About Us

The Consortium of Latin American Studies Programs (CLASP) was organized in early-1969 as an association of over 200 Latin American Studies programs at American colleges and universities. Like today, CLASP’s original purpose was to promote the study of Latin America in those institutions by providing members with guidance on programs and policy and by gathering and publishing information of use to them. 

The consortium was administered by a National Steering Committee elected by the members. CLASP was affiliated with the Latin American Studies Association (LASA) and served as the representative body of LASA’s institutional members. All CLASP members received LASA publications, including the Latin American Research Review and the LASA newsletter, at no additional charge above their CLASP dues.