The National Association of Schools of Art (NASA) was founded in 1944 as the National Association of Schools of Design (NASD). In 1966, it became the National Association of Schools of Art, and in 1981 it became the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
NASAD member schools of art and design are primarily at the college level, but include postsecondary non-degree-granting schools for the visual arts. NASAD is the national accrediting agency for art and design and art and design-related disciplines. The Association also provides information to the public, produces statistical research, provides professional development for leaders of art and design schools, and engages in policy analysis.
[Adapted from NASAD website, http://nasad.arts-accredit.org .]
From the guide to the National Association of Schools of Art (U.S.) Records, 1944-1979, (Special Collections Research Center, Syracuse University Libraries)