This issue explores the paradigm shift of student affairs staff from enablers to teachers. It addresses this phenomenon, beginning with a framing chapter on the act and art of teaching and extending through the first days of the first year, the first-year experience, learning communities, and the seamless web of student and academic affairs that has formed in a small college. The volume concludes with a futuristic examination of the expanding roles and responsibilities of student affairs professionals.

The teaching role of student affairs professionals is gaining importance as colleges and universities emphasize retention and graduation of undergraduates. Student affairs professionals play a crucial role in the teaching-learning process.

This is the 117th issue of the Jossey-Bass quarterly report series New Directions for Student Services.