Case In Point: Lessons for the Proactive Manager
Volume 17 Issue 07 | July 2025
As we approach the end of summer, I’ve asked Kristin Roberts, who is a leader in our Division of Institutional Compliance & Privacy, to share what has been on her mind recently.
Compliance programs are more critical now than ever before. As we see an administrative move toward deregulation, the burden of managing risk increasingly falls on institutions themselves. Where once regulations clearly defined the rules and mitigated risk through enforcement, or the threat thereof, organizations must now proactively establish their own standards and controls. This shift demands a more strategic, values-driven approach to compliance—one that aligns with institutional missions and anticipates risk rather than merely reacting to it.
We are moving from a rules-based environment to a principles-based one, where the integrity and values of the institution guide behavior. In this context, compliance is not just about avoiding penalties; it’s about fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical decision-making. Strong compliance programs help institutions navigate ambiguity, protect their reputations, and build trust with stakeholders. As the external guardrails loosen, internal commitment to institutional values becomes a vital safeguard.
Great thoughts, Kristin! Thanks for sharing with us. We again invite you to review the issues across higher education with a view toward proactively managing risk.
Kevin Robinson
Vice President
Institutional Compliance & Security
