The state is shortsighted if it reduces already meager support for higher education - Christopher Breim, Post-Gazette

Why is Pennsylvania running a race to the bottom when it comes to educating our workers? Faced with ever-mounting financial cuts emanating from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's public institutions of higher education are staring at stark choices. If the trend continues, Pennsylvania and its economy will be losers in the long run. There is no surer investment in economic growth than preparing workers for future opportunities. Yet Pennsylvania ranks near the bottom in state-government support for higher education. With $211 million cut last year and a further reduction of $273 million announced for this year, Pennsylvania already may have reached the dubious distinction of placing dead last among the states when it comes to investing in higher education. The implications are unavoidable.