The ceremony marked an important milestone for Catawba and its growing community of students pursuing excellence in chemistry and STEM disciplines. The Neon Chapter inducted 16 new members, including six graduating seniors, in recognition of their academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to advancing women in chemistry and related fields. Members of the inaugural executive board were also formally recognized.
The evening brought together students, faculty, administrators, family members, and distinguished guests from across the country. Several members of the National Council of Iota Sigma Pi participated in the ceremony and offered remarks celebrating the establishment of the chapter and the accomplishments of its inaugural members. Dr. Christine Hermann, a national Iota Sigma Pi board member and chemistry professor at Radford University, led several portions of the installation and induction ceremony.
Catawba College Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Monica Cowart also joined the celebration, offering remarks in support of the students and emphasizing the importance of creating spaces that encourage scholarship, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for women in STEM.
“The installation of the Neon Chapter at Catawba College reflects the promise and purpose of our students,” said Cowart. “This chapter creates new opportunities for mentorship, professional connection, and leadership for women in chemistry and related fields. We are proud to celebrate these students and the faculty who are helping them see what is possible through science, service, and discovery.”
A highlight of the evening was a special address by Dr. Sarbjeet Kaur, a national Iota Sigma Pi board member who practices family medicine at WVU Medicine. Her address, titled “From Lab to Industry: The Career Transition in Pharma,” served as the charge to the newly inducted members. Kaur shared her personal journey as a woman in STEM, reflecting on the academic and professional path that led her from scientific research to the pharmaceutical industry. Through a candid discussion of the challenges and successes she encountered along the way, she encouraged students to embrace resilience, remain curious, seek mentorship, and confidently pursue opportunities in science and industry.
The Neon Chapter name was intentionally selected to reflect both the region and the organization’s mission. As described during the ceremony, neon is known for its bright red emission of light and its status as a stable noble gas. Derived from the Greek word néos, meaning “new, young, and fresh,” the chapter symbolizes a growing and vibrant community of women chemists in the region. Organizers shared that the chapter aims to serve as “a stable, bright, guiding light of support” for its members and the broader chemistry community.
Iota Sigma Pi was founded in 1902 and nationally organized in 1916. Over 11,000 members have been initiated through 46 chapters established at college, universities, and metropolitan areas. Its primary objectives are to promote interest in chemistry among women students; foster mutual advancement in academic, business, and social life; and stimulate personal accomplishments in chemical fields. The installation of the Neon Chapter at Catawba represents an exciting new opportunity for students committed to scholarship, leadership, and service within STEM.
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Dr. ChaMarra Saner, followed by a dinner and reception celebrating the chapter’s inaugural class of inductees and the bright future ahead for the Neon Chapter.
