Chapter Awards
Each year, Sigma Xi recognizes a small group of chapters for outstanding chapter activity:
Chapters of Excellence
Chapters of Excellence are awarded to chapters that have demonstrated exceptional innovation and quality in its overall annual programming.
Chapter Program of Excellence
Chapter Programs of Excellence are awarded to chapters that have conducted a singularly exceptional program during the year.
Chapter Awards Process
Chapter of Excellence and Chapter Program of Excellence
Each year, Sigma Xi awards chapters that have demonstrated exceptional innovation and quality in their annual programming.
- Chapters wishing to be considered for the Chapter of Excellence Award must submit the Chapter Annual Report, available each year on July 1, and due by August 15 in order to be considered for the award. Chapters wishing to be considered for the Chapter Program of Excellence Award must submit this form no later than August 31 and indicate what specific chapter program/activity they wish to have considered.
- Sigma Xi Regional and Constituency Directors evaluate the Chapter Annual Reports and make recommendations for the Chapter of Excellence to the Committee on Qualifications and Membership.
- The Committee on Qualifications and Membership review the recommendations and, based on the criteria outlined below, designate both the Chapter of Excellence Award and the Chapter Program of Excellence Award winners.
Chapter of Excellence will be based upon these criteria:
- The impact of the chapter's programs on the community (i.e., the size and diversity of the audience, outreach and exposure),
- The level of innovation or initiative (uniqueness of programs, creative use of resources),
- The breadth and variety of programs (addressing multiple goals), and
- The overall quality of the chapter's activities.
Chapter Program of Excellence will be based upon these criteria:
- The impact of the specific program on the institution or community (i.e., the size and diversity of the audience, outreach and exposure) and
- The level of innovation or initiative (uniqueness of program, creative use of resources).
Chapter Awards Recognition
Chapter award winners will be recognized at the Sigma Xi Annual Meeting, and will be prominently featured on the Sigma Xi website, social media and in e-communications and listed in Sigma Xi publications like American Scientist.
Funding Chapter Programs
Chapters may seek funding for their local programs through the Diversity Grant Program or the Distinguished Lectureship Program.