The 2009 Public Policy Agenda summarizes the American Association of State Colleges and Universities' (AASCU's) principles and priorities in key areas of higher education policy. The document is intended to serve as a point of reference for the association's members and other interested organizations as well as federal and state policymakers. While continuing to organize the policy positions around the central themes of affordability, access, accountability and competitiveness, this year's "Public Policy Agenda" reflects the events and accomplishments of the past year. [For the 2008 edition of this report, see ED499907.]