1 The International Association for the Seismic Performance of Non-Structural Elements (SPONSE ASSOCIATION)

2 Genesis

3 Genesis Post-workshop meeting of eight international participants:Recognize the need for an International Association promoting research and education pertaining to the Seismic Performance of Non-Structural Elements (SPONSE). Each international participant to seek out an umbrella organization to host the SPONSE Association. EUCENTRE in Pavia, Italy volunteered to host the SPONSE Association.

4 Mission Statement To contribute to the improvement of the earthquake resilience of communities by promoting research and education pertaining to the assessment, design, analysis, and construction of earthquake-resistant non-structural elements attached to buildings and facilities, and quantifying the effects of the seismic performance of non-structural elements on seismic risk. For this purpose, non-structural elements are defined as every part of a building and all its contents with the exception of the structural elements specifically designed as part of the seismic force-resisting system.

5 Primary Objectives Identify needs, establish priorities and promote research related to the seismic performance of non-structural elements. Collect, analyse, compile, and correlate seismic and engineering data and information on the seismic performance of non-structural elements. Promote education and training on subjects related to the seismic performance of non-structural elements. Assist with the dissemination of research findings and technological developments relevant to the seismic performance of non-structural elements. Facilitate collaboration between industry, academia, professionals and other parties interested in the seismic performance of non-structural elements. Hold an annual International Workshop on the Seismic Performance of Non-Structural Elements (The International SPONSE Workshop).

6 Membership Four categories of members Admitted Research OrganizationsResearchers of Unadmitted Research Organizations Admitted Industrial Organizations Industry Representative of Unadmitted Industrial Organizations

7 Eight Elected Directors from Research OrganizationsGovernance Voting Members Eight Elected Directors from Research Organizations Vice-President Treasurer Secretary President Two Directors from Industrial Organisations Nominated by Eight Elected Directors. Members Assembly Board of Directors Officers Executive Director

8 Report on First Year ActivitiesOrganization of the Third International SPONSE Workshop Organization of SPONSE sessions for 16WCEE Membership drive Website development

9 Membership Drive

10 Web Site Development

11 To contact the SPONSE Association Comments and feedback are welcomed

12 Thank you!