An earlier article evaluating Massachusetts' recent long-range plan for higher education is criticized. Aspects of the plan omitted in the first article are noted, including state financing improvements, incentives for institutional action, and increased local autonomy. (MSE)

The creation of the Massachusetts Board of Regents by legislative act in 1980 marked a major departure from a loosely coordinated system of higher education that had been in place in the state since 1965. The new public system created a central governing board with strong budgetary and program authority. (MLW)