Financial leaders in higher education are being urged to adopt a ‘precision mindset’ as institutions confront federal funding cuts, an enrollment cliff and rising labor and operational costs. The analysis argues that short, targeted interventions—guided by rigorous data analytics—are preferable to broad, reactive budget cuts that can cause lasting harm. The piece calls for diagnostic data systems, careful assessment of short‑ and long‑term risks, and nimble decision‑making to preserve core academic missions while addressing immediate fiscal stress.