As someone who has spent their career assisting in risk related activities in the higher education environment, I can recall several times where the topic of pandemics would show up on some risk assessment or heat map. Honestly, to me it was one of those risks that while certainly possible, I never really expected to experience. Then came COVID-19.

This publication has become widely distributed across higher education not only within the United States but also at many international institutions. As a result, I attempt to write for a wide audience. However, I feel compelled to briefly give kudos to Auburn University President Jay Gouge and his leadership in preparing our institution for this event.

I recall sitting in the President's cabinet meeting in January 2020, and Dr. Gogue mentioning the COVID-19 issues occurring in China. He went on to ask the AU Cabinet to being working on an operational plan should we have to carry out our mission remotely for 30 days. Little did I know in January how prophetic this instruction would become over the next two months. We have been very blessed at AU with visionary leaders throughout the executive leadership team here at AU. I hope your experiences at your institutions have been similar.

So what does one write about in the midst of a global pandemic? Honestly, I have no clue, but I thought I would share five things that came to mind.

1. If you are working remotely, find a routine that works for you. One person told me that they still get dressed and ready just as if they are going to work in their office every day. They have found this helps them gain the right focus to still be productive in this new world.
2. Take a break. It is okay to take a short walk (with appropriate distancing or by yourself). This is all new for us and sometimes stepping away for a few minutes can result in much more productivity.
3. Do not hide on video conference calls. Most of us miss interaction with our colleagues, and I think we all miss something when looking at a non-video participant on these calls. Sure, it is weird, and I hate looking at myself on the screen, but it is the hand we have been dealt at the moment. We should maximize the interactions we have even if only on a video call.
4. Use any down time for personal growth. Get better during these days by improving not only technical knowledge, but also person growth, leadership, emotional intelligence, management, communication, etc. Find an area you want to improve on, and use the time you have to capitalize on it. This is probably more valuable than watching Tiger King on Netflix.
5. Do not forget that protecting data and information is still important. The privacy laws governing information and materials you may be accessing or using remotely are still in place. Remember that and make wise security and privacy decisions.

One thing that has occurred during the pandemic is an increase in phishing emails and attempts to comprise systems, not only in higher education, but also in virtually all industries. Jim O'Conner, VP for Information Technology at AU, and his team wrote some excellent suggestions for AU employees regarding phishing. These are presented with his permission with some with slight modification so they relate to any institution or organization.

I hope that a few of the items in this month's column are of some use to you. Even more so, I hope that when you hear from us next month our world will be returning to normalcy. In the meantime, please look at the issues occurring across higher education with a view toward proactive management. As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions.

Read this month's issue of Case In Point

Case In Point Archives