Pi Alpha Alpha (PAA) is a national honor society that recognizes and promotes excellence in the field of public affairs and administration. Graduate students who have demonstrated significant academic achievement are eligible to become members of PAA. Pi Alpha Alpha defines its mission in the following terms:

• To encourage and recognize outstanding scholarship and accomplishment in public affairs and administration,
• To promote the advancement of education and practice in the art and science of public affairs and administration, and
• To foster integrity, professionalism, and creative performance in the conduct of governmental and related public service activities.

The American University Chapter of PAA, one of the founding chapters in the United States, inducts students who have excelled academically at an annual DPAP awards night held during the spring semester. The next award ceremony will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, 6-8PM. In order to be eligible for membership, students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.7 or higher and must have completed at least fifty percent (50%) of the required program course work. Students are nominated by the Department of Public Administration and Policy, and if selected, will receive a nomination letter and invitation to join. Membership requires a one-time fee of $50.00.

Questions about American University's Chapter of Pi Alpha Alpha should be directed to Nelly Boishin at boishin@american.edu.

Learn more about Pi Alpha Alpha and its national organization.