The mission of the International Association for Jazz Education is to assure the continued worldwide growth and development of jazz and jazz education. As a part of that mission, the Association initiates programs which nurture and promote the understanding and appreciation of jazz and its heritage, provide leadership to educators regarding curricula and performance, assist teachers and practitioners with information and resources, and take an active part in organizing clinics, festivals and symposia at local, regional, national and international levels. Founded in the United States in 1968 as the National Association of Jazz Educators (NAJE), the organization formally changed its name to the International Association of Jazz Educators (IAJE) in 1989 to more accurately reflect its membership base and global commitment to jazz education. Presently, active memberships total upwards of 8,000 teachers, musicians, students, music industry representatives, and enthusiasts in 35 countries.