Student Organizations

The School of Public Policy offers several organizations that provide students with professional development, networking, and community-building opportunities.


Graduate Association of Public Policy Students (GAPPS) - International City/County Management Association (ICMA)

GAPPS-ICMA is the primary student organization for the UConn School of Public Policy. Its goal is to serve as a social and intellectual forum for students pursuing a degree or certificate in the School. GAPPS-ICMA is committed to public service, professional development, and having fun. Throughout the academic year GAPPS-ICMA hosts a number of events that enrich students’ social and academic experiences.

GAPPS is an International City/County Management Association (ICMA) student organization.

2023-2024 Chapter Officials:

  • Brighten Critchfield - President
  • Kemrodge Bell - Vice President
  • Rachel Boward - Treasurer
  • Anna Bella D'Amico - Secretary

Pi Alpha Alpha

Pi Alpha Alpha is the honor society for graduate professional students in public administration and public policy. The honor society:

  • Encourages and recognizes outstanding achievement
  • Supports graduate public service education
  • Invites membership of students that have completed at least half of their program coursework and maintain a 3.7 GPA
  • Uses membership fees and donations to support student professional development

Pi Alpha Alpha-sponsored professional development activities include:

  • Social events like the annual ‘PAA Meet and Greet’
  • Mock Interview Night – to prepare students for IPP interviews
  • Special professional development training and panels
  • PAA Professional Development Scholarships

2023-2024 Officers

  • Paula Norato, President
  • Jessica Seabrook, Vice President
  • Mekaila Carey, Secretary
  • Beverne Cordner, Treasurer
  • Mohamad Alkadry, Faculty Advisor

To learn more about this organization, please contact Catherine Guarino or one of the officers/advisors above.

A group of 10 students pose with their certificates at a Pi Alpha Alpha induction ceremony.
2018 Pi Alpha Alpha Induction Ceremony