The International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) officially launched its annual Summit on July 19, 2025, at the Marriott Marquis Chicago. The three-day event, running through July 21, drew hundreds of administrative professionals from across the United States and beyond. The Summit’s core message emphasized that leadership isn’t exclusive to executives but is accessible to all professionals, especially those in administrative roles.
Nestled in Chicago’s vibrant South Loop, the Marriott Marquis serves as a fitting backdrop for this gathering. The conference integrates hands-on workshops, expert-led talks, and technology showcases—aimed at elevating workplace culture and organizational impact.
From the outset, organizers emphasized leadership as a mindset rather than a title. IAAP’s mission underscores that leadership transcends job levels; it’s defined by one’s approach to tasks, engagement with people, and strategic vision. Attendees were invited to embrace leadership through self-awareness, effective communication, and a proactive stance toward problem-solving. IAAP President Christi Jones (CAP) noted, “Leadership transforms the what we do into the how and why we do it,” underscoring the event’s focus on leadership competencies across administrative work.
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Recognizing the fast pace of workplace innovation, the Summit dedicates sessions to artificial intelligence (AI) and tech proficiency. Featured workshops include “AI Tools for Administrative Professionals” led by Jim Spellos and “AI in Microsoft 365” by Vonetta Watson—each blending theory with hands-on exercises. A new addition this year, the “Tech Bar and Forum,” gives participants direct access to tech experts for personalized guidance on automating processes, mastering digital tools, and improving productivity.
Beyond technology, the agenda covers traditional yet crucial domains for admins: project management, strategic thinking, and organizational efficiency. Sessions are structured to help attendees align daily responsibilities with broader organizational goals—sharpening skills like delegation, scheduling, and cross-team collaboration. Specialty track workshops also serve as CAP (Certified Administrative Professional) recertification opportunities, offering credits to those renewing their credentials.
The Summit offers more than skill-building—it’s a platform for professional growth. Attendees can access one-on-one coaching through “Speed Coaching Moments” and peer mentorship through “Dream & Develop” sessions, designed to spur actionable plans for career advancement. Brittney P., a New York-based attendee, shared, “The networking aspect of IAAP Summit is crucial to learning from each other, expanding who I get to know and seeing what’s in the community and how much further I can go in my career.” Such testimonials highlight the Summit’s power to inspire attendees to envision new career paths and leadership roles.
Formal programming is paired with curated social events: a welcome party, an upscale gala dinner, and an exhibit hall featuring vendors, education resources, and IAAP advocacy initiatives. These gatherings cultivate camaraderie, exchange best practices, and reinforce community ties. Peer-to-peer conversations, coupled with insights from IAAP leadership and board members, strengthen connections between individual experiences and industry-wide trends.
In an increasingly digital world, IAAP acknowledges the value of flexibility. The 2025 Summit offers a hybrid attendance format, allowing virtual participants to access live content, virtual networking, and behind-the-scenes moments. This inclusive approach ensures administrative professionals worldwide can benefit, regardless of travel constraints.
The selection of Chicago plays into the Summit’s ethos: a city with rich architectural heritage, dynamic arts and dining scenes, and excellent transit connections. The Marriott Marquis—conveniently close to O’Hare and Midway airports—enhances accessibility. Attendees are encouraged to extend their trip to explore local highlights: Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Chicago deep-dish pizza houses, museums, and jazz clubs. The Summit thus blends professional and personal enrichment.
Summit participants receive a comprehensive set of benefits. These include enhanced leadership skills applicable to any administrative role, practical training in AI and digital tools, project management best practices, CAP recertification credits, networking opportunities, and expanded career advancement support. The event empowers professionals to elevate both their skillsets and their workplace contributions.
IAAP is already planning future events, including the 2026 Summit scheduled for July in Los Angeles, signaling continued growth and appeal.
The IAAP Summit 2025 in Chicago is redefining administrative leadership by championing a leadership mindset for all professionals, bridging skill gaps with cutting-edge training, empowering career development through coaching and community, and embracing hybrid formats for global inclusion. As the Summit unfolds at the Marriott Marquis, the message is clear: administrative professionals are no longer just support—they are essential architects of organizational success.
