AIGA Membership Benefits
As an AIGA member, you'll be part of a national organization, influencing the development of graphic design as a profession and how it's represented in the media, business and society. On a local level, you'll be able to take part in determining the direction and significance of design in your community. What's your position on the environmental impact of design? Who do you want to see speaking at the next area design conference? How can you contribute to the AIGA's public service and educational programs?

Members in the AIGA have at least one common bond -- a strong commitment to excellence in graphic design. We want to know what you're thinking, what you're dreaming, where you're heading and why. Your thoughts are the foundation of the AIGA. Get involved. Give us a piece of your mind.

AIGA Membership Categories
Student
A full-time student who presents a copy of a dated bursar's receipt or current ID from an accredited college or university.
$75.00

Associate
An individual who has practiced graphic design for two or fewer years.
$210.00

Full-time Faculty
Current full-time faculty members may apply for a special membership rate
(not available through the online application).
$110.00

Professional
An individual who has practiced or taught graphic design for four yearsor more, or who practices or teaches in an allied field.
$295.00

Group Membership
Firms that wish to purchase professional memberships for three or more
employees should consider a group membership, at the discounted rate of
$730 for the first three members, and $245 for each additional member.

AIGA National Membership
AIGA National Application fee: add $ 20 (waived for student members)

By Mail or Fax: send the following information -
- your name
- name of business
- address
- city / state / zip
- home phone / business phone / fax number / e-mail
- check or credit card number (AMEX/VISA/MC) / expiration date
- membership category
- name of chapter ("PITTSBURGH")
- $20 processing fee (except students)

Mailing address:
AIGA Membership
164 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10010

FAX to New York National Office:
(212) 807-1799

Or join with the online application form.

For additional information about becoming a member of AIGA/Pgh, please contact our Membership Coordinator: Ted Williams at (412) 937.1483

What Do You Get For Your Investment?
Publications.
Graphic Design USA is the AIGA's annual review of graphic design in the U.S. This perennial 300-page, all-color reference is free to professional members, and available at less than half price to other members. The AIGA Journal of Graphic Design is distributed free to all members three times a year, and contains authoritative, whimsical, often controversial articles on the professional along with current AIGA news. Members also receive an annual copy of the national AIGA Membership Directory. Discounts are available on other occasional AIGA publications as well.

National conferences.
The AIGA currently produces two national conferences held in alternating years. The National Design Conference brings designers together for a sense of community and inspiration. The National Design Business Conference concentrates on the practices, processes, and strategies of designing for business. In 1998, an annual conference designed specifically for students will be launched. Members receive discounted registration to all conferences.

Exhibitions.
Competitions are documented in exhibitions appearing in the AIGA's Fifth Avenue gallery, and also traveling to selected AIGA chapters around the country.

Center for Design.
The AIGA's headquarters, located in the center of the design and technology communities of New York, hosts a variety of programs and exhibits in an effort to lead the media, business and general public to a better understanding of the value of graphic design. All events are previewed by members, and entry fees are discounted.

Competitions.
AIGA-sponsored competitions celebrate excellence within the profession, and through their respective annuals and exhibitions, tell a story about the current state of graphic design. In 1998, there will be two juried competitions: 50 Books/50 Covers and Communication Graphics. Members benefit from discounted entry fees and advance notice.

Discounts.
The AIGA has arranged member discounts on common products and services required for practice. These include up to a third off on express delivery services (Airborne Express and FedEx), long-distance phone service (AT&T, MCI and Sprint), an Internet service provide, all major design publications and catalogues of design reference books.

Insurance.
The AIGA offers health, life and disability insurance options to members who might otherwise have difficulty finding local alternatives.

Professional practices.
The AIGA is an excellent resource for information regarding professional practice questions, with assistance available from local chapter networks as well as the national office.
For additional information visit AIGA's National Web Site: www.aiga.org