Helicopters suggest a range of images, from medical support and military action to traffic reporters and tourism. Unfortunately, in higher education helicopter evokes the image of parents who hover continuously and land when they perceive a need from their college student. Some administrators have even characterized aggressive parents as Black Hawk helicopters.

This negative image of parental involvement can prevent college and university administrators from capitalizing on its opportunities. Federal financial policies, parental notification policies regarding alcohol use, the No Child Left Behind Act, and even college students themselves expect parents to be involved. Their experience in elementary and secondary education can make parents a valuable resource; however, administrators are often unsure how best to support the rights of students as adults and at the same time maximize the beneficial influence of parents.

This volume examines the influence and impact of parental involvement on student development; the critical messages for parents to understand about their role within the university and with their student; the types of programs offered for parents, including parent associations and advisory boards; advocacy and crisis management; parent program offices and needs assessment; and legal aspects of parent outreach.

This is the 122nd volume of the Jossey-Bass quarterly report series New Directions for Student Services, an indispensable resource for vice presidents of student affairs, deans of students, student counselors, and other student services professionals.

Each issue of New Directions for Student Services offers guidelines and programs for aiding students in their total development: emotional, social, physical, and intellectual.