The William E. Smith Institute for Association Research was established by SmithBucklin to fund new practice-based research that is delivered to the association community free of charge. The mission of the Institute is to provide the latest, most useful information and insights to volunteer and staff leaders on topics, issues and trends that help advance the growth of associations and enhance the value delivered to the constituencies they serve. As evidence of its commitment to the association management field, SmithBucklin provides both human and financial resources to manage the work of the Institute. The Institute reflects SmithBucklin’s philosophy of giving back to the association community, and provides a meaningful way to honor its founder, Bill Smith.