Tau Kappa at-Large Chapter

Dear TKAL Members,

TKAL award, scholarship, and nomination applications are now open and due by February 28, 2026. The following opportunities for awards and scholarships are available: Recognition Awards, Student Scholarships, and Lifelong Learning Scholarships.

Recognition Awards

Recognition Awards annually recognize outstanding contributions to nursing and excellence in one or more of the following categories: Research, Education, Nursing Practice, Leadership, Mentorship, and Student Performance. 

Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to nominate a deserving colleague or student (or self-nominate) by describing how the nominee contributes to the nursing profession.

Please email the completed Recognition Award Nominating Form (Click on the link for the form) to bpervis@excelsior.edu by February 28, 2026, to be recognized at the Tau Kappa-at-Large annual induction ceremony.

Student Scholarships

Student Scholarships for Excelsior University, Siena College, and Empire State University nursing students are now available. Faculty may nominate students, or students may self-apply.

Please email the Student Scholarship application (Click on the link or the application) to bpervis@excelsior.edu by February 28, 2026.

Lifelong Learning Scholarships

Lifelong Learning Scholarships are now available for Tau Kappa-at-Large members.

Please email the Lifelong Learning Scholarship application (Click on the link for the application) to bpervis@excelsior.edu by February 28, 2026.

Thank you in advance for supporting and recognizing excellence in nursing!

TKAL Awards Committee

On August 8, 2025, members of the Tau Kappa at Large Chapter served dinner for the clients of the Ronald McDonald House of Albany. The event was a tremendous success! 💜

Management and volunteers expressed deep gratitude, emphasizing how vital community service events like this dinner are in supporting families with children facing significant medical challenges.

Beyond giving back, the evening provided a wonderful opportunity for our members to connect—sharing laughter, conversation, and building stronger bonds. Some members even traveled 1 to 2½ hours to be part of this special effort!

We are already considering a return visit next year and encourage other chapters to support their local Ronald McDonald House—there is always a need, and the impact is truly meaningful. 💫

#Service #TauKappaAtLarge #STTI #NursingLeadership #RonaldMcDonaldHouse

The Tau Kappa At-Large Chapter proudly recognizes Lavita Payton as the 2025 recipient of a Lifelong Learning Scholarship. Lavita was a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) student at Chamberlain University with a 3.78 GPA and a concentration in Healthcare Systems Leadership. Lavita has since graduated with a 3.85 GPA.  

A dedicated nurse leader and adjunct professor, Lavita brings over a decade of experience in clinical care and education. Her passion for lifelong learning drives her commitment to health equity, patient advocacy, and system-level change.

In her own words:

“My pursuit of knowledge ensures I am prepared to share learning with communities and make meaningful changes in healthcare systems.”

Lavita exemplifies the mission of Sigma by advancing excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service. We are honored to support her continued journey.