Understanding Fiduciary Duty: The Foundation of Strategic Governance

Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB. In an era of polarization and heightened scrutiny, how can higher education boards ensure that disagreement leads to progress—not gridlock? In this podcast, AGB Consultant and Senior Fellow Terry MacTaggart talks with Mylien Duong, Vice President of Research and Innovation at the Constructive Dialogue Institute (CDI). They explore research-based habits for constructive disagreement and share strategies to build trust, improve board culture, and keep shared purpose front and center. This episode offers timely, practical insights for board members, presidents, and board professionals navigating complex conversations on campus and in the boardroom.

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. They explore the upcoming negotiated rulemaking process for student loans and Workforce Pell, a sweeping executive order on race and admissions data reporting, and the potential implications of a looming government shutdown. Alex and Joe offer insights into the Department of Education's spring Unified Agenda and what it signals for accreditation and Title IV rulemaking in 2026. 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 board members need to understand about the rise of antisemitism on college and university campuses—and why does it matter for institutional leadership? In this episode, AGB Senior Fellow Mary Papazian speaks with Rachel Fish, a nationally recognized scholar and advisor to the Brandeis University President's Initiative on Antisemitism. They discuss how higher education leaders and trustees can recognize contemporary expressions of antisemitism, ensure alignment with institutional policies, and foster learning environments grounded in safety, inclusion, and academic freedom. This timely conversation offers practical insights for boards striving to lead with clarity and integrity in a time of rising polarization and campus unrest. Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.

Accreditation affects everything from financial aid to institutional viability—but many board members don't realize how directly they're accountable. In this episode, AGB's Natalie Boehm talks with AGB Consultant John Cavanaugh about what every board should know: why accreditation matters, how it connects to fiduciary duties, and what questions boards should be asking. Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.

What does it really mean to serve on a higher education board? In this podcast, governance expert Tom Hyatt breaks down fiduciary duty—not just as a legal requirement, but as the cornerstone of courageous, strategic leadership. Learn why showing up, speaking up, and standing by your mission matters more now than ever. 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 governing boards need to know to protect their institutions' missions and values during these politically charged times? Constitutional scholar, former University of Vermont President, and AGB Board Member Tom Sullivan discusses the legal challenges facing higher education today with AGB's Vice President for Content Strategy and Development Doug Goldenberg Hart. Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.

In this episode, AGB Executive Vice President Mary Papazian discusses the rise of antisemitism on college campuses with Special Advisor to the Brandeis University President's Initiative on Antisemitism Rachel Fish, and what board members need to know to lead effectively in response. Board members play a crucial role in promoting a campus culture that upholds academic freedom while also fostering inclusion, viewpoint diversity, and civil discourse. Asking critical questions and supporting leadership in making difficult decisions can help ensure that campuses remain safe, respectful, and mission-driven learning environments for all. Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.

What's next for higher education policy? AGB's Director of Strategic Communications Joe Brenckle and Penn Hill Group Principal Alex Nock break down major federal proposals that could reshape funding, student aid, and accountability, and why governing boards must stay engaged. Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.

Recorded on March 17, 2025  Venture capital can be a powerful portfolio driver for institutional investors when approached strategically. In this podcast, Cerity Partners Senior Principal Nat Fraser speaks with AGB Senior Consultant John Griswold about how venture capital is a critical asset class that offers significant return potential but requires boards to have a careful understanding of its unique risks and dynamics.  Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.

As colleges and universities face mounting pressures from all directions - donors, politicians, alumni, and various interest groups - the ability of governing boards to maintain their independence has never been more crucial. This autonomy isn't about resisting political influence; it's about ensuring that boards can fulfill their fiduciary duties and make decisions that serve their institutions' missions and values. Board independence is key to institutions maintaining their role as crucial incubators of innovation, discovery, and democratic values. In this podcast, AGB President and CEO Fram Virjee discusses the vital role of independence and neutrality in today's environment. Opinions expressed in AGB podcasts are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the organizations that employ them or of AGB.