Bonus: Reflecting on the 2026 URMIA Annual Conference

After 13 years of involvement with URMIA, Sandy Mitchell is wrapping up eight years of service across the association’s board and presidential leadership track—but her commitment to building community continues. In this bonus episode of the podcast, recorded at URMIA ’s 2026 Annual Conference in Philadelphia, Sandy reflects on the relationships, mentorship, and professional opportunities that have shaped her experience as Director of Insurance at MIT and a longtime member of the higher education risk management community.

Sandy shares why conferences are about more than educational sessions: they’re opportunities to find your people, make lifelong connections, recognize colleagues, and encourage new voices to step forward. She discusses the importance of mentoring first-time presenters, inviting others into leadership and volunteer roles, and creating a welcoming environment for newcomers. The conversation also explores URMIA’s hybrid conference model, its on-demand learning resources, and the evolving challenges facing higher education risk managers. Her message to higher ed leaders and professionals: keep connecting, support one another, and make room for others to contribute.

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Guest Name: Sandy Mitchell - Director of Research at MIT

Guest Social: LinkedIn

Guest Bio: After 13 years of involvement with URMIA, Sandy Mitchell is wrapping up eight years of service across the association’s board and presidential leadership track—but her commitment to building community continues. In this bonus episode of the podcast, recorded at URMIA’s 2026 Annual Conference in Philadelphia, Sandy reflects on the relationships, mentorship, and professional opportunities that have shaped her experience as Director of Insurance at MIT and a longtime member of the higher education risk management community.

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