The conference reported in this document was attended by representatives of seven states (Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington). Participants focused on three key questions: (1) what are the issues and objectives behind assessment in each state? (2) what can be done regarding the implementation of assessment? and (3) how should the results be communicated? Concern with assessment was seen as reflecting interest in educational quality, as encouraging more effective use of resources, and as a means for faculty self-improvement. Variations across states were noted in terms of external forces, internal forces, initial fears and ultimate advantages of assessment as policy, and current issues. Suggestions directed at both campus leadership and state leaders are made for the improvement of assessment implementation especially in the areas of resolving differences between the two groups and maintaining good communication. A concluding section notes that the power of the assessment movement lies in the cogency of the questions it asks and that the biggest shortcoming of many state assessment initiatives is their failure to communicate a compelling set of reasons for mandated assessment. The conference agenda, a list of participants, and names of members of the Assessment Advisory Committee are included. (DB)