American Association of State Colleges and Universities' (AASCU's) public policy agenda, rooted in an uncompromising commitment to opportunity for the nation's students, is expressed through the following core principles: (1) Higher education is a common good that provides significant benefits to individuals and society as a whole; (2) America's public higher education system stands as an embodiment of the nation's democratic ideals; (3) State colleges and universities are committed to Delivering America's Promise through: quality undergraduate and graduate programs that reflect responsible stewardship of the public investment; meaningful engagement of the social and economic issues facing their states, regions and communities; and the promotion of global awareness, understanding and competitiveness; and (4) No American should be denied the opportunity to pursue higher education for lack of financial resources. AASCU's advocacy efforts in 2011 will focus on the theme of Delivering America's Promise in four broad policy arenas: affordability, access and attainment, accountability and competitiveness. This paper discusses the public policy priorities for the association in the year ahead.