ACPA and NASPA: CONSOLIDATION UPDATE (February 2010)
by ACPA and NASPA presidents

In December 2009 the ACPA Governing Board and the NASPA Board of Directors took the unprecedented step of voting on a resolution to further define the process of a possible consolidation of the two associations. These votes were historic and the culmination of many months of work that included the receiving of feedback from members and leaders of both associations. The leadership of both associations is pleased with this outcome and optimistic about the continuation of these discussions and processes.

The resolutions discussed and voted upon by the two boards clarified the histories and legacies of the two associations, the fundamental work of the two associations, and our shared values and our shared service to senior student affairs officers, faculty, mid-level practitioners, new professionals, graduate and undergraduate students, and corporate partners. The resolutions also provided compelling reasons for the consolidation efforts, as well as established the “consolidation steering team (CST)” and defined eight subcommittees to provide more of an outline to a new association. These subcommittees include: governance bylaws and structure, social identities (Knowledge Communities/Standing Committees), functional areas (KC/Commissions/Divisions), membership structure, conferences/conventions, geographical organization, placement services, and publications/scholarship.

The CST consists of the president, past president, president-elect/vice president, and executive director from both ACPA and NASPA. Recently the CST met in Washington DC to clarify the resolutions, select co-chairs and members for the different subcommittees, and define the process for the subcommittees collective work in the coming months. The CST understands that each association may approach the process of consolidation differently, but also believes that the work to establish a new association and to bring a greater understanding of a new association to our collective members prior to member vote must continue.

The leadership of both ACPA and NASPA is committed to completing our due diligence in reviewing administrative operations, finances and personnel. The leadership is also committed to beginning the work of the subcommittees (consisting of the leadership from both ACPA and NASPA). This subcommittee work will be completed by July 2010 and acted upon by the respective boards in July 2010. It is the understanding and desire of the leadership of both associations that members have an opportunity to address this topic in September/October 2010. Once the rosters of the subcommittees are finalized, that information will be made available to the membership.

This is a fantastic time to be in Student Affairs. The two comprehensive associations have never been stronger and remain at the forefront of the profession in meeting the needs of their members. The work of the leadership, as well as the recent actions by both boards, speaks well to the commitment of our associations to remain engaged in an inclusive and transparent process. Should you have questions or desire additional information, do not hesitate to contact us.

Sincerely,

Tom

Mike