For most institutions, the budget pain will get worse before it gets better--if it gets better. Budget constraints have become the norm in virtually every state. In prior recessions, advancement offices tended to view downturns as bumps in the road to be negotiated before returning to business as usual. But the current troubles could signal a…

Describes how private philanthropies are abandoning higher education, citing other priorities and a sense that colleges are not needy. (EV)

Reviews the activities and research projects in education supported by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The Foundation's current emphases are on the humanities, campus diversity, granting fellowships, and working with premier institutions. Recent publications by Mellon staff have increased the visibility of the Foundation's activities. (DB)

Reports on a $1 billion dollar grant from Bill and Melinda Gates to send 20,000 low-income minority students to college. The Gates Millenium Scholars Program will require students to demonstrate financial need and maintain a 3.0 grade point average in college. A list of the largest private gifts to higher education since 1967 is also provided. (DB)