Dr. Edward L. Delaney Jr., a distinguished figure in the field of institutional research and a dedicated member of the Association for Institutional Research (AIR), passed away on August 14, 2024, at the age of 79. His career was marked by significant contributions that have left an enduring impact on higher education and the institutional research community.

Dr. Delaney's journey in institutional research began in the early 1970s, a time when the field was still emerging. He served as the Director of Institutional Research at several institutions, including Boston College and the University of Hartford, where he was instrumental in developing data-driven strategies to enhance institutional effectiveness. His commitment to using data to inform decision-making set a standard for others in the profession.

Within AIR, Dr. Delaney's leadership was transformative. He served as AIR President from 1992 to 1993, a period during which the association underwent significant organizational changes. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the transition from an Executive Committee to a Board of Directors, reflecting a move toward a more structured governance model. This shift allowed AIR to better serve its members at the time and adapt to the evolving needs of the institutional research community.

Dr. Delaney was also a strong advocate for professional development. He chaired the 1990 AIR Forum, providing a platform for professionals to share knowledge and best practices. His dedication to nurturing early-career professionals led to the establishment of the Edward Delaney Scholarship, which facilitates the professional growth of emerging institutional research professionals by providing travel assistance to AIR’s annual Forum.

Beyond his formal roles, Dr. Delaney was known for his collaborative spirit and willingness to mentor others. He believed in empowering his staff with professional development opportunities and fostering a learning community where mistakes were seen as opportunities for growth. His leadership principles emphasized the importance of integrity, relevance, and solution-oriented approaches, which have influenced many in the institutional research community.

Dr. Edward L. Delaney Jr.'s contributions to institutional research and AIR will have a lasting impact. His vision and leadership not only shaped the direction of the association but also advanced the profession as a whole. As colleagues and beneficiaries of his work, we honor his memory and commit to upholding the standards of excellence he championed.

Read his obituary to learn more about his contributions.