In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, universities like Cal Poly must manage a multitude of assets.
Risk Management protects assets such as physical infrastructure, people and our institution's reputation. They also play a pivotal role in identifying, assessing and mitigating the risks that threaten these assets. They examine various aspects of university operations, identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities.
Whether assessing risks related to campus activities, safety protocols, or financial matters, their aim is to create a safer and more secure environment for everyone associated with Cal Poly.
One of the key responsibilities of Risk Management is securing insurance coverage to protect the university and its community members.
Risk Management plays an active role in various events and programs such as the design village and logging competition, ensuring safety. They manage a wide range of insurance policies, including specialized ones such as aviation and rodeo policies, which are tailored to the unique risks faced by Cal Poly. Certain events or programs can require evidence of insurance from Cal Poly or the California State University (CSU) when organizing events or services. Risk Management ensures that these requirements are met.
Risk Management also oversees driver safety, an essential aspect of campus operations. They identify individuals driving for university business and in university vehicles, and provide training and additional safety measures.
Accident and incident reporting is another crucial function, not to be confused with workers' compensation, which falls under the purview of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). Risk Management and EHS have a close partnership to collectively strategize and ensure the safety of all individuals on campus. Transparency and collaboration between these two entities are crucial for managing risks effectively.
A strategic initiative within Cal Poly's Risk Management is to create the Youth Protection Program.
The CSU is in collaboration with the organization Praesidium, this program specializes in the protection of vulnerable populations with a focus on individuals under the age of 18 who come to the campus. The Risk Management team is taking proactive steps by building a Youth Protection Committee, comprising members from across the campus community. This committee will bring diverse perspectives to create solutions applicable to the entire university, especially in the context of youth-serving programs.
Risk Management at Cal Poly is more than just ensuring financial stability; it's about protecting the university's future, its reputation and the safety of all those connected to this vibrant academic community. Their proactive approach to risk assessment, insurance management and innovative programs like the Youth Protection Initiative demonstrates their commitment to creating a safer, more secure Cal Poly for all.