The divisions, topical groups, forums, and sections play a vital role in the American Physical Society. As part of a Society committed to member participation, the units provide opportunities for members to interact with colleagues with similar interests and to keep abreast of new developments in their specialized fields. APS units conduct their own activities and function with much autonomy.
Communication is promoted through unit meetings and newsletters.
By organizing symposia at APS meetings, the units not only contribute to increasing the knowledge of physics but also encourage networking on informal levels. Furthermore, most units communicate with their members on a regular basis, supplying timely information on upcoming events as well as reports on new developments in their areas of interest. The units play an important role in the selection of recipients of the many APS prizes and awards that recognize distinguished achievement. APS prizes are widely acknowledged as being among the highest honors that may be bestowed upon physicists. Nomination to APS Fellowship is another way the units honor outstanding scientific contributions to the physics community.