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.