The Academy of Finance: Past, Present and Future, 1987-2007

Abstract

It is important for members of an organization to, from time to time, look back and review what progress has been made and to look forward to see what opportunities the future holds. In this study, we analyze the history of the Academy of Finance. We categorized all the papers presented at the Academy's 21 annual meetings, identified the authors and employing institutions, measured the geographic distributions of participants, calculated the retention rates for participants, and addressed a variety of other issues. We highlight the Academy's accomplishments and detail its improvements and maturation as an organization. Finally, we offer suggestions for further improvements and growth into the future.