This paper examines how the traditional transfer role of the community college has become less significant as a vocational and community-based role has assumed importance. The paper describes factors contributing to the transfer function's decline and illustrates various attitudes surrounding the issue. The history of transfer education is reviewed, noting historical events that affected the educational system, such as the Great Depression, World War II, the G.I. Bill, and the 1947 Truman Commission. The effects of increased minority enrollment, the changing roles of faculty, and factors in the 1980's that sparked a renewed interest in the transfer function are discussed. The paper also outlines a nine-point agenda, created in 1991 by the American Council on Education and the National Center for Academic Achievement and Transfer. This agenda called upon two- and four-year colleges to do the following: (1) establish a firm commitment to transfer; (2) enrich the connection between teaching and learning; (3) revitalize academic relationships between institutions; (4) manage transfers more effectively; and (5) identify and realize transfer goals. The remaining points called upon governing boards, accreditation bodies, and government to inform students fully and acknowledge the importance of financial support. Interviews with educational leaders and faculty who support the transfer function are summarized. (Contains 21 references.) (AS)