A model for describing and assessing the effectiveness of student affairs programs is outlined in this paper as it was presented to the California Community College Student Affairs Association. First, the goals of student affairs programs (i.e., enrichment, involvement, and retention) and the impact of budget constraints on the achievement of these goals are explained. Then, a list is provided of specific functions of student affairs programs, including athletics; academic and college-related activities such as leadership classes; district and state committee activities such as student trustee selection; publications and publicity; finance and budget; student activities and services; and coordination with community groups using campus facilities. In addition, methods of documenting these functions are noted, including tickets sold, headcount, material distributed, evaluation activities, and questionnaire/survey responses. Next, a rationale is offered for student affairs programs, drawing from Alexander Astin's research on student persistence and campus involvement. Standards are then provided for four levels of student affairs activities, including standards for a core program, a moderate program at a small college, and optimal programs at moderate-sized and large colleges. Finally, a program evaluation method is suggested, which employs the list of functions, means of documenting the functions, and the four levels of program activity. Appendices include a summary of Astin's research on retention and relevant correspondence. (KL)