Mid Lakeshore Area Chapter
International Association of Administrative Professionals



About IAAP

Mission Statement

IAAP Core Values

Definition of Administrative Professional

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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

  • A total of 40,000+ members and affiliates; nearly 600 chapters; 36 regional divisions in six districts.

  •  International in scope – members and chapters in 66 countries.

  • 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.

  • IAAP is a non-profit organization classified by the IRS as a 501(c) 6 association.

  • Governed by a 12-member International Board of Directors, elected annually by member delegates at the IAAP International Convention and Education Forum.

  •  IAAP owns and operates its headquarters building located in Kansas City, Missouri.

  • IAAP is not a union organization – we work in partnership with employers to promote excellence and lifelong learning.