Pi Sigma Alpha
About Us:
Pi Sigma Alpha is the national political science honor society. It is the only honor society for
college students of political science and government in the United States. Pi Sigma
Alpha is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies (ACHS) and is designated
as a “upper division, specialized” honor society by ACHS.
Our goal with our Pi Sigma Alpha, Epsilon Iota chapter at SJSU is to have students
expand upon their knowledge of political issues while taking opportunities to prepare
for their future.
As the local Epsilon Iota chapter, we strive to…
❖ Encourage political education and conversation from different perspectives in an
effort to gain insight and understanding.
❖ Honor the legacy of our society, emphasizing scholastic excellence.
❖ Further our knowledge and understanding of political ideas.
❖ Establish meaningful connections with fellow Epsilon Iotas and national members.
Connect with local and state government officials and other political actors.
With this in mind, our chapter hosts a multitude of events, ranging from debate nights,
study sessions, watching political and relevant documentaries, talks with local and
state leaders, philanthropic activities, bowling nights, Plato Club, and more!
We have been named a Best Chapter by the national Pi Sigma Alpha organization an amazing eight times (2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2016, 2014, 2013). Join our award-winning chapter
to get an experience like no other, right here at San José State University. Go Spartans!
Membership Information:
Pi Sigma Alpha recruits every semester. The chapter advisor sends invitations to students
who qualify for membership during weeks 11-13 of the semester. If you feel you meet
the criteria listed below and did not receive an invitation, or for more information
about the Epsilon Iota chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha at SJSU, please contact the Epsilon
Iota Chapter Advisor, Dr. Mary
Currin-Percival mary.currinpercival@sjsu.edu.
You may join as an Associate Member (an Iota) anytime during the semester. Please
email the chapter for additional information.
Qualifications for full membership in Pi Sigma Alpha:
- Completion of at least one-half of the credits required by SJSU for the baccalaureate degree;
- Completion at least ten (10) semester-units of work in political science, including at least six (6) upper-division political science units;
- Attaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher in political science courses.
FAQs:
What's the difference between a full member and an associate member (Iota)?
Full members have the ability to serve on the executive board, if elected, wear Pi
Sigma Alpha regalia at graduation, become a national member of Pi Sigma Alpha, and
list membership in Pi Sigma Alpha on their résumé.
Much like full members, Iotas can still participate in all events hosted by the chapter
and vote in elections. The difference lies in that they are exclusively a key part
of our local chapter here at SJSU, but not a part of the national organization until
they qualify to be a full member. By becoming a full member, Iotas can gain access
to more opportunities and advantages, such as eligibility for national Pi Sigma Alpha
scholarships and networking opportunities. Iotas are mentored and encouraged to become
full members as soon as they are eligible.
Does it cost money to be a part of Pi Sigma Alpha?
There is a one-time national membership fee of $35. This is paid to the national organization
when you join. The SJSU chapter is not currently charging local dues.
Epsilon Iota Executive Board
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Chapter President |
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Chapter Vice President Bio and photo coming soon. |
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Chapter Treasurer Bio and photo coming soon. |
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Chapter Secretary
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Pi Sigma Alpha Faculty Advisor
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Hi, my name is Insiya and I am the president of Pi Sigma Alpha! I am hoping to build
a stronger community among all Political Science students and create more opportunities
for PSA to engage on a national level. After graduating I am seeking to enter law
school. I am excited about making Pi Sigma Alpha a close-knit community for promoting
conversation and curiosity! 
Katelyn Gambarin is a fourth-year political science student serving as Secretary of
Pi Sigma Alpha (PSA) for the 2025-26 academic year. Outside of PSA, Katelyn serves
as the President of Associated Students at SJSU, dedicated to representing and advocating
for the student voice on campus. Beyond student leadership, Katelyn has interned in
the California State Assembly and House of Representatives and hopes to work in local
or state government upon graduating in the Spring.
Dr. Mary Currin-Percival is Associate Professor of Political Science at San José State
University and Faculty Advisor for Pi Sigma Alpha, Epsilon Iota Chapter. She also
serves as the department Internship Director, Director of the Institute for Public
Affairs and Civic Engagement (IPACE) and the Founding Director of Pi Sigma Alpha
Contact Information: psa.sjsu@gmail.com
Follow us on: Instagram
National Office: https://www.pisigmaalpha.org
