Much attention has been given to the changing landscape in higher education regarding declining student-enrollment rates and changing demographics. University leaders are giving higher priority to student-success outcomes, specifically retention, persistence, and graduation rates, resulting in a need to examine the emerging role of the student retention professional. This qualitative phenomenological research study explores the experiences of 12 student retention professionals in their role at private universities in the United States and how they believe their role impacts the academic and social integration of undergraduate students. The study design consisted of one-on-one interviews. Data analysis revealed themes that add to the body of research by providing a clearer understanding of the emerging role of the student retention professional and the high-impact practices they implement to support the retention, persistence, and overall success of undergraduate students. Student retention professionals are encouraged to use these findings to better define their roles and create a roadmap for student-success strategies. University leaders are encouraged to use these findings to ensure there exists an institutional commitment to meeting the needs of the students they enroll. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]