Sigma Phi Omega National Academic Honor and Professional Society
Gamma Upsilon Chapter
Department of Gerontology (MGS) and Undergraduate Gerontology Program (CPCS)
University of Massachusetts Boston

In 1999, the University of Massachusetts Boston Gerontology Center established a chapter of the Sigma Phi Omega honor society, a growing national organization with 64 active chapters and over 4,000 members nationwide. The UMASS Boston chapter has been designated as the Gamma Upsilon Chapter.

Four charter doctoral student members, along with faculty advisors established the local chapter. New officers for the program are selected each year to work with the faculty advisors design and direct the program's activities. Each year qualified students, faculty, alumni and professionals in the field are invited to join our local chapter of Sigma Phi Omega. Interested parties may contact any of the officers or faculty advisors for further information.

The first induction ceremony and reception was held in 2000.

Here are some frequently asked questions (as answered by the Sigma Phi Omega application packet).

What is Sigma Phi Omega?
Sigma Phi Omega is the National Honor Society formed in 1980 to recognize the excellence of those who study gerontology/aging, as well as of the professional aging service personnel.

What is the purpose of Sigma Phi Omega?
Sigma Phi Omega seeks to promote scholarship, professionalism, friendship, and services to older persons, and to recognize exemplary attainment in gerontology/aging studies and related fields.

Who is eligible for membership in Sigma Phi Omega?
Membership is open to undergraduate and graduate students who are majoring or minoring in gerontology/aging studies and related fields and who are in at least their second term of enrollment. Undergraduate membership is determined by reference to CPCS evaluation strategies by CPCS undergraduate gerontology faculty. The criteria for selection of CPCS students are advanced rank in the program and evidence of high quality scholarship. Graduate students must have at least a 3.5 G.P.A. to be eligible for membership. Faculty, alumni, professional, and honorary memberships are also available and are invited after consideration by the Gerontology Gamma Upsilon Executive Committee composed of faculty advisors and the honor society officers.