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AACRAO Research Advisory Board Charter

The AACRAO Research Advisory Board Charter establishes the purpose, responsibilities, and operating principles of the board. It provides a framework for guiding AACRAO’s research agenda, ensuring that research initiatives address emerging issues in higher education, support evidence-based decision-making, and advance the work of admissions, enrollment management, registrars, transfer professionals, and related practitioners. The charter also outlines the board’s role in advising on research priorities, promoting methodological rigor, and helping ensure that AACRAO research remains relevant, timely, and valuable to the higher education community.

This advisory board provides strategic feedback and innovative ideas to the Senior Director of Research on research topics of critical interest to the membership.

The advisory board comprises up to five AACRAO members whose expertise spans key functional areas, including admissions, enrollment management, enrollment services, faculty, institutional research, registrar services,  and other relevant specializations. This diverse composition ensures a comprehensive perspective on research priorities and methodologies.

Each advisory board member commits to a three-year term beginning October 1st, with the option to continue for an additional three-year period based on approval by AACRAO leadership and demonstrated engagement. Beyond the initial six-year period, continued service may be negotiated on a rolling three-year basis, subject to AACRAO leadership approval and mutual agreement.

Member Expectations

Asynchronous Participation

Respond to emails from the Sr. Director of Research within the timeframe posted in each request.

Synchronous Participation

Attend a face-to-face or virtual meeting with the Senior Director of Research once annually and contribute meaningfully to discussions.

Strategic Input

Provide informed recommendations on research priorities, methodologies, and emerging trends of interest to the membership.

Professional Expertise

Share practical insights from institutional experience to ensure research produces high-quality, actionable outcomes by providing feedback on survey methodology and research design.

Responsive Engagement

Respond promptly to requests for feedback on surveys and research proposals.

Collaborative Spirit

Work constructively with fellow board members to advance AACRAO’s research mission.

Professional Development

Stay current with trends and best practices in their areas of expertise.

Confidentiality

Maintain appropriate discretion regarding sensitive research topics and member information.

Membership Consultation

Occasionally serve as a source of practice expertise for member inquiries (not mandatory).

Member Selection Process

Applications will be evaluated collaboratively by current advisory board members and AACRAO leadership. Applicants must be current AACRAO members. New members will be selected and appointed by October 1st each year unless an unexpected vacancy requires interim appointment. The selection process prioritizes candidates demonstrating relevant expertise, commitment to the profession, and alignment with AACRAO’s research mission.

Application Period Closed

Meet the Board