Pi Sigma Alpha

Pi Sigma Alpha Web site

Departmental Affiliation:
Politics and Government

Purpose/Description:
The Articles of Incorporation of Pi Sigma Alpha state as one of its purposes "to stimulate scholarship and intelligent interest in political science." The society functions at both the chapter and national level, sponsoring programs and events of value to the profession and teaching of political science. Each chapter is encouraged to provide a framework for enriching the exposure of its members and the wider university community to the study of government and issues of public concern.

Membership Criteria:
The criteria for membership are: junior status (60 hours), completion of three Politics and Government courses at ISU, 3.3 GPA in Politics and Government courses taken at ISU, and 3.0 overall GPA at ISU. Note: Students do NOT have to be Politics and Government majors.

Membership Costs:
$50 (one time only); $35 of this goes to the national fraternity as a membership fee and covers the membership certificate and the remaining $15 is used by the local chapter for incidental expenses.

Membership Benefits:
Pi Sigma Alpha is one of the largest academic honorary societies in the nation. Membership can be considered a valuable addition to a resume as the organization is widely recognized by governmental personnel officers and law school admission committees. For several years, the ISU chapter has sponsored or co-sponsored the Illinois State Conference for Students of Political Science, a Student Body Presidential Candidate Debate, an Excellence in Teaching Award, and the Politics and Government Department's Awards Ceremony. Other activities have included
sponsorship of speakers, a food and clothing drive to benefit Neville House, and other public events and social activities such as softball games. The national fraternity sponsors several $2000 scholarships awarded annually to undergraduates entering graduate programs in political science. Nominees must have been active members of Pi Sigma Alpha.

Advisor Contact Information:
Dr. Lori Riverstone-Newell