From the Inside Flap This issue of New Directions for Institutional Research explores the crucial role student affairs professionals can play in research, assessment, and evaluation; and outlines the need for increased collaboration between student affairs and institutional researchers. The authors define the unique aspects of student affairs research, including its role in responding to assessment mandates and accreditation agencies; its use of student development theory in formulating research questions; the value of qualitative methods it employs; and the potential contribution it can make to institutional decision making. Chapters discuss levels of collaboration that can be achieved between student affairs and institutional research offices, with reviews of successful research practices as well as resources for the institutional researcher who is interested in learning more about student affairs research. Through practical strategies and personal insights, the authors present a successful argument for institutional researchers to build evolving and effective partnerships with researchers in student affairs. Read more About the Author J. WORTH PICKERING is associate director and senior research associate of university planning and institutional research at Old Dominion University and adjunct professor in the educational leadership and services program. GARY R. HANSON is professor of educational leadership and policy studies at Arizona State University. Read more