What's next for federal higher education policy? Alex Nock of Penn Hill Group joins AGB's Joe Brenckle to unpack the latest developments in this episode. From federal enforcement initiatives and accreditation shake-ups to judicial rulings on tuition access and political interventions, board leaders are facing complex challenges that demand attention now. With key regulatory decisions slated for 2026, this timely conversation offers insights to help boards stay ahead.

Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.

What do higher education boards need to know about free speech today? In this episode, AGB's Jackie Gardina talks with Jonathan Friedman of PEN America to explore what every governing board should understand about free speech, academic freedom, and institutional autonomy. Together, they explore the First Amendment's role in public vs private institutions, the misconceptions around hate speech, and how governing boards can uphold both inclusion and open inquiry in an increasingly polarized environment.

Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.

What should campus leaders know about the shifting federal enforcement of Title VI? In this episode, AGB's Jackie Gardina speaks with former Department of Education Office of Civil Rights attorney Beth Gellman-Beer about the surge in investigations and the growing focus on shared-ancestry discrimination. Together, they break down what institutions should expect if they come under scrutiny and how to strengthen compliance efforts. The conversation offers trustees and administrators practical guidance for maintaining a safe and inclusive campus climate amid rapidly changing expectations.
Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.