In this article, the author observes that the economic recession gripping the United States has already had a negative impact on its higher-education system at a time when it is more important than ever to have an innovative, well-educated work force to succeed in an increasingly competitive and global job market. Although federal student loans remain readily available, tighter credit markets have restricted the ability of some families to borrow money from private lenders, making it more difficult for them to pay for college. Colleges and universities are economic engines of a nation's economy. As such, the author asserts, this should be a concern for policy makers as well as students and their families. He recommends that while Congress is drafting its economic-stimulus priorities this month, it should consider several concrete actions that will benefit students, colleges, and the nation's economy. These actions are detailed in the article.