Accreditation and federal oversight returned to the top of higher‑ed agendas this week. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation published its 2024–2025 annual report reaffirming transparency and public resources for accreditation; simultaneously, Department of Education officials issued warnings to two accreditors over diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) standards, directing them to eliminate suspended requirements or risk recognition withdrawal. The dual signals—sector self‑reporting from CHEA and tougher ED enforcement—create uncertainty for institutions relying on accreditation flexibility to innovate. Colleges should reassess accreditation risk, update compliance channels, and prepare for potential changes to recognition criteria that could affect program approval, federal aid eligibility, and institutional governance.