This report uses tables, graphs, and text to summarize 1996-97 data on key indicators of progress by minority groups in American higher education. Data sources included Census Bureau Current Population Reports, the Higher Education General Information and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System survey reports, and surveys conducted by the Higher Education Research Institute. After an introduction and executive summary, individual chapters analyze the available data by minority group, which always includes African Americans and Hispanics and often also includes Asian Americans and American Indians. Individual chapters cover: (1) high school completion rates, (2) college participation rates, (3) educational attainment, (4) college enrollment trends, (5) degrees conferred, (6) doctoral degrees, (7) college graduation rates, and (8) employment trends. An additional section describes some innovative partnerships between universities and local public school systems that are increasing minority participation and success in college. A special focus on Asian Pacific Americans' demographic and educational trends challenges the "model minority" stereotype and discusses important differences in the educational, social, and economic circumstances of Asian Pacific American ethnic groups. (Contains 114 reference notes.) (DB)