As we approach the end of the 2025 fiscal year, I have been reflecting on my own year as Sigma Xi president with great pride. Our journey has been one of growth, collaboration, and commitment to scientific excellence. We have made remarkable strides in expanding our community, fostering interdisciplinary partnerships, and reinforcing our dedication to research integrity.
Over the past 12 months, Sigma Xi has strengthened its role as a beacon for research excellence. Thanks to the collective efforts of the entire Sigma Xi community, we have seen a historic 12% increase in membership, marking the first membership increase in decades. This surge reflects renewed interest in the Society’s mission. We have also made significant progress in narrowing our budget gap, putting Sigma Xi back on a strong financial footing.
The 2024 International Forum on Research Excellence (IFoRE) brought together researchers from diverse fields to celebrate excellence, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and emphasize ethical research practices. We provided opportunities for emerging scientists—high school, undergraduate, and graduate students—to present their work, gain valuable feedback, and engage with seasoned researchers.
Moreover, our international outreach efforts continue to grow, with new members and partnerships expanding our footprint beyond North America.
Despite these many clear successes, we must recognize the challenges that lie ahead—ones that we must meet with resilience, creativity, and a shared sense of purpose.
Misinformation and distrust in science have become widespread. Scientists must not only conduct rigorous research but also advocate for evidence-based decision-making. Cuts to funding could slow down groundbreaking discoveries, limit access to essential resources, and put increased pressure on researchers. This challenging environment may also disproportionately impact emerging scientists and underfunded research areas, exacerbating existing disparities in the scientific community.
Sigma Xi members have a responsibility to engage both the public and policymakers. We must continue to communicate our findings effectively, advocate for evidence-based policies, and inspire a deeper public appreciation for scientific inquiry. Sigma Xi is more than just a peer group organization. It is a community bound by shared values—research excellence, ethics, and honor. Our strength lies in our ability to support one another, to foster collaboration, and to champion the role of science in society.
As we move forward, I encourage each of you to actively engage in Sigma Xi initiatives, promote science tirelessly, mentor young researchers, advocate for responsible science, and contribute to our collective mission. And I encourage you to remember: Science is about the responsibility we bear to use knowledge for the betterment of humanity.
Sincerely,
Kathy Lu
Sigma Xi President