AIGA Pittsburgh's mission is to advance designing as a professional craft, strategic tool and vital cultural force in the Pittsburgh region. AIGA, the professional association for design, is the place design professionals turn to first to exchange ideas and information, participate in critical analysis and research and advance education and ethical practice. AIGA sets the national agenda for the role of design in its economic, social, political, cultural and creative contexts. AIGA is the oldest and largest membership association for professionals engaged in the discipline, practice and culture of designing. Founded as the American Institute of Graphic Arts in 1914 as a small, exclusive club, AIGA now represents 22,000 designers through national activities and local programs developed by 59 chapters and 240 student groups. Additional information is available at pittsburgh.aiga.org