The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) recently released its "Top 10 Higher Education State Policy Issues for 2011."  Here is Riverland's view of the top five issues.

#1—State Operating Support for Public Education

"Legislatively-directed taxpayer support" tops the list.  Funding for Minnesota public colleges and universities most likely will continue to suffer as legislators struggle with a projected $6.2 billion deficit for the next biennium.  This year, Riverland’s three campuses in Albert Lea, Austin, and Owatonna receive about the same state funding as in 2000 —$10 million.  Riverland’s allocation for the next two years may be lower than when the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system formed in 1996!

#2—States' College Completion and Educational Attainment Agendas

Reduced support for higher education spotlights the importance of improving college completion rates.  The Center for American Progress reports that the average unemployment rate among high school graduates is almost three percent higher than that of graduates with a two-year degree.  Riverland is using student-engagement strategies based on national best practices to improve student retention and completion rates.  Riverland must help students succeed if they are to enter the workforce with the skills employers demand.

#3—College Readiness

College readiness is ongoing national issue.  Riverland has taken a proactive approach to address the gap between high school and college academic expectations.  One example is the introduction of our Be Your Best Summer Prep Academy in 2007.  The academy helps participants between the ages of 16 and 22 earn free college credits in math, reading, writing, and help them improve study and computer skills.  The program provides tutoring and advising to ensure student success at the college level.  For adults returning to college or students needing additional skills in writing, reading, and math, Riverland offers College Prep courses.

#4—Tuition Prices and Policy

Tuition increases are one way for colleges to combat inflationary costs that state allocations have not addressed.  In 2000, students at Riverland paid $67.75 per credit.  Today, the cost is more than double at $149.70 per credit because state support decreased from 67 percent to less than 50 percent.  Public higher education in Minnesota is more "state assisted" than "state supported."

#5—State Student Aid Program Financing

The AASCU report states, "Given sustained financial pressures on students and families combined with ongoing state budget crises, state student aid programs will be further stretched in 2011."  Non-state funding sources are increasingly important as state aid decreases.  The Hormel Foundation's financial support of Riverland's Cycles for Success scholarship program is an important innovation.  Its generous commitment of $1 million dollars over five years allows Riverland to serve traditionally underrepresented graduates from Austin and Pacelli High Schools who otherwise could not afford college.  Similarly, the Riverland Community College Foundation provides scholarships to deserving students to overcome financial barriers to a postsecondary education.

The top five issues align with Riverland's strategic focus, and the AASCU report affirmed that our students and area employers will be well served in the future by our strategies.