By merging our strengths, we’re unlocking new potential, driving innovation, expanding opportunities, and delivering exceptional value to our employees, stakeholders, and communities.
The Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) and the Education Market Association (EDmarket) serve a global network of professionals: planners, designers, educators, industry experts, manufacturers, dealers, and suppliers, all united by a passion for creating high-quality, sustainable, and innovative learning environments. By joining together, we strengthen that community and build one association where every member has a seat at the table to collaborate, share expertise, and shape the future of learning.
A4LE and EDmarket are excited to share that we’re moving forward on a path to merge into one unified organization. After months of research, financial reviews, and listening to our communities, we believe this step will make us stronger, more connected, and better positioned to serve you.
Both A4LE and EDmarket are financially healthy on their own. By joining forces, we’ll not only maintain that stability but also create new opportunities to reinvest in the programs, events, and professional development that matter most to you. The combined organization is projected to grow steadily in the coming years, ensuring long-term stability.
This merger will allow us to:
I am truly honored to assume the helm of the Education Market Association (EDmarket) while continuing to serve as CEO of the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE). Over the coming year, I look forward to working alongside an exceptional team of professional staff and dedicated volunteer leaders to bring these two century-old organizations together in alignment of their missions.
This next chapter represents more than a merger of two respected legacies—it is an opportunity to build on a combined century of excellence in school planning, design, equipping, and operations, while charting a bold, unified course for the future.
Together, our mission is clear and compelling: to create the best possible learning environments for students everywhere.
During 2026, we will remain as two associations, continuing our programs seamlessly. Chapters and Regions within A4LE will operate as usual, and the programs, services, and Councils within EDmarket will stay unchanged. Our objective is to complete this transition by the end of this year. In the
meantime, we are actively aligning as many programs as possible—such as:
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*Exclusions: Currently, we can not offer member pricing to Australasia Events for EDmarket members or offer member pricing to EDspaces for A4LE Members.
As our systems are being integrated, please contact the following staff members for assistance with registrations and program information.
EDmarket Members:
Contact Brendon Hamacher at brendon@a4le.org or 480.415.5132 for A4LE event registrations.
Contact Kate Broderick at kate@a4le.org for ALEP Credential information and webinars.
A4LE Members:
Enter promo code A4LE2026 to receive preferred member pricing for ECLPS registration.
Contact Heather Tuley at htuley@edmarket.org for EDmarket’s ECLPS Certification.
Members of both organizations now receive expanded access to industry insights and resources, including:
These publications connect members with trends, research, and best practices shaping learning environments.
As A4LE and EDmarket continue bringing our organizations together, you’ll begin seeing
the A4LE + EDmarket merger logo across communications, publications, and event
materials. The logo represents the collaboration between our two communities as we move
forward together.
Are A4LE and EDmarket merging?
Yes! A4LE and EDmarket are joining forces to form a unified organization that blends expertise in learning environments, design, and products to maximize value and impact for all members. This is more than a merger — it’s the beginning of a powerful new chapter for our industry, our members, and the students we serve.
Why are A4LE and EDmarket merging?
In today’s rapidly evolving education landscape, students and educators need dynamic environments and solutions that support learning in every form. By joining forces, A4LE and EDmarket unite two trusted leaders into one powerful community dedicated to shaping the future of learning.
This merger will create:
When will the decision be finalized?
Both boards have voted to proceed. Interim governance and legal consolidation will begin January 1, 2026, with full unification complete by early 2027.
Does this change the mission?
No, the missions align naturally. The new organization will advance learning environments through design, products, professional development, and community.
What will the new association be called?
We are exploring a bold, integrated brand that will reflect the strength of our community and the power of our shared mission. The new identity will celebrate the diversity of our members and capture our collective vision to inspire and shape the future of learning environments.
How will this affect my membership?
How will this affect my dues?
No immediate changes through 2026. Any future adjustments will be communicated with transparency.
What if I have a membership in both A4LE and EDmarket?
There will be no changes through 2026 — your membership benefits and access will remain the same. In 2027, a new unified membership structure will launch, bringing expanded opportunities and value.
What happens to my current membership term?
A4LE memberships will be honored through their individual terms. EDmarket annual memberships will be honored through December 31, 2026.
How will this affect chapters, regions, councils, and committees?
All leadership structures remain in place through 2026. Starting mid-2027, strengthened structures will ensure engagement across all levels of members, from a community of architects & designers, facility planners, educators, administrators, manufacturers, dealers, and suppliers. There are no anticipated changes to chapter and regional structures or governance.
Will my voting rights change?
No. Your voting rights remain secure. Any refinements will be shared well in advance.
Who will lead the new organization?
Following Jim McGarry’s retirement, John Ramsey, CEO of A4LE, will serve as President & CEO. Karen Prince, COO of EDmarket, will guide the transition of EDmarket membership.
What happens to existing events?
What about ALEP® and ECLPS certifications?
Both credentials remain valid and will continue to be supported, with opportunities for broader recognition and career growth.
Will resources and publications remain available?
Yes. Publications, research, and tools from both organizations will remain accessible, with integration over time. Stay tuned for the rollout of benefits as they become available.
How will members be informed?
We are committed to transparency and collaboration. Regular updates will be shared, and the latest information will be available at: a4le-edmarket-merger.org.
Kate Broderick, Director of Knowledge Management and Credentialing, A4LE, kate@a4le.org
Karen Prince, COO, EDmarket, kprince@edmarket.org