Using the Organization's Name
Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma)
When writing the name of the organization, write out the entire name on first reference, unless space does not allow. Sigma is used on subsequent references. The use of “honor society” is acceptable to avoid repeating “Sigma” in a sentence.
First reference: Simone was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (Sigma).
Second reference: She joined Sigma because the organization is dedicated to improving healthcare across the globe.
Using honor society: To learn more about Sigma, you can visit the honor society’s website at SigmaNursing.org.
Referencing your chapter
When referencing your chapter, it's important to also include the word "Sigma" so they know you are part of a larger organization. Here are a few examples:
-Sigma’s Alpha Alpha Chapter
-Alpha Alpha Chapter of Sigma
-Sigma’s Iota Iota at-Large Chapter
-Iota Iota at-Large Chapter of Sigma
at-large chapter
An at-large chapter is a chapter formed by two or more institutions of higher education or practice settings. Each institution receives recognition. When referring to a chapter’s formal name, hyphens are needed, and the term “at large” should be written as follows:
Example: Iota Iota at-Large Chapter
Example: All at-large chapters must submit annual reports.
To save space in certain printed materials, the formal name would be as acceptable with the word “chapter” removed.
Example: Iota Iota at-Large chapter
chapter
The word “chapter” is ordinarily not capitalized when it is used as a common noun and not a title. Capitalize “chapter” when used as a formal name.
First reference: The Epsilon Omicron Chapter of Sigma won the Founders Award in 2021.
General reference: The chapter currently has 103 active members.
region
The word “region” is ordinarily not capitalized when it is used as a common noun and not a title. Capitalize “region” when used as a formal name.
Example: The Sigma Europe Region chapter presidents will meet on Tuesday.
Example: The Sigma North America Region 4 held a fundraising event.
Example: The board of directors for Sigma’s Asia Region will meet next week
Example: To apply for this grant you must be a member of Sigma’s Africa Region.
Example: To apply for this grant you must be a member of Sigma’s Africa Region.
Sigma Chapter and Region Style Guide
The Sigma Chapter and Region Style Guide includes even more information about organizational references and information. Download the guide.