Significant events such as severe weather, flooding, wildfires, and cyber incidents cause serious interruptions to the capabilities within institutions of higher education (IHEs) to perform established missions and achieve strategic goals and objectives. Previous research has investigated the effects of these significant interruptive events on IHEs and contributed to an improved understanding of how to tactically mitigate those effects. However, less is known about how strategic risk management theory can be applied before, during, and after significant interruptive events. This dissertation research analyzed risk management associated data collected from two different types of IHEs in the region of Western New York that detailed preparation for and response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. These data were used to assess performance and other actions taken during pandemic-related interruptive events. A detailed qualitative analysis helped identify where regional IHE leaders can focus alternative efforts to minimize overall risk from a theoretical and holistic yet practical perspective. This analysis resulted in the creation of a comprehensive framework that when applied will improve the strategic risk management function within regional higher education and that may be extended to other hazards and geographic areas. Findings from this research included needs for organizational development, extensive collaboration, and strategic planning and underscored the need for meaningful connections between research and practice within higher education. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]