New century requires new thinking for Oregon's public universities - Wim Wiewel, Oregon Live

The success of the class of 2010 comes despite dwindling state support for higher education and an outdated state agency structure. State funding for the Oregon University System has declined by 16 percent over the past two decades when adjusted for inflation, yet enrollment has jumped 27 percent in that period. As a result, our state universities can no longer afford to operate under an old system replete with inefficiencies, barriers and high costs. We need a new compact with the state that will provide more independence and accountability so we can better serve our growing number of students and fulfill our public mission to create a well-educated Oregon. Few Oregonians are aware of the downsides that universities face as a state agency.