Stephanie Hudson

It's great to be reminded each year of the importance of compliance and the significant impact it has on our organization

One key lesson is that leadership sets the tone. When leaders model ethical decision-making and follow the same standards expected of everyone else, employees are far more likely to take compliance seriously. 

One key lesson is that clear, truthful communication is the best defense. Organizations and individuals must double-check information, avoid exaggeration, and ensure that all important details are disclosed.

Even when misrepresentation is unintentional, it can still cause harm. People rely on the information we provide, so accuracy and clarity are essential.

Ultimately, I learned that disclosures and representations are about more than policies—they’re about integrity. Being open, honest, and accurate ensures that others can trust my work, my communication, and my commitments.

I learned that organizations with good regulatory practices openly share information, document decisions, and hold themselves accountable. This strengthens credibility and trust with regulators and the public.

Building trust means creating a relationship where people feel safe, respected, and confident that you will act with honesty and reliability.

What I took away is create a positive and supportive atmosphere in your school and keep a pulse on day to day operations and activities. Even when there is not a request or issue, students, like all of us, still need to feel special. It is easy to focus on the complainers and ignore our customers from whom we seldom hear.

Unhappy students may file a claim with school management. They may also file written protests with state agencies, the state attorney general, the accreditors or even the Department of Education. And students as individuals, or in groups, have every right to hire attorneys and initiate lawsuits.

A good rule to follow is this: If it does not sound right, it probably isn’t. Conservative is the best approach in communicating information that is complete, accurate, concise and fully transparent.