Therefore, the focus of NAST's work is on issues of theatre content and educational substance as applied to the preparation of theatre professionals. NAST does not promote personalities, careers, institutions, performing organizations, or otherwise engage in practices that would raise conflict of interest questions. Checks and balances are consciously developed and rigorously enforced. Service is at the core of NAST's mission, goals, objectives, and attitudes. Service is directed toward various complex relationships among students, institutions and programs, the public, and theatre both as an art and as a profession.
Autonomy balanced by mutual accountability is preferable to central control enforced by regulation.
The autonomy of institutions is a critical factor in educational excellence. Institutions volunteer to be mutually accountable under conditions that protect their autonomy. Common searches for wisdom provide the most effective bases for decision-making. NAST consults widely within and beyond its membership, and proceeds after careful analysis of multiple factors and ramifications. Results achieved and functions fulfilled indicate effectiveness more than the presence of means or the utilization of methods.