Posts published on February 21, 2011

Summary Of Governor’s Higher Education Themes In State Of State Messages

Each year, most governors address a joint meeting of their legislative bodies to articulate their vision for the state and to outline key public policy priorities in the upcoming legislative session. Taken together, these addresses provide insight into the national policy dynamics for state governments.

For higher education leaders, these addresses often forecast the governor’s higher education agenda and forthcoming policy initiatives. Key themes stemming from this year’s addresses include higher education’s role in economic development and job creation, state aid to higher education and college degree completion. Governors have also outlined new policy priorities aimed at improving institutional performance, maintaining state operating support for public universities and advancing student success.

Provided below is a compilation of key higher education themes and policy proposals included in governors’ state of the state addresses to date. To view the full analysis, including a state-by-state summary of gubernatorial higher education priorities, click the link below.

AASCU Report: 2011 State of the State Addresses and Higher Education