Welcome to Beta Nu

Beta Nu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, Inc., the International Honor Society of Nursing, was established in 1974.

Purposes of the society are to:
    Recognize superior achievement
    Recognize the development of leadership qualities
    Foster high professional standards
    Encourage creative work
    Strengthen commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession

History

In the fall of 1972, Bettie Hooks and Phyllis Nichols met with Evelyn Perry, Dean of the College of Nursing, to discuss the establishment of a chapter of Sigma Theta Tau at East Carolina University. Dean Perry and Dr. Edwin Monroe, Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs, gave their approval to begin the application process. A steering committee was elected from the members of the local nursing honor society, Tau Pi Upsilon, to guide the group's efforts in applying for a charter from Sigma Theta Tau. The 12 member steering committee included faculty members Bettie Hooks, Dayne Howell, Charlotte Martin, and Phyllis Nichols; and student members Lana Foushee, Sue Jordan, Dorothy McGee, Patricia Wenkman, Sandra Alphin, Elizabeth Higgins, Alta Whaley and Patricia Yow. Senior nursing student Lana Foushee chaired the committee and Dayne Howell served as faculty advisor.

On February 23, 1973, the Application for Charter and the Constitution and Bylaws of the chapter were sent to the National Council of Sigma Theta Tau. Dr. Lois Meier, Second Vice President of Sigma Theta Tau, made an official visit to East Carolina University on June 14-16 to meet with the steering committee, other students and faculty, and university officials.

On October 26, 1973, Dean Perry received a mailgram informing her that the House of Delegates of Sigma Theta Tau had approved the charter. The date for the installation ceremony was set and 87 charter members were approved by the steering committee.

On January 28, 1974, the charter members met to elect the officers for the new chapter. The officers elected were: Bettie Hooks, President; Eldean Pierce, Vice President; Martha Sue Wolfe, Secretary; Judith Garrison, Treasurer; Chris Riley, Historian; and Phyllis Nichols and Nancy Stephenson, Counselors.

On April 6, 1974 at 2:00 p.m., installation of the new Beta Nu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau was held in Room 101 of the College of Nursing. Mrs. Virginia George, Treasurer of Sigma Theta Tau, conducted the ceremony.