NTSAA to Combine Operations with ASPPA

December 15, 2009 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - Members of the National Tax Sheltered Accounts Association (NTSAA) voted overwhelmingly in favor of combining operations with the American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries (ASPPA), effective in January.

The groups said the new relationship will provide ASPPA with access to expertise in the non-profit marketplace and will provide NTSAA members with representation on Capitol Hill. Earlier this year, the two organizations worked together to create the Tax-Exempt & Governmental Plan Consultant (TGPC) credential, an educational program for specialists in the 403(b) and 457 markets.

“NTSAA and ASPPA share similar missions and goals,” said ASPPA President Sheldon H. Smith, in a press release. “Because of our success with the TGPC credential, the boards of directors of both organizations recognized a greater opportunity – the opportunity to build strength and enhance member value by combining operations.”

When the combination agreement takes effect, NTSAA will operate as a semi-autonomous division under ASPPA, retaining its name and brand identity. “This is not a merger or acquisition,” emphasized ASPPA Executive Director/CEO Brian H. Graff, in the announcement. “Our intent is to leverage unique organizational strengths and enhance member value.”

The agreement brings total membership of the combined organization to approximately 7,500 retirement plan professionals.

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