Mission Statement

The Archaeological Institute of America promotes a vivid and informed public interest in the cultures and civilizations of the past, supports archaeological research, fosters the sound professional practice of archaeology, advocates the preservation of the world's archaeological heritage, and represents the discipline in the wider world.

The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) is North America's oldest and largest organization devoted to the world of archaeology. The Institute is a nonprofit group founded in 1879 and chartered by the United States Congress in 1906. Today, the AIA has 8,500 members belonging to 104 societies in the United States, Canada, and overseas. The organization is unique because it counts among its members professional archaeologists, students, and many others from all walks of life. This diverse group is united by a shared passion for archaeology and its role in furthering human knowledge.

The AIA exists to promote archaeological inquiry and public understanding of the material record of the human past worldwide. The Institute is committed to preserving the world's archaeological resources and cultural heritage for the benefit of people in the present and in the future. Believing that greater understanding of the past enhances our shared sense of humanity and enriches our existence, the AIA seeks to educate people of all ages about the significance of archaeological discovery.

The Institute's professional members have conducted fieldwork in Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia, and North and South America. The AIA has further promoted archaeological studies by founding research centers and schools in seven countries and maintains close relations with these institutions, including the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, the School of Classical Studies at the American Academy in Rome, the American Schools of Oriental Research, and others.

Our members are dedicated to the greater understanding of archaeology, the protection and preservation of the world's archaeological resources and the information they contain, and to the encouragement and support of archaeological research and publication. The AIA reflects these beliefs in the various products and services it offers:

Archaeology Magazine
Our award-winning popular magazine enters its 60th year of publication committed to bringing the excitement of archaeological discovery to a popular audience. Filled with incisive articles, colorful graphics, and stunning photos, each of Archaeology's bi-monthly issues is enjoyed by 750,000 people worldwide.

American Journal of Archaeology
One of the leading journals devoted to archaeology and related fields in the English-speaking world, AJA has set the standard for archaeological scholarship since 1885.

Books
The AIA regularly publishes a variety of books, including monographs, conference and colloquia papers, and an annual volume entitled Archaeological Field Opportunities Bulletin (AFOB), which is the go-to source for students seeking hands-on archaeology experience.

National Lecture Program
Our most popular educational activity, the National Lecture Program connects practicing archaeologists with nearly 20,000 people per year for stimulating one-on-one discussion.

Annual Meeting
Held every January at locations throughout the United States and Canada, the AIA's Annual Meeting is a gathering of 2,500 or more professional archaeologists, students, and lay people. Here, cutting edge scholarship, breakthrough discoveries, and other exciting topics are given center stage.

Fellowships
Each year, the AIA gives out several competitive fellowships to support the research and study of scholars and students.

Awards
The AIA annually recognizes those individuals who, through their research, teaching, or service, make exceptional contributions to the field of archaeology.

Tours
For those who wish to experience the world's cultural heritage first hand, the AIA offers deluxe tours accompanied by leading experts who guide participants and educate them about the sites they visit.

Placement Service
A valuable service designed primarily for junior academics, the AIA's placement service helps match talented young professionals with available job openings.

Advocacy
The AIA speaks with one clear voice on issues relating to the preservation and protection of the world's archaeological resources.

Led by a professional staff of nearly thirty full-time and part-time employees supported by dedicated students and consultants, the AIA maintains offices in Boston and New York. A board of trustees who represent our general membership, the academic community, and our local societies governs the Institute, and the organization operates under an annual budget of approximately $7 million.