ABSTRACT
This chapter presents several case studies to demonstrate that a complex array of state-institutional relationships play an important role in shaping state support for research institutions. The case studies and comparison table makes it clear that each institution and state has its own unique political, institutional, and socio-economic history that is largely responsible for shaping present-day investment in higher education. The case studies of University of Georgia UGA, University of Wisconsin-Madison UW and Ohio State University OSU supported this finding, and further asserted that the visibility of public service activities is a critical element in garnering state appropriations for research universities. The case studies brought to life the importance of accountability and its implications for understanding support for research universities. The causes behind this finding were animated throughout the case studies. The case studies also suggest that a system-wide focus on the economic development needs of the state is critical to garnering support for research universities.
