Negotiated rulemaking on accreditation is set to reshape federal oversight and accountability for colleges and universities. Inside Higher Ed’s podcast previews the Department of Education’s agenda for accreditation reform, and the CHEA/CIQG annual conference convened accreditors and institutional leaders to debate quality assurance amid heightened federal scrutiny. Speakers at the conference emphasized the need for accreditation to balance mission‑driven quality with transparency and student outcomes, while accreditors signaled willingness to collaborate on reforms. Institutions should prepare for new reporting expectations, potential shifts in standards, and opportunities to shape negotiated rulemaking—governance offices and compliance teams must be ready to engage.