Incorporated in Rhode Island in 1982, the Sudan Studies Association (SSA) is the foremost academic organization of academic scholars and educators interested in the study of the region from all over the world. Its goal is to promote and foster the research and study of the region, facilitate communication and cooperation between its members, raise new generations of scholars, and encourage the publication of academic material pertaining to Sudan studies. SSA is:

i)An Independent non-profit association, dedicated in advancing Sudanese studies as a scientific discipline and profession.
ii)Sponsor and host annual conferences and meetings that bring together scholars from North America and the rest of the World.
iii)Responsible for publishing the Sudanese Studies Bulletin governed by the Board of Directors as elected by the membership.