NASPA Releases Research on Top Issues in Student Affairs

October 1, 2025 NASPA

WASHINGTON, DC - October 1, 2025 - The 2025 NASPA Top Issues in Student Affairs survey findings provide a snapshot of what senior leaders in student affairs view as most important to their institutions in 2025. In this second annual collection of perspectives from vice presidents for student affairs, survey respondents ranked issues by level of importance within five key areas: Administration & Governance, Assessment & Evaluation, Health, Safety, & Well-being, Student Success, andTechnology & Digital Innovation.

This year’s survey was conducted during a time of change and uncertainty in higher education. Student affairs professionals are navigating changes to their divisions, departments, and, in some cases, their roles on campus, while welcoming students for a new academic year. Despite challenges, student affairs professionals continue to prioritize student success and well-being. Survey results offer data points that affirm the long-term relevance of topics that require sustained attention and focus.

The top three issues ranked most highly as very important to respondent institutions are:

  1. Protecting the institution against cyberattacks (80%)

  2. Navigating political and legislative pressures affecting institutional policies and practices (79%)

  3. Using dashboards and other data communication tools to help senior administrators translate data into actional insights for decision making (69%) 

In addition to having senior student affairs leaders rank the level of importance of each issue, the survey included open-ended questions around how priority issues are being addressed. Throughout the year, NASPA will conduct deeper analysis into how institutions are addressing issues within each key area, highlighting practitioner perspectives on strategies used and where additional support is needed.

NASPA Vice President for Research and Policy Dr. Jhenai Chandler shared, “This year’s Top Issues in Student Affairs survey surfaces the challenges shaping our field—from cybersecurity and public policy to the well-being of our students. These insights are more than just a snapshot—they’re a roadmap for action. I encourage you to read the full report and join us in using these findings to advocate for the support our students and staff truly need.” 

The findings are now available on the NASPA website: https://www.naspa.org/report/2025-naspa-top-issues-in-student-affairs


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