The state budget crisis has affected many programs and institutions in Minnesota.

Public colleges and universities are some of those institutions that have been greatly affected by those cuts.

Tuition at our own Riverland Community College increased last school year. This summer the state announced it was cutting its work study aid program.

Getting a higher education is becoming increasingly less affordable.

That's why groups like the Riverland Community College Foundation and the Albert Lea Campus Foundation are so important.

Recently the two merged because leaders in those groups thought by combining their efforts they would be able to provided more funding for scholarships and department grants.

We think this is a good step.

Local organizations, businesses and individuals also should receive praise for their generosity to students and college programs. Without their help the foundation wouldn't be as successful.

With scholarships, students who wouldn't be able to afford tuition can get an education. Departments can purchase equipment they would not normally be able to with their limited budgets.

We encourage this merged foundation to continue making quality higher education possible.