It is a privilege to be nominated for a second term as Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee Chair (RCCC) for Sigma Theta Tau International. I have been a proud and engaged member of Sigma since 2006 and am currently serving my first term in the RCCC role. Through this position, I have gained valuable insight into Sigma's policies and governance, while actively supporting chapter development, promoting member engagement, and collaborating with regional and global leaders to foster sustainability and innovation across chapters.
My long-standing commitment to Sigma spans local, regional, and international levels. I have served in several leadership roles within the Beta Xi at-Large Chapter, including Chapter President (two terms), Secretary, Chair of the Outreach and Service Committee, as an Electronic and Biennial Convention Delegate, and chair of the Finance Committee. These roles have deepened my appreciation for the work our members do and the value of strong, engaged chapter leadership.
At the international level, I have served on the Board of Directors, as a Key Award Task Force member and judge, Charter Review Task Force member, and as a volunteer moderator and greeter at Sigma conferences. I also serve as a career mentor through Sigma's global mentorship program, supporting the development of future nurse leaders.
Regionally, I have been a dedicated member of the Tri-State Consortium Planning Committee since 2012, where I remain actively involved. From 2014 to 2016, I also served on the Chesapeake Consortium Planning Committee, contributing to the planning of continuing education programming and helping to recruit dynamic speakers for annual events. These experiences have strengthened my regional network and understanding of the unique needs of chapters.
In my professional role, I serve as a Full Professor and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Practice Initiatives at the University of Delaware School of Nursing. I am also an Advanced Practice Nurse in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and the Track Coordinator for the university's PMHNP/DNP program, which I developed to address critical gaps in mental health access and education. These roles have equipped me with expertise in leadership, policy development, academic innovation, and mentorship-skills that have directly supported my Sigma work.
I believe effective leadership requires empathy, transparency, and the ability to build consensus. I strive to lead with integrity and to listen deeply, especially when working across diverse chapters and regions. I have helped multiple chapters strengthen their strategic planning, improve member engagement, and succeed in earning Chapter Key Awards-work I find deeply rewarding.
If re-elected, I will continue to advocate for chapter excellence while embracing innovative approaches to leadership and engagement. I am committed to ensuring Sigma remains relevant and responsive to the evolving needs of our members, from students to seasoned professionals and retirees, and across all global regions. It would be an honor to continue serving Sigma in this capacity, furthering our mission to advance world health and celebrate nursing excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service.