Engaging with parents has become a major challenge for many colleges. These days, it's not just "helicopter" parents—known to be affluent and demanding—who complain about their children's grades, job prospects, housing, roommates, and much more. Parents increasingly see themselves as consumers, and question the value of a college education. Colleges also worry that students aren't becoming independent enough.
Managing the 21st Century Parent will examine how colleges navigate the crucial parental/family relationship. Many college leaders cite the goal of making parents partners and are seeking more engagement with families of low-income and first-generation students, who often may not understand college culture.
