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Tri Sigma is proud to recognize exceptional members and chapters each year. Chapter award categories highlight the connection between excellent operations and sisterhood while individual award categories recognize outstanding leadership within Tri Sigma and the local community. Congratulations to the following 2022 award recipients: Mabel Lee Walton Leadership Award Jaiden Smith, Chi–Pittsburg State University Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior Award Eliza Simikian, Alpha Chi–Murray State University Outstanding Collegiate Member Award Elaina Bancroft, Theta Zeta–Case Western Reserve University Kambry Farris, Eta Kappa–Texas Women's University Chloe St. George, Theta Epsilon–Univ. of Nevada, Las Vegas Maggie Inman, Epsilon Theta–Oglethorpe University Outstanding Senior Award Kate Caforio, Theta Zeta–Case Western Reserve University Alexandria Mizia, Alpha Alpha–Concord University Anna Claire Pousson, Alpha Mu–University of Louisiana at Lafayette Jessica Rinehart, Theta Mu–Randolph-Macon College Savanna Willis, Gamma Xi–Barton College Outstanding Advisor Award Catherine Duffin Albright, Chi–Pittsburg State University Emily Rae Murphy, Eta Kappa–Texas Women's University Kathy Rayburn Kopperud, Alpha Chi–Murray State University Lillian Grace Lingenfelter, Pi–Emporia State University Fraternity/Sorority Advisor of the Year Amanda Metts, Barton College Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Award Glennis Webb, Epsilon Pi–Presbyterian College Outstanding Alumnae Award Jessica Miller Alsip, Eta Kappa–Texas Woman's University Erica Louise Dutter, Alpha Beta–Kent State University Kara Eaton Rees, Beta Gamma–Ball State University Jill Carlson Schmidt, Epsilon Omicron–Illinois State University Emerging Alumnae Award Ashley Vanessa Acosta, Eta Kappa–Texas Woman's University Susan Raylene Bayless, Iota Alpha–Alumnae Initiate Haley Marie Foster, Alpha Beta–Kent State University Taylor Medlock Lanier, Gamma Xi–Barton College Renata J. Serpico, Epsilon Omicron–Illinois State University Steadfast Alumnae Award Sharon Johannsen Devlin, Beta Lambda–Univ. of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Collegiate Chapter of the Year Alpha Chi–Murray State University C.A.B. of the Year Eta Kappa–Texas Women’s University Panhellenic Excellence Chi–Pittsburg State University Creative Programing - Integrity Chi–Pittsburg State University Creative Programing - Collaboration Alpha Mu–University of Louisiana at Lafayette Creative Programing - Wellbeing Gamma Xi–Barton College Excellence in Member Development Alpha Iota–Northeastern State University Excellence in New Member Development Nu–University of Central Missouri Excellence in Ritual and Values Chi–Pittsburg State University Excellence in Volunteerism Alpha Chi–Murray State University Excellence in Membership Recruitment Alpha Mu–University of Louisiana at Lafayette J.E.K. Standards of Efficiency Award Alpha Iota–Northeastern State University Alumnae Chapter of the Year & Excellence in Collegiate Support Indianapolis Suburban Excellence in Ritual & Values Dallas Creative Programming - Communication Western Wayne-Washtenaw Excellence in Member Development & Creative Programming - Civil Discource Phoenix Excellence in Member Recruitment, Excellence in Volunteerism, & Creative Programming - Social Excellence Chicago North Shore The following chapters were recognized for raising the most money for the Tri Sigma Foundation by fund designation: Alpha MuRobbie Page Memorial Fund – Matching Grants & EverTrue Fund Gamma PiRobbie Page Memorial Fund – Local Grants Alpha BetaMarch of Dimes & Scholarship Fund

Tri Sigma is proud to recognize exceptional members and chapters during the 2016 calendar year as a part of its annual awards program. The annual awards program celebrates the accomplishments of collegiate chapters, alumnae chapters and individual members during the past calendar year. Chapter award categories highlight the connection between excellent operations and sisterhood while individual award categories recognize outstanding leadership within Tri Sigma and the local community.   The following 2016 award recipients have created a legacy of excellence, hard work, and are stellar examples of a values-focused commitment to Tri Sigma and their communities.   Collegiate Chapter Awards Collegiate Chapter of the Year Delta Pi–Winthrop University Chapter Advisory Board of the Year Nu–University of Central Missouri Creative Educational Program Epsilon Chi–Northeastern University Excellence in Community Service Epsilon Chi–Northeastern University Excellence in Membership Selection Nu–University of Central Missouri Member Development and Educational Programming Nu–University of Central Missouri Ritual and Values Programming Alpha Iota–Northeastern State University Jane E. Kinderman Standards of Efficiency Nu–University of Central Missouri Panhellenic Excellence Alpha Iota–Northeastern State University Pillar 4 Achievement Omicron–Eastern Michigan University Nu–University of Central Missouri Pi–Emporia State University Chi–Pittsburg State University Alpha Zeta–Northwestern State University Alpha Iota–Northeastern State University Alpha Pi–PennWest Clarion Alpha Chi–Murray State University Beta Delta–Shepherd University Beta Xi–Southeast Missouri State University Gamma Beta–East Carolina University Gamma Xi–Barton College Gamma Pi–Nicholls State University Delta Pi–Winthrop University Epsilon Rho–Minnesota State University, Mankato Zeta Alpha–Bryant University Zeta Kappa–Montclair State University Eta Kappa–Texas Woman’s University Eta Xi–Ursinus College     Individual Collegiate Awards Mabel Lee Walton Leadership Award Courtney Powelson, Beta Epsilon–Western Illinois University Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior Tabytha Russell, Alpha Iota–Northeastern State University Outstanding Member of the Region Region 2: Joanna Giron, Epsilon Alpha–California State University, East Bay Region 3: Natalie Rabil, Gamma Xi–Barton College Region 4: Sidney Collier, Alpha Iota–Northeastern State University Region 5: Mikayla Zaglaniczny, Epsilon Gamma–Grand Valley State University Outstanding Senior of the Region Region 1: Julie Donnelly, Epsilon Chi–Northeastern University Region 2: Taylor Chadduck, Alpha Chi–Murray State University Region 3: Lisa Olearczyk, Gamma Xi–Barton College Region 5: Megan Morris, Theta Theta–Oakland University Outstanding Advisor of the Region Region 1: Amanda Danielle Sabia, Epsilon Chi–Northeastern University Region 2: Cindy Harms, Epsilon Alpha–California State University, East Bay Region 3: Heather Fuller Baker, Gamma Xi–Barton College Region 4: Melinda Dunard Horn, Nu–University of Central Missouri Fraternity/Sorority Advisor of the Year Kimberly Harris, Lockhaven University   Alumnae Chapter Awards Alumnae Chapter of the Year Phoenix Excellence in Community Service Phoenix Excellence in Member Recruitment Denver Area Excellence in Overall Programming Phoenix Outstanding Single Program Chicago North Shore Sisterhood Award-In a College Town Denver Area Sisterhood Award-Not in a College Town Indianapolis Suburban     Individual Alumnae Awards Steadfast Alumna Citation Bobbi Walker Smith, Alpha Epsilon and Denver Area Alumnae Chapter Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Clarissa Fithian Crozier, Iota and Denver Area Alumnae Chapter Outstanding Alumna of the Region Region 2: Pickett Whitney Lema, Alpha Lambda and Greater St. Louis Alumnae Chapter Region 4: Sandra Koch Sandel, Alpha Phi and Central Michigan Alumnae Chapter

Tri Sigma is proud to recognize exceptional members and chapters during the 2023 calendar year as a part of its annual awards program. The annual awards program celebrates the accomplishments of collegiate chapters, alumnae chapters and individual members during the past calendar year. Chapter award categories highlight the connection between excellent operations and sisterhood while individual award categories recognize outstanding leadership within Tri Sigma and the local community.   The following 2023 award recipients have created a legacy of excellence, hard work, and are stellar examples of a values-focused commitment to Tri Sigma and their communities.     COLLEGIATE CHAPTER AWARDS   Collegiate Chapter of the Year: Alpha Chi–Murray State University  Chapter Advisory Board of the Year: Alpha Chi–Murray State University  Excellence in Academic Success: Chi–Pittsburg State University  Excellence in Marketing & Social Media:   Mu–Truman State University  Chi–Pittsburg State University  Beta Alpha–Northern Illinois University  Excellence in Membership Recruitment: Nu–University of Central Missouri  Excellence in Resiliency: Delta Zeta–Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania  Jane E. Kinderman Standards of Efficiency Award: Alpha Chi–Murray State University  Laura Ward Sweet Panhellenic Excellence Award: Nu–University of Central Missouri   INDIVIDUAL COLLEGIATE AWARDS   Mabel Lee Walton Leadership Award: Halima Duarte, Epsilon Chi–Northeastern University  Margaret Freeman Everett Outstanding Senior: Madeline Murdock, Chi–Pittsburg State University  Outstanding Member: Rebecca Chernoff, Eta Xi–Ursinus College Alexis Epplin, Alpha Chi–Murray State University Outstanding Senior: Brenna Snively, Eta Xi–Ursinus College Caroline Reid, Alpha Chi–Murray State University Outstanding Advisor: Kathy Kopperud–Alpha Chi Advisor Sue Bracksieck–Alpha Iota Advisor Jena Harris–Alpha Rho Advisor Fraternity/Sorority Advisor of the Year: Alexis Swider, Elon University    ALUMNAE CHAPTER AWARDS    Alumnae Chapter of the Year: Indianapolis Suburban   Excellence in Collegiate Support: Southern West Virginia   Excellence in Creative Educational Programming–Collaboration: Chicago North Shore   Excellence in Creative Educational Programming–Social Excellence: Kansas City   Excellence in Creative Educational Programming–Wellbeing: Phoenix   Excellence in Member Development: Phoenix   Excellence in Member Recruitment: Chicago North Shore   Excellence in Ritual & Values: Chicago North Shore   Excellence in Volunteerism: Phoenix     INDIVIDUAL ALUMNAE AWARDS   Emerging Alumnae: Julia Melone, Eta Upsilon–Pennsylvania State University Dina Tolen, Eta Theta–Gustavus Adolphus College Shelby Kutev, Iota Alpha Outstanding Alumna: Lauren Cunkelman Ede, Alpha Delta Steadfast Alumna: Lori Prato Keating, Kappa Emily Gates Alumna Achievement Award: Mary Webster, Beta Kappa    Collegiate awards were presented live at the Prevention Institute, Jan. 7. Alumnae awards were presented during an online ceremony , April 2. For more information on awards criteria, members can log into Sigma Connect .

Earlier this month, the Association of Fraternity / Sorority Advisors announced its 2020 award winners, and Tri Sigma proudly received the AFA/CoHEASAP Awards for Outstanding Alcohol/Drug Prevention Program and Outstanding Change Initiative. The AFA/CoHEASAP Award for Outstanding Alcohol/Drug Prevention Program annually recognizes an outstanding campus and/or inter/national organization for its efforts in broad-based alcohol/other drug prevention efforts and the impacts they have had. Tri Sigma’s Prevention Institute is a 3-day program for Collegiate Risk Managers and Honor Council Chairs. The in-person program provides chapter-specific data and coaching for each chapter on how to develop their own data-based prevention plan. This personalized attention and development is only possible because of the skilled team of volunteers and subject matter experts who serve as small group leaders. In addition to the Honor Council national volunteers, Tri Sigma is fortunate to have approximately 30 trained SAFE Team (Sigma Alcohol misuse Facilitation and Education Team) and Prevention Coordinator volunteers who are trained in their prevention framework and philosophy. SAFE Team members were a combination of members and non-member higher education professionals. This partnership between Tri Sigma and other campus professionals brings a wealth of perspective, understanding, and student development. Since the program started in 2016, results show a significant decrease in high risk/problematic drinks and an increase in moderate/light and abstainers. Tri Sigma also received the Outstanding Change Initiative Award for the STRIDES Retreat program. STRIDES, which stands for S igma T raining on harm R eduction, I ntervention, D evelopment, and E valuation, was developed after longterm data showed the previous accountability program was no longer effective in short and long-term goal completion for change behavior.  This enhanced educational program for first-time violations aligns with the Tri Sigma’s harm reduction mindset and prevention philosophy. Intended to create immediate change, the program aims to reduce repeat offending chapters, address barriers identified in focus groups, and increase long-term sustained change and chapter strength through member education.

Tri Sigma is pleased to announce the re-installation of its Zeta Chi Chapter at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, and the initiation of its newest members. Following the installation, alumnae, NHQ staff, parents, friends, and members of the fraternity/sorority community were invited to attend a celebratory brunch at a suite inside Brooks Stadium. Dr. Yvonne Hernandez-Friedman, Vice President for Student Affairs, shared greetings on behalf of the university. The chapter received nearly 50 well-wishes from collegians and alumnae from all over the country, and many were read aloud during the brunch. Before chapter officers were presented by Chapter President Brooke Knight, National President Joyce O’Daniel shared remarks on behalf of Executive Council and presented the chapter with its charter. “The decision to return to CCU wasn't made lightly, but it was made with absolute conviction. We saw in this campus what we've always known: a vibrant community where Tri Sigma values can flourish and where our sisterhood can make a meaningful impact,” O’Daniel said. “As you build your community here at Coastal Carolina, know that you're not just creating your own experience; you're creating opportunities for future generations of women who will follow in your footsteps.” The chapter will continue to informally recruit members throughout the spring semester and fully participate in primary recruitment in fall 2025. CCU students interested in joining Tri Sigma can learn more by visiting the chapter's' website .  Additional information about the installation celebration can be found in the upcoming of The Triangle .

In partnership with an outside facilitator, Tri Sigma is excited to provide alumnae members with an exciting new professional development opportunity! “Set Sail into Service” is a cohort-style educational series designed to prepare alumnae for nonprofit leadership and/or board service. The cohort will meet virtually on the second Tuesday of each month from October 2023-May 2024.  After completing the program and all assignments, participants will: Learn core governance and nonprofit board principles applicable to any organization and how those principles are practiced in Tri Sigma. Position themselves as a competitive candidate for a service leadership role in their community. Build peer relationships within Tri Sigma to support and advance their service leadership development aspirations. This programming is not a prerequisite for Tri Sigma Sorority or Foundation board service, but rather a primer for those considering serving any nonprofit board.   UPDATE—Applications are now closed.

March of Dimes President Stacey Stewart addresses memberes in Las Vegas during the 2019 Convention. The Tri Sigma Foundation announced a special guest for Tri Sigma's 45th National Convention. To celebrate three years of our national philanthropic partnership, March of Dimes President Stacey Stewart made paid members a visit, Monday, July 1 in Las Vegas. "What a proud moment for us to have Stacey Stewart hear first-hand from Tri Sigmas the many ways they have supported the March of Dimes mission during the first three years of our partnership," said Foundation Chair Bonnie Rainey. "Tri Sigma will continue to lead the fight for healthy moms and babies with March of Dimes and support the work of their Prematurity Research Centers." Stewart joined March of Dimes as its fifth President on January 1, 2017. In this role, Stewart heads the organization leading the fight for the health of all moms and babies. she is response for all aspect of the organization's strategy, vision and operations. Stewart came to March of Dimes from United Way, the nation's largest nonprofit organization. Prior to becoming President, Stewart served as Executive Vice President, Community Impact Leadership and Learning. In this role, Stewart developed global partnership to advance community impact in more than 40 countries. March of Dimes recently relocated its headquarters to Arlington, Virginia, a suburb of Washington, DC. The move comes amidst a two-year transformation designed to increase greater awareness and engagement with the organization’s work in support of moms and babies across the country.  “Throughout our 80-year history, we have worked in partnership with individuals and organizations to advance breakthrough research, lead programs, and provide education and advocacy to support all families,” said Stewart. “Our move to Arlington enables us to remain at the forefront of this important work while collaborating more effectively with leading maternal and child health partners in the region.”

It is with great sadness that Tri Sigma announces the passing of longtime member and past national president, Diana Hornick Sarber, Beta Mu Chapter at the University of Central Oklahoma. Diana was a dear friend to many sisters and her love, enthusiasm and continued passion for Tri Sigma will be greatly missed. An excerpt from “Sigma Sigma Sigma Over a Century of Sisterhood” reads, “Proud to Be. Centennial Challenge. The Best of the Best. These words remind us of the leadership style of Diana Sarber, our tenth National President.” Diana was initiated into Tri Sigma in 1967 as a member of the Beta Mu Chapter at the University of Central Oklahoma. As a Tri Sigma, she served nearly 30 years in a variety of volunteer positions, including national collegiate chairman (1979-1986), national collegiate area director (1984-1986), National Panhellenic Conference delegate (1986-1995), national president (1995-2001), National Panhellenic Conference 3rd alternate delegate (1995-2001), Walton House board member (2005-2008), Sigma shop committee (2007), and nominating committee chairman (2007). Among Diana’s many awards, she was awarded the 24 Year National Officer Service Award and in 2007 was given Tri Sigma’s highest honor, The Founders Award. Diana was instrumental in helping Tri Sigma purchase, renovate, and furnish the home for Beta Mu Chapter when the chapter returned to campus in 2016. She was thrilled to see her initiating chapter return to the University of Central Oklahoma and attended many events since the re-establishment.  “Diana was and will always be a special lady," says National President Natalie Averette. "She is truly an iconic Tri Sigma and served both Tri Sigma and NPC with such grace and poise. She will forever be honored and fondly remembered. Diana leaves a remarkable legacy which will live on and will continue to inspire Tri Sigmas.” In her Convention address, Diana stated, “we are responsible for ensuring that the legacy of our Founders will be preserved, and that the future will be full of promise and hope. Their vision is our inheritance. Allegiance to one another and our Sisterhood is a bond that can never be broken. It is the essence of who we are.” Tri Sigma would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Diana Sarber. Visitation will be held on Oct. 3 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Smith and Kernke Funeral Home located at 14624 N. May Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73134. Services will be held on Oct. 4 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church located at 8005 Dorset Dr., Oklahoma City, OK 73120. Tri Sigma members in attendance are encouraged to wear purple. In lieu of flowers, donations in Diana's honor can be made to the  Sigma Sigma Sigma Foundation  or  Christ the King Catholic Church . All Tri Sigma members are encouraged to wear a black ribbon under their badge for three days in honor of Diana’s Executive Council service.

St. Louis, MO - June 27, 2025  - The Tri Sigma Foundation announced the public launch of its most ambitious fundraising effort to date—a $10 million comprehensive campaign titled They Did. You Can. We Will.  This initiative will fuel transformational investments in leadership development, scholarship support, mental health resources, and long-term stability for Tri Sigma National Sorority and its members. "For more than 127 years, Tri Sigma has championed women’s empowerment, resilience, and leadership,” said JeanMarie Mattingly, Board Chair of the Tri Sigma Foundation. “Tri Sigma is more than a collegiate experience; it is a lifelong source of connection, purpose, and pride. Financial support helps ensure every Sigma, at every stage of life, has access to a powerful network, leadership opportunities, and continued personal growth. From mentoring the next generation to staying engaged through meaningful programs and philanthropy, this campaign strengthens the bonds that unite us all.” A Campaign Rooted in Purpose They Did. You Can. We Will. honors Tri Sigma’s Founders who built a sisterhood with courage and conviction, early donors who led with their generosity, and every Sigma who has the opportunity to move us forward. With a goal of raising $10 million in cash, pledges, and planned gifts by June 30, 2028, the campaign aims to: Ignite Women’s Leadership : Expand transformative leadership programs and peer mentorship networks that equip Sigmas to lead with confidence—on campus, in careers, and in communities.  Open Doors Through Scholarship : Increase access to higher education by removing financial barriers and empowering members to pursue their academic and professional dreams.  Prioritize Mental Wellness : Fund proactive mental health resources and peer-based support systems to ensure every member has the tools to thrive—emotionally and socially.  Secure Our Future, Together : Build a resilient endowment that guarantees Tri Sigma’s mission endures—supporting members not just today, but for generations to come.  The campaign has already garnered strong early momentum thanks to visionary donors and Foundation champions who believe in the transformative power of Tri Sigma. “Despite women comprising more than half the U.S. population, organizations that focus on women and girls receive less than 2% of the nation’s philanthropic dollars,” Mattingly said. “The Tri Sigma Foundation is determined to shift the narrative. We believe in the power of women to shape the world, and this campaign ensures our sisters will have the tools and support to lead lives of purpose and impact.”  How to Support the Campaign Donors can participate through the following giving options:  Ever True Fund : Recurring gifts to sustain critical day-to-day work  Program Support or Endowments : One-time or multi-year gifts to support leadership, scholarships, or emerging needs  Deferred Giving : Estate gifts to ensure long-term stability and growth  A Sisterhood United for the Future With campaign volunteers and champions leading the charge, the Tri Sigma Foundation invites all alumnae, friends, and supporters to be a part of this transformative vision for our sisterhood and show the world what Tri Sigma women can do.  For more information or to make a gift, visit trisigmafoundation.org/campaign . Media Contact: Shelly Bateman Executive Director sbateman@trisigma.org (540) 258-6340

Tri Sigma has announced the elimination of its longstanding legacy policy. Defined as a sister, mother, daughter, granddaughter, niece, stepdaughter, stepmother, or stepsister of an initiated member, legacies have historically received an automatic invitation to the second round of Primary Recruitment. Along with this change, chapters are no longer required to place legacies at the top of the bid list after the final round, nor are they required to receive approval from National Headquarters before releasing a legacy. Recognizing the importance of equitable consideration for all women seeking membership in Tri Sigma, Executive Council voted in favor of eliminating the current legacy policy. We are confident this change will allow for greater opportunities for membership and empower our collegiate members to have the autonomy to make their own membership selection decisions. Tri Sigma will continue to recognize and celebrate Tri Sigma legacies, but potential new members who are legacies will no longer receive preferential treatment during the recruitment process. Sororities were founded during a time in our country’s history when women’s rights were limited. Being allowed to attend colleges and universities provided exciting opportunities, and being a part of a sorority enabled women to build friendships and offer support to one another. Even though membership has been open to all women, historical data shows that has not always been the case. While we regretfully cannot change history, we can ensure the Tri Sigma of today is a welcoming place to all potential new members.

Tri Sigma National Sorority is pleased to announce the chartering of its Birmingham Alumnae Chapter. Though officially approved by Executive Council this summer, an event was held October 22 at Huffman Baptist Church in Huffman, Alabama, to celebrate the official signing of the chapter’s charter. National Vice President Veronica Atkins Seymour represented the national organization at the event. “Tri Sigma is excited and committed to officially be part of the Birmingham and surrounding areas,” said Seymour. “Our Birmingham Alumnae Chapter members look forward to serving the community through our philanthropic service in the areas of children’s and maternal health initiatives and be an additional resource to our collegiate chapter at Auburn University and the Birmingham Alumnae Panhellenic Association.” Stacy Rowan, who was initiated in the Alpha Xi Chapter at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, serves as Alumnae Chapter President. Other elected officers include Treasurer Carin Klein Pryor, Zeta Nu–University of Maryland, Baltimore County; Membership and Collegiate Relations Chair Kate Kramer, Programming and Social Media Chair Lily Lemond, and Foundation and Philanthropy Chair Brenda Hudgins DuVall—each initiated at Theta Iota Chapter at Auburn University; and Alumnae Panhellenic Representative Susette Clark-Walker, Alpha Sigma–University of Southern Mississippi. Tri Sigma has nearly 140,000 lifetime members and 81 alumnae chapters across the United States. Local alumnae interested in joining can request upcoming meeting information at bhmtrisigma@gmail.com .

Changes to the Triennial Elections Process were recently announced. Based on recommendations made by the Election Review Process Team, Executive Council approved bylaw changes to the existing process. Nominating Committee Members were also recently appointed: Committee Chair Chair Allison Swift-Duttine, Psi–Marshall University Beth Deines, Beta Kappa–Arizona State University Erin Donkersloot, Pi–Emporia State University Rachel Greene, Beta Epsilon–Western Illinois University Mia Scalamogna, Gamma Zeta–Slippery Rock University Sarah Turner, Alpha Alpha–Concord University Karen Varga-Sinka, Epsilon Tau–Saint Leo University   The Nominating Committee is charged with the responsibility to strategically identify, evaluate, and provide a report to the membership for the Executive Council leadership of Sigma Sigma Sigma. As referenced in the May issue of The Path Forward , changes to the Triennial Elections Process were made based on recommendations by the Election Review Process Team and were prompted b ased on delegate feedback from the 2022 National Convention.   After 12 months of extensive research, interviews, and documentation review, the Election Process Review Team—led by Past National President Kaye Schendel— provided their report and recommendation for updated processes surrounding the triennial election of Tri Sigma’s Executive Council. The EPR Team was charged to explore and recommend an option for a more streamlined and efficient elections process that allows for more delegates to participate, remove the financial barrier to voting by limiting it to delegates who can afford to attend Convention, better align with Tri Sigma’s board governance model, and allow for a greater transition period of leadership for the incoming Executive Council. “The underpinning of our work is the staunch belief that one of the most important responsibilities of membership is electing our future leadership,” said Kaye Schendel. The recommended plan will use Rank Choice Voting, a nonpartisan voting model in which voters rank candidates by preference. It allows for more representation and promotes greater diversity, equity and inclusion. Rank Choice Voting ensures majority cohesion in elections and allows for multiple qualified candidates on the ballot.   As part of the team’s recommendation and report, the committee created a timeline for the elections process, an application and recommendation form for EC service, an elections handbook, and a comprehensive Nominating Committee manual with interview questions and rubrics for scoring applicants. Executive Council has approved the team’s recommendations and bylaw changes. Voting will take place prior to Convention to ensure a seamless transition of power.  The amended bylaws will be on the business agenda to be ratified at Convention in St. Louis next summer. “After 12 months of research and reviewing so many options—we truly believe this to be the fairest and most just election process for our organization,” said Kaye. Special thanks to the ERP Team for their work: Chair Kaye Schutte Schendel, Co-Chair Tara Benson, Liz Wakeman Hoffert, Susie Fink Kuhn, Cara Luyster, Jill Carlson Schmidt, and Laura Ward Sweet. National President Joyce O’Daniel served as a non-voting Executive Council liaison and Jenna Martin Pendry served as a non-voting staff liaison. A Conversations with Council call will be held Monday, Sept. 30 at 8 p.m. ET to review the qualifications, expectations, and responsibilities of leading the organization. Members interested in applying to serve on the 2025-28 Executive Council are encouraged to attend. Click here to register.   If you’re a member and didn’t receive the most recent issue of The Path Forward, log into Sigma Connect to ensure you are opted into receive General Announcements.