Enterprise Risk Management Update: Key Priorities and Next Steps
September 2, 2026 3:32 PM

Dear colleagues,

Higher education continues to experience significant change, with institutions navigating through emerging technologies, increasing operational complexity, and other evolving challenges. To better understand the risks facing the University of Illinois System and to identify opportunities to support our continued success, the Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) program recently completed its annual risk assessment, engaging leaders from across the system.

Enterprise risks are managed through existing governance structures, leadership groups, and operational units throughout the system. Feedback gathered through the assessment highlighted opportunities to reinforce risk coordination and preparedness in three key areas:

Advancing Readiness for Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence presents both significant opportunities and evolving challenges for higher education. Through the AI Exchange and in partnership with university leadership, we will continue supporting efforts related to AI governance, workforce and student readiness, and responsible adoption of emerging technologies.

Strengthening Business Continuity Planning

To enhance preparedness for high-impact disruptions including power outages and major technology system failures, a cross-functional task force will be established to coordinate and strengthen business continuity planning across the system.

Enhancing Visibility of Risk Mitigation Efforts

Many enterprise risks have shared ownership and are addressed through the work of multiple units and governance bodies. The ERM program is developing a communication strategy to improve awareness of mitigation activities, strengthen coordination, and increase visibility into how interconnected risks are being managed system-wide.

ERM is most effective when it supports the work already taking place throughout the system. We appreciate the continued engagement of leaders and subject matter experts whose insights help identify emerging risks, share effective practices, and strengthen organizational resilience.

Thank you for your continued partnership in these efforts.

Sincerely,

Nicholas P. Jones

Executive Vice President and Vice President for Academic Affairs