About IAAP
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The International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) is a not-for-profit professional association with approximately 40,000 members and affiliates and nearly 600 chapters worldwide.
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IAAP works in partnership with employers to promote professional excellence.
IAAP Mission, Objectives, Purpose, Vision and Core Values
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The IAAP mission is to be the acknowledged, recognized leader of administrative professionals and to enhance their individual and collective value, image, competence, and influence.
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IAAP's purpose is to provide information, education, and training and to set standards of excellence recognized by the business community on a global perspective.
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IAAP's objectives are to elevate the standards of all administrative professionals and to promote their working relationships with management through continuing education, authorized programs, and publications.
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IAAP's vision is to inspire and equip all administrative professionals to attain excellence.
Definition of Administrative Professional
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IAAP defines administrative professionals as "individuals who are responsible for administrative tasks and coordination of information in support of an office related environment and who are dedicated to furthering their personal and professional growth in their chosen profession."
Association History
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Founded in 1942 as the National Secretaries Association (NSA) to provide a professional network and educational resources for secretarial staff. The association's name was changed in 1998 to the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) to encompass the large number of varied administrative job titles and recognize the advancing role of administrative support staff in business and government.
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IAAP established the Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) program in 1951 to set recognized standards of excellence in the profession. IAAP introduced an additional advanced certification, the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) program, in 2001.
Association Structure
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A total of 40,000+ members and affiliates; nearly 600 chapters; 36 regional divisions in six districts.
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International in scope – members and chapters in 66 countries.
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IAAP has members in most Fortune 500 companies, hundreds of mid- to small-sized businesses, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and federal, state, and local government agencies.
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IAAP is a non-profit organization classified by the IRS as a 501(c) 6 association.
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Governed by a 12-member International Board of Directors, elected annually by member delegates at the IAAP International Convention and Education Forum.
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IAAP owns and operates its headquarters building located in Kansas City, Missouri.
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IAAP is not a union organization – we work in partnership with employers to promote excellence and lifelong learning.
IAAP Core Values
IAAP’s core values, defined as a set of guiding principles or tenets that define what the organization stands for, include:
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Integrity: Trust for each other in all relationships, including those with other members, staff, employers, vendors, leaders, mentors and sponsors.
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Encouragement: Offer inspiration for administrative professionals to fulfill their potential and advance their careers.
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Leadership: Members serve as positive ambassadors and role models for both the profession and association; leadership development is a key purpose of IAAP.
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Loyalty: Loyalty to the profession, to employers, and to IAAP is a characteristic of true professionals and is highly valued in business.
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Professionalism: A commitment to excellence, both individually and collectively, is a hallmark of IAAP.
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Relevance: To assure that IAAP continues to offer worthwhile programs and services—and meet members’ evolving needs.
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Pride: Pride in our chosen career field and membership in IAAP.
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Connection: IAAP offers invaluable opportunities to develop long-term friend-ships, to share information and build camaraderie among professionals.
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Individual Importance: Each member is an important individual contributor and asset to the organization.