Most people think of running a college or university as a purely educational pursuit. And while that remains at the heart of higher education, the reality today is much broader. Leading a university also means managing a very complex set of risks: cyberattacks, financial instability, regulatory shifts, and reputational fallout, just to name a few.
These risks threaten an institution’s ability to educate, innovate, and serve its community. What complicates matters further is that these risks are emerging from different environments than what you’d expect to hear in the higher education sector.
Understanding Risk Management in Higher Education
Risk management in higher education institutions involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that could impede the achievement of academic and operational objectives. This encompasses a broad spectrum of areas, including compliance, financial health, campus safety, and technological infrastructure. A comprehensive approach ensures that colleges and universities can proactively address potential threats and maintain their commitment to educational excellence.
