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Jumping the Curve
Over time, organizations evolve through various stages of GSA JUMPS THE CURVE
development, from inception to learning, growth, maturity,
and decline. As a mature organization, GSA must avoid 1888 American Geological Society founded for the
decline by “jumping the curve” back to learning and purpose of “the promotion of the science of
growth. GSA has jumped the curve several times through- geology by the issuance of scholarly publications,
out our history (see timeline), and it is clear the time has the holding of meetings, the provision of assistance
come again for GSA to undertake transformational change. to research, and other appropriate means”
As the geosciences profession evolves, GSA must adapt
to the changing needs of our members and carefully prior- 1890 First issue of the Bulletin of the Geological Society
itize programs and services in order to remain relevant and of America published
sustainable well into the future.
1929 GSA was legally incorporated
Defining GSA’s path for
the next decade 1931 (31 July) R.A.F. Penrose Jr. passed
GSA has conducted business using a strategic plan for away, leaving GSA half his fortune
decades. The 2019–2029 strategic plan will serve as a
guide for GSA to support a strong, diverse membership 1932 GSA moved into its first “permanent”
through advancing science, providing professional office at 419 W. 117th Street, New York
development opportunities, and promoting stewardship
of the Earth, and to ensure that GSA maintains a fiscally 1948 GSA opened membership to anyone with a degree
responsible and technologically sound infrastructure. in geology or related science
1963 GSA headquarters moved to 231 East 46th Street,
New York, and adopted a new constitution and bylaws
1971 GSA opened membership to students in geology
1972 GSA moved into its
current headquarters
at 3300 Penrose Place,
Boulder, Colorado
1973 First issue of Geology published
1980 GSA Foundation formed
1985 First Decade of North American
Geology volume published
1991 Doris Malkin Curtis was the first
woman to serve as GSA president
TM
1997 GeoCorps America program launched
2007 GSA opened Washington, D.C., office focused
on public policy and the geosciences
GSA will… “maintain a proactive 2010 66-kilowatt solar-panel system installed at
GSA Headquarters
stance in promoting high standards
for ethics in geosciences.” 2019 Decadal Strategic Plan adopted
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