Critical Infrastructure Protection and Higher Education

Colleges and universities are not listed among the 13 critical infrastructures identified in Presidential Decision Directive 7, yet institutions of higher education often depend on or operate portions of the infrastructure that are important to the economy and overall security of the nation. Additionally, campuses typically operate as small towns or are located in areas of the country that are considered high-risk targets for natural disasters or terrorist attacks. This panel discussion will describe national policy initiatives to protect the nation's critical infrastructures, as well as regional and local coordination efforts. Panelists will also explore the interactions between the federal government, state government, private sector, and institutions of higher education.