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