In addition to making the findings under ORS § 350.001, the Legislative Assembly finds that:

(1) Oregonians need access to educational opportunities beyond high school and throughout life.

(2) To meet the societal and individual needs described under ORS § 350.001, Oregonians have created and should sustain diverse institutions of higher education, both independent and state-assisted.

(3) These institutions have developed the intellectual capacity of Oregonians and have prepared thousands of them for productive and fulfilling careers.

(4) These institutions should provide educational access to all segments of Oregon’s diverse population.

(5) These institutions provide research that generates knowledge value essential for Oregon’s economic growth.

(6) These institutions engage the professional expertise of their faculties to solve social problems.

(7) These institutions provide important cultural activities and services that add to Oregon’s quality of life. [Formerly 351.003]