more on the university charter push

ÊÊÊ But with Virginia's public colleges now underfunded by nearly $400 million annually, officials insist the additional flexibility could allow them to chip away at their respective budget gaps before the schools suffer permanent blows to quality and reputation. That margin of financial independence would, in turn, leave more state money for Virginia's other underfunded colleges, officials said.

really, these universities have already suffered permanent blows to quality and reputation. it is somewhat too late for that. but now they might be able to regain and rebuild some reputation. however, i'm not sure it is possible given other peices of the puzzle.