Inside Higher Ed surveys show college and university presidents are contending with intensifying political pressure, financial stress and the rapid adoption of AI. Leaders report concerns about public trust, governance, campus safety and the reputational risks of donor relationships. The survey and companion coverage notes a growing expectation that presidents manage external political disputes while stabilizing budgets and enrolling students. A sector brief on “What’s Keeping Presidents Up at Night in 2026” amplifies the message: board relations, financial sustainability and technology governance top leaders’ priority lists. Trustees and presidents are recalibrating risk frameworks, legal support and communications strategies in response to heightened public scrutiny. Boards and presidential teams should reassess crisis‑management plans, counsel on legal exposure, and expand capacity for external affairs and federal/state relations. Equally, institutions must codify transparent policies on donor vetting, academic freedom and emergency decision‑making to reduce governance friction.