Strategic Plan

On April 16, 2026, the Board of Directors formally approved an updated strategic plan, recommitting to and building upon our 2020 plan amid ever-changing research, educational, clinical, and societal environments. This plan serves as our roadmap for the future and helps focus our efforts to ensure the organization’s relevancy and viability. It is, above all, designed to fulfill our vision, mission, and values on behalf of the members of this vibrant organization. We are #ForAnatomy.

 

Our Foundation 

green bullseye

Our Mission

Advancing anatomical sciences through research, education, and professional development.

open eye

Our Vision

Inspiring curiosity, discovery, and innovation.

Our Values

Collaboration, community, excellence, integrity, and respect.

Our Pillars  

Domains

  1. Professional development
  2. Education
  3. Research  
  4. Member engagement and community  
  5. Public engagement and advocacy      

 

Our Facade

Goals & Objectives

 

banner that reads "Foster professional growth within anatomical sciences"

  • Strengthen and expand the anatomical sciences workforce pipeline.
  • Develop programming for members of all career stages in all disciplines.
  • Provide practical learning that drives growth, confidence, and excellence.
  • Develop career-stage resources that establish AAA as a trusted source for professional growth.

 

banner that reads "champion and strengthen education in the anatomical sciences"

  • Expand educational offerings based on membership needs.
  • Integration of science across scale into anatomical sciences education.
  • Develop guidelines for new technology with ethical considerations.
  • Support and promote inclusive learning environments.
  • Facilitate the incorporation of evidence-informed pedagogy.

 

banner that reads "promote global recognition in the anatomical sciences"

  • Sustain and refine trainee and investigator programs to attract and retain scholars.
  • Support interdisciplinary collaboration across anatomical sciences, biology, and health-related fields (life sciences).
  • Facilitate dissemination of anatomical sciences research through AAA journals, meetings, and communications.
  • Provide a home organization for all people interested in anatomical sciences research.
  • Strengthen systems and resources that support the pursuit of scholarly excellence.

 

banner that reads "foster a welcoming environment that creates an inclusive community through opportunity and engagement of all members."

  • Create and expand opportunities for volunteering.
  • Expand mentorship and peer support programs across all career stages.
  • Improve member recruitment, retention, engagement, and belonging.
  • Identify and develop opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaborations.

 

banner that reads "Promote understanding of anatomical sciences to inform the public and influence policy."

  • Enhance public understanding and perception of anatomical sciences and AAA.
  • Leverage strategic partnerships with peer scientific societies to amplify a unified voice in policy and advocacy.
  • Expand training in science communication and advocacy to improve engagement with the public and policymakers.
  • Promote anatomical sciences to diverse audiences.