An evaluation of the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) and its influence in its 20 years of existence reveals discrepancies in prestige. The study represents a compilation of data collected from 100 individuals directly involved in or affected by SREB's work. Through SREB identification of educational needs and suggestions on how they might be met, the South's first campaign to popularize higher education was initiated. By focusing on content and practice, the campaign helped legislators to recognize the necessity for allocating funds for quality education. Another innovation was to help develop and operate student contract programs, in which students could cross state lines for professional and specialized education and thus prevent costly expansion of existing institutions in each state for advanced study in specialized areas. Increased population and knowledge, however, made campus growth inevitable. Governors who served on the Board later demanded federal support for the improvement of graduate research programs. SREB conferences, studies, proposals, publications and participation in educational decision making have helped to establish 50 new institutions and expand many others in scope and capacity. These achievements have gained stature for SREB among state government officials, a limited group of university presidents, deans and directors, national private foundations and college and university associations. But prestige drops sharply within the academic community where SREB accomplishments are unknown. (WM)