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Student Services: A Handbook for the Profession (6th ed.) John H. Schuh, Susan R. Jones, and Vasti Torres (Editors) San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass, 2017, 640 pages, $90 (hardcover)
Since first issued in 1980, Student Services: A Handbook for the Profession, affectionately known as the "Green Book," has served as one of the cornerstone sourcebooks in preparing, guiding, and shaping student affairs educators. As the profession has evolved, so has this reference; subsequent editions were published in 1989, 1996, 2003, and 2011. The third edition, now a little worn, still sits on my bookshelf, a fond reminder of my beginnings as a student affairs educator. This newest edition, edited by John H. Schuh, Susan R. Jones, and Vasti Torres, seems at first glance very similar to the 5th edition, but a closer review reveals shifts in the organization and the content of the book. Many of the previous contributors have returned, but there are also many new ones-a diverse group of faculty and scholar-practitioners from across the field. As did previous editors, Schuh, Jones, and Torres reflected on the naming of the book; "Student Services" does not truly capture our work as educators, but the name was retained as a means to honor our roots. Despite the limitations of the name, the book wonderfully captures the true complexities of the roles we hold, the work we do, and emphasizes our commitment to student learning.
There have been questions about the need for periodic updates to the "Green Book," and the editors insightfully assert the need for this book to be as contemporary as possible, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of higher education. This is even truer today. In the wake of what may be the most contentious election in American history, and in a world filled with unspeakable violence, profound despair, and increasing inequities, the divisions among us as a people feel wider and deeper. This frames a new context for higher education and presents student affairs educators with many new challenges as we seek transformation and change. Our work facilitates students' ability to make meaning of their life, purpose, and journey of engagement, enabling them to move out in to the world showing up as their best selves. Now, more than ever, this work is needed....