American Society for Training & Development is now Association for Talent Development
Hi Denise,
Earlier this month, on May 6, ASTD National announced to members and to the world that the American Society for Training & Development, ASTD, has changed its name to the Association for Talent Development, ATD (see the email at the bottom of this message).
As soon as I read this announcement, my first response was curiosity about the history behind this decision. Even more, I wanted to know the implications for our Chapter. Key answers to those questions were provided to me and other West Coast Chapter leaders in a recent conference call with our National representatives.
Here are the first things to know:
I believe the spirit of the change makes sense. This new name and brand reflect more clearly our profession's mission, which covers more than Training Delivery and Instructional Design. Our Competency Model includes Coaching, Performance Improvement, Change Management, and other disciplines, all of which are needed for effective learning in the workplace.
President Elect Jolynn Atkins has graciously stepped up to lead our transition from ASTD-Orange County to ATD-Orange County. Your questions about it may be directed to her at presidentelect@astdoc.org.
Sincerely,
Dear Kathleen, Yesterday at our 2014 International Conference & Exposition, the ASTD Board of Directors and I announced that
ASTD is changing its name to the Association for Talent Development (ATD).
Since some of our members and customers were not able to join us in Washington, D.C. for the conference, I wanted to be sure that you heard about the change first hand.
As I shared with conference attendees, this change comes after years of consideration of ASTD's brand, a thoughtful review of major trends and changes in the profession, and a reflection on the positive and significant impact of our members' work.
Since ASTD was founded in 1943, the profession has transformed dramatically. T&D professionals' roles are much broader and deeper than ever before. You and your peers are responsible for a wider scope, have a greater impact on the organizations you serve, and have become critical business partners.
What hasn't changed in 70 years is the purpose of the field-to develop people: their knowledge, skills, and capabilities.
ASTD is changing to the Association for Talent Development to demonstrate how this profession's work-and the impact that our members and customers have-stretches beyond training.
Rest assured that training and development remain at the core of ATD. We have been your professional home, and my personal pledge to you is that our service and commitment is stronger than ever. While we are excited about this bright future, we are deeply appreciative of the 70-year history that is the foundation of this vibrant and global community.
We will be implementing the change in our name and brand over the next year. You'll see some immediate changes to the website, which will be co-branded for a time. We've also created a special website (www.astdnews.org) where you can find out more information about the change-including a timeline that maps out when you will see certain products transition to the new brand.
If you have questions about this change, please reach out to us by emailing astdnews@astd.org.
Today is the beginning of an exciting future for everyone in our global member community. Together, we are creating a world that works better, and we're excited to partner with you on this journey.
Best regards, Tony Bingham President and CEO Association for Talent Development (ATD)
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