Data is only as secure as the weakest link. Despite our best efforts to secure our central data repositories, the reality is that our data is only as secure as the desktops, laptops and users that connect to and access the data. After our share of viruses, trojans, and simple carelessness, Vassar is implementing a broad spectrum of desktop technologies and policies, including best-practices and new-practices, to tighten security and increase awareness.

We believe that the approaches we are taking easily apply to public and private schools of all sizes and work well for an institution, division, department or even an individual. Not only will we present specific solutions that we have implemented (both technological as well as policy-based), we will share some of the strategies we are using to help others see the need for and value of these changes. Specifically, we will talk about how to engage Senior Staff as well as department heads and individuals in the process.

Finally, we know that these changes will help Vassar to become more sensitive to, and more protective of the personally identifiable and confidential information that is trusted to our care. We believe that other institutions can similarly benefit.