The 1947 President's Commission on Higher Education offers insight into higher education policy in the United States. This article reviews and assesses the adoption of its policy recommendations in two key areas: 1) improving college access and equity and 2) expanding the role of community colleges. (Contains 1 figure and 4 notes.)

The effect on enrollment of two methods of financing public postsecondary education--blanket and targeted subsidies--is reviewed. Although targeted subsidies generally promote efficiency and equity, three reservations about their assumed effects on enrollment are discussed. (Author/MLW)