by Rebecca Biason
The Sigma Theta Tau International Society of Nursing Researchers held its annual conference (Sigma Congress 2026) in downtown Toronto in July, welcoming nurse scientists from around the world.
Dean Robyn Stremler provided opening remarks before the Plenary session featuring Bloomberg Nursing alumna and Canada’s Chief Nursing Officer Dr. Leigh Chapman.
“For many of us, Sigma Congress provides a unique opportunity to network with like-minded researchers from around the world, who seek to advance nursing science and the impact of nursing research across various facets of health and healthcare,” said Stremler.
Showcasing student and faculty led research
For Bloomberg Nursing students, this was an ideal opportunity highlight their research and demonstrate the Faculty’s commitment to embedding students in research activities at all program levels.
BScN student Izzare Linares and Master of Nursing student Adam Bursey presented a poster on the strengths of embedding nursing students within health systems research, and how this approach can foster experiential learning and leadership development. Both were involved in research led by Assistant Professor Rosanra Yoon, as part of the Rosenstadt Research Development Program and are members of Yoon’s Better Together Research Hub.
Assistant Professor Mariana Bueno presented some preliminary findings from her ongoing study exploring nurse’s perspectives on parental engagement in pain in the NICU. She noted that this work is also being led by her BScN student Danielle Sobers, who has joined her research project as a recipient of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Undergraduate Student Research Award.
Bloomberg Nursing PhD students also presented on their doctoral research sharing important findings and the potential impact of their work on healthcare and health systems with an international audience.
Nurse Researcher Hall of Fame
Professor Martine Puts was inducted into the Sigma International Nurse Research Hall of Fame, the only Canadian to be awarded this honour. This special designation recognizes Puts for her achievements in research that seeks to improve the health and wellbeing of older adults particularly older adults with cancer.
Sigma Congress concluded with a special reception hosted by Bloomberg Nursing at the Sheraton Centre with faculty, alumni and students in attendance. In addition to be a networking opportunity the reception also served as an information event for those interested in learning more about the Faculty and its graduate programs.
