Photo of Elizabeth Madigan

Longtime professor to lead international nursing organization

Elizabeth “Liz” Madigan becomes CEO of Sigma Theta Tau International this fall

After a quarter-century at Case Western Reserve, Elizabeth “Liz” Madigan is taking her talents to the international stage.

The accomplished researcher and educator has accepted the position of chief executive officer designate of the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI).

“I am humbled to have the opportunity to serve my fellow nurses as CEO of STTI,” Madigan said. “During the past decade, [it] has significantly expanded its global presence and delivered the highest-quality programs and services to members. I am looking forward to continuing this momentum and exploring new possibilities for the organization.”

A native of Ohio, Madigan earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from Wright State and Ohio State, respectively. She began four years of doctoral studies at the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing in 1992, and joined the faculty in 1996. In the ensuing years, she authored or co-authored more than 70 articles in peer-reviewed journals, served as the school’s associate dean for academic affairs, and developed extraordinary expertise in effective delivery of home health care around the world.

“Dr. Madigan embodies the key attributes of a Sigma member, having devoted her career to nursing excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service,” said STTI Board President and search committee chair Cathy Catrambone. “She brings a wealth of practice, academic, and global experience to this new leadership role, and I look forward to seeing STTI continue to flourish under her leadership.”

Madigan, the Independence Foundation Professor at Case Western Reserve, is a longtime member of STTI and in 2007 received its Daniel J. Pesut Spirit of Renewal Award. The organization’s description of the honor notes that it recognizes individuals who “exemplify purposeful reflection in practice, mindful understanding of human interrelationships, and display an appreciative, futuristic vision for the practice of nursing.”

In addition to her extensive work in home health care, Madigan also has published and presented internationally regarding the use of technology to improve chronic disease outcomes as well as innovative approaches to enhance nursing education. She also has been increasingly engaged in international education and research initiatives. She has led The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Clinical Training in Home Care Nursing—one of just 38 centers around the globe; is a faculty member of the university’s Framework Program for Global Health; and a research grant reviewer for the Italian Ministry of Health Young Investigator Research Program.

Based in Indianapolis, STTI has more than 135,000 active members in over 90 countries and territories. Members include practicing nurses, instructors, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and others. STTI’s 520 chapters are located at more than 700 institutions of higher education. Madigan will be presented formally to STTI’s members during its 44th Biennial Convention in late October, and will assume the CEO position after the convention concludes.