Stony Brook University’s Eta Theta chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha has received the Best Chapter Award for the third consecutive year. The recognition is given to chapters from institutions with undergraduate enrollments between 15,000 and 25,000 students that are active both on campus and in their communities. The award highlights efforts to promote scholarship and interest in political science.
Jason Rose, lecturer in the Department of Political Science and advisor of the SBU Pi Sigma Alpha chapter, said, “Our students on the chapter’s e-board have worked incredibly hard to achieve this, and our current department chair, Distinguished Professor Leonie Huddy, has been prioritizing our students’ clubs and the honor society for years.”
Rose also noted support from elected officials: “Congressman Nick LaLota and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s offices have been incredibly supportive of the chapter, engaging with its students and holding several events over the past year.”
Three members of the chapter—Rachel Alexandre (who is also a 2025 SUNY Chancellor’s Award Winner), Olivia Touhamy, and Cole Reinking—were recognized for Written Excellence in Political Science.
The Eta Theta chapter organizes various activities throughout the academic year. These include candidate forums, guest lectures in international relations, special events, watch parties, information sessions about government internships, and research paper writing workshops. Participation offers leadership experience and opportunities to work closely with faculty from Stony Brook’s Department of Political Science.
Pi Sigma Alpha operates on nearly 850 campuses nationwide. More than 300,000 members have been inducted since its founding. Its membership includes national leaders such as one U.S. president, three Supreme Court justices, and many members of Congress.
