PAA objectives foster integrity, professionalism and effective performance in the conduct of government and related public service activities. PAA membership identifies those with the highest performance levels in educational programs preparing them for public service careers. Membership is open to undergraduate and graduate students in the school of public affairs and administration, faculty members, alumni and public officials and scholars who have made significant contributions to the field. Nominations for memberships are done once a year and are coordinated by the Chapter Advisor, Dr. Leonard Kooperman along with the Pi Alpha Alpha Nomination Committee and the officers of the Golden Gate University Chapter. In addition, the induction ceremony for new members is conducted once a year.
Activities vary from chapter to chapter.
Chapters may sponsor orientation activities for incoming public administration students, provide tutoring services, schedule seminars, leadership conferences or lecture series. PAA is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies, a national organization dedicated to encouraging fraternal and specialized honor societies in establishing and maintaining high standards, scholarship and achievement of their members.