AHRD’s Globalization

Abstract

The Problem

The Academy of Human Resource Development (AHRD, used interchangeably here with the Academy) was founded and has always been headquartered in the United States. This has communicated the message that the Academy is U.S.-centric, and, indeed, many aspects of its operations have confirmed this U.S.-centric perspective. However, this has not been the intent of AHRD. What has been done, and what more is needed, to change this view?

The Solution

We examined the historical efforts to expand internationally through membership, conferences, relationships with other associations, journals, and special interest groups (SIGs). In addition, we offered suggestions for other actions that might enhance global perspectives in overcoming existing challenges in the future.

The Stakeholders

All members of the Academy should be interested in this article, as the Academy continues to stress the importance of internationalizing (used interchangeably with globalizing) the Academy, whether they be academics, practitioners, or students. Other professional organizations, not just those headquartered in the United States, but throughout the world, should be interested in the Academy’s successes and challenges in this arena.