The American Academy of Pediatrics was founded in June 1930 by 35 Pediatricians who met in Detroit in response to the need for an independent pediatric forum to address children's needs. When the AAP was established, the idea that children have special developmental and health needs was a new one. The mission of the American Academy of Pediatrics is to attain optimal physical, mental and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents and young adults. To this purpose, the AAP and its members dedicate their efforts and resources. The AAP is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of ten members who are elected by members in their regional districts and thus also serve as district chairpersons.
Members vote each year for a national vice president, who also serves as president-elect.
The Executive Committee, which conducts AAP business on a daily basis, consists of the president, vice president, and executive director as ex-officio member. Joe M Sanders, Jr, MD, FAAP, Elk Grove Village, Illinois Members also elect officers for their chapters, which serve states and territories in the U.S. and Canadian provinces. Chapters have their own bylaws and further the aims of the national organization as well as local priorities. Continuing education courses, annual scientific meetings, seminars, publications and statements from committees and sections form the basis of a continuing postgraduate educational program. More than 30 committees develop many of the AAP's positions and programs.