About The Academy

About the Academy

Organization of the Academy

Contributing to Dermatology through Education, Communications and Service

An Unequaled Tradition of Professional Support

The American Academy of Dermatology is the largest, most influential and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of over 16,000, it represents virtually all practicing dermatologists in the United States.

This position of leadership had its beginnings in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period which witnessed the emergence of dermatology as a medical specialty and laid the foundations for modern dermatology. It was in this setting that the first dermatologic society was established in 1869.

The biological revolution of the 19th and 20th centuries added further impetus to dermatologic progress. The specialty received official recognition in 1932 with the formation of a Certifying Board for physicians who wished to be certified in dermatology and syphilology. The need for a national organization led to the founding of the American Academy of Dermatology in 1938. Its principal objective: the continuation of dermatologic education.

The Academy and Today's Dermatologist

The Academy is committed to the highest quality standards in continuing medical education. It also plays a major role in formulating socioeconomic policies that can influence the quality of dermatologic care. With this in mind, the Academy has developed a platform in which to:

  • promote and advance the science and art of medicine and surgery related to the skin
  • promote the highest possible standards in clinical practice, education and research in dermatology and related disciplines
  • support and enhance patient care and promote the public interest relating to dermatology.

Organization of the Academy

The Academy is governed by a sixteen member Board of Directors, the officers of the Academy consisting of the President, President-Elect, Vice President, Vice President-Elect, Secretary-Treasurer, Assistant Secretary-Treasurer, as well as the Immediate Past President and the Chairman of the Advisory Board. The officers and directors are elected by internet or mail ballot to the Academy membership with a nominating committee proposing a minimum of two candidates for each vacancy. Members of the Board of Directors are elected for a four-year term; each year four members retire and four new members are elected.

The Officers and Boards of Directors are supported by the many member volunteers who participate in the Academy's councils, committees and task forces, and by the administrative staff based at the headquarters office in Schaumburg, Illinois; and in Washington, DC; and Worcester, Massachusetts.