This statement calls attention to the importance of private investment in the nation's public colleges and universities. It was prepared by the Voluntary Support Committee of the National Association of State Universities and Land-Grant Colleges and is being distributed in cooperation with the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. These 2 associations together represent some 350 public institutions enrolling about one-half of all students in higher education today. The message, in short, is that public institutions need private support to maintain quality and opportunity. Private support can make possible: the provision of superior facilities; "venture capital" to initiate experimental projects for which it is difficult to obtain financial support; the braodening of educational opportunities; the support of areas for which tax funds may not be used or available. Examples of these uses of private funding are included. [Not available in hard copy due to marginal legibility of original document]. (JS)