In an exciting development, two prominent organizations in the higher education space, The Council for the Advancement of Standards (CAS) and Student Affairs Assessment Leaders (SAAL) have joined together to enhance the landscape of higher education through collaboration and shared resources. This collaboration between CAS and SAAL is set to usher in a new era of professional development and support for those engaged in Student Affairs assessment, planning, and research.
The field of student affairs assessment continues to grow and evolve in its important role in higher education. For 15 years, Student Affairs Assessment Leaders (SAAL) has actively connected those invested in this work through the provision of resources. Since 1979, the Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS) has supported higher education by offering a framework for how good practice might be conducted in diverse functional areas. The partnership allows each organization to retain their distinctive contributions while strengthening opportunities for synergy and increased cooperation with other organizations committed to the delivery of high quality programs and services.
Both CAS and SAAL engage in common spaces within higher education, and this partnership aims to amplify the benefits for those utilizing CAS products and services. SAAL members specifically will experience these benefits, including:
- Opportunities for Professional Development: SAAL members can now access tailored professional development opportunities, enriching their skills and knowledge in CAS products, specifically program review.
- CAS Sponsorship of SAAL Operations: CAS will sponsor an individual to work within SAAL’s operational structure, enabling the expansion and enhancement of valuable initiatives within the SAAL community compensating them quarterly.
- Consultations with CAS Experts: SAAL members who use CAS products will have the opportunity to engage in consultations with seasoned CAS experts, gaining insights and guidance tailored to their specific needs.
- Discounts on CAS Subscriptions: SAAL members can benefit from exclusive discounts on CAS subscriptions, making these powerful resources even more accessible.
- Continued Engagement of SAAL Representative in CAS Council Meeting: SAAL will maintain an active participation in CAS Council meetings, ensuring a seamless flow of communication and collaboration between the two organizations.
- Monthly Communications on CAS Services: SAAL members will receive regular, informative updates on CAS services, keeping them informed about the latest development and offerings.
- Opportunities for Engaging in Research: SAAL members will be invited to participate in research initiatives related to CAS products and program review, fostering a culture of innovation and knowledge-sharing.
This collaboration underscores the commitment of both CAS and SAAL to empower Student Affairs Assessment professionals and institutions with valuable resources, support, and opportunities for growth and innovation. Through this partnership, CAS and SAAL are dedicated to supporting a community where expertise, collaboration, and equity thrive.
The partnership will be fully implemented by the start of 2024 and SAAL will begin looking for their staff person by mid-November.
For questions or inquiries, please contact saassessmentleaders@gmail.com
Blog written by
Dan Bureau, Assistant Vice President for Student Health & Wellbeing,
Louisiana State University,
CAS Representative
Renée Delgado-Riley, Director, Student Life Assessment & Research,
University of Oregon,
SAAL Representative