Overview

American Evaluation Association (AEA) was established in 1986 to advance the practice and use of evaluation across sectors. It promotes systematic inquiry to improve programmes, policies, and organisational effectiveness. AEA’s philosophy centres on professional development, methodological integrity, and equitable, evidence-informed decision-making.

Mission and focus areas

AEA’s mission is to enhance evaluation theory, practice, and utilisation worldwide. Its focus spans programme and personnel evaluation, technology, and cultural competence. While not specific to sustainable finance or ESG integration, AEA supports accountability, transparency, and impact assessment — principles that underpin sustainability-driven evaluation and responsible governance.

Structure and governance

AEA operates as a professional membership association governed by a Board of Directors. It includes committees, topical interest groups, and local affiliates that facilitate collaboration across regions and disciplines. Leadership emphasises diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), supported by a staff team and advisory groups overseeing operations and ethics.

Programs and offerings

AEA provides year-round education through conferences, online learning, and publications such as the American Journal of Evaluation and New Directions for Evaluation. Its Graduate Education Diversity Internship and Minority Serving Institution Fellowship promote inclusion in evaluation. Resources like the Digital Knowledge Hub and Coffee Break webinars support professional growth, advancing evaluators’ skills and practice.

AEA Mission, Vision, and Values

The American Evaluation Association seeks to act in ways that embody our mission, vision, and values in pursuit of our defined policies and goals.

Mission: The American Evaluation Association’s mission is to improve evaluation practices and methods, increase evaluation use, promote evaluation as a profession, and support the contribution of evaluation to the generation of theory and knowledge about effective human action.