Last month we concluded our annual tradition of reviewing the prior year's events by category. I suppose our 2020 review will be unique since nothing about 2020 has been normal or expected. One thing that is still the same is the need for proactive risk management. Our operations in higher education may be slightly different now and range from all online to some unique mix, but no matter where your institution is on that spectrum, the need for proactive and agile risk management is more important than ever.

I thought this month would be a good time to remind our readers of some basics on how we suggest you use this monthly publication. Keep in mind the mode of operation has changed for us all so that needs to be factored into this evaluation.

1. Scan the headlines and stories from the entire newsletter, not just the area or topics for which you are responsible. If you see an interesting story, forward the newsletter to your colleague who you believe owns that specific risk and let them know you thought the story might be of interest. Developing a risk-intelligent institution takes each of us working together to help educate and inform each other. Who knows? Perhaps you will share information with a colleague that will help prevent your institution from becoming a headline.
2. Read the articles that detail any specific risks or topical areas that apply to you. Think honestly about your own operations and whether you have proactive processes, procedures, or activities in place that reduce the risk to a level that you can live with.
3. Talk to your employees who are responsible for managing any specific area of risk that catches your eye in the newsletter. Don't make the assumption that they are aware of what is happening at other institutions. In conversation, send the message that proactive action is important to you and your institution. You may learn that the proactive actions you think are occurring have not made it to those doing the daily work.

We hope you will take our suggestions as you review the events from the prior month. As always, we welcome your comments or suggestions.

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