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Assessing Risk and Crisis Management through Data Analysis
July 29, 2024
From a podcast interview with Mary Stegmaier, Senior International Officer at the University of Missouri.
“Our Student Travel Abroad Review Committee (STAR), comprising representatives from various offices and experienced faculty, thoroughly reviews each student's travel plans to assess risk and manage potential crises.”
In this article, Mary Stegmaier delves into the crucial role of data in assessing risks and managing crises in study abroad programs. She discusses her university's meticulous process of evaluating destinations, conducting site visits, and establishing safety protocols. Through the involvement of the STAR committee, comprehensive risk assessments are conducted to ensure the safety of students and faculty members in potentially hazardous locations. Mary also shares a personal experience highlighting the importance of emergency preparedness and swift response protocols.
Mary emphasizes the significance of tapping into diverse data sources when evaluating the risk levels of study-abroad destinations. Institutions can picture potential risks comprehensively by incorporating inputs from Department of State alerts, CDC recommendations, and on-the-ground information from students.
This multifaceted approach enhances the accuracy of risk assessments and enables institutions to proactively identify and address potential challenges before they escalate. By drawing insights from various sources, organizations can stay ahead of evolving situations and tailor their risk management strategies accordingly.
Establishing a Student Travel Abroad Review Committee (STAR) exemplifies a collaborative and inclusive approach to risk assessment. The STAR committee brings representatives from various departments, including the General Counsel’s Office, Risk and Insurance Management, and Study Abroad. It serves as a forum for comprehensive risk evaluations and decision-making processes.
Involving faculty members who have led study abroad programs in the committee further enriches the discussions with valuable insights and perspectives. This collective deliberation ensures that risk assessments are holistic, nuanced, and considerate of all stakeholders' diverse needs and concerns.
Effective crisis management hinges on robust emergency response protocols and preparedness measures. Mary highlights the importance of having designated personnel available to address emergencies promptly. By ensuring that a trained team member is accessible via an emergency phone, institutions can provide timely support and guidance to staff and students in distressing situations.
Furthermore, implementing detailed emergency plans, outlining steps for notifying relevant parties, and seeking appropriate medical assistance are imperative for swift and coordinated responses. Her anecdote underscores the significance of having clear protocols in place, as she recounts a student emergency incident during a study abroad program and the critical role of structured emergency procedures in effectively managing the situation.
In conclusion, Mary Stegmaier's insights provide valuable insights into the pivotal role of data in assessing risks and enhancing crisis management practices in study abroad programs. By leveraging diverse data sources, fostering collaborative decision-making through stakeholder engagement, and fortifying emergency response capabilities, institutions can bolster their risk management strategies and prioritize the safety and well-being of students participating in international programs.
As organizations navigate the complexities of global mobility and educational initiatives, a data-driven approach to risk assessment emerges as a cornerstone for mitigating vulnerabilities and proactively addressing challenges. By embracing the key principles and best practices elucidated in the discussion, institutions can cultivate a culture of safety, preparedness, and resilience in their international endeavors.
In the ever-evolving landscape of study abroad programs and international engagements, harnessing the power of data in risk assessment is not just a best practice—it is a fundamental imperative for safeguarding the welfare and security of students worldwide.
To catch the full interview with Mary, CLICK HERE.
