Ideas are presented regarding the future of the student affairs profession. Part 1 assesses the foundation of the profession. Its chapters identify challenges for the future that are present in current practice, review ethical principles undergirding the profession, examine the assumptions and beliefs that guide student affairs, and highlight student development theory and emerging theoretical perspectives that will be useful in dealing with future challenges. Part 2 identifies the major forces for change and the implications these have for student affairs. Its chapters analyze demographic trends influencing higher education, explore relevant social issues, examine the changing nature of the legal and regulatory environment of higher education, assess the impact of the technological revolution, and identify new and developing career paths for student affairs professionals. Part 3 outlines an action agenda for planning for the future. It discusses new organizational roles and approaches for student affairs; suggests ways to improve skills in managing change; provides an agenda for staff development, professional preparation, and working conditions that must be met to face future challenges; discusses the importance of strengthening ties and developing collaborative efforts with academic affairs; and considers ways student affairs professionals can improve their ability to meet future challenges through research, evaluation, and outcomes assessment. (JDD)