The Association of Directors of Anatomic and Surgical Pathology (ADASP) was founded in 1989. The membership is made up largely of directors of anatomic and/or surgical pathology from academic institutions. Originally all members were from American institutions, but subsequently the membership was enlarged to include academic institutions in Canada and selected institutions from overseas.

The purposes of the Association are to (1) promote expertise, effective administration and productive education in the practice of administering anatomic pathology laboratories; (2) to sponsor and promote the education of pathologists and others in health care related to administration of anatomic pathology and its branches; (3) to establish and maintain appropriate relationships with other societies and groups of physicians, and other scientists, who share professional interests with the Association.

The main activities of the Association consists of an annual meeting held the spring on the first Saturday preceding the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology (USCAP) meeting, and the publication of position papers, editorials and recommendations regarding various aspects of the practice of anatomic pathology.