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Megan Brouwer

What's in a Name?

Navigating an Association Name Change


Barcami Lane client, Massachusetts Association for Physician Assistants, decided to change their name to Massachusetts Association for Physician Associates.  This was due to their national association—American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA)—implementing a title change investigation and legally changing their name in September 2021. In addition, the decision to adopt “Physician Associates” aligns with AAPA's 2021 resolution to modernize the profession's terminology.


Extensive independent research supported this shift, highlighting the historical usage of the term “physician associate” during the profession's formative years. Today, this title better reflects the integral role that physician associates (PAs) play in healthcare, emphasizing their role as active contributing members of the care team and comprehensive scope of practice.


As MAPA’s association manager, it was my role to manage and implement the name change. The change was necessary for this organization, but felt like a daunting process given that I had no prior experience of going through a name change.  However, after lots of research and with the help of several resources, I broke down the name change process into these basic steps, and it became more manageable. 


  1. Identify the naming issue.

  2. Choose a new name that addresses the issue and confirm that the name is available.

  3. Follow name change procedures outlined in your organization’s bylaws.

  4. Pass any votes or amendments within the organization. After taking a vote and passing the name change, amend your organization’s bylaws.

  5. Notify the state.

  6. Notify the IRS.

  7. Consult with an association lawyer.

  8. Modify the organization’s branding.

  9. Issue press release.

  10. Increase public awareness.

 

The whole process took us a little over a year to complete from start to finish. We, of course, are still building public awareness and that will take a lot more time. 

As I went through the process step by step, it did not feel as daunting. I encourage anyone thinking about an organizational name change to consider these steps with their board.


Unsure if your organization requires a name change?  Here are some reasons why you may consider changing your organization name:

  • Your name is too long.

  • Your name doesn’t meet your business needs.

  • Your organization is rebranding.

  • Your name is disconnected from your organization’s mission. 

  • Your name is to generic or vague.

  • Your name is hard to remember.


Good luck in your name-changing journey, and in the meantime, consider these resources.

 

Resources:

Kos, Karleen (2016). A Board's Essential Steps for an Association Name Change. Retrieved from https://www.asaecenter.org/asae-home/resources/articles/an_plus/2016/may/a-boards-essential-steps-for-an-association-name-change

Considering a Nonprofit Name Change?  3 Things to Know.  Retrieved from https://gettingattention.org/nonprofit-name-change/

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