Annual Report
Sigma Sigma Phi
Alpha Chapter
A.T. Still University- KCOM
2006-2007
The Past Year
The past year was both exciting and productive for the Alpha Chapter of Sigma Sigma Phi. Some traditions, like an induction ceremony, were re-established. Favorite Sigma Sigma Phi traditions, such as a “USMLE vs. COMLEX Panel”, were maintained; and new projects, such as a “First Day of Board Review Celebration”, “Secretary Appreciation Day”, and a “What to expect on Rotations Panel”, were implemented. Members also volunteered at Hope’s Kitchen, a program that provides food to the underprivileged of the community on the weekends. The 2005 revisions to our bylaws were maintained, allowing for the induction of a few additional second year medical students in January. Over the past year, the Alpha Chapter of Sigma Sigma Phi became a more active club within KCOM and the Kirksville community.
In April, the new members of the Class of 2010 were inducted into the Alpha Chapter. A formal induction ceremony and dinner was held at an area restaurant. The keynote speaker was Dr. Madsen, who spoke of his experiences as a surgeon and the benefits of building relationships with one’s colleagues. During the ceremony, the members learned of the history and traditions of Sigma Sigma Phi. Members from the class of 2009 received lapel pins for their white coats. The new inductees from the class of 2010 were awarded certificates attesting to their official membership to the Alpha Chapter of Sigma Sigma Phi. The newly elected officers were also introduced.
In August, a campus wide organization fair was held to inform newly arriving first year medical students of the goals and requirements of the various organizations at KCOM. Second year members of Sigma Sigma Phi ran a booth to answer any questions first year students may have had. Even though these students are not eligible to apply for Sigma Sigma Phi until the beginning of their third quarter, they were still informed of the academic, service, and leadership requirements of the club.
All of the current members of the Alpha Chapter are leaders and/or active members in various campus organizations and community projects. KCOM is unique in that every student organization is required to complete service projects for both the school and Kirksville community throughout the year. As a result, all of the current members of the Alpha Chapter already participate in an exceptional amount of service, while simultaneously maintaining high academic standing. Even with all the prior time commitments, the current members are dedicated to furthering the philosophy of osteopathic medicine through the traditional projects of the Alpha Chapter of Sigma Sigma Phi.
Future Projects
Our first meeting will be held on October 2, 2007. We will be hosting a “USMLE vs. COMLEX and How to Prepare” Panel. The panel will consist of residents, third and fourth year medical students, and staff of KCOM to present some statistics. Each member of the panel will offer his or her insight into these exams and discuss how they are currently affecting their career paths. Members of the Alpha Chapter will have the opportunity to ask any questions they may have.
Twin Pines
Once a quarter, members of Alpha Chapter will be helping with Bingo Nights at the local Twin Pines Nursing Home. This is a great opportunity to spend some quality time with members of the Kirksville community.
Truman State University Homecoming Parade
Members of the Alpha Chapter will proudly be representing KCOM as we march in our white coats in Truman State University’s Homecoming Parade in October. By participating in the parade, we demonstrate our support for KCOM and the entire osteopathic profession.
Special Olympics
Each spring the Northeast Missouri Special Olympics is held at Truman State University. Each member of the Alpha Chapter is paired with a Special Olympics participant to serve as his or her buddy/fan for the day.
Other lunch meetings for the year
February 5, 2008 Business meeting regarding the application process and subsequent induction. Upcoming projects (ie. Special Olympics) will also be discussed.
April 17, 2008 Panel on “What preceptors expect out of medical students”
Induction Dinner
A formal new member induction ceremony, with all the fraternal traditions, will be held in April. The ceremony will consist of a formal dinner with a keynote speaker. Each new inductee will also receive a lapel pin and certificate. Hopefully this will make for a memorable evening that the new class will appreciate.
Application and Selection Process of the Alpha Chapter
-Students must possess a GPA of at least 85% after completing at least two quarters of medical school to apply.
-Members must possess a GPA above 80% to maintain membership.
-Under the discretion of the officer’s of Alpha Chapter for extenuating circumstances
- If a student falls below an 80%, he or she will be placed on academic probation for two quarters.
-An annual application process will be held for first and second year students.
-Application process will start with an initial, anonymous paper application. These applications are assessed on a point system for the amount of service and leadership.
-Qualified applicants will continue to an interview process to assess interpersonal skills, ethics, and morals.
-Members are required to attend all meetings.
-Students are required to participate in at least one community project.
Financial Report
We have started the 2007-2008 year with a balance around $600. Fundraisers will be held throughout the year in order to fund the traditions of Alpha Chapter. Hopefully we can leave the following class with more than we were given.
Alpha Chapter Statistics
Class of 2008- 37 members
Class of 2009- 33 members
Class of 2010- 35 members
Current Officers
President Jennifer Marshalek
Vice President Nathan City
Secretary Lindsey Fink
Treasurer Aaron Zivney
Thank you for your time and support of the Alpha Chapter of Sigma Sigma Phi.
Respectfully submitted by the officers
Of Alpha Chapter of Sigma Sigma Phi
Sincerely,
Jennifer Marshalek
Alpha Chapter President