Thriving communities require strong economic and political commitments to public higher education. Public higher education provides Connecticut residents with the knowledge, skills, and care they need to build a bright future for themselves and their families.

The following principles provide the foundation for a system of public higher education “dedicated to excellence” in accordance with Article VIII of Connecticut’s State Constitution. We call on our elected officials to support these principles and act accordingly in legislative and budgetary deliberations.

Guiding Principles

• In the 21st century, higher education is a human right that must be accessible and free.
• Because higher education is a public good generating social and economic progress, state funding for the public colleges and universities must be increased and sustained.
• Academic freedom is the freedom to search for truth, to innovate, to explore, and to debate. It is central to the core mission of every institution of higher education and must be defended.
• Students deserve faculty who are highly qualified and available. The number of full-time, tenure-track positions must be increased, and contingent faculty must be provided with decent working conditions, job security, pay parity and opportunities for advancement.
• Collective bargaining ensures a voice in the workplace and provides a better life for all working people. The right to bargain collectively must be defended across all employment sectors.