La Plata, Md. – The College of Southern Maryland appointed Megan Allen as executive director of compliance and risk management, effective July 29, 2025. Allen, with over 20 years in healthcare compliance, steps into a leadership position aimed at bolstering regulatory adherence and risk strategies at the institution.
Allen most recently worked as compliance manager at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., overseeing policy lifecycles and fostering a stronger compliance environment. Before that, she held leadership roles at Kaiser Permanente, focusing on privacy and security. She holds certifications in healthcare privacy compliance and healthcare privacy and security, along with an MBA from the University of Maryland Global Campus.
“Megan’s arrival marks an important step forward in how we approach compliance and risk management at CSM,” said Dr. Kendall Isaac, vice president of policy, compliance, and government relations. “She brings deep subject matter expertise, a collaborative mindset, and a strong connection to our mission. I’m excited to see how her leadership will elevate our systems and support a culture of integrity and institutional resilience.”
Since 2021, Allen has served as an adjunct instructor in the College of Southern Maryland’s business department, teaching complex subjects in an accessible manner. In her new capacity, she will oversee college-wide regulatory compliance, maintain an enterprise risk management register, refine policy processes, and handle investigations when required.
“I am honored and excited to step into the role of Executive Director of Compliance and Risk Management at CSM,” said Allen. “Having already been part of this incredible community as an adjunct faculty member, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication and heart that define this college. I look forward to collaborating across departments to build a culture where compliance and risk management are not just obligations, but empowering tools that support our mission, protect our people, and create an environment where students and employees alike can thrive.”
The appointment underscores the College of Southern Maryland’s focus on robust systems for long-term effectiveness. Compliance and risk management in higher education involve navigating federal regulations, such as those under Title IX and FERPA, while mitigating operational risks like data breaches or financial liabilities. At community colleges like the College of Southern Maryland, these functions ensure smooth operations amid growing enrollment and program expansions.
Founded in 1958 as Charles County Junior College, the institution evolved into the College of Southern Maryland in 2000, becoming a regional entity serving Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties. It operates campuses in La Plata, Leonardtown, Prince Frederick and Hughesville, offering associate degrees, certificates and workforce training. The College of Southern Maryland’s mission emphasizes accessible, high-quality education to foster personal success and regional enrichment, guided by values like equity and innovation.
Enrollment at the College of Southern Maryland supports thousands of students annually, with programs in areas like business, health sciences and technology. Its role in Southern Maryland includes partnerships for career development, as seen in the recent launch of a center linking students to local employers and internships. The college also formed an AI task force in 2025 to integrate technology campus-wide, aligning with state initiatives for military and veteran training.
In July 2025, the College of Southern Maryland awarded tenure to six faculty members, recognizing their contributions to academic excellence. Earlier that month, President Yolanda Wilson assumed leadership of the American Association for Women in Community Colleges’ national board, highlighting the institution’s influence beyond local borders. The board of trustees elected new officers in June 2025, with Sonja Cox as chair, to guide strategic priorities.
Allen’s expertise arrives as the College of Southern Maryland advances its “Built for Success” strategic plan, which emphasizes student access and partnerships. This includes athletic achievements, with 130 student-athletes recognized in 2025 for excellence and teamwork. Such initiatives position the College of Southern Maryland as a cornerstone for education and economic growth in the tri-county area.
Alumni like Charles County Sheriff Troy D. Berry and St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Communications Director Alisa Casas credit the College of Southern Maryland for career foundations. With ongoing investments in leadership and infrastructure, the institution continues to serve Southern Maryland’s evolving needs.
