Higher education plays a significant role in shaping our cultural identity. Yet, in this ever-changing world, it′s important to consider what adjustments American universities are making-or need to make-to meet the dynamic societal requirements.

Change is often challenging for large institutions, and academia is no different. The contributors to this issue of The Annals take a hard look at current changes in higher education and propose further modification for the American university in the coming decades.

The issue opens with a blueprint for change that looks at the impact of current social concerns and ways that universities can respond to those concerns. The remaining articles include topics on land-grant universities, urban universities, the corporatization of the university, the focus on institution management, equal opportunity for higher education, the influence of fraternities and sororities, trends in postsecondary science, distance learning, the social context of applied science, tertiary education in Europe, reengineering of education, and a review of literature of higher education.

It′s fitting that this issue of The Annals, which examines the transformations of higher education, includes some changes of its own. Beginning with this first issue of 2003, The Annals has launched a new layout and design. Readers will find the journal easier to use; and the design changes also signify undergoing transformations within the academy itself. The academy has renewed and reinvigorated its commitment-as its 1891 charter proclaims-to "promote the progress of the political and social sciences."

Victor Hugo has been attributed with the quotation, "Change your opinions, keep to your principles; change your leaves, keep intact your roots." This issue is devoted to change in the American university; and the improvements to the design and layout of The Annals reflect the academy′s dedication to its core philosophy.