In an effort to identify strategies for strengthening the relationship between state government and public higher education, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) has appointed a Task Force on Making Public Higher Education a State Priority. Comprised of leaders with extensive higher education experience at the campus and state level, as well as in elected office, the task force has sought to: explore the political context within which higher education operates; recommend strategies for establishing a new compact between states and their public colleges and universities; and identify strategies for advancing higher education as a state investment priority. The task force recommends that leaders from state government and public higher education create a new compact built on a foundation of mutual understanding, trust and accountability. With these principles in place, state and campus leaders must craft a shared public agenda that meets state needs, broadens college access, makes college more affordable, improves student outcomes and ensures academic quality.