The University of Tulsa (TU) Honor Society for nursing was organized in 1978. It's purpose was to recognize excellence in nursing, and those who had already demonstrated achievement in this area. On December 10, 1979, the First Annual Induction Ceremony took place with the subsequent Induction Ceremony occurring on April 19, 1980. The Society became a chartered member of Sigma Theta Tau, International (STTI), the honor society of nursing, on April 16, 1982, as the Zeta Delta Chapter. The organization's purposes are:
- To recognize superior achievement;
- To recognize development of leadership qualities;
- To foster high professional standards;
- To encourage creative work;
- To strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the nursing profession.
In 1984, the Nursing Honor Society of Northeastern State University (NSU) formed a local chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, International. The Nursing Honor Society adopted the purpose and eligibility standards of STTI. At least 3 regular meetings were held each year, two of which had scholarly programs.
In 1993, the Nursing Honor Society at NSU, explored the possibility of forming a Chapter-At-Large (CAL) with Zeta Delta chapter of STTI at TU. In August, 1994, a formal CAL application was submitted to STTI. After a site evaluation visit in February, 1995, the STTI Board of Director's approved the CAL application. On April 21, 1995, the Zeta Delta Chapter-At-Large (ZD CAL) of STTI was chartered. Membership has fluctuated between 215-400 members.
The chapter has continued to recognize superior achievement each year in awarding an annual research award, and sponsoring a research day conference beginning in the late 1980"s. One of the most notable accomplishments has been by Dr. Donna Wong, a well known lecturer, and best-selling author in the field of pediatric nursing. Dr. Wong was awarded the Mosby Award for Excellence for developing a facial expression scale for assessing pain in children that is now used throughout the world. Dr. Wong received the first STTI Audrey Hepburn Award for her contribution to improving the health of children.
Chapter
Awards include:
|
Innovative Chapter Award as co-sponsor of
the Greater Tulsa Area Pain Conference |
|
Key Award for excellence in chapter management |
|
Key Award for excellence in chapter management |
|
Key Award for excellence in chapter management |
Individual
Awards include:
- 1993
Audrey Hepburn Award, Donna Wong, for improving the health of children. First winner of this Sigma Theta Tau, International Award.
- 1993
Research Award, Donna Wing, Transcultural Nursing Study of Creek Indians and Alcohol Funded by Sigma Theta Tau, International.
- 1998
Mentor Award, Merry Beeson, improving participation of new nursing student inductees. Each student was required to complete a poster presentation of scholarly activities for display at induction ceremony.
Past Presidents of Zeta Delta Chapter-At-Large
Diana Mashburn 2005-07 Carol Ewing 2005 Joyce Van Nostrand 2003-2005 Merry Beeson 2001-2003 Paulette Burns 1999-2001 Rosemary Liguori 1997-99 Susan Gaston 1996-97 Marie Ahrens 1995-96 Carol Tillman 1994-95
Past Presidents of Zeta Delta Chapter
Donna Wing 1993-94 Alice Labadie 1992-93 Harriet Vaughan 1991-92 Betty Kupperschmidt 1990-91 Evelyn Acheson 1989-90 Kathryn L. Mears 1988-89 Alice Labadie 1987-88 Kathy Eley 1986-87 Kristie Nix 1985-86 Midge Elliott 1984-85 Midge Elliott 1983-84 Linda Stearns 1982-83 Jill Willey 1981-82 Sarah Blackwood 1980-81