The need for an organization such as the International Association of Administrative Professionals® (IAAP®) first made itself felt in the early 1940's when women began replacing men in industry and secretaries were called upon to perform duties never before delegated to them. The first chapters were formed in 1942 under the laws of the State of Missouri, under the name of National Secretaries Association (NSA), and for four years the movement grew slowly and rather haphazardly. The first convention, held in 1946, provided an opportunity for the widely scattered members to meet and plan for a professional program. The need for a higher secretarial standard was recognized and a proposal for a certifying examination was approved and adopted.
A period of research followed. Business and industry were consulted as to the skills and abilities required of a secretary. The findings formed the basis of the Certified Professional Secretary® (CPS®) examination.
The year 1950 saw the establishment of two major operations - the Certified Professional Secretary® (CPS®) Institute, responsible for the certifying examination; and the creation of Vista Grande, the world's first retirement centre for secretaries, in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.
Tremendous growth in NSA was the result and in 1954, the Association became International with the first Canadian Chapter, Horseshoe Falls Chapter, being installed at Niagara Falls, Ontario. The association is divided into six geographical districts: Great Lakes, Southwest, Northwest, Southeast, Northeast and Canada became a district in June, 1977.
The Canadian membership is divided into three divisions: Western Canada Division with Chapters within Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan; Ontario Division: and Eastern Canada Division with Chapters within New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Quebec. Each Chapter is administered by an elected Board of Directors.
Canadian members have representation on the International Board of Directors through the election each year of an International Director for Canada District. Additionally, the Presidents of the three Divisions of Canada District are actively involved in the activities of the International Board. All members may attend the annual meetings.
