Throughout the accreditation process, NAST corresponds with potential member institutions and member institutions primarily through an official Institutional Representative. Member and potential member institutions should ensure that the Institutional Representative is an individual with authority and responsibility to carry out the comprehensive review process.
Eligibility
Each institution appoints one official Institutional Representative to the Association. NAST does not stipulate who this representative should be. Normally, institutions appoint the executive leader of the theatre unit; however, other administrators and faculty members with expertise in the discipline may also serve as Institutional Representatives. Once accredited, each member institution has one vote in matters of NAST business, generally conducted at the Association’s Annual Meeting; therefore, only the official Institutional Representative to NAST may vote. The institution may appoint a substitute Institutional Representative whose vote can be counted if the designated individual cannot attend an Annual Meeting or a session where votes are taken.
Responsibilities
Official Institutional Representatives are responsible for maintaining the institution’s accreditation. They vote on behalf of the institution, receive original copies of Commission Action Reports regarding accreditation status, and are eligible to hold office in NAST and participate in such activities as accreditation reviews to other applicant institutions. For a detailed description of the responsibilities of an Institutional Representative, please see the document How to Be an Official Institutional Representative to NAST.
Communications
Internal communication is a critical part of the role of Institutional Representatives to NAST. NAST’s Internal Communications Worksheets provide guidance on the communication, distribution, and/or use of information flowing between the Association and the Institutional Representative. Please Note: Use of these worksheets is not required by NAST.
The official Institutional Representative is an emissary representing both NAST to his or her institution, and the institution to NAST. Both roles are necessary if either is to function effectively.
Other Representatives
The Association welcomes all individuals from a member institution who wish to attend any Annual Meeting and otherwise participate in such functions as standards reviews, projects, and professional development.