Alpha Chapter

Since the implementation of the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN), there has been focus on how higher education nursing programs can prepare students for this monumental examination. While this is of the utmost importance, Dr. Kristy Ludy also felt it was essential to explore postgraduate preparation for the NGN. While pursuing her Ph.D. in Nursing at Nova Southeastern University, Kristy focused on this topic for her dissertation research. To conduct her doctoral research study, titled Postgraduation NGN Preparation: Lived Experiences of Baccalaureate Nursing Graduates, she sought assistance from Sigma Theta Tau, Alpha Chapter, and its research award opportunities. Kristy was awarded the Alpha Chapter Small Grants Research Award in the fall of 2024 and was able to use the funds she received to conduct her study.   The aim of the research was to explore the lived experiences of baccalaureate nursing graduates' preparation for the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) after graduation. The research was conducted using an interpretive phenomenological approach, where graduates from northern Indiana baccalaureate programs were recruited after passing the NGN on their first attempt. The semi-structured interviews of nine participants yielded the study’s findings, including five themes with sub-themes. ​The themes include: (1) Early NGN Exposure, (2) Finding your Style and Resources, (3) Juggling Feelings, (4) Striving for Mastery, and (5) Study-life Balance. The findings from this study have implications that impact nursing education, nursing practice, nursing research, and public health policy.   The research has both completed and in-progress dissemination. Dr. Ludy was accepted for and presented an oral presentation of the research titled “Postgraduation NGN Preparation: Lived Experiences of Baccalaureate Nursing Graduates” at the 2025 Sigma Nursing Biennial Convention in November 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Kristy has also been accepted to present the research findings in an oral session titled "Strategies for Successful Postgraduation Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) Preparation" at the Sigma Nursing International Research Congress in July 2025 in Toronto, Canada.

Are you looking for funds to further your research or evidence based-practice initiatives? The Sigma Theta Tau Alpha Chapter is pleased to announce the availability of the Research and Evidence-Based Practice Grants for the Spring 2026 cycle. Applications are due March 1st, 2026. Completed applications should be sent to Asa Smith (asasmit@iu.edu).  The two available grants are described below.  Evidence-Based Practice Grant. This grant is to encourage qualified nurses to contribute to the advancement of nursing knowledge through evidence-based practice (EBP) initiatives. The award provides funding to support the EBP efforts in a new or ongoing project. Both faculty and students are welcome to apply. Max $5,000 award. Research Grant. This grant's purpose is to encourage qualified nurses to contribute to nursing knowledge through research. Both faculty and students/postdoctoral fellows are welcome to apply. Max $5,000 award.

The Sigma Biennial Convention this past weekend was amazing! There were so many wonderful presentations given and our chapter was strong in representation. We also got the Key Award for the 8th time!

Sigma is pleased to offer a meaningful opportunity for local members to support the 2025 Convention, taking place 8–11 November 2025 at the JW Marriott Indianapolis. We are seeking volunteers to serve in the following roles:  Floating Moderators  Event Greeters  Marketplace Assistants  Detailed position descriptions, dates, times, and the sign-up on the Sigma Convention sign-up form. Members who volunteer will be able to participate in convention activities on their day of service.  We are accepting submissions through Monday, 3 November 2025.