Focusing on the academic dimensions of student transfer from two- to four-year institutions, this report seeks to provide a foundation for institutional and academic policy decisions affecting the transfer experience and student achievement. Part I presents a policy statement on academic achievement and transfer and a nine-point agenda for action. The agenda calls on two- and four-year institutions to: (1) establish a firm commitment to transfer; (2) enrich the connection between teaching and transfer; (3) revitalize academic relationships between institutions; (4) manage transfer more effectively; (5) identify and realize transfer goals; (6) inform students fully; (7) issue a clear public call for improved transfer; (8) acknowledge the importance of financial support; and (9) establish firm expectations of transfer students. Suggested activities for implementing each of the points are attached. Part II presents a background paper by James C. Palmer and Judith S. Eaton. The paper begins by examining the implications of transfer education for the mission and values of two- and four-year institutions. After reviewing existing research on student transfer, the paper examines strategies commonly used to improve transfer, including inter-institutional arrangements and special student services. The role of faculty in transfer is discussed next. After stressing the importance of building an empirical base to assess transfer improvement projects, concluding comments reviewing the implications of a reemphasis on transfer. A 116-item bibliography is included. (PAA)