UNK receives Sigma Xi Chapter of Excellence Award

Sigma Xi, the global honor society for science and engineering professionals, recently recognized the University of Nebraska at Kearney with a Chapter of Excellence Award.

Announced Nov. 9 at the International Forum on Research Excellence in Long Beach, California, the award is presented to chapters for their exceptional activity, innovative programming and community leadership. Finalists were chosen by regional and constituency directors based on information in the chapters’ annual reports, and winners were selected by the Committee on Qualifications and Membership.

The UNK chapter of Sigma Xi sponsored or co-sponsored 10 events during the fiscal year ending June 30, including several Science Café presentations designed to bridge the gap between science and the community. Topics included “Under Alien Skies: A Sightseer’s Guide to the Universe” presented by astronomer and author Phil Plait, “The Russian Flu, 1889-94, A Lost Coronavirus Pandemic?” presented by UNK faculty members Kim Carlson and Doug Biggs and “Partnering for success: Conducting clinical trials in rural Nebraska” presented by Dr. Russell McCulloh from Children’s Hospital and Medical Center.

Sigma Xi is the world’s largest multidisciplinary honor society for scientists and engineers. Its mission is to enhance the health of the research enterprise, foster integrity in science and engineering, and promote the public understanding of science for the purpose of improving the human condition.

The UNK chapter has around 40 active members.