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 nine times (2026, 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2016, 2014, and 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 national organization
is going to be raising dues this year. 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
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Chapter Treasurer |
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Chapter Secretary
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Faculty Advisor
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Diya Agrawal is a fourth-year political science student at San José State University.
With a strong interest in local government and voter mobilization, she has worked
closely with the SJSU campus and Bay Area communities to promote local democracy.
She hopes to further all of these efforts by pursuing a PhD in public policy with
a focus on uplifting minority voices in policymaking. Diya is also a passionate disability
advocate and researcher whose work focuses on examining the realization of disability
justice and equity within public and political spheres.
My name is Spencer Hall, and I currently serve as the Vice President of SJSU's Pi
Sigma Alpha Chapter. I am a fourth-year Political Science Student, and for the past
decade, I have been passionate about politics and civic engagement. As Vice President,
I hope to optimize our chapter's role in promoting civic engagement within our community.
Outside of academics, I can often be found at car shows and at rock concerts!
Cindy Florian Ramirez is a fourth-year political science student serving as secretary
for 2026-2027. She has served as a Lobby Corps member, advocating for San José State
students in the California Higher Education Student Summit (CHESS) hosted by the Cal
State Student Association. She is currently employed at two law firms and hopes to
continue gaining valuable
Dr. Mary Currin-Percival is Professor of Political Science 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
