Mission
The NASPA Foundation adopted this mission statement at its Board meeting in September, 2005.
The NASPA Foundation mission is to advance the student affairs profession by connecting the present with the future, celebrating achievement, supporting research and best practices, and honoring history.
The NASPA Foundation supports the advancement of knowledge concerning students, higher education institutions, and issues facing the student personnel profession. The Foundation funds research that contributes to increased understanding of the complexities of collegiate culture and furthers professional development of student affairs administrators.
The NASPA Foundation: Advancing the Student Affairs Profession
- Connecting the Present with the Future
- Celebrating Achievement
- Supporting Research and Best Practices
- Honoring History
History
The NASPA Foundation was originally established during the NASPA presidency of John Blackburn (1973-74) as the NASPA Institute for Research and Development (NIRAD). Blackburn believed that over time NIRAD could become a fund to support the professional activities of NASPA and in particular to encourage research and development in the field of Student Affairs.
In 1989, NIRAD was renamed the NASPA Foundation. Incorporated in the District of Columbia, the Foundation was organized for purposes that were to be "...exclusively charitable, educational and scientific..." in the promotion of research and the advancement and development of student affairs.
One of the initial projects of the Foundation was the research and publication of the highly acclaimed book, Pieces of Eight: The Rites, Roles and Styles of the Dean. The Foundation has funded and supported such landmark projects as the study by George Kuh and John Schuh resulting in the book, Involving Colleges, and a doctoral dissertation studying the history of the position of Dean of Women. Through its committee on Grants and Proposals, the Foundation regularly received and reviews proposals for funding projects that advance the knowledge and practice of the student affairs profession.
The NASPA Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors that meets twice a year. The NASPA President, Past-president and the Chairs of the Research Division are ex-officio members of the Board. The NASPA Executive Director serves as Treasurer of the Foundation.
In addition to raising $100,000 that was matched by a "forgivable loan" from NASPA, The Foundation currently has net assets of over $500,000. It is the intent of the Foundation to continue to develop the endowment fund of the Foundation so that it can fulfill its purpose.
