The inherent problems of affirmative action efforts have been compounded in recent years by new ones: increasing difficulty for administrators to take risks; severe problems in predominantly black colleges brought about by successful desegregation of predominantly white colleges; and divisiveness in minority communities. New opportunities also exist, since the pool of educated women and minorities has increased, and that group has an increased awareness of its political clout. It is important now not only to maintain the base of affirmative action programs already existing, but also to superimpose a new concept that encourages institutions to act more positively rather than simply try to correct previous imbalances and problems. Programs should be structured to concentrate on the most motivated individuals and institutions, and to provide incentives rather than disincentives. A new sense of purpose and a new strategy for action are essential to all these efforts (MSE)