Argues that community colleges must maintain their integrity by being true to the philosophy and mission of open access and articulating that mission to constituents in an effective and consistent manner. Discusses the evolving democratization of higher education, misunderstandings and criticisms of open access, and ways to maintain open…

Higher education must make as clear as possible what it intends to do, can do, and will do, and its responsibility for the admission, retention, and graduation of students, planning equal emphasis and enthusiasm on helping students achieve well-defined standards of excellence. (Author/MSE)

Examines the vital role of the community college in increasing access to higher education, especially among minorities and disadvantaged groups. Discusses fiscal constraints which jeopardize the continuation of this role and suggests increased cooperation with public schools and area businesses as a means of improving educational productivity. (JP)

Describes the downsizing and restructuring occurring in many community colleges due to funding decreases and enrollment increases. Discusses the feasibility of keeping an open-door policy, and explores other options to downsizing. Lists steps to help colleges review their missions, arguing that they must move to find their market niches. (AJL)

Uses the imagery of pioneer life to underscore the uncertainty of today's community college mission. Discusses the community college characteristics that represent a significant departure from traditional higher education: equal opportunity, open admissions, community involvement, comprehensive curriculum, and teaching orientation. Proposes…

Discusses the persistent questioning of the community college's open-door tradition in the 1980's. Considers the community college missions as originally defined, the effects of declining funding and credibility, and evidence of and strategies to prevent the closing of the open door. Explains Miami-Dade Community College's educational reforms in…

Israel's efforts to respond to growing social demands and to expand higher education are outlined, focusing on the extent of the state's involvement in higher education, demand and supply in Israeli universities, the social and academic functions of the Open University, and the overall academization of postsecondary institutions. (MSE)

A list of questions are posed to introduce a range of issues that may affect higher education enrollment. The need for opening up a dialogue to promote thought and subsequent action on alternative responses to future unknowns--e.g., federal intervention, unionization, labor force redirection--is discussed. (MLW)

Explores problems faced by the community junior college, including inflation, rising enrollments, expanding services, and open admissions; transfer policies from secondary and to university levels; faculty qualifications; management and accountability. Major trends are increased nontraditional students, alternate educational forms, decreased…

Harrison Wilson will retire as president of Norfolk State University (Virginia) after 22 years. The university has multiplied its annual budget by six, increased enrollment and faculty, added 14 buildings and 51 acres, and increased bachelor's programs. Despite a low graduation rate, the school has maintained open admissions to give low-achieving…

Educational reform by Miami-Dade Community College is discussed by its president, Robert H. McCabe. In an action that is considered unusual for two-year schools, it has tightened controls on its curriculum, faculty, and students. A commitment to achieving higher levels of literacy is advocated. (MLW)

As community colleges extend the educational franchise to increasing numbers of non-traditional students, educators face the dilemma of reconciling demands for academic quality with equal educational opportunity. Among these non-traditional students are Hispanic-Americans, one of the fastest growing populations in the country, who experience an…