Meet a couple of your fellow URMIA members, what they do, and how they got to where they are today
Bianca S. at University of Houston
Title:
Executive Director, Education Abroad and Scholar Services
Hometown:
San Diego, California
Alma Mater:
Grambling State University
Degrees/Certification:
PhD in Global Leadership/Organizational Management, Masters in Sociology
What was your first job?
County of San Diego student worker. My office overlooked the San Diego Bay and the iconic Coronado Bridge!
How did you start your career in risk management?
My background in international affairs allowed me to contribute and ultimately oversee the identification, analysis, and management of global risks and insurance analysis, ensuring the organization had a comprehensive understanding of the international landscape in which they operate.
Years in Risk Management and Insurance:
15+ in global risk/insurance; 20+ in global risk management
Role in URMIA this year:
2023 URMIA Be the Change Scholarship recipient. Now on the Be the Change Scholarship Committee, Strategic Goal 4 Committee, and hopefully the 2024 Annual Conference planning committee!
What's the biggest change you've seen in the risk management and insurance industry since you've been in it?
Interest in global risk oversight within higher education has risen in recent years. Universities and other higher education institutions face a wide range of risks, including financial, operational, reputational, and regulatory risks. Given the complex and interconnected nature of the global higher education landscape, there is a growing recognition of the need for skilled professionals who can identify and manage these risks effectively.
What emerging risks concern you the most?
Cybersecurity threats and geostrategic tensions.
What's the most interesting situation you've encountered in your job?
Extracting travelers from a volatile situation overseas.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding would be building organizational resilience and the opportunity to be innovative while navigating uncertainties.
What do you most appreciate about URMIA?
The opportunity to network and access resources to enhance my risk management practices. I've met some wonderful people through URMIA!
What's your favorite book, movie, and/or hobby?
Anything culture and travel-related. I nurture a love for people and cultures around the world.
What is your favorite beverage and/or food?
Homemade lemonade and Louisiana Vegan Cuisine (yes, it's good)!
What do your friends and family think you do?
Learn about all the risks and hot spots worldwide and ensure people and sites are appropriately insured. Everyone thinks I know every travel advisory, precautions, and geopolitical issues that may impact their work or vacation.
Melissa Jackson Holloway at North Carolina A&T State University
Title:
Vice President and General Counsel, Division of Legal Affairs, Risk, and Compliance
Hometown:
Niagara Falls, NY
Alma Mater:
Syracuse University, Binghamton University, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison
What was your first job?
Camp Counselor – Niagara Falls Community Center and Girls Club
How did you start your career in risk management?
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Years in Risk Management:
22 years
Role in URMIA this year:
Be the Change Scholarship recipient at the 2023 Annual Conference, first-time attendee, and session moderator
What's the biggest change you've seen in the risk management and insurance industry since you've been in it?
In higher education, the amount of time, energy, and resources devoted to risk management and compliance – especially at the enterprise level.
What emerging risks concern you the most?
Cybersecurity, Research Integrity, and Regulatory Compliance
What's the most interesting situation you've encountered in your job?
A cybersecurity/ransomware attack
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Being a member of the commencement platform at graduation – students earning a degree are the physical manifestation of the value of the work I perform.
What do you most appreciate about URMIA?
The resources provided to support the day-to-day work of the membership.
What's your favorite book, movie, and/or hobby?
I am a runner and Peloton enthusiast (read junkie)
What is your favorite beverage and/or food?
Black coffee; Chicken and dumplings
What do your friends and family think you do?
Argue for a living
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