Chapter History
MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU) nursing students desired formation of an honor society to increase scholarship, fellowship, and leadership opportunities. Thus, Sarah Miller, a student in the Master of Science in Nursing program, collaborated with Professor Deborah Petty in achieving the vision for an honor society on the MNU campus. The Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Stephen Ragan, and the Dean of School of Nursing and Health Science, Dr. Susan Larson, fully supported the establishment of a nursing honor society.
Miller and Petty began meeting regularly in August 2010 to discuss the idea of forming an honor society. Questions considered were what would need to be done, who would need to be involved, and was an honor society leading to Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI) membership even possible.
Miller graduated in December 2010 yet remained a part of the steering committee that also included: Dr. Patricia Conejo, Dr. Karen Wiegman, and Professor Allyson Young. The group met frequently to implement strategies needed to actualize the formation of the honor society. This included identifying and recruiting eligible candidates for induction, nominating potential board members, and planning the first induction. This induction was held on April 17, 2012 with a business meeting immediately following it, where bylaws were ratified, officers were elected, and the honor society became official. The founding officers included Sarah Miller (President), Debbie Brunkhorst (Vice President), Lauren Loyd (Secretary), Paul Luce (Treasurer), and Deborah Petty (Faculty Counselor).
The MidAmerica Nazarene University Honor Society of Nursing transitioned to Chi Eta, an official chapter of STTI, on June 23, 2014 at a chartering ceremony. The Chi Eta Officers and Committee Chairs welcome you to the chapter and look forward to celebrating a dedication to nursing excellence through the promotion of scholarship, leadership, and service.