By examining closely those factors which determine the cost of higher education, we can maintain our competitive advantage and ensure that higher learning continues to provide our citizens with the tools to participate fully in our national life. The impact upon tuition levels has been dramatic. The GAO study concluded that the rise in tuition nationally during this time period would have been 30 percent less than it was if state funding for higher education had remained constant at the level of support provided in 1980-81. These strategies hold great promise for maintaining access. At the same time, actions such as the creation by Congress of the National Commission on the Cost of Higher Education, recognize the need to understand fully the many factors driving up costs.
Accountability is key to successful cost-containment.
Since 1994, New Jersey has required institutions to provide annual reports to the public demonstrating their successful stewardship of one of the state's most important assets. I am proud to note that Rutgers takes this responsibility seriously. Rutgers accomplishes such savings in a variety of ways, as described in the enclosed report. Administrative restructuring These efforts continue to yield tremendous dividends, including enhanced national rankings which acknowledge the University's overall quality. Notwithstanding, it is becoming increasingly difficult to deliver the level of excellence that characterizes Rutgers and which the citizens of New Jersey richly deserve.