This report offers the analysis and recommendations of an Ohio state advisory board for state support of higher education in Ohio that urges a commitment to increased funding as an investment in the state's economic future. A brief introduction notes that traditionally Ohio has invested 20 percent less than the national average in higher education. A look at the background of higher education funding examines the decreased public funding, increased expectations for service, and concerns about maintaining quality. The balance of the report examines in detail key requirements facing the state system with recommendations for how to achieve them; that is, for each issue the report offers a description, recommendations, alternative views, and findings, conclusions and a recommended course of action. The first requirement is keeping quality education affordable through creating a network of campuses, avoiding program duplication, and managing faculty workload and evaluation. A second central requirement is offering access to higher education for all Ohioans with the focus on the role and organizational structure of the community college system. A final requirement is the state's need for a strong research infrastructure. A conclusion recaps the key policy positions outlined in the report. (JB)