This brief argues for a Higher Education Investment Board – an independent board that performs the functions of the California Student Aid Commission and is also responsible for developing information to assist policy makers and consumers in making wise choices.
California needs a mechanism to better understand how we can best meet our goals for more degrees and certificates.
The state should establish a Higher Education Investment Board to carry out high-level planning and analysis, creating a more unified and coordinated system of governance. Investment Board members—who are not linked to any specific institutions—should have a detailed understanding of the:
- Needs of the economy
- Challenges faced by communities in different regions of the state
- Activities and capacity of all higher education providers – public and private
The main focus of the Higher Education Investment Board would be to:
- Develop information to assist state and local policy makers and California consumers in making cost-effective investments in postsecondary education and training to meet the long-term goal of a strong state economy and vibrant communities.
- Arrange for the efficient administration of state student financial aid programs (incorporating the responsibilities of the California Student Aid Commission)
To learn more, read The Road Ahead: Higher Education, California’s Promise, and our Future Economy.
