Alumni Spotlight: Elizabeth Madigan (GRS '92)
By Michelle Koski
This fall, Elizabeth Madigan, PhD, RN, FAAN, heads to Indianapolis for her new role as chief executive officer of the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI). Madigan, who became the Independence Foundation Professor in Nursing Education, first came to the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing as a PhD student in 1992.
“Between FPB and Case Western Reserve University, all of my experiences came together to create this opportunity to serve my fellow nurses as CEO of STTI,” says Madigan, who also served as the School of Nursing’s associate dean for academic affairs. “I taught across programs for years—in every program actually—with every kind of student you can imagine. Many of them are doing incredible things in health care and beyond—some have already retired!”
Besides her background in nursing education, Madigan brings a wealth of academic and global knowledge to STTI. For more than 10 years she has served as administrative head for the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) Collaborating Center for Research and Clinical Training in Home Care Nursing. She has volunteered on boards, including the Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS), made presentations on international healthcare issues, and published as a respected researcher in home care. Madigan, a longstanding STTI member who received its Daniel J. Pesut Spirit of Renewal Award in 2007, is eager to begin her work at the 95-year-old organization.
“STTI is already in a terrific position. My role will be to uphold all of the great things it currently does, and support the creation of new initiatives as it continues to expand its global presence.”
Founded in 1922, STTI has more than 135,000 active members in over 90 countries and territories, with members including practicing nurses, instructors, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and many others. Madigan will be presented formally to STTI’s members during its 44th Biennial Convention in October, and will assume her position as chief executive officer following the convention.
“Like FPB, STTI is at the forefront of the highest quality programs and service,” says Madigan, “and I intend to explore new possibilities for the organization and keep the momentum going. The possibilities are endless.”