Will Obama's Stimulus Invest in our Intellectual Infrastructure?

Debate continues over what should be stimulated in President-elect Obama's economic stimulus package while the nation notes the passing of Rhode Island Senator Claiborne Pell, the architect one of the most important federal student aid programs. We have read about bail-out for banks, investment houses, and other institutions, but it seems to me that it might be wise to invest in America's intellectual infrastructure. The recently enhanced GI Bill will allow veterans to tap into their promise at institutions of higher learning across the country. What about other Americans? An updated, enhanced, and broad-based student aid program would allow Americans to train for the jobs of tomorrow as well as prepare the nation to better face the economic, social, and political challenges which confront us. Roads, bridges, and other infrastructure are important, and I think we know that improving them is a worthy cause. At a time when America need to prepare for the economy of the future, and at a time when college costs are keeping countless students from achieving their potential, perhaps the new administration would do well to consider investing in our intellectual infrastructure as well.

An Addendum, 7 January 2009: After I posted this, I discovered that the Obama tranisition website has a message board asking for input on keeping college affordable. Thanks to Insidehighered.com.