A position paper on higher education in Massachusetts in the 1980's which was prepared by the Alden Seminar for Higher Education, is presented. In addition, an overview of the November 1981 Alden Seminar meeting, opening statements, and reports of small groups are included. The Alden Seminar discussions on higher education, especially in regard to Massachusetts, provide the views of Massachusetts business and industrial executives and private and public colleges and universities. Seminar topics included academic standards and the maintenance of quality; the need for public-private higher education planning; and the responsibilities of the Massachusetts Board of Regents. In "Higher Education in Massachusetts in the 1980's: Familiar Issues, Changed Circumstances, New Coalitions," Richard M. Freeland focuses on: Massachusetts's role as a national center for academic research and higher education; progress in assuring access to education in Massachusetts; and prospects for the 1980's with respect to national and local roles of higher education in Massachusetts. Enrollment trends for out-of-state and state residents and data on enrollments at public and private colleges in the state are presented. Information on seminar participants is also included. (SW)