Welcome and Outcomes

On behalf of the Sigma Board of Directors, Sigma members throughout the world, and the Sigma staff, we welcome you to the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing’s 46th Biennial Convention. Thank you for joining us and 2,000 of your colleagues from more than 50 countries around the world. How the world has changed since we were last together in 2019. We acknowledge our personal and shared experience within these extraordinary times as the global COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all of us in some way. We also recognize the loss of our colleagues, family, and friends. Today, perhaps more than ever, we are grateful for Sigma nurses and the work you do. We recognize your efforts and your impact, and we offer our profound thanks. The 46th Biennial Convention officially begins our 100th anniversary celebration! Since the actual 100th anniversary happens on 5 October 2022, we will celebrate this fantastic milestone across two conventions— this year and again in 2023. We hope you note the many ways we recognize our founders, our history, and the 100th anniversary. We believe Sigma’s recognition and support of nurses is as great and relevant today as it was 100 years ago. We believe that love, courage, and honor still matter. Our 2021 convention theme is Honor the Past, Remember the Present, Create the Future. Whether participating virtually or in person, you have access to hundreds of oral, symposia, and poster presentations that support the convention theme by showcasing the latest clinical innovations, critical research projects, and important leadership initiatives. We encourage you to download and use the Sigma event app to successfully navigate your way through the multiple options available for you each day. We hope you will find and share moments of joy during this event and that reconnection can help sustain you in the months ahead. We strive to make Sigma’s 46th Biennial Convention an opportunity for you to connect with colleagues, restore your spirit, and find ways to Infuse Joy. Whether you are attending virtually or observing our enhanced safety protocols in person in Indianapolis, we hope you’ll make the most of our first-ever hybrid convention. We look forward to sharing these days with you. Once again, welcome! Sincerely,

Richard Ricciardi, PhD, CRNP, FAANP, FAAN Sigma 2019-2021 President and

Elizabeth Madigan, PhD, RN, FAAN Sigma Chief Executive Officer

Convention outcomes 80% of attendees will have a 50% or greater increase in knowledge, skill, or overall practice. Attendees will be able to identify two or more research findings or evidence-based outcomes that enhance nursing practice, education, and leadership.