Nursing Sorority Chi Eta Phi chapter holds scholarship brunch in Benton

The Sigma Chi Chi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc., will host its 5th annual scholarship brunch today at the

Benton Event Center.

Doors will open at 10:30 a.m., welcoming guests to a celebration of education, community, and a commitment to their theme of “service for humanity.” The event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Chi Eta Phi Sorority is a professional organization for registered professional nurses and student nurses (male and female) representing many cultures and diverse ethnic backgrounds, according to the website chietaphi.org.

More than 8,000 RNS and student nurses hold membership in the sorority.

Chi Eta Phi Sorority was organized on Oct.

16, 1932, by Aliene C. Ewell, RN, and 11 other registered nurses at Freedman’s Hospital in Washington, D.C.

Guided by the motto “Service for Humanity,” the sorority has programs focusing on health promotion and disease prevention, leadership development, mentoring, recruitment, retention and scholarship, according to the website.

The keynote speaker for this event is State Representative Tara Shephard (D-district

79). Shephard represents portions of Pulaski County and during the 94th General Assembly, Rep. Shephard served on the House Public Transportation Committee and the House Aging, Children and Youth, Legislative and Military Affairs Committee. Rep. Shephard also served on the Joint Budget Committee.

Guiding the festivities as the emcee is Pamela Smith. Smith currently serves as the executive director of communications and senior advisor at the Little Rock school district.

One of the highlights of this banquet is the presentation of 12 scholarships to deserving nursing students in Arkansas, a testament to Chi Eta Phi’s unwavering commitment to “evaluate the plane of nursing,” said Jotis Lee, president of the sorority. These scholarships aren’t just about financial support; they represent a vote of confidence in the next generation of nurses who will shape healthcare in Arkansas.

The recipients of these scholarships span a diverse spectrum, encompassing single mothers pursuing nursing degrees, students facing financial hardships, and aspiring nurses determined to make a difference.

Unlike many scholarships that funnel funds directly to educational institutions, Chi Eta Phi ensures that the money lands directly in the hands of the recipients.

This enables them to use the funds for not just tuition and college expenses but also for the everyday challenges they may face, whether it’s covering gas expenses, childcare, or groceries.

Attendees have the option to make donations during the banquet or can contact Lee at jhea91@ yahoo.com.