Top Strategic Issues for Boards 2026–2027

This biennial publication frames the most important topics in higher education that will demand governing boards’ strategic oversight in the next two years to ensure student success and long-term institutional vitality.

Top Strategic Issues for Boards 2026–2027 shows how college, university, and related foundation boards are grappling with uncertainty in the rapidly changing higher education environment. It informs strategic boardroom conversations to help board members not only safeguard their institutions’ futures but also advocate for the vital role their institutions play in the health of the country’s economy and its democratic values.

For the 2026–2027 edition, these top strategic issues include:

• Reaffirming boards’ roles and responsibilities
• Developing and supporting higher education leaders
• Improving student access and success
• Ensuring institutional vitality
• Managing uncertainty
• Renewing higher education’s purpose

Each theme includes framing questions to help guide the board’s discussion toward strategic conversations and deeper engagement about how these issues affect your institution.