Examines the background and specific interests of seven Black women who have influenced educational policy at the federal level. Also discusses political and administrative problems these women have encountered and the strategies thay have used to deal with such problems. Finally, evaluates the women's impact on policy outcomes. (Author/GC)

Secretary of Education William J. Bennett has challenged colleges to curb their costs and is considering a federal policy that would reduce financial aid to students whose institutions increase their charges much beyond the inflation rate. He proposes that federal policy has fueled the college cost spiral. (MSE)

The Education Commission of the States' annual meeting was characterized by divergent opinions on almost any issue, but there appeared to be less consensus and more impatience on issues relating to higher education than on those concerning public schools. (MSE)