Pi Sigma Alpha

Formed in 1920, Pi Sigma Alpha is the National Political Science Honor Society. Students who a) have completed at least 12 credits of politics and international affairs courses at Wake Forest, excluding AP and transfer courses, b) have a 3.7 GPA in those courses, and c) have a 3.5 GPA overall will be invited to join the Wake Forest chapter at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. Wake Forest’s Nu Zeta chapter has been active since 1981, acknowledging academic achievement while also furthering the interests of its members and the Department of Politics and International Affairs through a variety of activities.

Each year the society hosts a variety of events. Past events have included forums on graduate school and internship opportunities, receptions welcoming newly declared majors and encouraging faculty-student interaction, and panels featuring discussion of political issues and developments.  Every spring, Pi Sigma Alpha holds an induction ceremony to honor new members and present them with their certificate of membership.

Newly elected officers for the 2025-2026 academic year are Catie Oakley, Ava Jochim and Ryan Herzig.

The faculty advisor for Pi Sigma Alpha is Professor Jack Amoureux.

Michael Burstein and Kristin Taylor present papers at the Pi Sigma Alpha National Conference

Michael Burstein and Kristin Taylor, senior politics majors and members of Pi Sigma Alpha, presented their papers at the Pi Sigma Alpha National Student Research Conference in February 2024.  Michael’s paper is titled: “Understanding How Economic Uncertainty Impacts Child Abuse: An Examination of Reported Abuse and Neglect During the Covid-19 Pandemic and How Schools Protect America’s Children. Kristin’s paper is titled: “The Political Impact of Community Gardens.”