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WHO WE ARE
IAAP is a global non-profit organization dedicated to empowering administrative professionals for the future of work. Through innovation, collaboration, inclusion, and advocacy, IAAP and the IAAP Foundation work together to build a worldwide community that provides professionals with essential resources, knowledge, and support to lead workplace transformation in the technology age. As a member-governed organization focused on public good, IAAP works to elevate the administrative profession globally through educational programs, professional development, and advocacy initiatives.


FoundationLogo
 
The IAAP Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and the charitable partner of IAAP. No other foundation does what the Foundation does--invest in the success of office and administrative professionals. Simply stated, the Foundation puts admins first. Its purpose is to ensure admins are prepared to serve the business needs of the future as the visibility of the profession continues to rise. Thanks to its donors, the Foundation has impacted thousands of admins through its support of innovative research, educational and professional development opportunities. To be a part of the Foundation’s impact, visit www.iaap-foundation.org . Your ongoing support will help secure a successful future for admins around the globe.



VISION

To revolutionize the perception and impact of the administrative profession, creating a global community of empowered professionals who are leading workplace transformation.

MISSION

To equip administrative professionals with the awareness, knowledge, and community needed to thrive in the emerging technology age, lead organizational change, and shape the future of work.

VALUES

Innovation: We embrace creative solutions and adaptive mindsets to advance the administrative profession, leveraging technology and forward-thinking strategies to prepare administrative professionals for the future of work.

Collaboration: We cultivate a vibrant, supportive community where administrative professionals and admin advocates connect, share knowledge, and partner to advance the profession and uplift one another, recognizing collective strength. IAAP and IAAP Foundation work together to amplify our impact and shape the future of work for administrative professionals around the globe.

Inclusion: We champion diversity and create a welcoming space where all feel a sense of belonging, are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents, ensuring every voice is heard and enriching our global community. We strive to give all administrative professionals access to the resources they need to develop and grow.

Global Perspective: We value the interconnectedness of administrative professionals across cultures and borders. We strive to cultivate a community that enriches our understanding and appreciation of diverse practices, enabling administrative professionals to thrive in a worldwide business landscape and share best practices on a global scale.

Advocacy: We actively promote, empower, and educate administrative professionals to advocate for themselves and others. Our advocacy promotes the vital role administrative professionals play in business, shapes the future of work, and elevates the profession globally. We are mission-driven, place people over profits, are governed by elected members, and exist for the public good.


Download IAAP’s Vision, Mission and Values PDF here



2022-2025 Strategic & DEI Plan
Core Purpose: To provide education, certification, and leadership development to administrative professionals.
Vision: IAAP will advance the administrative profession through advocacy and empowerment.
Strategic
Goals
LEADERSHIP
IAAP will empower a community of leaders who celebrate accountability and share responsibility of professional advancement.
STANDARDIZATION
IAAP will create awareness, professional consistency, define and deliver standards, and create equity for the profession within business.
CREDENTIALS
IAAP credentialing programs will be used to standardize, assess, and develop administrative talent within organizations.
ACCESSIBILITY
IAAP will remove barriers, evolve
program modalities, expand
awareness of opportunities, and
expand offerings to make
programs and services accessible
to all admins.
DEI Goal
Alignment
I, II, III I, II, III, IV I & III I, II, III, IV
Foundation
Funding Totals
$268,650 $265,000 $223,750 $309,900
CRITICAL
Completed in 12
months
Deliver required annual DEI training to all IAAP leaders
Support and promote the successful launch and implementation of Member Resource Groups through IAAP's DEI Committee
Expand access to organizational membership through relationship building and awareness campaigns
Improve and expand effectiveness of the organizational membership program through relationship management, data collection, and research from participating employers
Champion research conducted by the CAC to determine viability and ROI of accreditation
Promote and represent IAAP’s commitment to DEI through collaborations
Utilize feedback and learning to enhance virtual attendee experiences across all IAAP programs
IMMEDIATE
In Progress in 12
Months
Create and execute the Coach Approach leadership development coaching model for all IAAP volunteer leaders
Improve and expand effectiveness of the Board Development Committee and the Board Development process
Create and adopt a robust change-management plan to support the continued evolution of IAAP’s leadership structure
Review process and performance
assessment of DEI and strategic plans
ensuring alignment and success
Improve and enhance the credentialing experience from information gathering > purchase decision > study and preparation > test taking > results > recertification Leverage organizational memberships to create equitable access to development and training for administrative staff Remove financial barriers for
IAAP programs and services
(leverage Foundation partnership)
Contract with only event partners
who align with IAAP’s DEI
commitment
INTERMEDIATE
In Progress in
18-24 Months
Align membership recruitment and retention, IAAP training and resources, and event experiences to IAAP’s core values
Curate on-demand DEI training and resources for all IAAP members and admin community at-large
Create and deploy an employer Needs Assessment to support alignment of IAAP resources and programs to the needs of each organizational member Foster relationships with external organizations for collaboration and expanded awareness of IAAP credentials
Innovate and expand IAAP’s
credentialing offerings
Identify and remove all barriers
to access IAAP programs and
services
LATER
After 24 Months
Curate a culture of inclusivity and belonging to fulfill members’ needs and wants Convene a body of administrative professional stakeholders, thought leaders, business leaders, decision makers, and experts to identify and champion standards of the profession
Ensure a sustainable pipeline for the profession by creating a clear pathway to the profession
Expand collaborations with higher
ed and associations
Expand target audience of
credentials to a global market
Identify and offer global
development resources for admins
IAAP DEI PLAN 2022 – 2025

CEO Message

Creating an inclusive association community and ultimately an inclusive administrative workforce begins with personal accountability and a commitment to prioritizing things like diversity, equity, justice, access, and inclusion above our own comfort. I am and will remain a champion for inclusion. I will use my influence and position to create movement and ensure progress on our DEI Plan.

Statement of Collaboration

The DEI Plan was created with guidance and support from independent consultants who specialize in embracing diversity and leveraging the characteristics that make us unique.

We recognize that all of the work of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) and the IAAP Foundation is an ongoing process and a constant pursuit. This plan is an important step in a continuous, deliberate journey, using evidence-based research in our pursuit of delivering on this inclusive, accountable action plan. As such, this document serves as a guide and will come to life with the active passion and participation of everyone who supports IAAP and the IAAP Foundation.

Introduction

The purpose of this plan is to create a culture of inclusivity that embraces diversity, increases the sense of belonging for members and stakeholders, and drives engagement. It is our primary goal to advance the global impact of the profession. We commit to instill diversity, equity, and inclusion into our operating philosophy. Visit www.iaap-dei.org to learn more about this work.

Definitions

DEI is an acronym which stands for:
DIVERSITY: Differences in ability, age, color, ethnicity, gender expression, gender identity, height, language, national origin, marital status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, weight and other characteristics that make us unique.
EQUITY: Equal access, opportunity and freedom from discrimination or prejudice on the basis of ability, age, color, ethnicity, gender expression, gender identity, height, language, national origin, neurodiversity, marital status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, weight and other characteristics that result in inequitable access. Additionally, for IAAP, this includes equity among different positions, work settings, or aspirations.
INCLUSION & BELONGING: Deliberate efforts to ensure that our organization is a place where differences are welcomed, different perspectives are respectfully heard and where every member feels a sense of belonging (feeling valued, trusted, connected, and informed) and inclusion.

Vision

IAAP and the IAAP Foundation will advance the administrative profession through advocacy and empowerment. We will impact inclusivity for the international community of administrative professionals.

Commitment

Our commitment to our plan is evident through and anchored by the IAAP Core Values. We are committed to creating an environment where members and other stakeholders feel safe, welcomed, valued, respected, and recognized for the inherent dignity they possess. All of our members can find space in the association where they can be themselves. This commitment is supported by our values of:

  • Authenticity - We remain true to our core purpose, unafraid to stand with integrity and confidence for our goals and objectives.
  • Community - We value and invite collaboration, connections, and engagement with stakeholders.
  • Passion - We are committed, dedicated, enthusiastic, and decisive in our support and mentorship of administrative professionals.
  • Relevance - We will provide exceptional, meaningful, and innovative resources to support the changing world of the administrative profession.
  • Resilience - We will persevere, remain steadfast, and focused, in our actions and decisions to support our goals and objectives.

 

KEY STRATEGIC OUTCOMES

Goals, Objectives, and Tactics

Goal I: Development

IAAP is a not-for-profit professional association serving the administrative profession. The IAAP Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and the charitable partner of IAAP. IAAP, with the support of the IAAP Foundation, is dedicated to helping office and administrative professionals advance their career through training and development in a demanding and ever-changing business environment. Objective 1: Professional development is required for IAAP staff and leadership at all levels on an annual basis. Objective 2: IAAP Member and Non-Member Development

Goal II: Association Culture

IAAP’s community is made up of boards, volunteer leaders, committee members, staff, members and donors, and nonmember consumers. IAAP is a community of inclusion, belonging, and development. To create that environment, we embrace the range of similarities and differences each individual brings to the association. Based on that foundation and in alignment with our core values, we will attract and retain an inclusive community to advance the mission.
Objective 1: Align membership recruitment and retention, IAAP training and resources, and event experiences to IAAP’s core values
Objective 2: Ensure IAAP community members and stakeholders find value throughout all stages of their career and involvement with IAAP

Goal III: Collaborations

IAAP is strengthened by collaborating with partners in the industry and organizations globally. Objective 1: Advocate for equitable access to development and training for administrative professionals within all industries and business
Objective 2: Events and Event Partnerships Objective 3: Promotion and Representation

Goal IV: Accountability

IAAP recognizes our responsibility to implement and sustain equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts. IAAP is committed to finding solutions and creating continuous improvement through dedicated resources, annual plan review, data sharing and anti-regression strategies.
Objective 1: Review Process and performance assessment of DEI plan and overall strategic plan ensuring alignment and measurements of success
Objective 2: Sustainability and pipeline development, supporting and elevating the next generation of administrative professionals

 

 

IAAP HISTORY
  • Founding

    National Secretaries Association (NSA) was formed and the first chapter was founded in Topeka, Kansas

  • First Publication

    NSA’s first magazine for members, The National Secretary, begins publication

  • First Convention

    First International Convention convenes in Kansas City, MO with close to 200 attendees

  • Certification Begins

    The first Certified Professional Secretary exam was delivered to 281 candidates

  • National Secretaries Week

    First National Secretaries Week, now known as Administrative Professionals Week

  • Men Join NSA

    Convention delegates vote to open membership to men; first man joins six weeks later

  • Equal Rights Movement

    NSA members approve a resolution supporting the Equal Rights Amendment

  • Name Change #1

    NSA changes its name to Professional Secretaries International (PSI)

  • Publication Name Change

    The Secretary magazine becomes OfficePro

  • Name Change #2

    PSI becomes the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP)

  • Professional Secretaries Week and Day become Administrative Professionals Week and Day

  • Additional Certification

    The Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) exam is offered for the first time

  • Certification is Modernized

    The CAP becomes IAAP’s sole credential and specialty certificate programs are added

  • Founding of IAAP Foundation

    IAAP's charitable partner was created to invest in the success and future of the administrative profession.

  • Structure is Modernized

    IAAP restructures from chapters, divisions, and districts to Local Area Networks (LANs) and Branches

  • Unprecedented CEO Hire

    IAAP leaders hire first ever black female Chief Executive Officer

  • CAP Accreditation

    IAAP’s CAP credential becomes accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)

  • Brand Refresh

    IAAP refreshes the brand and changes the names of LANs and Branches to Branches and Regions





ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS DAY  

Skip the flowers and treats, this day was started by IAAP in 1952 to provide administrative professionals a collective voice. The administrative profession deserves a seat at the table of business as a partner, not minute-taker. Admins should not expect to be recognized during this week and day, but instead should use this time to speak up and ask for the things they need to be successful—like commensurate pay and professional development opportunities. Why? Because the success of admins makes the businesses they support more efficient—if time is money, admins are worth their weight in gold.    


IAAP salutes all of the amazing admins out there who positively contribute to offices around the globe as well as dedicate themselves to the administrative profession.

  


2025 Date: April 23

2026 Date: April 22

2027 Date: April 21




Be sure to check here for all Administrative Professionals Day events up to 60 days prior to the day.

 




IAAP BOARD OF DIRECTORS


Chair
Dierdre Crowl, CAP

Dierdre Crowl, CAP, OM, MBA has been an avid member of IAAP since 2008, crediting longtime members w...

Chair
Dierdre Crowl, CAP

Chair-Elect
Kendra Adams, CAP

Kendra Adams loves her career as an Administrative Professional....

Chair-Elect
Kendra Adams, CAP

Diversity Officer
Kharma Paige, CAP

Kharma is a proven and trusted Executive Assistant with a 24-year background of supporting...

Diversity Officer
Kharma Paige, CAP

Director
Maria A. Phillips, CAP

Maria is a multi-award-winning Administrative Professional and Strategic Business Partner. Maria joined IAAP in 2010...

Director
Maria Phillips, CAP


Director
Shanterria Seward, CAP

Shanterria "Shawn" Seward is an experienced Executive Assistant...

Director
Shanterria Seward, CAP

Director
Carleen Muncy, CAP

My name is Carleen Kay Muncy...

Director
Carleen Muncy, CAP

Director
Heidi Call, CAP

Heidi Call is a highly accomplished Executive Business Partner...

Director
Heidi Call, CAP

Director
Nadine Waslosky

Nadine Waslosky, CAP joined IAAP in 2016 in search of continuing education...

Director
Nadine Waslosky, CAP


Director
Kenya Johnson

Kenya L. Johnson serves as a Senior Manager for the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA)...

Director
Kenya Johnson, CAP



 
 
 
 

















IAAP FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS


Chair
Barbara Braun, CAP

Barbara Braun, CAP, OM, TA, has been an administrative professional for over 38 years with...

Chair
Barbara Braun, CAP

Chair-Elect
Carissa Burgett, CAP

CWith a deep passion and a commitment to advancing the administrative profession...

Chair-Elect
Carissa Burgett, CAP

Director
Terri Mullan, CAP

Terri Mullan, CAP, HR, MOS has over 35 years’ experience, primarily in the financial industry in New York City...

Director
Terri Mullan, CAP

Director
Anika Porter, CAP

I'm Anika Porter; I have over twenty years of administrative experience and am known for my engaging personality...

Director
Anika Porter, CAP


Director
Elaine Strohm, CAP

Elaine Strohm, BA, CAP, BW graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Queen's University in Ontario, Canada...

Director
Elaine Strohm, CAP



 
 
 
 

















IAAP STAFF


Chris Cason, CAP

My name is Chris, short for Christopher, and I thank you for taking the time to explore my bio...

EA to the Executive Team
Chris Cason, CAP

Rori Defoor

Hello! My name is Rori DeFoor and I assumed the position of Volunteer Assistant...

Volunteer Assistant
Rori DeFoor

Jae Gray, MS

My name is Jae (they/them), and I am proud to work at IAAP...

Operations Specialist
Jae Gray, MS

Danelle Hermesch

My name is Danelle Hermesch, and I proudly serve as Foundation Specialist...

Foundation Specialist
Danelle Hermesch

Christi Jones, CAP

My IAAP journey has been fast and furious...

Programs Manager
Christi Jones, CAP

Melissa Mahoney, CAE

It’s a privilege to be IAAP’s CEO...

Chief Executive Officer
Melissa Mahoney, CAE


Tony Nichols

I was hired as Operations manager in May of 2022...

Operations Manager
Tony Nichols

Ashley Root

My name is Ashley Root...

Partnership Manager
Ashley Root

Amy Sajko, CFRE

I joined the IAAP Foundation as CEO in May 2022...

Chief Executive Officer, IAAP Foundation
Amy Sajko, CFRE

Rachel Suman (Reynolds)

I started with IAAP as an admin...

Chief Experience Officer
Rachel Suman (Reynolds)



 
 
 

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