Why Join Pi Alpha Alpha ®
Members of Pi Alpha Alpha are recognized for their outstanding scholarship and accomplishment in public affairs and administration. Pi Alpha Alpha membership identifies those with the highest performance levels in degree programs preparing them for public service careers.
Awards
Two annual awards for the Best Manuscript in Public Administration are awarded each year:
Best the Master’s level paper
Best Doctoral candidate paper
Entries are judged on the basis of relevance of the topic, appropriate use of methodology, quality of presentation, originality, innovativeness, clarity, and academic quality. Each winner receives a check for $200, and is awarded a plaque at the NASPAA Annual Conference. View the awards page for details about submitting your paper for considerations.
Recognition of Academic Achievement
Members of Pi Alpha Alpha are eligible to purchase honor cords, medallions, and other items that identify them as members of the honor society. View and purchase items online through Kenneth E. Jernigan & Associates. Chapter advisors should initiate purchase of induction materials (certificates and pins) and students should initiate additional purchases.
Service Opportunities
Individual Pi Alpha Alpha chapters organize public service volunteer opportunities giving members the opportunity to be involved with direct service, practicing what they learn in a classroom out in the field. Contact your local chapter (link to chapter list) to identify opportunities for making a difference in your local community.
Networking
With thousands of members across the country and around the world, Pi Alpha Alpha members are part of an elite group of public service professionals. Connect with your peers through the Facebook group.
Job Seeking Resources
Pi Alpha Alpha membership signals special qualifications and potential to prospective employers. This honor is especially meaningful to the employers posting job opportunities to NASPAA’s job board, www.publicservicecareers.org. This website also provides career advice and other resources useful to all public service students.