Several problems facing the new US Department of Education (ED) even before it officially begins to function in May 1980 are identified. These include staffing, organizing, and preparing a budget for fiscal 1981. Education programs from other cabinet departments, now under ED jurisdiction, are listed. (JMF)

Discussed are the conflict-of-interest provisions of the Federal Ethics in Government Act of 1978 that limit the activities of high level officials after they leave government service. Designed to deal with officials with inside information who return to private positions of influence, the law's brovisions are seen as much too broad. (JMP)

The National Academy of Education is described as a loose federation of prominent educational and social science researchers, which has never pretended to be a think tank or a lobbying organization. Its influence is indirectly felt through the prestige and quality research of its members. (MLW)

The need for effective lobbying in Washington by Black colleges and the shortcomings of present activities are outlined. Specific actions regarding Title III funds for developing institutions are among the lobbying needs assessed. (JMF)

The relationship between the federal government and higher education is examined with focus on federal aid and especially federal regulations. Justifications for the federal regulatory role and suggestions for improving the relationship by both higher education and the government are offered. (JMD)

With its fiscal year 1983 budget recommendations, the Reagan administration is seen as moving toward outright rejection of a federal responsibility for access to higher education. The commitment to expand postsecondary opportunities that has been affirmed by presidents and congresses for 25 years may soon be cancelled. (MLW)

Two distinguished figures in education policy and practice were asked to reflect on each other's careers. They described the development of a strong federal role in education during Lyndon Johnson's presidency. Both see the church-state issue and civil rights making federal activity for schools extremely difficult. (MLW)

The National Endowment for the Humanities is criticized for not providing greater leadership both within the government and among potential sources of private financial support for the humanities. (MSE)

History illustrates how support for technological advancement has been essential. Congress and the administration must take the initiative together to foster a climate for alliances between government, industry, and higher education. New mechanisms permitting joint efforts to compete effectively in the world economy while protecting domestic…

William G. Bowen, president of Princeton University and an authority on education-government relations, is interviewed. Focus is on the relationship between institutions of higher education and the federal government. Topics discussed in this context include coooeration between colleges and universities, federal aid, and research funding. (JMD)

It is argued that despite the decline of the humanities in higher education in the 20 years since the National Endowment for the Humanities came into existence, the agency has probably done much to promote the humanities and prevent further decline. (MSE)

The small private college may be a better vehicle for recruiting a diverse student body into higher education than is commonly recognized. The only true competition in higher education is among a few well-endowed private institutions for the best students. It would be shortsighted to eliminate this sector.

Some thoughts on higher education in the 1980s are presented. The commitments made to higher education by Congress have included: education accessible to those likely to be excluded either by economic or physical disadvantage, research, support of institutions of culture, and strengthening of international studies. (MLW)

The changes in postsecondary education's relationship to government generally and to the federal government specifically are discussed. It is concluded that, as the array of issues, participants, and special interests mounts, the academy is less and less able to speak with a single voice in Washington. (MLW)

The decline in the number of federally related jobs is threatening public policy schools and policy analysis is experiencing a loss of esteem. If this trend continues, the quality of students interested in public policy schools may be diluted. (MLW)