American colleges and universities serve more minors (i.e., children under the age of 18), than adults and traditional-age college students. Higher education institutions provide services and programs, such as childcare programs, youth-serving educational activities, and pre-college learning or employment. Campuses are open for transient visitors in their museums, academic buildings, and athletic facilities. As a result, minors who interact with colleges and universities through programs and services typically are subject to more diverse risks than in their K-12 settings and homes. Thus, colleges and universities have a critical responsibility to safeguard minors who are in their care. Over the past decade, several scandals and crises have exposed the risk for child maltreatment and abuse on campuses. Predators use private access to minors and influence on campus and in nearby communities to commit child maltreatment and sexual abuse. In response, to protect children in university-sponsored programs and services, our universities as well as many institutions across the United States have implemented youth protection policies and programs that foster safe environments for activities held on and off campuses. This article will address issues to consider when developing youth protection programs, the role of key partnerships in maintaining vigilance to protect minors, and the challenges and opportunities presented to institutions of higher education as they navigate a national climate that calls for them to protect minors in their care.