Sigma Phi Omega Honor Society

Sigma Phi Omega (SPO), the international academic honor and professional society in gerontology, was established in 1980 to recognize excellence of those who study gerontology and aging and the outstanding service of professionals who work with or on behalf of older persons.

SPO seeks to promote scholarship, professionalism, friendship and services to older persons, and to recognize exemplary attainment in gerontology/aging studies and related fields

As a member of UNR's Beta Phi Chapter, you are associated with excellence in the field of aging, and identified as having academic excellence at your UNR graduation, with the Sigma Phi Omega cord and medallion. For detailed information about SPO, view their website.

The Honor Society is $30 per year but you can apply at any time during the year. Membership will expire one year from membership activation

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Currently enrolled in a gerontology or aging studies program leading to an associate of arts or a baccalaureate degree or award of a certificate or other credential in gerontology. The student can be majoring or minoring in gerontology to qualify.
  • Enrolled in the second term (or later) of declared gerontology studies.
  • Undergraduate students must have an overall grade point average at least 3.30 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Shown capacity for and commitment to leadership and achievement in gerontology and their related fields of professional study.

How to Apply:

  1. Complete the online "Student Membership" application.
  2. Specify that you want your membership certificate and pin sent to your Chapter Advisor; our Chapter President and Chapter Advisor will sign the certificate, then present the Certificate and pin to you (mailed, or you can pick up in the GAP office).
  3. If you have applied for UNR graduation, the GAP will also present to you the SPO cord and medallion to wear at the UNR Commencement ceremony. Do not purchase these items. Your membership must be active.