Risk Management in Action: Real-World Solutions and Best Practices

In an era of escalating cyberthreats, higher education institutions must adopt a proactive and strategic approach to cybersecurity. This session will explore six foundational security principles—Data-Driven Approach, Monitoring, Assume Breach, Defense in Depth and Zero Trust Governance, Transparency and Shared Risk, and Identity-First Security—critical for building a resilient security program tailored to the unique challenges of higher education. Attendees will gain actionable insights into identifying and protecting critical assets, implementing continuous monitoring, adopting Zero Trust strategies, fostering collaboration across campus, and leveraging identity as the next-generation firewall. Through real-world case studies and practical examples, this session will equip higher education IT and security professionals with the tools and strategies needed to strengthen their institutions’ security posture while supporting their mission of education and research. Join us to learn how these principles can transform your approach to risk management and cybersecurity in higher education.