Asheford Associate Membership Program (AAM)
From Asheford Staff Writer, B.A. Wallace...
Thank you for your inquiry regarding application into the Asheford Institute Of Antiques, Associate-level Membership Program.
As a former graduate of the Institute, and a current AAM Member, I'd like to take this opportunity to tell you about some of the benefits I've derived through my association with this program. However, before doing so, I'd first like to applaud all potential AAM applicants, as well as recent graduates, on the successful completion of the Institute's core curriculum, along with the awarding of your diploma, and the acknowledgement of your appraisal certification status... Congratulations!!!
The considerable dedication, time, and effort you have put into acquiring the Asheford diploma is certainly a testament to your desire and will to succeed in the professional field of antiques, collectibles and appraising. You are now a member of a select group of individuals who are recognized authorities in their field of endeavor. However, as everyone knows, in today’s increasingly competitive world, continuing education is paramount if you wish to keep your credentials relevant and your professional status current. With this in mind, the A.I.A. is now providing its graduates the chance to keep up-to-date on all aspects of the decorative arts marketplace, by offering them the opportunity for enrollment into the school’s yearly “Associate Membership Program.”
As a former graduate of the school, one of the first things I recognized upon completion of my Course studies was the continuing need to be actively engaged and involved in the ongoing pursuit of knowledge - particularly as it related to my fields of study. It quickly became apparent to me that this was not an industry where one could simply rest upon their laurels and hope for work to appear - a favorable outcome would require an active and continuing demonstration of my desire to succeed.
By seeking membership within the AAM program, I achieved this goal and much more. I not only developed a solid base of contacts from which to work with, but I also significantly increased my professional status in my desired area of expertise. As a result, my reputation within the antiques and appraising community has grown substantially - and so have my financial resources.
For me, the AAM program has done exactly what it claimed - it's kept me up-to-date on industry trends and movements that matter, and it's also shown clients that I'm committed to the continuing process of upgrading my professional and educational credentials. This dedicated approach to keeping past students up-to-date on all aspects of the antiques and appraising industry is what makes membership in this association such an invaluable tool - not only for one's business - but also for one's professional reputation as well. Which to me, is really what an association should be about - paying dividends forward for the efforts one has already invested.
As a former student, graduate, AAM member, and Staff writer here at the school, I can think of no higher endorsement for those seeking to further their antiques and appraisal education, than the recommendation of admission into the extended membership program of the Asheford Institute.
Sincerely,
B. A. Wallace AIA, PACC Certified, AAM
Asheford Certified Appraiser
A.I.A. Staff Researcher/Writer
Thank you for your inquiry regarding application into the Asheford Institute Of Antiques, Associate-level Membership Program.
As a former graduate of the Institute, and a current AAM Member, I'd like to take this opportunity to tell you about some of the benefits I've derived through my association with this program. However, before doing so, I'd first like to applaud all potential AAM applicants, as well as recent graduates, on the successful completion of the Institute's core curriculum, along with the awarding of your diploma, and the acknowledgement of your appraisal certification status... Congratulations!!!
The considerable dedication, time, and effort you have put into acquiring the Asheford diploma is certainly a testament to your desire and will to succeed in the professional field of antiques, collectibles and appraising. You are now a member of a select group of individuals who are recognized authorities in their field of endeavor. However, as everyone knows, in today’s increasingly competitive world, continuing education is paramount if you wish to keep your credentials relevant and your professional status current. With this in mind, the A.I.A. is now providing its graduates the chance to keep up-to-date on all aspects of the decorative arts marketplace, by offering them the opportunity for enrollment into the school’s yearly “Associate Membership Program.”
As a former graduate of the school, one of the first things I recognized upon completion of my Course studies was the continuing need to be actively engaged and involved in the ongoing pursuit of knowledge - particularly as it related to my fields of study. It quickly became apparent to me that this was not an industry where one could simply rest upon their laurels and hope for work to appear - a favorable outcome would require an active and continuing demonstration of my desire to succeed.
By seeking membership within the AAM program, I achieved this goal and much more. I not only developed a solid base of contacts from which to work with, but I also significantly increased my professional status in my desired area of expertise. As a result, my reputation within the antiques and appraising community has grown substantially - and so have my financial resources.
For me, the AAM program has done exactly what it claimed - it's kept me up-to-date on industry trends and movements that matter, and it's also shown clients that I'm committed to the continuing process of upgrading my professional and educational credentials. This dedicated approach to keeping past students up-to-date on all aspects of the antiques and appraising industry is what makes membership in this association such an invaluable tool - not only for one's business - but also for one's professional reputation as well. Which to me, is really what an association should be about - paying dividends forward for the efforts one has already invested.
As a former student, graduate, AAM member, and Staff writer here at the school, I can think of no higher endorsement for those seeking to further their antiques and appraisal education, than the recommendation of admission into the extended membership program of the Asheford Institute.
Sincerely,
B. A. Wallace AIA, PACC Certified, AAM
Asheford Certified Appraiser
A.I.A. Staff Researcher/Writer
The Benefits Of AAM Membership
By registering for the Asheford Associate Membership Program, you'll be joining the ranks of the world's largest group of professionally "certified" appraisers and decorative arts specialists in today's antiques, collectibles, and memorabilia marketplace.
Membership within this exclusive organization will grant you access to an educational network of knowledge and expertise that covers all major areas of the decorative arts and collectible fields. Through the utilization of our member services and industry associations, the A.I.A. will provide you with the latest educational and market updates, international credentialing recognition, and reputation building resources that are backed by over half a century of instructional experience.
Main Ingredients...
For over fifty years, the primary goal of the Institute's associate-level program, has always been to provide graduates of the school with a developmental pathway that would allow for a two-fold approach to increasing their professional visibility and industry recognition. Over the years, by refining this approach, two main criteria were identified as being instrumental in the development of this process:
1. Access to ongoing industry related subjects via the e-Course.*
AND...
2. Certificate-based recognition of continuing education.
By recognizing this criteria, the emphasis of the Associate Membership Program was revised in order to provide graduates of the school with ongoing industry updates (via the new e-Course), which could be applied to their credentialing status through a Certificate” based association that would be "certified" by the Institute. This certification includes a yearly “MEMBERSHIP LICENSING CERTIFICATE” that graduates can post in their place of business, as verifiable proof to customers and clients alike, of their ongoing participation in educational studies within the field of antiques, collectibles, memorabilia and appraising, as well as showcasing "current" membership within the AAM.
Membership within this exclusive organization will grant you access to an educational network of knowledge and expertise that covers all major areas of the decorative arts and collectible fields. Through the utilization of our member services and industry associations, the A.I.A. will provide you with the latest educational and market updates, international credentialing recognition, and reputation building resources that are backed by over half a century of instructional experience.
Main Ingredients...
For over fifty years, the primary goal of the Institute's associate-level program, has always been to provide graduates of the school with a developmental pathway that would allow for a two-fold approach to increasing their professional visibility and industry recognition. Over the years, by refining this approach, two main criteria were identified as being instrumental in the development of this process:
1. Access to ongoing industry related subjects via the e-Course.*
AND...
2. Certificate-based recognition of continuing education.
By recognizing this criteria, the emphasis of the Associate Membership Program was revised in order to provide graduates of the school with ongoing industry updates (via the new e-Course), which could be applied to their credentialing status through a Certificate” based association that would be "certified" by the Institute. This certification includes a yearly “MEMBERSHIP LICENSING CERTIFICATE” that graduates can post in their place of business, as verifiable proof to customers and clients alike, of their ongoing participation in educational studies within the field of antiques, collectibles, memorabilia and appraising, as well as showcasing "current" membership within the AAM.
New "Associate Members" Licensing Agreement
At the Institute, we’re well aware that the general public has become increasingly savvy in recent years when it comes to knowledge of the decorative arts, and as a result, often holds dealers, collectors, and appraisers up to a much higher standard of scrutiny than ever before - especially when it comes to the purchasing, selling and appraising of such items. By gaining membership designation within the Asheford Associate Program, it will help to reinforce your professional status within these fields, as well as demonstrating that your business practices and subject knowledge are continually being updated and revised. Such membership will also confer that you are in good stead with an internationally recognized and peer reviewed educational institution.
*Example Only
But That’s Just The Start… As An Asheford Associate Member You’ll Also Receive:
- Full access to the school's new online e-Course. Including all the latest updates to e-Course materials as they occur, as well as embedded information on the latest breaking trends within the antiques and collectibles community (*Some conditions apply, see below)
- An 'upgraded' professional listing on the school's main database, providing a coded referral system for insurance companies, law firms, real estate organizations, and other corporate entities looking to hire certified "professional-level" appraisers from the Institute. Coded entry gives these organizations full access to graduates' professional resume listings. (Note: This database is only accessible to registered professional entities, such as insurance companies, banks, legal firms, etc.) Graduates must submit photo and bio for database inclusion (See provided example).
- Your AAM listing will also indicate your professional status within the decorative arts community - not only as an appraiser - but also as a specialist in the antiques and collectibles field, and as a "certified" Estate Sale Liquidator.
- Associate Members will also have the opportunity to enter their professional bio for a chance to be showcased on the school's Student News page.
- Members can also apply to participate in the school's monthly online newsletter, including full "guest writer" byline and professional credit, with distribution to thousands of antique and collectible enthusiasts worldwide (*Some restrictions and conditions apply, see below).
New AAM Graduate Transparent Window Plate Sign
- Membership discounts and access to specialized insurance for antiques and collectibles from the nation's largest antique dealers association.
- You'll also receive an updated A.I.A. “Associate” Membership Card from the Institute as well.
- As part of your introduction to the Associate Membership Program you'll also gain access to the school's “Antiques e-Dictionary” (a $29.99 value, included as part of your e-Course subscription for free).
- We'll also send you a new transparent Window Plate Sign for your place of business indicating your Graduate status with the Institute.
- All of this for only $89.00 a year... or save ($29.00) and pay only $149.00 for a two-year membership!
Membership Has Its Perks
Once enrolled, the rewards of your new Associate-level status are likely to be immediate, as your Membership Licensing Certificate (in conjunction with your Asheford Diploma), will let customers know of the ongoing proactive steps you are taking to continually enlighten and educate yourself in the ever-changing and complex world of antiques, collectibles and appraising. Your new-found status will not only be a reflection of your efforts to remain current within your industry, but it will also serve to demonstrate your desire to set the highest possible professional standards for both yourself and your business.
How To Apply
You can join the AAM and become a member of one of the world's most prestigious and respected antique & collectible appraisal organizations, by simply clicking on the link below for the Institute's main Enrollment Application page. Once there, you'll be able to begin your enrollment process immediately - you can select a one, or even a two-year (discounted) Associate Membership Program. Or you can simply apply for admission by calling the Registrar's Office (toll free) at: 877-444-4508
Ready To Take The Next Step?
If you're ready to enroll in the Asheford Associate Membership Program, simply click on the red & white arrow to begin the enrollment process...
AAM MEMBERSHIP - CONDITIONS - LIMITATIONS - DETAILS & REQUIREMENTS
Membership status will commence on the date listed on your “ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP LICENSING CERTIFICATE”. ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP LICENSING CERTIFICATES are available only to graduates of the Asheford Institute of Antiques. All Course examinations must be completed, and students must have received their A.I.A. Diploma in order to be eligible for ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP status. ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP LICENSING CERTIFICATES are non-transferable and may be used only by those whose name appears on the Certificate.
*Students who enrolled in the Textbook version of the program, or prior to the introduction of the e-Course in 2015, will be required to pay a one-time fee of $369 in order to upgrade to the school's latest e-Course curriculum, in addition to any applicable AAM membership fees.
**Submission of written content to the school's Guest Writers Program is not an acknowledgement or guarantee of acceptance to the program, nor does it confer the right of publication, either in print or online. Should content/material be accepted by the Institute, the school reserves the right to edit, change, rewrite, repost or reject entirely the revised submission for any reason whatsoever. Submitted material/content that subsequently appears on any media platforms, in any format (including online or in print), becomes the sole property on the Asheford Institute Of Antiques.
***Please note that school staff and instructors cannot provide opinion, or comment on individual decorative art items. This includes, but is not limited to, professional evaluations, determinations of origin, construction design, or specific acknowledgements of historical accuracy. Further, staff and representatives of the school will not participate in, nor offer speculative evaluations related to research or opinions regarding the potential market sale, dispersal, liquidation, or the general 'valuing' process associated with appraisal assessments.
