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Pi Alpha Alpha Induction Ceremony Celebrates Excellence in Public Service with Keynote Speaker RaJade Berry-James
On April 23, 2024, the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs held its annual Pi Alpha Alpha (PAA) Induction Ceremony, a landmark event that honors outstanding students in public administration, public policy, and public affairs.
The ceremony began with Myung Jin, Chair of Public Administration and faculty advisor, warmly welcoming the new inductees alongside their families and friends. This year, the Wilder School proudly added 13 new members to its Pi Alpha Alpha chapter:
- Marquelle Alyson Benn
- Natalie J. Breaux
- LaNeka Brown
- Rose Mi Chang
- Peter A. Pfohl
- Samantha Ray
- Tyrrah Denise Rock
- Samantha Rose Townsend
- Gabriella Vazquez
- Nya Zhane' Wilkins
- Lilian Chineme-Ugwu
- Laura E. B. Herrmann
- James Lambert
Dean Susan T. Gooden and PAA Chapter President Jose Alcaine introduced the evening’s keynote speaker, RaJade Berry-James, NASPAA President and Senior Associate Dean of Faculty and Academic Affairs at the Wilder School. Berry-James, a celebrated scholar and community leader, delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing Pi Alpha Alpha's commitment to the highest standards of equity, ethics, and professionalism.
Berry-James’ career in higher education, spanning decades, has been marked by her dedication to advancing social equity and community development. As a researcher, she has explored significant public policy issues centered on social justice, diversity, and inclusion, contributing extensively to academic journals and speaking at conferences worldwide. Her educational endeavors have guided countless students toward becoming leaders in the field, through courses in public policy, administration, cultural competence, and program evaluation.
In addition to her academic role, Berry-James has engaged in extensive community service. She has collaborated with organizations such as the Akron Jewish Community Center, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and the Raleigh-Wake Partnership to End and Prevent Homelessness, among others. Her "Leading by Convening" strategy at NASPAA has successfully brought together diverse stakeholders, fostering collaboration and innovation that drive positive change in public administration.
Berry-James, a two-time inductee into Pi Alpha Alpha, first in 1993 with a Master’s from Kean University and later in 1999 as the first African American to earn a PhD in Public Administration from Rutgers University - Newark, reflected on her journey. She shared how these experiences have shaped her commitment to leadership, mentorship, and community service, underpinned by her life’s mantra, “S/he Who Learns, Teaches.”
The ceremony showcased the excitement and pride of the new inductees, reinforcing the Wilder School’s commitment to nurture and celebrate the next generation of public service leaders. Berry-James' words left an indelible mark on the attendees, highlighting the profound impact of public service and the enduring values of Pi Alpha Alpha.