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

ARTICLE V – MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS

Section 1. Annual Meeting of Members A. Annual meetings of members shall be on a date and at a place set by the Sigma board of directors. Active members shall receive notice of annual meetings through Sigma publications and may register their intent to attend. The agenda of the annual meeting shall include the presentation of annual reports and other appropriate items.

B. In odd-numbered years, the annual meeting of the members is also the reporting session of the house of delegates. In even-numbered years, the annual meeting is the reporting session of the Sigma board of directors and committee chairs’ meeting.

ARTICLE VI – SIGMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Section 1. Composition The Sigma board of directors shall be composed of the officer directors, five nonofficer directors, and the regional chapters coordinating committee chair. The chief executive officer shall serve in a nonvoting ex-officio capacity. Four of the five officers and three of the remaining six non-officer directors shall constitute a quorum.

Section 2. Authority The Sigma board of directors shall hold the executive and administrative powers of Sigma and shall manage its property, business, and corporate affairs. The board shall also supervise and manage Sigma, its committees, and publications. In addition, the board shall appoint a chief executive officer and adopt such policies for the conduct of its business as shall be deemed advisable.

Section 3. Duties and Responsibilities The Sigma board of directors shall have the following duties and responsibilities: • Exercise fiduciary responsibilities including adopting a budget, setting the appropriate bonding level, and selecting the auditor; • Adopt rules and regulations to govern its own actions; • Review and approve new chapter chartering applications and revoke charters as necessary; • Provide criteria for affiliate relationships and grant affiliation to legally organized

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groups; Transact necessary business of this society between meetings of the house of delegates; Investigate and recommend to the house of delegates any matter pertaining to the welfare of this society; and Submit an annual report to chapters and a biennial report to the house of delegates.

Section 4. Executive Committee There shall be an executive committee composed of the officers of the society. It shall conduct essential business of the organization in the interim between board meetings and as authorized by the board.

Section 5. Director Terms and Limits A. The five non-officer directors shall be elected by plurality vote of the house of delegates for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot. Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. Terms shall be staggered so that three non-officer directors are elected in one biennium and two non-officer directors in the following biennium.

B. Non-officer directors shall serve a maximum of one term on the board, except in the case of a non-officer director who is elected president-elect.

C. The regional chapters coordinating committee chair shall be elected each biennium for a two-year term and may not serve more than two consecutive terms on the board in that position.

Section 6. Board Meetings The expenses for board members who attend meetings of the house of delegates or of the board shall be paid by the society.

Section 7. Vacancy and Removal A. In the event of a vacancy in the office of president, the vice president shall fill the vacancy until the president-elect succeeds to the office of president.

B. A vacancy in any other board position shall be filled by the Sigma board of directors; such appointment shall terminate at the following meeting of the house of delegates.

C. A member of the Sigma board of directors may be removed by a three-fourths vote of the board for behavior that, as determined by the board, is not consistent with the mission, values, or expectations of the society, provided that notice of the intent to take such action is given to all board members at least thirty days in advance of the regular or special meeting at which the motion to remove is introduced. Such board member shall have the right to be present and to speak on their behalf, but shall not be allowed to be present during deliberation nor to vote. Voting shall be by ballot, 11 P a g e 5 | 11

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which may be delivered electronically if a face-to-face meeting is not possible.

ARTICLE VII – HOUSE OF DELEGATES Section 1. Composition The house of delegates shall be composed of two delegates from each chapter, the members of the Sigma board of directors, chairs of standing committees, the regional chapters coordinators, and the past presidents of the society. The term of the delegates shall be from the opening of the convention for which the delegate is selected to serve until the opening of the next convention.

Section 2. Authority The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s articles of incorporation and bylaws; levy special assessments by a three-fourths vote; receive the budget as approved by the board; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a two-thirds vote of the house of delegates at the biennial convention.

Section 3. Meetings A. The house of delegates shall meet at the biennial convention and as determined by the Sigma board of directors. A quorum shall consist of four officers, three nonofficer directors, and delegates from three-fourths of the chapters.

B. The call to the convention shall be sent at least one month prior to the meeting date to all delegates.

C. Each delegate shall have the right to cast one vote, except that if a chapter has only one delegate attending, that delegate shall have two votes.

D. Chapter delegates may also vote electronically on the society’s articles of incorporation under procedures and time limitations determined by the board.

E. If election voting cannot occur during the scheduled house of delegates due to emergencies or other unforeseen circumstances, chapter delegates may vote electronically.

ARTICLE VIII – REGIONS AND CHAPTERS Section 1. Regions Sigma shall be organized into regions composed of chapters. Each region shall have a regional chapters coordinating committee chaired by the elected regional chapters

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coordinator and composed of at least three members.

Section 2. Chapters A. A chapter is an organized division of nurse scholars and leaders that has been granted a charter in accordance with requirements and procedures. A chapter may be established in an educational unit that is an integral part of an institution of higher education and that grants a basic degree, which leads to the first professional nursing degree and/or a graduate nursing degree. The basic or graduate degree nursing program within the institution of higher education shall be accredited by a recognized accrediting body. In the event there is no nursing education accreditation system in place in the potential chapter’s country, evidence confirming the program’s quality shall be provided by the developing chapter. All chapters shall have regular members.

B. Chapters shall function as independent, autonomous organizations affiliated with Sigma. Chapters determine the amounts of their fees and assessments. Chapters have control of their income, expenses, contracts, accounting systems, and internal reports. Each chapter shall function under bylaws, policies, and regulations that are not in conflict with Sigma bylaws, policies, and regulations.

C. A chapter may be chartered from one institution of higher education, or may be chartered as an at-large chapter. At-large chapters shall be composed of nurse leaders and scholars from two or more institutions of higher education, or from institutions of higher education and practice settings.

D. Chapter charters may be amended to separate or combine chapters or, if an institution of higher education no longer offers an eligible degree, create an alumni chapter. However, active members in an alumni chapter must agree to meet all of the requirements for a chapter with the exception of inducting members a minimum of one time annually. A chapter may also amend its charter to add one or more institutions of higher education or practice settings.

E. Additional chapter models may also be considered by the Sigma board of directors, who shall be responsible for the establishment of the guidelines and procedures for chapter chartering.

F. Chapters shall fulfill the following requirements: • Support the purposes of this society; • Select and induct eligible members a minimum of one time annually; • Observe the provisions of these bylaws, comply with the society's policies and regulations, and meet all financial obligations; • Participate in the biennial convention house of delegates and other business brought forth during the term; • File required reports according to established guidelines; • Elect at minimum a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and counselor.

Duties and terms of office shall be outlined in the chapter bylaws; 13 P a g e 7 | 11

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Establish the following standing committees: governance (appointed or elected) and leadership succession (elected); Conduct at least one business meeting each year (may be held by electronic means) that includes the presentation of annual reports and a financial report; and Sponsor at least two events or programs annually, supporting the purposes and goals of the society.

G. Each chapter shall pay an annual fee based on the number of regular active members in the chapter for the prior membership year ending 30 June. For new chapters, fees shall be collected during the year following the granting of a charter.

H. Sigma shall pay for the charter, coat-of-arms, book in which the membership roster is recorded, and installing officer’s expenses at the time of the chartering of the new chapter. The chapter shall pay a chartering fee plus the cost of inscribing the names on the charter.

Section 3. Chapter Probation, Revocation, and Dissolution A. A chapter may be placed on probation by the Sigma board of directors for failure to comply with these bylaws or policies and regulations. The board shall also remove from probation or revoke the charter of a chapter in accordance with procedures adopted by the board.

B. Upon revocation of a charter or dissolution of a chapter, all cash and other assets remaining after the chapter’s outstanding debts are paid may be returned to the Sigma Foundation for Nursing or any other appropriate non-profit organization approved by the chapter board of directors and as allowed by law. Should a majority of the dissolved chapter’s members transfer to the same chapter, remaining funds may be contributed to that chapter. The chapter’s charter and coat-of-arms shall be returned to headquarters. All members of the chapter have the opportunity to transfer their membership to a chapter of their choice.

C. A chapter may be reinstated following revocation of its charter by meeting all the requirements of a newly organizing chapter. If approved, the chapter shall receive a new charter but retain its original name.

D. Any chapter may vote to dissolve itself.

ARTICLE IX – COMMITTEES Section 1. Standing and Special Committees A. The standing committees shall be the governance committee, leadership succession committee, and regional chapters coordinating committee. The president and chief executive officer shall be non-voting, ex-officio members of all committees except the leadership succession committee. Committee members shall be elected by

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plurality vote by the house of delegates. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot. Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. An elected committee member may not serve longer than six consecutive years on that committee, unless otherwise provided in these bylaws.

B. A majority of the members of the committee shall constitute a quorum.

C. Standing committee chairs shall report to the Sigma board of directors as requested by the board. Committees shall provide consultation to chapters in congruence with the mission of the committee.

D. Authorized expenses of standing and special committees, board advisory councils, and task forces shall be reimbursed by the society.

E. Vacancies occurring on a committee between biennial meetings of the house shall be filled by the Sigma board of directors, terminating at the next meeting of the house.

Section 2. Governance Committee The governance committee shall be composed of a minimum of seven elected members including a chair appointed by the president. Two members of the governance committee shall be elected each biennium for a four-year term, and three members of the governance committee shall be elected each biennium for a two-year term. The governance committee shall oversee bylaws compliance, make recommendations for bylaws changes, and oversee member and chapter eligibility issues.

Section 3. Leadership Succession Committee The leadership succession committee shall be composed of ten elected members, including a chair appointed by the president. Three members of the leadership succession committee shall be elected each biennium for a four-year term, and four members of the leadership succession committee shall be elected each biennium for a two-year term. The leadership succession committee shall develop members in organizational leadership roles across the span of their careers, and mentor members to assume organizational board and officer positions at all levels of organizations. The leadership succession committee shall select nominees for elected positions and prepare the ballot, which shall be sent to the board at least two months prior to the biennial meeting, and to the chapters at least one month prior to the biennial meeting.

Leadership succession committee members shall be ineligible for any elected office on the ballot.

Section 4. Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee The regional chapters coordinating committee shall be composed of an elected chair and a regional chapter coordinator from each region, elected by each region's delegates for a two-year term. Such coordinators shall also serve as the chair of the regional committee for that region. The regional chapters coordinating committee shall facilitate the work of the chapter leaders by advancing initiatives that meet the needs of the chapters and fulfill the mission of the society. A member of the regional chapters 15 P a g e 9 | 11

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coordinating committee may serve up to six consecutive years as a member of the committee or up to four consecutive years and an additional four consecutive years as regional chapters coordinating committee chair.

Section 5. Removing an Elected Standing Committee Member An elected standing committee member who demonstrates behavior, as determined by the Sigma board of directors, that is not consistent with the mission, values, or expectations of the honor society may be removed by a three-fourths vote of the members of the board, provided that notice of the intent to take such action is given to the elected standing committee member and all board members at least thirty days in advance of the regular or special meeting at which the motion to remove is introduced.

Such elected standing committee member shall have the right to be present and to speak on their behalf, but shall not be allowed to be present during deliberation. Voting shall be by ballot, which may be delivered electronically if a face-to-face meeting is not possible.

Section 6. Advisory Councils and Task Forces A. Board advisory councils shall be appointed by the Sigma board for a term through the close of the biennial convention to inform the board of current and future issues, direction, and priorities of the society. Such advisory councils may be reappointed.

B. Task forces shall be appointed by the Sigma board, standing committees, board advisory councils, or staff to complete an assigned task within a specified time frame.

Members of task forces shall be appointed to bring expertise, interest, and commitment to the assigned task.

ARTICLE X – ADMINISTRATIVE Section 1. Fiscal Year The fiscal year shall be 1 July through 30 June.

Section 2. Indemnification Officers, directors, and employees shall be indemnified by the society for any and all civil liabilities for conducting their official duties, except in circumstances and cases of conducting their duties in bad faith.

Section 3. Dissolution A resolution for the dissolution of the society shall be signed by a majority of active chapters entitled to vote and shall be presented at a regular meeting of the Sigma board of directors. The Sigma board shall then call a special meeting of the house of delegates for the purposes of considering and acting upon such resolution. If dissolution is approved by three-fourths of those delegates present and voting, the board shall take the necessary steps to conclude the affairs of the society as required by law. After payment or making provision for payment of all debts and liabilities incurred by the society, any remaining assets shall be disbursed to the American Nurses Foundation or another appropriate organization operated for educational or scientific purposes. The

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recipient organization or organizations shall at the time qualify as an exempt organization as required by law.

Section 4. Official Publications The Sigma board of directors shall authorize publication of an official journal and other publications as it deems appropriate according to policies and procedures established by the board.

ARTICLE XI – PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY The rules contained in the most recently published edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the society in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these bylaws or special rules of order the society may adopt.

ARTICLE XII – AMENDMENTS Section 1. Amendments to the Bylaws A. These bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the house of delegates by a three-fourths vote, provided that all proposed amendments have been received by the secretary two months preceding the meeting, and that the proposed amendments shall be appended to the call to the meeting of the house of delegates.

If such notice is not provided, these bylaws may be amended only by unanimous vote of the house of delegates.

B. Amendments approved by the house of delegates shall be subject to ratification by the Sigma board of directors.

C. Amendments to these bylaws approved by the house of delegates or editorial changes approved by the Sigma board of directors that are also applicable to the chapters shall be incorporated into the chapter bylaws.

17 P a g e 11 | 11

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

The house of delegates shall be composed of two delegates from each chapter, the members of the Sigma board of directors, chairs of standing committees, the regional chapters coordinators, and the past presidents of the society.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

If adopted, Article V. Section 2. House of Delegates b. of the chapter bylaws would also be removed.

The proposed change better reflects Sigma and chapter processes.

Prior to each meeting of the house of delegates, chapters are provided with meeting details and asked to confirm or update their delegates in the Chapter Management System.

The house of delegates shall be composed of two delegates from each chapter, the members of the Sigma board of directors, chairs of standing committees, the regional chapters coordinators, and the past presidents of the society. The term of the delegates shall be from the opening of the convention for which the delegate is selected to serve until the opening of the next convention.

The house of delegates shall be composed of two delegates from each chapter, the members of the Sigma board of directors, chairs of standing committees, the regional chapters coordinators, and the past presidents of the society. The term of the delegates shall be from the opening of the convention for which the delegate is selected to serve until the opening of the next convention.

RATIONALE:

PROPOSED CHANGES

Article VII. Section 1 House of Delegates Terms

Proposal 21-01

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

References to specific article and section numbers of the international bylaws within policy, procedure, or other documents will be updated to reflect new article, section, and line numbers.

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

Current bylaws are replaced with reformatted version.

As part of a comprehensive review of the Sigma international bylaws, the reformatted document was created using a more modern single-column format with line numbering. Content was reordered and streamlined but no substantive changes were made, and the original intent of the bylaws was maintained.

See proposed reformat

See current bylaws

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Bylaws Reformat

RATIONALE:

PROPOSED CHANGES

18

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

Proposal 21-00

PROPOSED BYLAWS AMENDMENTS

B. The call to the convention shall be sent at least one month prior to the meeting date to all delegates.

The house of delegates shall meet as determined by the Sigma board of directors, including by electronic means as allowed by law. The call to the meeting shall be sent to delegates at least thirty days prior to the meeting date. A quorum shall consist of four officers, three non-officer directors, and delegates from three-fourths of the chapters.

Chapter delegates may also vote electronically on the society’s articles of incorporation under procedures and time limitations determined by the board.

Chapter delegates may also vote electronically on the society’s articles of incorporation under procedures and time limitations determined by the board.

Article VII, Section 3.E.: If election voting cannot occur during the scheduled house of delegates due to emergencies or other unforeseen circumstances, chapter delegates may vote electronically.

Article VII, Section 3.E.:

If election voting cannot occur during the scheduled house of delegates due to emergencies or other unforeseen circumstances, chapter delegates may vote electronically.

In odd-numbered years, the annual meeting of the members is also the reporting session of the house of delegates.

Article VII, Section 3.D.:

Article VII, Section 3.D.:

continued

None. Strike and renumber accordingly.

Article VII, Section 3.D.: In odd-numbered years, the annual meeting of the members is also the reporting session of the house of delegates.

CONFORMING AMENDMENTS: If the above amendment is adopted, the following amendments will be automatically adopted to conform to that decision.

B. The call to the convention shall be sent at least one month prior to the meeting date to all delegates.

A. The house of delegates shall meet at the biennial convention and as determined by the Sigma board of directors, including by electronic means as allowed by law.

The call to the meeting shall be sent to delegates at least thirty days prior to the meeting date. A quorum shall consist of four officers, three non-officer directors, and delegates from three-fourths of the chapters.

A. The house of delegates shall meet at the biennial convention and as determined by the Sigma board of directors. A quorum shall consist of four officers, three nonofficer directors, and delegates from three-fourths of the chapters.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article VII. Section 3. A. House of Delegates Meetings PROPOSED CHANGES

Proposal 21-02

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

19

20 • File required reports according to established guidelines.

• Elect at minimum a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and counselor. Duties and terms of office shall be outlined in the chapter bylaws; • Establish the following standing committees: governance (appointed or elected) and leadership succession (elected); • Conduct at least one business meeting each year (may be held by electronic means) that includes the presentation of annual reports and a financial report; and • Support at least two events or programs annually, supporting the purposes and goals of the society.

Chapters shall fulfill the following requirements: • Support the purposes of this society; • Select and induct eligible members a minimum of one time annually.

• Observe the provisions of these bylaws, comply with the society’s policies and regulations, and meet all financial obligations; • Participate in the biennial convention house of delegates and other business brought forth during the term; • File required reports according to established guidelines.

• Elect at minimum a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and counselor. Duties and terms of office shall be outlined in the chapter bylaws; • Establish the following standing committees: governance (appointed or elected) and leadership succession (elected); • Conduct at least one business meeting each year (may be held by electronic means) that includes the presentation of annual reports and a financial report; and • Support at least two events or programs annually, supporting the purposes and goals of the society.

Chapters shall fulfill the following requirements:

• Support the purposes of this society;

• Select and induct eligible members a minimum of one time annually.

• Observe the provisions of these bylaws, comply with the society’s policies and regulations, and meet all financial obligations;

• Participate in the biennial convention house of delegates and other business brought forth during the term;

• Support at least two events or programs annually, supporting the purposes and goals of the society.

• Conduct at least one business meeting each year (may be held by electronic means) that includes the presentation of annual reports and a financial report; and

• Establish the following standing committees: governance (appointed or elected) and leadership succession (elected);

• Elect at minimum a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and counselor. Duties and terms of office shall be outlined in the chapter bylaws;

• File required reports according to established guidelines.

• Participate in the house of delegates and other business brought forth during the term;

Article VIII, Section 2.F.:

Article VIII, Section 2.F.:

continued

• Observe the provisions of these bylaws, comply with the society’s policies and regulations, and meet all financial obligations;

• Select and induct eligible members a minimum of one time annually.

• Support the purposes of this society;

Chapters shall fulfill the following requirements:

Article VIII, Section 2.F.:

The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s articles of incorporation and bylaws; levy special assessments by a three-fourths vote; receive the budget as approved by the board; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a two-thirds vote of the house of delegates.

The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s articles of incorporation and bylaws; levy special assessments by a three-fourths vote; receive the budget as approved by the board; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a twothirds vote of the house of delegates at the biennial convention.

The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s articles of incorporation and bylaws; levy special assessments by a three-fourths vote; receive the budget as approved by the board; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a two-thirds vote of the house of delegates at the biennial convention.

Article VII, Section 2:

Article VII, Section 2:

Article VII, Section 2:

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

RATIONALE:

The house of delegates shall meet at the biennial convention and as determined by the Sigma board of directors. A quorum shall consist of a majority of the voting members of the house.

These proposed changes pertain only to the international bylaws and do not impact chapter bylaws.

A quorum of the board shall be a majority of the board and is defined in Article VI. Sigma Board of Directors, Sections I. Composition of the Sigma bylaws.

This proposed change simplifies the quorum provisions of the house and meets parliamentary best practices.

The house of delegates shall meet at the biennial convention and as determined by the Sigma board of directors. A quorum shall consist of four officers, three non-officer directors, and delegates from three-fourths of the chapters. a majority of the voting members of the house.

The house of delegates shall meet at the biennial convention and as determined by the Sigma board of directors. A quorum shall consist of four officers, three non-officer directors, and delegates from three-fourths of the chapters.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article VII. Section 3. A. House of Delegates Quorum

Proposal 21-03 PROPOSED CHANGES

Most of the changes in this proposal are unique to the international bylaws, and therefore do not impact chapter bylaws.

If approved, Article V. Section 2. House of Delegates of the chapter bylaws will be updated to state that the house of delegates shall meet as determined by the Sigma board of directors, including by electronic means as allowed by law.

Section 3.C. of the chapter bylaws will be updated to remove the term biennial convention.

This proposal also removes the term “biennial convention” in connection with the house of delegates meetings.

This proposal moves mention of the ability of the house of delegates to meet by electronic means from Section 3.E. and incorporates it into Section 3.A. The phrase “as allowed by law” refers to Indiana law, where Sigma is incorporated.

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

RATIONALE:

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

21

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

RATIONALE:

The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s articles of incorporation and bylaws; levy special assessments by a two-thirds vote; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a two-thirds vote of the house of delegates at the biennial convention.

These proposed changes pertain only to the international bylaws and do not impact chapter bylaws.

The voting threshold for special assessments is reduced from three-fourths to two-thirds, which is a more reasonable requirement and meets parliamentary best practices.

Receiving the budget after it has been approved by the board isn’t a type of authority and does not require action to be taken. A financial report is presented as part of the membership meeting portion of the house of delegates as mentioned in Article V. Membership Meetings.

The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s articles of incorporation and bylaws; levy special assessments by a three-fourths two-thirds vote; receive the budget as approved by the board; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a two-thirds vote of the house of delegates at the biennial convention.

The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s articles of incorporation and bylaws; levy special assessments by a three-fourths vote; receive the budget as approved by the board; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a two-thirds vote of the house of delegates at the biennial convention.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article VII. Section 2 House of Delegates Authority PROPOSED CHANGES

Proposal 21-04

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

22

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

RATIONALE:

B. In odd-numbered years, the annual meeting of the members is also the reporting session of the house of delegates. In evennumbered years, the annual meeting is the reporting session of the Sigma board of directors and committee chairs’ meeting.

B. In odd-numbered years, the annual meeting of the membership is also the reporting session of the house of delegates.

A. Annual meetings of members shall be set by the Sigma board of directors and may be held by electronic means as allowed by law. Active members shall receive notice of annual meetings through Sigma publications, electronic communication, or posting on the Sigma website, and may register their intent to attend. The agenda of the annual meeting shall include the presentation of annual reports and a financial report.

This bylaws section only appears in the international bylaws; therefore, no changes will be made to the chapter bylaws.

Part A of the proposal notes that there will be an annual membership meeting. Part B of the proposal further details that in odd years, the annual meeting of members is held in conjunction with the house of delegates. The annual meeting in even years will be held according to the criteria in Part A and will be set by the Sigma board of directors.

This proposal allows for annual membership meetings to be conducted by electronic means. The phrase “as allowed by law” refers to Indiana law, where Sigma is incorporated.

B. In odd-numbered years, the annual meeting of the members is also the reporting session of the house of delegates. In even-numbered years, the annual meeting is the reporting session of the Sigma board of directors and committee chairs’ meeting.

A. Annual meetings of members shall be on a date and at a place set by the Sigma board of directors and may be held by electronic means as allowed by law.

Active members shall receive notice of annual meetings through Sigma publications, electronic communication, or posting on the Sigma website, and may register their intent to attend. The agenda of the annual meeting shall include the presentation of annual reports and a financial report. other appropriate items.

A. Annual meetings of members shall be on a date and at a place set by the Sigma board of directors. Active members shall receive notice of annual meetings through Sigma publications and may register their intent to attend. The agenda of the annual meeting shall include the presentation of annual reports and other appropriate items.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article V. Section 1. A. & B. Membership Meetings PROPOSED CHANGES

Proposal 21-05

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

23

The Sigma board of directors shall be composed of the officers, five directors, and the regional chapters coordinating committee chair. The chief executive officer shall serve in a nonvoting ex-officio capacity.

A quorum shall be a majority of the board.

The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office.

Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two non-officer directors and the treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three non-officer directors. The secretary and treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

•

•

The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office.

Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two non-officer directors and the treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three non-officer directors. The secretary and treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

Article IV, Section 2.B.:

Article IV, Section 2.B.:

continued

Article IV, Section 2.B.: • The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office. Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two directors and treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three directors. The secretary and the treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

CONFORMING AMENDMENTS: If the above amendment is adopted, the following amendments will be automatically adopted to conform to that decision.

The Sigma board of directors shall be composed of the officers directors, five nonofficer directors, and the regional chapters coordinating committee chair. The chief executive officer shall serve in a nonvoting ex-officio capacity. Four of the five officers and three of the remaining six non-officer directors shall constitute a quorum. A quorum shall be a majority of the board.

The Sigma board of directors shall be composed of the officer directors, five nonofficer directors, and the regional chapters coordinating committee chair. The chief executive officer shall serve in a nonvoting ex-officio capacity. Four of the five officers and three of the remaining six non-officer directors shall constitute a quorum.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article VI. Section 1 Board Composition PROPOSED CHANGES

Proposal 21-06

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

24

25

Article VI, Section 5.B.: Non-officer directors shall serve a maximum of one term on the board, except in the case of a non-officer director who is elected president-elect.

Article VI, Section 5.B.:

Non-officer directors shall serve a maximum of one term on the board, except in the case of a non-officer director who is elected president-elect.

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

Directors shall serve a maximum of one term on the board, except in the case of a director who is elected president-elect.

Article VI, Section 5.B.:

Article VI, Section 5.A.: The five directors shall be elected by plurality vote of the house of delegates for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot.

Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. Terms shall be staggered so that three directors are elected in one biennium and two directors in the following biennium.

These proposed changes pertain only to the international board of directors, and do not impact chapter bylaws.

This proposed change simplifies the quorum provisions of the Sigma board of directors and meets parliamentary best practices.

This change removes the unnecessary term “non-officer” to describe the director position, which improves readability.

The five non-officer directors shall be elected by plurality vote of the house of delegates for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot.

Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. Terms shall be staggered so that three non-officer directors are elected in one biennium and two non-officer directors in the following biennium.

The five non-officer directors shall be elected by plurality vote of the house of delegates for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot.

Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. Terms shall be staggered so that three non-officer directors are elected in one biennium and two non-officer directors in the following biennium.

RATIONALE:

Article VI, Section 5.A.:

Article VI, Section 5.A.:

D. Treasurer - The treasurer shall serve as the corporate treasurer and fulfill duties as authorized by the Sigma board of directors. in accordance with the Sigma governing documents.

C. Secretary – The secretary shall serve as the corporate secretary and fulfill duties as authorized by the Sigma board of directors in accordance with the Sigma governing documents.

D. Treasurer - The treasurer shall serve as the corporate treasurer and fulfill duties in accordance with the Sigma governing documents.

C. Secretary – The secretary shall serve as the corporate secretary for the society and fulfill duties in accordance with the Sigma governing documents.

B. President-elect – The president-elect shall perform the duties of the president in the president’s absence.

continued

CONFORMING AMENDMENTS: If the above amendment is adopted, the following amendments will be automatically adopted to conform to that decision.

D. Treasurer - The treasurer shall serve as the corporate treasurer and fulfill duties as authorized by the Sigma board of directors.

C. Secretary – The secretary shall serve as the corporate secretary and fulfill duties as authorized by the Sigma board of directors.

B. Vice President – The vice president shall perform the duties of the president in the president’s absence.

B. Vice President President-elect– The vice president president-elect shall perform the duties of the president in the president’s absence.

A. President - The president shall be the presiding officer and shall administer all business of the society in accordance with the Sigma governing documents.

A. President - The president shall be the presiding officer and shall administer all business as provided for by the bylaws in accordance with the Sigma governing documents.

A. President - The president shall be the presiding officer and shall administer all business as provided for by the bylaws.

The elected officers of the society shall be: the president, the president-elect, vice president (to be removed at the start of the 2023 term), the secretary, and the treasurer.

Officers must be regular members of Sigma.

The elected officers of the society shall be: the president, the president-elect, the vice president (to be effective at the start of the 2023 term), the secretary, and the treasurer.

Officers must be regular members of Sigma.

The elected officers of the society shall be: the president, the president-elect, the vice president, the secretary, and the treasurer.

Officers must be regular members of Sigma.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article IV. Section 1 Officers PROPOSED CHANGES

Proposal 21-07

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

26

27

•

The president-elect shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office, after which shall succeed to a two-year term as president.

The vice president shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office. The vice president may serve a maximum of two consecutive two-year terms in that position, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office.

Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two non-officer directors and treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three non-officer directors. The secretary and treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

•

•

•

The vice president shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office. The vice president may serve a maximum of two consecutive two-year terms in that position, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as presidentelect.

Proviso: to take effect with the 2023 term.

The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office.

Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two non-officer directors and treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three non-officer directors. The secretary and treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

•

•

The president-elect shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office, after which shall succeed to a two-year term as president.

Article IV, Section 2.B.: A member holding an elected position who has served more than half a term in that position is considered to have served a full term. Terms shall be as follows:

Article IV, Section 2.B.: A member holding an elected position who has served more than half a term in that position is considered to have served a full term. Terms shall be as follows:

•

•

•

continued

The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office. Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two non-officer directors and treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three non-officer directors.

The secretary and treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

The vice president shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office. The vice president may serve a maximum of two consecutive two-year terms in that position, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect (to be removed at the start of the 2023 term).

The president-elect shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office, after which shall succeed to a two-year term as president.

Article IV, Section 2.B.: A member holding an elected position who has served more than half a term in that position is considered to have served a full term. Terms shall be as follows:

28

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

RATIONALE:

B. A vacancy in any other board position shall be filled by appointment of the then-current Sigma board of directors until the next election.

A. In the event of a vacancy in the office of president, the president-elect shall fill the vacancy, followed by a full term as president.

Article VI, Section 7:

These proposed changes pertain only to the international board of directors.

Best practice for boards does not specify either an odd or an even number of individuals on a board. Parliamentary procedure specifies that if a vote is split evenly, then the motion fails.

This proposal also clarifies that officers perform duties in accordance with all Sigma governing documents, such as policies and procedures, not just bylaws.

The original bylaws state it is the duty of the vice president to fill the vacancy of the president if they are unable to complete their term. Because of Sigma’s long-standing and well-defined mentoring practice between president and president-elect, this proposal removes the office of vice president and designates the president-elect to fill a vacancy in presidency, followed by the full term that would otherwise have been served. This order of leadership succession provides a stronger continuity of leadership.

B. A vacancy in any other board position shall be filled by appointment of the thencurrent Sigma board of directors until the next election.; such appointment shall terminate at the following meeting of the house of delegates.

A. In the event of a vacancy in the office of president, the vice president presidentelect shall fill the vacancy, followed by a full term as president. until the president-elect succeeds to the office of president.

A. In the event of a vacancy in the office of president, the vice president shall fill the vacancy until the president-elect succeeds to the office of president.

B. A vacancy in any other board position shall be filled by the Sigma board of directors; such appointment shall terminate at the following meeting of the house of delegates.

Article VI, Section 7:

Article VI, Section 7:

The president-elect shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office, after which shall succeed to a two-year term as president.

The vice president shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office. The vice president may serve a maximum of two consecutive two-year terms in that position, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as presidentelect.

•

•

The vice president shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office. The vice president may serve a maximum of two consecutive two-year terms in that position, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

•

•

•

•

The president shall serve a two-year term or until a successor assumes office.

•

The president-elect shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office, after which shall succeed to a two-year term as president.

•

continued

The vice president shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office. The vice president may serve a maximum of two consecutive two-year terms in that position, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

The president-elect shall be elected for a two-year term or until a successor is elected and assumes office, after which shall succeed to a two-year term as president.

The president shall serve a two-year term or until a successor assumes office.

Article IV, Section 2.B.: A member holding an elected position who has served more than half a term in that position is considered to have served a full term. Terms shall be as follows:

Article IV, Section 2.B.: A member holding an elected position who has served more than half a term in that position is considered to have served a full term. Terms shall be as follows:

If the above amendment is adopted, the following amendments will be automatically adopted to conform to that decision.

Officers shall be elected by the house of delegates by majority vote. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot.

Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. Terms of office shall begin at the close of the meeting at which the elections occur.

Article IV, Section 2.B.: A member holding an elected position who has served more than half a term in that position is considered to have served a full term. Terms shall be as follows:

CONFORMING AMENDMENTS:

Elections shall take place at biennial house of delegates meetings. A majority vote shall elect officers. Officers shall be elected by the house of delegates by majority vote. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot. Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. Terms of office shall begin at the close of the meeting at which the elections occur.

Elections shall take place at biennial house of delegates meetings. A majority vote shall elect officers. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot. Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time.

Terms of office shall begin at the close of the meeting at which the elections occur.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article IV. Section 2. A. Officer Terms PROPOSED CHANGES

Proposal 21-08

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

29

30 •

The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office. Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two non-officer directors and the treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three non-officer directors.

The secretary and treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

This bylaws section only appears in the international bylaws; therefore, no changes in the chapter bylaws.

The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office.

Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two non-officer directors and the treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three non-officer directors. The secretary and treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

•

This proposed change simplifies wording and improves readability. It also clarifies who elects the officers.

The secretary and treasurer shall each be elected for a four-year term or until their successors are elected and assume office.

Terms shall be staggered so that the secretary is elected in the same biennium as two non-officer directors and the treasurer is elected in the same biennium as three non-officer directors. The secretary and treasurer may serve a maximum of one four-year term, after which they may not be consecutively re-elected as an officer except as president-elect.

RATIONALE:

•

B. Chapters shall function as independent, autonomous organizations affiliated with Sigma. Chapters determine the amounts of their fees and assessments. Chapters have control of their income, expenses, contracts, accounting systems, and internal reports. Each chapter shall function under bylaws, policies, and regulations that are not in conflict with Sigma bylaws, policies, and regulations.

A. A chapter is an organized division of nurse scholars and leaders that has been granted a charter in accordance with models, requirements, and procedures approved by the Sigma board of directors. A chapter may be established in an educational unit that is an integral part of an institution of higher education and that grants a basic degree, which leads to the first professional nursing degree and/or a graduate nursing degree. The basic or graduate degree nursing program within the institution of higher education shall be accredited by a recognized accrediting body. In the event there is no nursing education accreditation system in place in the potential chapter’s country, evidence confirming the program’s quality shall be provided by the developing chapter. All chapters shall have regular members.

A. A chapter is an organized division of nurse scholars and leaders that has been granted a charter in accordance with requirements and procedures. A chapter may be established in an educational unit that is an integral part of an institution of higher education and that grants a basic degree, which leads to the first professional nursing degree and/or a graduate nursing degree.

The basic or graduate degree nursing program within the institution of higher education shall be accredited by a recognized accrediting body. In the event there is no nursing education accreditation system in place in the potential chapter’s country, evidence confirming the program’s quality shall be provided by the developing chapter. All chapters shall have regular members.

B. Chapters shall function as independent, autonomous organizations affiliated with Sigma. Chapters determine the amounts of their fees and assessments. Chapters have control of their income, expenses, contracts, accounting systems, and internal reports. Each chapter shall function under bylaws, policies, and regulations that are not in conflict with Sigma bylaws, policies, and regulations.

Section 2. Chapters

Section 2. Chapters

Select and induct eligible members a minimum of one time annually; Observe the provisions of these bylaws, comply with the society’s policies and regulations, and meet all financial obligations; Participate in the biennial convention house of delegates; File required reports according to established guidelines;

• •

• •

continued

Support the purposes of this society;

•

C. Chapters shall fulfill the following requirements:

B. Chapters shall function as independent, autonomous organizations affiliated with Sigma. Chapters determine the amounts of their fees and assessments. Chapters have control of their income, expenses, contracts, accounting systems, and internal reports. Each chapter shall function under bylaws, policies, and regulations that are not in conflict with Sigma bylaws, policies, and regulations.

A. A chapter is an organized division of nurse scholars and leaders that has been granted a charter in accordance with models, requirements, and procedures approved by the Sigma board of directors.

Section 2. Chapters

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article VIII. Section 2 & 3 Chapters PROPOSED CHANGES

Proposal 21-09

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

31

32 C. A chapter may be chartered from one institution of higher education, or may be chartered as an at-large chapter. At-large chapters shall be composed of nurse leaders and scholars from two or more institutions of higher education, or from institutions of higher education and practice settings.

D. Chapter charters may be amended to separate or combine chapters or, if an institution of higher education no longer offers an eligible degree, create an alumni chapter. However, active members in an alumni chapter must agree to meet all of the requirements for a chapter with the exception of inducting members a minimum of one time annually. A chapter may also amend its charter to add one or more institutions of higher education or practice settings.

E. Additional chapter models may also be considered by the Sigma board of directors, who shall be responsible for the establishment of the guidelines and procedures for chapter chartering.

FC. Chapters shall fulfill the following requirements: • Support the purposes of this society; • Select and induct eligible members a minimum of one time annually; • Observe the provisions of these bylaws, comply with the society’s policies and regulations, and meet all financial obligations;

C. A chapter may be chartered from one institution of higher education, or may be chartered as an at-large chapter. At-large chapters shall be composed of nurse leaders and scholars from two or more institutions of higher education, or from institutions of higher education and practice settings.

D. Chapter charters may be amended to separate or combine chapters or, if an institution of higher education no longer offers an eligible degree, create an alumni chapter. However, active members in an alumni chapter must agree to meet all of the requirements for a chapter with the exception of inducting members a minimum of one time annually. A chapter may also amend its charter to add one or more institutions of higher education or practice settings.

E. Additional chapter models may also be considered by the Sigma board of directors, who shall be responsible for the establishment of the guidelines and procedures for chapter chartering.

F. Chapters shall fulfill the following requirements:

• Support the purposes of this society;

• Select and induct eligible members a minimum of one time annually;

• Observe the provisions of these bylaws, comply with the society’s policies and regulations, and meet all financial obligations;

continued

B. A chapter may be placed on probation or have its charter revoked by the Sigma board of directors for failure to comply with these bylaws or policies and regulations.

A. The Sigma board of directors shall adopt policies and procedures for chapter probation, revocation, dissolution, and reinstatement.

Section 3. Chapter Probation, Revocation, Dissolution, and Reinstatement

D. Each chapter shall pay an annual fee based on the number of regular active members in the chapter for the prior membership year ending 30 June. For new chapters, fees shall be collected during the year following the granting of a charter.

• Sponsor at least two events or programs annually, supporting the purposes and goals of the society.

• Conduct at least one business meeting each year (may be held by electronic means) that includes the presentation of annual reports and a financial report; and

• Establish the following standing committees: governance (appointed or elected) and leadership succession (elected);

• Elect at minimum a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and counselor. Duties and terms of office shall be outlined in the chapter bylaws;

33

• Participate in the biennial convention house of delegates and other business brought forth during the term; • File required reports according to established guidelines; • Elect at minimum a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and counselor. Duties and terms of office shall be outlined in the chapter bylaws; • Establish the following standing committees: governance (appointed or elected) and leadership succession (elected); • Conduct at least one business meeting each year (may be held by electronic means) that includes the presentation of annual reports and a financial report; and • Sponsor at least two events or programs annually, supporting the purposes and goals of the society.

GD. Each chapter shall pay an annual fee based on the number of regular active members in the chapter for the prior membership year ending 30 June. For new chapters, fees shall be collected during the year following the granting of a charter.

H. Sigma shall pay for the charter, coat-ofarms, book in which the membership roster is recorded, and installing officer’s expenses at the time of the chartering of the new chapter. The chapter shall pay a chartering fee plus the cost of inscribing the names on the charter.

• Participate in the biennial convention house of delegates and other business brought forth during the term;

• File required reports according to established guidelines;

• Elect at minimum a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and counselor. Duties and terms of office shall be outlined in the chapter bylaws;

• Establish the following standing committees: governance (appointed or elected) and leadership succession (elected);

• Conduct at least one business meeting each year (may be held by electronic means) that includes the presentation of annual reports and a financial report; and

• Sponsor at least two events or programs annually, supporting the purposes and goals of the society.

G. Each chapter shall pay an annual fee based on the number of regular active members in the chapter for the prior membership year ending 30 June. For new chapters, fees shall be collected during the year following the granting of a charter.

H. Sigma shall pay for the charter, coat-ofarms, book in which the membership roster is recorded, and installing officer’s expenses at the time of the chartering of the new chapter. The chapter shall pay a chartering fee plus the cost of inscribing the names on the charter.

continued

34

D. Any chapter may vote to dissolve itself.

C. A chapter may be reinstated following revocation of its charter by meeting all the requirements of a newly organizing chapter.

If approved, the chapter shall receive a new charter but retain its original name.

B. Upon revocation of a charter or dissolution of a chapter, all cash and other assets remaining after the chapter’s outstanding debts are paid may be returned to the Sigma Foundation for Nursing or any other appropriate non-profit organization approved by the chapter board of directors and as allowed by law. Should a majority of the dissolved chapter’s members transfer to the same chapter, remaining funds may be contributed to that chapter. The chapter’s charter and coat-of-arms shall be returned to headquarters. All members of the chapter have the opportunity to transfer their membership to a chapter of their choice.

A. The Sigma board of directors shall adopt policies and procedures for chapter probation, revocation, dissolution, and reinstatement.

A. A chapter may be placed on probation by the Sigma board of directors for failure to comply with these bylaws or policies and regulations. The board shall also remove from probation or revoke the charter of a chapter in accordance with procedures adopted by the board.

D. Any chapter may vote to dissolve itself.

C. A chapter may be reinstated following revocation of its charter by meeting all the requirements of a newly organizing chapter.

If approved, the chapter shall receive a new charter but retain its original name.

B. Upon revocation of a charter or dissolution of a chapter, all cash and other assets remaining after the chapter’s outstanding debts are paid may be returned to the Sigma Foundation for Nursing or any other appropriate non-profit organization approved by the chapter board of directors and as allowed by law. Should a majority of the dissolved chapter’s members transfer to the same chapter, remaining funds may be contributed to that chapter. The chapter’s charter and coat-of-arms shall be returned to headquarters. All members of the chapter have the opportunity to transfer their membership to a chapter of their choice.

B. A chapter may be placed on probation or have its charter revoked by the Sigma board of directors for failure to comply with these bylaws or policies and regulations.

The board shall also remove from probation or revoke the charter of a chapter in accordance with procedures adopted by the board.

Section 3. Chapter Probation, Revocation, and Dissolution, and Reinstatement

Section 3. Chapter Probation, Revocation, and Dissolution

continued

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

RATIONALE:

35

Most of the changes in this proposal are unique to the international bylaws, and therefore do not impact chapter bylaws. If approved, Article V. Section 3. Chapter Responsibilities c. of the chapter bylaws will be updated accordingly.

Explanation of the chapter development and amendment process, approved models, and the review process can be found on the Sigma website at SigmaNursing.org/Start-a-Chapter, Sigmanursing.org/connect-engage/chapters/ amending-an-existing-sigma-chapter, and in the All Chapter Officers Workgroup on The Circle.

The elected international Governance Committee conducts all reviews of chapter charter and charter amendment applications, including assuring that all policies and procedures are followed, before recommending to the Board of Directors that a new chapter is chartered or is granted a charter amendment.

This proposal reorganizes content and removes details and procedures that belong in other Sigma governing documents, such as policies and procedures. These changes also improve readability.

C. Standing committee chairs shall report to the Sigma board of directors as requested by the board.

Committees shall provide consultation to chapters in congruence with the mission of the committee.

D. Authorized expenses of standing and special committees, board advisory councils and task forces shall be reimbursed by the society.

EC. Vacancies occurring on a committee between biennial meetings of the house shall be are filled by appointment of the Sigma board of directors, terminating at until the next meeting of the house election.

C. Standing committee chairs shall report to the Sigma board of directors as requested by the board. Committees shall provide consultation to chapters in congruence with the mission of the committee.

D. Authorized expenses of standing and special committees, board advisory councils and task forces shall be reimbursed by the society.

E. Vacancies occurring on a committee between biennial meetings of the house shall be filled by the Sigma board of directors, terminating at the next meeting of the house.

B. A majority of the members of the committee shall constitute a quorum.

A. The standing committees shall be the governance committee, leadership succession committee, and regional chapters coordinating committee. The president and chief executive officer shall be non-voting, ex-officio members of all committees except the leadership succession committee. Committee members shall be elected by plurality vote by the house of delegates. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot.

Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. An elected committee member may not serve longer than six consecutive years on that committee, unless otherwise provided in these bylaws.

A. The standing committees shall be the governance committee, leadership succession committee, and regional chapters coordinating committee. The president and chief executive officer shall be non-voting, ex-officio members of all committees except the leadership succession committee.

Committee members shall be elected by plurality vote by the house of delegates. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot. Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. An elected committee member may not serve longer than six consecutive years on that committee, unless otherwise provided in these bylaws.

B. A majority of the members of the committee shall constitute a quorum.

Section 1. Standing and Special Committees

Section 1. Standing and Special Committees

continued

C. Vacancies occurring on a committee are filled by appointment of the Sigma board of directors until the next election.

B. A majority of the members of the committee shall constitute a quorum.

A. The standing committees shall be the governance committee, leadership succession committee, and regional chapters coordinating committee. The president and chief executive officer shall be non-voting, ex-officio members of all committees except the leadership succession committee. Committee members shall be elected by plurality vote by the house of delegates. In the event of a tie, the election shall be determined by lot. Members shall hold no more than one elected office at a time. An elected committee member may not serve longer than six consecutive years on that committee, unless otherwise provided in these bylaws.

Section 1. Standing Committees

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article IX. Section 1 Committees PROPOSED CHANGES

Proposal 21-10

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

36

If passed, Article XIII. Parliamentary Authority of the chapter bylaws will be updated to reflect that the twelfth edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be used. When new editions are published, and if the Sigma board of directors votes to update the edition reference in the international bylaws, the chapter bylaws will also be updated.

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

The rules contained in the twelfth edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the society in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these bylaws or special rules of order the society may adopt. When a new edition of the parliamentary authority is published, the Sigma board of directors may, by majority vote, update the edition reference in the bylaws. Members shall be notified after the change is made.

Having the correct edition of the parliamentary authority helps members find the right book when they need to use it.

However, requiring the entire house of delegates to amend the bylaws when the book is updated may delay the adoption of the most recent parliamentary best practices. The Sigma board of directors should be able to make this change following a study of the changes and the adoption of special rules of order as necessary.

The rules contained in the most recently published twelfth edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the society in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these bylaws or special rules of order the society may adopt. When a new edition of the parliamentary authority is published, the Sigma board of directors may, by majority vote, update the edition reference in the bylaws. Members shall be notified after the change is made.

The rules contained in the most recently published edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the society in all cases to which they are applicable and in which they are not inconsistent with these bylaws or special rules of order the society may adopt.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

RATIONALE:

PROPOSED CHANGES

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

Article XI. Parliamentary Authority

These proposed changes pertain only to the international committee structure, and therefore do not impact chapter bylaws.

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

Proposal 21-11

This proposal consolidates information and aligns with current Sigma practices. Removed language belongs in other Sigma governing documents such as policies and procedures.

RATIONALE:

37

C. Amendments to these bylaws approved by the house of delegates or editorial changes approved by the Sigma board of directors that are also applicable to the chapters shall be incorporated into the chapter bylaws template.

C. Amendments to these bylaws approved by the house of delegates or editorial changes approved by the Sigma board of directors that are also applicable to the chapters shall be incorporated into the chapter bylaws.

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

C. Amendments to these bylaws approved by the house of delegates or editorial changes approved by the Sigma board of directors that are also applicable to the chapters shall be incorporated into the chapter bylaws template.

B. Amendments approved by the house of delegates shall be subject to ratification by the Sigma board of directors.

A. These bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the house of delegates by a two-thirds vote, provided that all proposed amendments have been received by the secretary two months preceding the meeting, and that the proposed amendments shall be appended to the call to the meeting of the house of delegates.

This bylaws section only appears in the international bylaws; therefore, no changes in the chapter bylaws.

Amendments made without notice, requiring subsequent unanimous votes, have not occurred in the organization’s history. Delegates should be given time to review, consider, and discuss significant amendments; therefore, the provision for the introduction of new amendments at the house of delegates has been removed. Formal recommendations for amendments must be submitted to the elected Governance Committee in advance of the house of delegates.

A two-thirds vote is sufficient to amend Sigma bylaws and meets parliamentary best practices.

B. Amendments approved by the house of delegates shall be subject to ratification by the Sigma board of directors.

B. Amendments approved by the house of delegates shall be subject to ratification by the Sigma board of directors.

RATIONALE:

A. These bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the house of delegates by a three-fourths two-thirds vote, provided that all proposed amendments have been received by the secretary two months preceding the meeting, and that the proposed amendments shall be appended to the call to the meeting of the house of delegates. If such notice is not provided, these bylaws may be amended only by unanimous vote of the house of delegates.

A. These bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the house of delegates by a three-fourths vote, provided that all proposed amendments have been received by the secretary two months preceding the meeting, and that the proposed amendments shall be appended to the call to the meeting of the house of delegates. If such notice is not provided, these bylaws may be amended only by unanimous vote of the house of delegates.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

Article XII. Section 1 Amendments PROPOSED CHANGES

Proposal 21-12

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

38

Proposal 21-13 Housekeeping and Cleanup Amendments

Recognize the development of leadership qualities.

Foster high professional standards.

Encourage creative work.

Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession.

Provide support, including funding, to other organizations exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Assist and engage in any other activities which are permitted to be carried on by organizations exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

• • • • •

Recognize superior achievement.

Recognize the development of leadership qualities.

Foster high professional standards.

Encourage creative work.

Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession.

Provide support, including funding, to other organizations exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Assist and engage in any other activities which are permitted to be carried on by organizations exempt from federal income taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Article II: The purposes of this society shall be to: recognize superior achievement and the development of leadership qualities, foster high professional standards, and strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession. Sigma engages in activities permitted under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States (US) Internal Revenue Code.

Article II: The purposes of this society shall be to:

Recognize superior achievement.

Article I: The name of this organization shall be the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, Inc. (also referred to as Sigma or the society), and it shall have an official key and corporate seal. The organization is a nonprofit incorporated and headquartered in the state of Indiana with headquarters located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.

Article I: The name of this organization shall be the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, Inc. (also referred to as Sigma or the society), and it shall have an official key and corporate seal. The organization is a nonprofit incorporated in the state of Indiana with headquarters located in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.

•

PROPOSED CHANGES

CURRENT BYLAWS WORDING

continued

Article II: The purposes of this society shall be to recognize superior achievement and the development of leadership qualities, foster high professional standards, and strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession. Sigma engages in activities permitted under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States (US) Internal Revenue Code.

Article I: The name of this organization shall be the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, Inc. (also referred to as Sigma or the society), a nonprofit incorporated and headquartered in the state of Indiana, USA.

WORDING IF ADOPTED

The following amendments are grouped together as editorial changes to the Sigma bylaws, removing extraneous and unnecessary material.

They are listed in the order in which they appear in the bylaws.

39

Article III, Section 2.E.: Active regular members shall have the right to vote and hold elective and appointive office.

Such members shall also receive official society publications, priority for education programs, and priority for research funding. Active regular members may hold membership in more than one chapter by remitting multiple chapter fees and the society fee annually, and may transfer from one chapter to another.

Article III, Section 3: Section 3. Honorary Members An honorary member is a person who is not eligible for regular membership but who has gained national or international recognition in the field of nursing or in any field contributing to nursing. Honorary membership shall be granted by a three-fourths vote of the Sigma board of directors. Any active member, through a chapter or the Sigma board of directors, may nominate persons for honorary membership.

Honorary membership is awarded only by the Sigma board of directors. A vote of threefourths of the Sigma board of directors shall be necessary for election to honorary membership.

Honorary members shall be inducted and awarded the official key in locations and times decided upon by the board, receive the society’s publications, and be responsible for promoting and supporting the purposes of the society. There shall be no induction or renewal fee for an honorary member.

Article III, Section 2.E.:

Active regular members shall have the right to vote and hold elective and appointive office.

Such members shall also receive official society publications, priority for education programs, and priority for research funding.

Active regular members may hold membership in more than one chapter by remitting multiple chapter fees and the society fee annually, and may transfer from one chapter to another.

Article III, Section 3:

Section 3. Honorary Members

An honorary member is a person who is not eligible for regular membership but who has gained national or international recognition in the field of nursing or in any field contributing to nursing. Any active member, through a chapter or the Sigma board of directors, may nominate persons for honorary membership.

Honorary membership is awarded only by the Sigma board of directors. A vote of threefourths of the Sigma board of directors shall be necessary for election to honorary membership. Honorary members shall be inducted and awarded the official key in locations and times decided upon by the board, receive the society’s publications, and be responsible for promoting and supporting the purposes of the society. There shall be no induction or renewal fee for an honorary member.

40 continued

An honorary member is a person who is not eligible for regular membership but who has gained national or international recognition in the field of nursing or in any field contributing to nursing. Honorary membership shall be granted by a threefourths vote of the Sigma board of directors.

There shall be no induction or renewal fee for an honorary member.

Section 3. Honorary Members

Article III, Section 3:

Article III, Section 2.E.: Active regular members shall have the right to vote and hold elective and appointive office.

Each member shall pay an initial induction fee and annual society membership fees.

Each new member shall pay a society membership fee and a chapter induction fee as described in the chapter bylaws, covering the cost of induction and active membership for one, twelve-month period. For subsequent years, each member shall pay an annual fee to maintain active member benefits.

C. A member whose membership has been revoked may appeal to the Sigma board of directors, whose decision shall be final.

B. Membership in the society may be revoked by the member’s chapter for just cause and after due process. Revocation shall require a three-fourths vote of those present at a meeting of the chapter.

A. Inactive members who have not paid annual chapter and international fees shall become active at any time by paying current renewal fees. Members may also formally request to discontinue membership.

A. Inactive members who have not paid annual chapter and international fees shall become active at any time by paying current renewal fees. Members may also formally request to discontinue membership.

CB. A member whose membership has been revoked may appeal to the Sigma board of directors, whose decision shall be final.

BA. Membership in the society may be revoked by the member’s chapter for just cause and after due process. Revocation shall require a three-fourths vote of those present at a meeting of the chapter.

Section 5. Membership Revocation

Section 5. Membership Inactivity and Revocation

Section 5. Membership Inactivity and Revocation

continued

B. A member whose membership has been revoked may appeal to the Sigma board of directors, whose decision shall be final.

A. Membership in the society may be revoked by the member’s chapter for just cause and after due process. Revocation shall require a three-fourths vote of those present at a meeting of the chapter.

Article III, Section 5:

Article III, Section 5:

Article III, Section 4.A.: Each member shall pay an initial induction fee and annual society membership fees.

Article III, Section 5:

Each new member shall pay a society membership fee and a chapter induction fee as described in the chapter bylaws, covering the cost of induction and active membership for one, twelve-month period. For subsequent years, each member shall pay an annual fee to maintain active member benefits.

Article III, Section 4.A.:

Article III, Section 4.A.:

41

42 •

Exercise fiduciary responsibilities including adopting a budget, setting the appropriate bonding level, and selecting the auditor;

Adopt rules and regulations to govern its own actions;

Review and approve new chapter chartering applications and revoke charters as necessary;

Provide criteria for affiliate relationships and grant affiliation to legally organized groups;

Transact necessary business of this society between meetings of the house of delegates;

Investigate and recommend to the house of delegates any matter pertaining to the welfare of this society; and

Submit an annual report to chapters and a

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

The expenses for board members who attend meetings of the house of delegates or of the board shall be paid by the society.

Submit an annual report to chapters and a biennial report to the house of delegates.

•

The expenses for board members who attend meetings of the house of delegates or of the board shall be paid by the society.

Investigate and recommend to the house of delegates any matter pertaining to the welfare of this society; and

•

Article VI, Section 6:

Transact necessary business of this society between meetings of the house of delegates;

•

Article VI, Section 6:

Provide criteria for affiliate relationships and grant affiliation to legally organized groups;

Review and approve new chapter chartering applications and revoke charters as necessary;

Adopt rules and regulations to govern its own actions;

•

•

•

The Sigma board of directors shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

The Sigma board of directors shall have the following duties and responsibilities: Exercise fiduciary responsibilities including adopting a budget, setting the appropriate bonding level, and selecting the auditor;

Article VI, Section 3: Section 3. Duties and Responsibilities

Article VI, Section 3: Section 3. Duties and Responsibilities

continued

None. Strike and renumber accordingly.

None. Strike and renumber accordingly.

Article VII, Section 2: The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s articles of incorporation and bylaws; levy special assessments by a three-fourths vote; receive the budget as approved by the board; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a twothirds vote of the house of delegates at the biennial convention.

Article VII, Section 3.D.: Chapter delegates may also vote electronically on the society’s articles of incorporation under procedures and time limitations determined by the board.

Article X, Section 1: Section 1. Fiscal Year The fiscal year shall be 1 July through 30 June.

Article X, Section 4: The Sigma board of directors shall authorize publication of an official journal and other publications as it deems appropriate according to policies and procedures established by the board.

Article VII, Section 2:

The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s articles of incorporation and bylaws; levy special assessments by a three-fourths vote; receive the budget as approved by the board; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a two-thirds vote of the house of delegates at the biennial convention.

Article VII, Section 3.D.:

Chapter delegates may also vote electronically on the society’s articles of incorporation under procedures and time limitations determined by the board.

Article X, Section 1:

Section 1. Fiscal Year

The fiscal year shall be 1 July through 30 June.

Article X, Section 4:

The Sigma board of directors shall authorize publication of an official journal and other publications as it deems appropriate according to policies and procedures established by the board.

43

continued

None. Strike and renumber accordingly.

None. Strike and renumber accordingly.

None. Strike and renumber accordingly.

The legislative and judicial powers of the society shall be vested in the house of delegates. As such, the house shall have the authority to nominate and elect officers, directors, and other positions as allowed by these bylaws; amend the society’s bylaws; levy special assessments by a three-fourths vote; receive the budget as approved by the board; and adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its proceedings as may be determined by a two-thirds vote of the house of delegates at the biennial convention.

Article VII, Section 2:

44 If approved, the following sections of the chapter bylaws will also be updated:

IMPACT ON CHAPTERS:

Article XIV. Section 4. Sigma Theta Tau International Bylaws Amendments - to remove “approved by the house of delegates or editorial changes approved by the Sigma board of directors.”

Article XI. Finance, Section 1. Fiscal Year - to remove mention of the fiscal year

Article V. Section 2. House of Delegates. C. - to remove mention of electronic voting on Articles of Incorporation

Article II. Purposes - to mirror the reformatted phrasing used in the international bylaws

Many current Sigma bylaws contain too much detail. For example, it’s not necessary to state in the bylaws that Sigma has a corporate seal; the fiscal year is an administrative and tax issue, not a governance issue that needs to be voted on by the house of delegates. Although in different articles, all of the above amendments have the same purpose: to remove unnecessary (and potentially confusing) language. Removed language should be included in Sigma governing documents such as policies and procedures.

Amendments to these bylaws approved by the house of delegates or editorial changes approved by the Sigma board of directors that are also applicable to the chapters shall be incorporated into the chapter bylaws.

Amendments to these bylaws approved by the house of delegates or editorial changes approved by the Sigma board of directors that are also applicable to the chapters shall be incorporated into the chapter bylaws.

Article XII, Section 1.C.: Amendments to these bylaws that are also applicable to the chapters shall be incorporated into the chapter bylaws.

RATIONALE:

Article XII, Section 1.C.:

Article XII, Section 1.C.:

2021 PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS 1. Proposed Resolution on Sigma’s Support of Integral Involvement of Nurses in Collaborative National and International Strategic Planning Processes Whereas, Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, since its founding in 1922, has continued to connect and empower nurses by promoting nursing scholarship, leadership, and service in transforming healthcare around the world; and

Whereas, more than 135,000 Sigma members residing in over 100 countries support the vision of connected, empowered nurses and Sigma’s mission of developing nurse leaders while embracing the 2019-2021 presidential call to action to “Infuse Joy” anytime, anywhere even during challenging times; and

Whereas, to accomplish Sigma’s mission, the Board of Directors has outlined overarching strategic goals focused on global growth, expansion, innovation, and development of strategic global relationships; and

Whereas, Sigma is actively involved in the United Nations (UN), World Health Organization (WHO), International Council of Nurses (ICN), and more; and

Whereas, Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 1 (2030 Agenda) identifies specific health priorities to mobilize global efforts, including universal health coverage to promote physical and mental health and well-being, and to extend life expectancy for all, ensuring human resources to attain the health targets, and end poverty, foster peace, safeguard the rights and dignity of all people, and protect the planet; therefore, be it

Resolved, that Sigma, the world’s second-largest nursing organization, continues to collaborate with international partners to ensure that nurses are integrally involved throughout the 2030 Agenda’s ongoing strategic planning process from priority setting, through formulation, adoption, implementation, administration, and evaluation of national and international policies and strategies.

1 United Nations. (2015) General Assembly Resolution A/RES/70/1. Transforming Our World, The 2030 Agenda for

Sustainable Development. [cited 2016 Feb 10]. Available from: un.org/en/development/desa/population/migration/ generalassembly/docs/globalcompact/A_RES_70_1_E.pdf.

2. Proposed Resolution to Express Appreciation for All Nurses and Healthcare Providers Serving in the Global Epicenter of COVID-19 Whereas, frontline nurses and other healthcare providers serving in the global epicenter of COVID-19 have willingly risked their health and lives to care for patients suffering with COVID-19 and its sequelae and who have been liaisons and surrogates for families who were not permitted to be near their loved ones due to COVID-19’s significant virulence; and

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Whereas, those nurses and healthcare providers who clinically and administratively supported frontline nurses and other healthcare providers in the global community and those who diligently conducted research to address the physical, emotional, and psychological effects of COVID-19; and

Whereas, nurse educators across the world continued to faithfully educate the world’s nursing workforce to maintain the progression of a prepared workforce by revising, adapting, and creating curricula and teaching strategies in the presence of rapidly changing healthcare and academic environments with minimal disruption; and

Whereas, nurses and healthcare providers in the global community who disseminated accurate and credible information about the deadly virus, strategically worked to mitigate the transmission of the disease, voiced the importance of prevention, and administered vaccinations; therefore, be it

Resolved, that this House of Delegates expresses sincere appreciation and honor to all nurses and healthcare providers who are on the frontlines, who support those on the frontlines, who promote COVID-19 mitigation and prevention strategies, and those who have lost their lives.

3. Proposed Resolution in Support of Person First Language Whereas, Person First Language respects the dignity, worth, and unique attributes of each person. Words are powerful and referring to persons by a diagnosis or disability is dehumanizing, stigmatizing, and runs counter to fundamental principles of nursing, unless an individual wants to be recognized by their disability, or Identity First Language; and

Whereas, Person First Language is congruent with the mission of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) to support nurses’ efforts to improve the health and well-being of the world’s people by using respectful language; and

Whereas, Person First Language is congruent with the values of the World Health Organization, which focus on striving to make people feel safe, respected, empowered, fairly treated, and duly recognized; and

Whereas, Person First Language is congruent with the vision of the International Council of Nurses which inspires nurses to advocate for health and well-being for all; and

Whereas, Person First Language is endorsed by the Americans with Disabilities Act, including but not limited to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, TrinityHealth.org, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Employee and Research Education Program, and the Community Health Centers; and

Whereas, Person First Language and Identity First Language are endorsed by the American Psychological

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Association, including, but not limited to the American Nurses Association, the Florida Nurses Association, and the International Association for Human Caring; therefore, be it

Resolved, that Sigma reaffirms its commitment to using Person First Language as appropriate and as preferred by individuals.

4. Proposed Resolution in Recognition of the Global Leadership Mentoring Community Program Whereas, the Global Leadership Mentoring Community (GLMC) is a program developed by international nurse leaders in 2015 to provide leadership mentoring opportunities for emerging nurse leaders; and

Whereas, the founding leaders of GLMC, Dr. Ellen Buckner and Dr. Claudia Lai, identified strategic program objectives to ensure the success of the professional nurse mentor/mentee experience; and

Whereas, the GLMC successfully coordinated three (3) biennial cohorts that provided international mentoring opportunities and promoted global collaboration for Sigma members—global nurse leaders and emerging nurse leaders—in all professional domains; and

Whereas, GLMC program data documented the positive impact GLMC intentional mentoring has had on the development of next-generation Sigma leaders as well as global leaders who support the mission and vision of Sigma to improve the health of the world populations; therefore, be it

Resolved, that this body affirms its ongoing appreciation for the dedication of the GLMC developers and current coordinators in offering this global opportunity to Sigma members to enhance joyful collaboration and mentoring experiences.

5. Proposed Resolution in Recognition of the Regional Coordinators’ Accomplishments to Support and Promote Chapter Success during the COVID-19 Pandemic Whereas, the elected Regional Coordinators individually and as a collaborative committee have diligently served their regions despite professional and personal challenges and unexpected changes during this unprecedented time in healthcare; and

Whereas, each Regional Coordinator willingly and without hesitation adjusted their position responsibilities and communication processes to remain connected with chapter leaders and ensure ongoing support in each region; and

Whereas, Regional Coordinators worked collaboratively with the Sigma Constituent Services staff to develop and socialize innovative resources to support the immediate implementation of changes in chapter operations that ensured effective virtual chapter communications and organization success during the biennium; and

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Whereas, the Regional Coordinators proactively recommended revision of current and future Chapter Key Award criteria and communicated considerations in the award to support and recognize ongoing efforts of chapters to continue successful operations and provide benefits to members and all nurses in their regions; and

Whereas, the collaborative efforts between Regional Coordinators and Sigma Chapter Specialists facilitated the implementation of innovative virtual strategies that enhanced intra- and interregional collaboration and fostered professional connections to promote resilience and social justice during the biennium; therefore, be it

Resolved, the body affirms its support for the work of the Regional Coordinators, Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee, and Sigma staff to advance the mission and vision of Sigma during this unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.

6. Proposed Resolution to Affirm the Vision, Mission, Values, and Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity of the Society Whereas, Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) is an international community of nurses, dedicated to the advancement of knowledge, teaching/learning, and service through the cultivation of communities of practice, education, and research. Members value tradition that celebrates and honors our history and innovation and creativity that inspires desired futures; and

Whereas, members of the society value the development and use of knowledge because knowledge empowers nurses. By leveraging the intellectual and social capital of our members we generate research and scholarship. Members facilitate the dissemination and implementation of scholarship into practice to improve evidence-based practice. The society develops and provides access to research funding, publications, products, services, and learning opportunities to support members so they can lead and influence the transformation of healthcare; and

Whereas, the organization supports learning and the development of leadership and scholarship of members and the profession, whether in clinical practice, the academic setting, and wherever nurses work. Members value coaching and mentoring to develop nursing leaders anywhere.

Members value collaboration and partnerships everywhere and on various levels to address global health issues. Members strive to create community among members and with organizations that have shared interests, goals, objectives, and values. Members value openness, truth, respect, integrity, diversity, and social responsibility grounded in ethical standards and principles of practice and service; and

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Whereas, members value and celebrate excellence and are committed to quality and accountability in all our education, practice, and research endeavors—for our members and for the nursing profession; and

Whereas, members are proud of the reputation, legacy, evolution, community involvement, and contributions Sigma and its members have made in the past, are making in the present, and will make into the future; therefore, be it

Resolved, this body supports the vision of this society to connect and empower nurse leaders transforming global healthcare through the mission of developing nurse leaders anywhere to improve healthcare everywhere.

Resolved, this body values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Members strive, with integrity, to be a professional community where all members feel welcome, have an opportunity to be heard, feel safe, are treated with dignity and respect, and can contribute to the shared collective vision of improving world health through the exchange of knowledge, skills, and ideas. Together, through practice, research, education, teaching/learning, service, and partnerships, members of Sigma make a difference in health worldwide.

7. Proposed Resolution in Appreciation for the Leadership and Stewardship of President Richard Ricciardi and Subsidiary Boards Whereas, Richard Ricciardi, the 33rd President of Sigma, called on members to build upon our heritage, success, and knowledge through the infusion of joy into our lives each day as we contribute to the health and well-being of all; and

Whereas, boards of the International Honor Society of Nursing Building Corporation, the Sigma Theta Tau International Foundation for Nursing, and Sigma Marketplace ensure the sustainability, viability, and visibility of Sigma; and

Whereas, their efforts support and safeguard the organizational assets and human resources through the intelligent collection and dissemination of both funds and knowledge services; therefore, be it

Resolved, that this House of Delegates expresses sincere appreciation to President Richard Ricciardi and Sigma’s subsidiary boards for their dedicated leadership and commitment to the mission, values, and goals of Sigma.

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8. Proposed Resolution in Appreciation for all Chairs and Members of Committees, Advisory Councils, and Task Forces Whereas, chairs and members of committees, advisory councils, and task forces enacted the president’s call to action and upheld the vision, mission, and values of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma) through their leadership and sense of organizational purpose; and

Whereas, Sigma’s leaders gave their time and energy to support nurses who provide health services to individuals, groups, and populations worldwide and to enhance the relevancy and meaningfulness of Sigma to the global community of nurse scholars; and

Whereas, the editors of Sigma’s publications embraced excellence in scholarship and disseminated information that seeks to improve the health of the world’s people; and

Whereas, the regional coordinators facilitated and enhanced the work of chapters and members; and Whereas, convention volunteers created an environment favorable to the dissemination of knowledge, conduction of Sigma’s business, and connectedness among the global community of nurse scholars; therefore, be it

Resolved, that this House of Delegates expresses sincere appreciation to the chairs and members of committees, advisory councils, and task forces, regional coordinators, and convention volunteers for their dedicated leadership and commitment to the mission, values, and goals of Sigma.

9. Proposed Resolution in Appreciation for the Sigma Staff and CEO for their Tireless Work During the Pandemic Whereas, the Sigma staff and CEO Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) Madigan have provided outstanding service, unwavering commitment, and innovative leadership to Sigma and the nursing community during the COVID-19 pandemic; and

Whereas, the Sigma staff and CEO Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) Madigan championed Sigma’s values throughout the COVID-19 pandemic by providing resources such as Sigma is Here for You and Find Your Forward to support and achieve Sigma’s mission—Developing nurse leaders anywhere to improve healthcare everywhere; therefore, be it

Resolved, that this House of Delegates expresses sincere appreciation to the Sigma staff and CEO Dr. Elizabeth (Liz) Madigan for their commitment to providing exemplary service to Sigma’s global constituencies and the entire global nursing community to fulfill Sigma’s vision—Connected, empowered nurse leaders transforming global healthcare.

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR DELEGATES DELEGATE INFORMATION DESK Located in the JW Ballroom Foyer

Sigma staff will be available to answer questions about the House of Delegates at these specified times. Members attending convention in-person as a substitute for previously named delegates or as delegates not previously submitted must check in at the Delegate Information Desk to be credentialed.

Friday, 5 November Saturday, 6 November Sunday, 7 November Monday, 8 November

5:00-7:00 p.m. (1700-1900) 2:00-6:00 p.m. (1400-1800) 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (0800-1700) 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (0800-1700)

PARLIAMENTARIAN OFFICE HOURS A parliamentarian is an expert in Robert’s Rules of Order and the proper procedures for the conduct of meetings of deliberative assemblies. Parliamentarians assist organizations in drafting and interpreting bylaws and rules of order and planning and conducting meetings.

Both in-person and virtual delegates have opportunities to speak with Sigma’s parliamentarian, Colette Collier Trohan, MS, PRP, CPP-T, CAE, before each House of Delegates session. This is particularly helpful for groups that have questions about motions or making nominations from the floor.

Monday, 8 November Tuesday, 9 November

ON SITE: LOCATED IN JW 312 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (1130-1300) 4:30-5:30 p.m. (1630-1730) Available for 60 minutes starting 30 minutes after the close of the House of Delegates.

VIRTUAL (VISIT SIGMANURSING.ORG/DELEGATES FOR ZOOM LINKS) 2:00-3:00 p.m. (1300-1400) Monday, 8 November

Tuesday, 9 November

(All must join at the start; if no one joins by 2:20 p.m., Zoom will be closed.)

7:00-8:00 p.m. (1900-2000) (All must join at the start; if no one joins by 7:20 p.m., the Zoom will be closed.)

Available for 30 minutes starting two hours after the close of the House of Delegates.

(All must join at the start; if no one joins, the Zoom will be closed.)

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WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT THE 46TH BIENNIAL CONVENTION! You have been identified as a chapter convention delegate.

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All times listed in this guide were current as of press time.

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