The Pi Theta chapter of Sigma Theta Tau at the University of Arkansas inducted 43 new members at a ceremony Nov. 10 at the Arkansas Union.

The international honor society of nursing includes both nursing students in the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing at the U of A and practicing nurses in the area. Tom Kippenbrock, a professor of nursing, serves as president of the chapter. He opened the ceremony by telling the newest members about the organization's history and mission.

Fran Hagstrom, assistant dean of the College of Education and Health Professions, welcomed the inductees before each received a purple lapel ribbon with the name of the organization printed on it.

Angela Stewart, assistant clinical professor of nursing, and Anna Jarrett, assistant professor of nursing, also spoke.

The organization recognizes superior achievement in nursing and development of leadership qualities, fosters high professional standards in the field, encourages creative work and strengthens commitment to the ideals and purposes of the profession.

For students, membership criteria cover completion of a set number of credit hours and nursing curriculum, a minimum grade-point average, class rank and academic integrity. For nurse leaders in the community, membership criteria include a degree, license and demonstrated achievement.