The Kaplan University School of Nursing chartered the new Phi Rho chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI), the only international nursing honor society in the world, during an induction and installation ceremony on March 9 in Miami, Fla.

“The achievement of becoming a chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International is a major step in the development of the Kaplan University School of Nursing,” said Sheila Burke, RN, MSN, MBA, dean of the Kaplan University School of Nursing. “It signifies that we have students and faculty that are academically and professionally exceptional and that we, as an institution, are committed to the advancement of nursing excellence in education and practice.

“The hard work of our students and faculty made this chapter possible. The establishment of the Phi Rho chapter is the beginning of a new phase for our School. Our efforts now will be focused on growing the chapter and exploring the opportunities for students and faculty to participate in STTI initiatives.”

Cathy Catrambone, vice president of the STTI Board of Directors and chair of the regional chapter coordinating committee, was on site to lead the induction ceremony. Dr. Catrambone leads a team of 15 STTI regional coordinators that provide guidance and support to more than 470 chapters worldwide.

“On behalf of the Sigma Theta Tau International Board of Directors, I was delighted to be a part of the exciting chapter installation for Kaplan University’s School of Nursing,” said Dr. Catrambone.

Sigma Theta Tau International is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support the learning, knowledge and professional development of nurses committed to making a difference in health worldwide. STTI has more than 125,000 members, who include practicing nurses, instructors, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs and others.

The Kaplan University School of Nursing prepares students for careers in the nursing profession from basic to advanced levels of practice. In addition to offering several certificate programs, the school offers online master’s, bachelor’s and blended (combined online and local delivery) associate degree programs in nursing. The School of Nursing empowers its students to provide excellent care, serve as leaders and to be responsive to the ever-changing global health care climate.

About Kaplan University

Kaplan University offers a different school of thought for higher education. It strives to help adult students unlock their talent by providing a practical, student-centered education that prepares them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. The University, which has its main campus in Davenport, Iowa, and its headquarters in Chicago, is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (www.ncahlc.org) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Kaplan University serves more than 50,000 online and campus-based students. The University has 11 campuses in Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland and Maine, and Kaplan University Learning Centers in Maryland, Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri and Florida.

Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education, which serves more than 74,000 students online and through more than 70 campus-based schools across the United States. Kaplan Higher Education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan Higher Education is part of Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO), and its largest division. For more information about Kaplan University, visit www.kaplanuniversity.edu.