S. Georgia Nugent, president of Associated Colleges of Illinois and president of Illinois Wesleyan University, writes:  Illinois’ private, independent colleges are "a hidden gem" for the state. Illinois is one of only five states to boast more than 50 independent colleges. The state's private, independent colleges and universities enroll a larger number of students than the state’s public universities (204,000 vs. 185,000 students). As president of the Associated Colleges of Illinois, an association of 26 institutions, I believe it is vital for Illinois citizens to understand the strengths of these colleges and universities, particularly in light of many widespread misunderstandings about higher education.