Risk and Resiliency in U.S. University and College Systems

Most Higher Education Systems Are Drifting Toward Risk. Is Yours One of Them?

Nearly half of U.S. public higher education systems are either already in distress or moving toward it. Based on an analysis of 91 higher education systems, Risk and Resiliency in U.S. University and College Systems helps system leaders identify where risk is emerging, understand what's driving it, and take action to change their trajectory.

Rather than treating risk as a collection of isolated challenges, the report gives leaders a shared framework for identifying where risk is emerging, prioritizing the issues that matter most, and aligning leaders around a coordinated response before options narrow.

Readers will find:

• A practical framework for assessing system-level risk
• Common risk areas across academic affairs, finance, administration, strategy, and student outcomes
• Guidance for identifying risk signals before they escalate
• Recommendations for aligning executive teams around risk ownership and response
• A clearer path from risk awareness to risk action

Whether you're preparing for board discussions, shaping system strategy, evaluating financial priorities, or leading transformation initiatives, this report provides a detailed look at turning risk into coordinated action.