IASSIDD academy on education, teaching, and research: The genesis and evolution of an idea

The author provides an overview of the development of the IASSIDD Academy from its inception to December 2013. The commentary represents the personal reflections of the founding director of the Academy in terms of its mission and its history of carrying out activities around the world. Outlined are some of the challenges and successes, as well as some of the future needs in terms of the Academy's relevance both inside and beyond IASSIDD. The author notes that with the formation of a board of directors, the development of IASSIDD Academy bylaws along with mission statements, and the design and work with various agencies and communities around the world, the Academy has now moved into a period of consolidation and renewed progress.