For six decades, the Association for Institutional Research (AIR) has brought together professionals dedicated to using data and evidence to strengthen higher education. What began in May 1965 as a vote to adopt a constitution at the National Institutional Research Forum at the State University of New York at Stony Brook has grown into a global professional community shaping policy, practice, and student success.
In February 1966, AIR was officially incorporated. Sixty years later, its core purpose remains the same: support institutional research and effectiveness professionals in transforming data into insight and insight into impact.
A Community 60 Years in the Making
AIR’s story is not just about milestones. It is about people.
It is about the early pioneers who formalized a profession. It is about leaders who shaped standards, ethics, and best practices. It is about members who found mentors, presented their first conference session, asked a question that changed their career, or discovered a professional home.
Throughout this anniversary year, we are sharing stories from members across generations—reflections on what AIR has meant to them, how the community has evolved, and why this work matters. These stories are AIR.
Honoring Our History
As we celebrate 60 years, we also reflect on the first half-century of AIR’s journey. In The Association for Institutional Research: The First 50 Years, readers can explore the evolution of institutional research as a profession and the pivotal moments that shaped AIR’s growth from a small gathering of colleagues into a leading professional association. From foundational meetings in the 1960s to the expansion of professional development, publications, and advocacy, the book chronicles how AIR adapted to changing higher education landscapes while remaining grounded in community and rigor.
Then. Now. Next.
Over 60 years, AIR has:
- Advanced professional standards in institutional research and effectiveness
- Supported members through professional development, publications, and peer learning
- Elevated the voice of data professionals in national policy conversations
- Built a global network committed to ethical, evidence-informed decision-making
As higher education continues to evolve, AIR members remain at the forefront—navigating regulatory change, advancing student success, strengthening institutional strategy, and ensuring that data serve people.
Join the Conversation
AIR has always been powered by its members. Our strength lies in a vibrant community of professionals who share ideas, ask thoughtful questions, and support one another in navigating the evolving landscape of higher education. We invite you to leverage this community:
- Join rich conversations on the AIR Hub to exchange insights, seek advice, and learn from peers.
- Engage with colleagues in Coffee Chats as they share strategies and advance institutional research and effectiveness across diverse institutions.
- Become a member and deepen your connection to a professional home built on shared purpose and evidence-informed leadership.
Together, we strengthen institutions—and each other.
Thank You for 60 Years
Whether you joined AIR decades ago or recently discovered the community, you are part of this story.
- Together, we have built a profession.
- Together, we have strengthened institutions.
- Together, we will shape what comes next.
Celebrating 60 years of community, insight, and impact.