Sigma Iota Rho is a scholarly International Relations Honors Society, whose purpose is to promote and reward scholarship and service among students and practitioners of international relations and global studies, to foster integrity, creative performance, and knowledge in the conduct of international affairs. Iota Rho was founded in the United States in 1983 by Dean William Olsen of the American University. His efforts resulted in the creation of more than 22 Sigma chapters across the country. The national committee's priorities includes expansion of membership to institutions of higher learning across the globe. The name of the honor society was carefully chosen to reflect characteristics which are realistically necessary for any nation to conduct a successful foreign policy.
Sigma stands for synesi, which stands for prudence.
Iota stands for ideosi, which stands for ideals. Rho stands for romi, which stands for power. These three qualities are essential for the conduct of successful foreign policy. The views and opinions expressed in this page are strictly those of the page authors. The contents of the page have not been reviewed or approved by the University of South Carolina.