Once considered pariahs by many in higher education, parents are fast becoming their prized partners. Whether public or private, small or large, two- or four-year colleges, institutions are actively catering to parents, hoping to turn them into an essential student support system--and enthusiastic donors. For colleges and universities, increased…

In recent years, the economic boom in Asia has resulted in more families sending their children to independent secondary schools in North America, Europe, and Australia. Donations, however, haven't been as forthcoming. Schools often have to start from scratch in educating parents about the need for fundraising. Independent schools, more so than…

Growing numbers of colleges and universities, as well as independent schools, are targeting parents, grandparents, and other nonalumni friends for gifts to meet institutional needs and, at many public institutions, replace appropriations lost to Draconian state cuts. Such efforts have taken root despite parents shouldering ever-climbing college…

Parents present something of a conundrum to higher education administrators. They know that parents play a very important role in student success, especially during the first year, but institutions are also committed to ensuring that students successfully transition from childhood to adulthood. While they want to encourage parent involvement in…