Pi Alpha Alpha (PAA) is the national honor society formed to recognize and promote excellence in the study and practice of public policy and administration. Pi Alpha Alpha seeks to promote the advancement of quality in the education and practice of the art and science of public policy and administration. The purpose of Pi Alpha Alpha is to encourage and recognize outstanding scholarship and accomplishment in public affairs and administration, and to foster integrity, professionalism and effective performance in the conduct of government and related public service activities. Pi Alpha Alpha is administered by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA).

Pi Alpha Alpha's membership identifies those with the highest performance levels in educational programs and prepares them for public service careers. Established in 1974, the society has grown significantly. Currently there are 143 chapters and almost 35,000 members nationwide.

As part of the national group, The University of Utah Pi Alpha Alpha chapter dedicates itself:

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

Honors and Awards

We are very proud that The University of Utah chapter has been recognized and honored by the national chapter and has received several awards including the Pi Alpha Alpha Chapter Award of Excellence and the Pi Alpha Alpha Faculty Advisor Award. The purpose of the awards is to recognize excellence in programming and chapter management in pursuit of Pi Alpha Alpha's goals of scholarship, leadership, and excellence in graduate education in public affairs and administration.

2001- Chapter Award of Excellence
2003 - Chapter Award of Excellence
2007 - Faculty Advisor of the Year - Rick Green, PhD
2007 - Chapter Award of Excellence

Other awards and honors for members of the Utah Pi Alpha Alpha Chapter:

2005 - Pitima Booyarak - Doctoral Student Manuscript Award
2004 - Chris Peterson - Published in the Pi Alpha Alpha 30th Anniverary Commemorative Volume
1999 - April Walters - Masters Student Manuscript Award
1994 - Scott Holmes - Published in the Pi Alpha Alpha 20th Anniversary Commemorative Volume

More Information About Us

You will find more information about The University of Utah Pi Alpha Alpha chapter through the Frequently Asked Questions links below, or please contact us at the Center for Public Policy & Administration at 801-581-6781.

Who is eligible for membership?

What are the membership dues?

What are the benefits of membership?

What activities/events does The University of Utah Chapter sponsor?

Who leads The University of Utah Chapter?

Who should I contact for more information?