ABOUT RICHARD

Bridging the Gap Between Research and Real-World Impact

My work connects research with real-world solutions in social institutions. Through insightful content, consulting, speaking, and advisory services, I help leaders, students, and policymakers navigate the complexities of building, sustaining, and restoring trust in an era of rapid change.

I am passionate about empowering individuals and organizations to make informed decisions, foster trust, and drive meaningful progress. Whether through research, strategic advising, or public speaking, I aim to provide actionable insights that make a difference. Stay updated with my latest insights and events, or reach out for personalized consulting to explore how I can support your work.

WHAT I DO

I operate at the intersection of research, leadership, and institutional trust. Whether analyzing governance strategies, exploring trust in higher education, or collaborating with institutional leaders, my focus is always on fostering positive change through evidence-based insights. My work examines questions like:

How do institutions respond to fluctuations in public trust?
What governance practices strengthen perceptions of legitimacy among key stakeholders?

Through my podcast, Trust Be Told, and weekly newsletter, I bring these conversations to life - connecting with industry professionals and thought leaders to share strategies and solutions for building stronger, more resilient institutions.

WHY IT MATTERS

We live in a time when trust in institutions is rapidly eroding. Understanding this trend and finding ways to reverse it is critical to shaping the future of education, policy, and leadership. My mission is to support individuals and institutions in cultivating trust, fostering collaboration, and creating a more inclusive future.

Educational Background

Degrees and Research Interests

Ph.D. Candidate in Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development (Higher Education Policy)
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities (Expected May 2025)
- Research Focus: Public trust in higher education institutions, governance practices, and institutional legitimacy.
Master of Education in Higher Education Administration (Policy and Finance)
The George Washington University (2017)
- Thesis: Examining the intersection of higher education policy and financial sustainability in U.S. institutions.
Bachelor of Arts with High Distinction in Classical Civilizations, Latin, and English Literature
Indiana University - Bloomington (2011)
- Honors: Distinguished Undergraduate Thesis Award, IU Founders Scholar, Eta Sigma Phi Greek Honors Society.

Conferences and Workshops

Roman, R. J. (2025, January 28–30). Bridging research and practice: Strategies for building trust in higher education [Paper presentation]. Council for Higher Education Accreditation Annual Conference, Washington, DC.