"This is a memorable day in the history of American pediatrics. The founding of the Academy will have a far-reaching significance in developing the scope and field of pediatrics and, I hope, a beneficent influence on the life and health of those patients whom the pediatricians will reach" Isaac A. Abt, from the first presidential address of the American Academy of Pediatrics on June 12, 1931.
Our AAP Story
In July 1930, the Depression deepening, three founding members signed papers in Chicago to create the American Academy of Pediatrics, a new kind of medical society that would “foster and stimulate interest in pediatrics and correlate all aspects of work for the welfare of children which properly comes within the scope of pediatrics.” Today there are 67,000 members continuing that mission—primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists, and pediatric surgical specialists.
At the Itasca headquarters we honor the organization’s remarkably consistent goal of ensuring better health for the whole child through telling the story of the AAP. The installation of ‘Our AAP Story’ was funded by Dr Robert Block, MD, FAAP
In creating the AAP, the founders established both pediatricians’ unique medical expertise and their commitment to speak on behalf of children’s welfare. Throughout its history, AAP members have responded to the needs of the times through education, policy and advocacy. This collective work has advanced pediatricians’ clinical expertise, grounded its work in science, provided quality education and policy, and embraced a mission to communicate and advocate on behalf of all children. From the beginning this included efforts to effectively address health care access, health disparities and social determinants of health.
As its 100th Anniversary approaches, the Academy will continue to be that voice and support members in their work to ensure the optimal physical, mental, and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents, and young adults is protected in the coming years and decades.
“Our founders…believed children needed a voice” – Dr Sara “Sally” Goza, MD, FAAP
The American Academy of Pediatrics: 90 Years of Caring for Children 1930-2020
The American Academy of Pediatrics celebrates its 90th year in 2020. This collection of articles reprinted from AAP News recaps the Academy's accomplishments by decade and illustrates the organization's remarkably consistent goal of ensuring better health for all children. Highlights include Academy programs to prevent injury, promote immunization, provide professional and public education, create standards for child health, and advocate for legislation that benefits children at the national and local level.
Last Updated
07/30/2024
Source
American Academy of Pediatrics