How can we keep our information secure when disaster strikes?

I work in information systems at a small private university in Louisiana. After hurricane Katrina, we noticed a breach in the security of personal medical records. It burns me up that this happened. I worry about the families some prankster might upset or, worse yet, what financial harm could come from a breach like this.

I want to establish a more secure system to protect private information in the event of a disaster. With the hurricane alert, we moved as many of the medical files and computer systems as we could to higher ground, and that’s where the breach in our security happened. No one watched the area as close as they should have.

I’ve suggested to the dean that we set up an emergency program that includes protection of physical files and all computer records. I could use some practical advice. What do your readers do to keep your personal information safe when disaster strikes?

— Kevin G., Infosystems Manager

What do you do when the “brass ring” goes to a colleague?

I work in the admissions department, and my boss just retired. I’ve been the perceived “right-hand person” for years. I thought her position would be mine. Unfortunately, a colleague in a lateral position received the job offer. This is quite awkward for me. I’m expected to be his “go to” person, chin up and all. I’m naturally quite disappointed. It’s hard to accept this new boss because I’ve been in the department much longer. Everyone comes to me for answers, and I can’t make the decisions.

What would you do if you were me? How do you handle losing out on a promotion?

— Lost opportunity and only human, name and college withheld by request

 Can You Help?

Share your experience. You could win a $100 Amazon.com gift certificate. Congratulations to this issue's winner for the $100 gift certificate - Sabra Ann Mumford, Ph. D., Dean of Family & Consumer Sciences, Western Wisconsin Technical College