January 15, 2026
Dear Society Officers,
At the Annual Meeting last week, outgoing president Liz Greene touted the fact that AIA membership is growing and increased 10% over the past three years. This is no small feat given today’s economic landscape and we need your help to keep up the momentum. The fact is that in these uncertain times, aspiring archaeologists, archaeologists, and archaeological advocates value our organization and are turning to us more than ever.
We know that some of you have mailing lists that you regularly contact about upcoming events that include people who are not currently members of the AIA. These lists of already interested and invested individuals are a great place to start and we strongly encourage you to reach out to these prospective members about joining the AIA. To get the ball rolling, we’ve drafted a few emails for you that you can customize to best appeal to your audience:
If your Society is university-based or otherwise caters mostly to students and professionals:
Did you know that the Archaeological Institute of America has a variety of resources available to students and professionals? These include:
Join today to explore these exciting benefits!
If your Society has a vast audience coming from multiple backgrounds:
Thank you for your support of the AIA-<<Your Society Name>> Society! Did you know that if you haven’t already joined, you can become a member of the Archaeological Institute of America? AIA memberships are available to everyone, whether you’re a student, a professional archaeologist, or someone who just loves archaeology. Memberships include access to the full run of ARCHAEOLOGY magazine, the ability to apply for fellowships and grants, and more. Your membership advances the field and fuels discovery! Join today.
Not interested in joining right now but want to get more involved with the AIA? Sign up for the AIA e-Update and you will be emailed a free copy of ARCHAEOLOGY magazine.
If your Society’s audience has less interest in tangible membership benefits:
Archaeological funding is being cut globally and cultural heritage sites are at risk now more than ever due to war, looting, and climate change. Join the Archaeological Institute of America to support the field that matters to you. The AIA:
By joining the AIA, you can help to support the mission to excavate, educate, and advocate.
Thank you for all of your hard work!