NAVIGATOR THE News and information for residence life and housing professionals In this issue President Update .............. 2 Letter from Editor .............. 3 Mike Holland……………..4 Bid Information ................. 5 Election Information…...…7 Membership Update…….10 District Updates…………..11 Committee Updates……...14 ACUHO-I Foundation……17 The Housing Survey ....... 18 The Search for an RA ...... 19 Straight Jacket Escape…...21 WNYPE…………………...24 MACUHO Report………...25 Bridging the Gap ............ 26 ACUHO-I Update………...28 Fall Drive-In Wrap Up……29 Reslife 2.0………………..31 Cathy’s Column………….33 Fall Drive-In Presenters…35 Membership Spotlight……37 Featured article Resident Directors, Resident Coordinators, Area Coordinators, Area Directors. There are numerous names for the type of positions we hold. Despite the fact that there may be some slight difference, essentially, we all have the same over-arching goal. That goal is to encourage student development and serve as a resource to students. Sounds easy, right? Wrong! There are times that can be very frustrating. There are times that can be overwhelming. From dealing with broken windows and flooded showers to counseling students, these things can take a toll on you. However, sometimes we negate the fact that there are various positive aspects to our duties. For starters, if you decide to remain in higher education (which is typically the majority of individuals who maintain these positions) you will, if you have not already, experience any and everything you can think of. You may even become, as I like to say, ―A Master of All Trades in Residence Life, and a Jack of None‖. You will experience different higher education capacities which will allow for professional development. For those who may not choose to remain in the field, you will acquire many transferable skills that you can apply to other fields such as counseling, crisis management, budget and finance, etc. Do you want to know what the most rewarding part of the position is for me? I found the secret to our happiness! If you said the late night calls at 3 am, great, but not the answer I am looking for. If you said your RA staff, I will fight to the death to agree with you! Sometimes, we forget how much of a joy they can be. These student leaders support us as well as assist us in every way possible. When I have a long stressful day, I can always count on my RAs to tell jokes or find different ways to brighten my day. From staff dinners to staff bonding, being around these great student leaders leaves a positive impact on my life. To see that their lives can be overwhelming and are still maintaining a positive attitude is a blessing. From my experience, I can honestly say my RA staff is like my family and I truly appreciate them. In essence, be sure to show appreciation for your RA staff because they perform so many functions for us. If you are having a frustrating day, I encourage you to spend some time with your staff outside of the academic environment. Believe it or not, you can learn a lot from them. I know I have! Elvis Gyan is an Area Coordinator at The College of Saint Rose. To contact Elvis, email him at [email protected]. Positive RA-inforcement Elvis Gyan, The College of Saint Rose December 2011 Issue Number 3 Photo of and provided by Elvis Gyan. Photo of Elvis’ staff provided by Elvis Gyan.
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Transcript
NAVIGATOR THE
News and information for residence life and housing professionals
In this issue
President Update .............. 2
Letter from Editor .............. 3
Mike Holland……………..4
Bid Information ................. 5
Election Information…...…7
Membership Update…….10
District Updates…………..11
Committee Updates……...14
ACUHO-I Foundation……17
The Housing Survey ....... 18
The Search for an RA ...... 19
Straight Jacket Escape…...21
WNYPE…………………...24
MACUHO Report………...25
Bridging the Gap ............ 26
ACUHO-I Update………...28
Fall Drive-In Wrap Up……29
Reslife 2.0………………..31
Cathy’s Column………….33
Fall Drive-In Presenters…35
Membership Spotlight……37
Featured article
Resident Directors, Resident Coordinators, Area
Coordinators, Area Directors. There are numerous
names for the type of positions we hold. Despite
the fact that there may be some slight difference,
essentially, we all have the same over-arching goal.
That goal is to encourage student development and
serve as a resource to students. Sounds easy, right?
Wrong!
There are times that can be very frustrating. There
are times that can be overwhelming. From dealing
with broken windows and flooded showers to
counseling students, these things can take a toll on
you. However, sometimes we negate the fact that
there are various positive aspects to our duties. For
starters, if you decide to remain in higher education
(which is typically the majority of individuals who
maintain these positions) you will, if you have not
already, experience any and everything you can
think of. You may even become, as I like to say, ―A
Master of All Trades in Residence Life, and a Jack
of None‖. You will experience different higher
education capacities which will allow for
professional development. For those who may not
choose to remain in the field, you will acquire
many transferable skills that you can apply to other
fields such as counseling, crisis management,
budget and finance, etc.
Do you want to know
what the most rewarding
part of the position is for
me? I found the secret to
our happiness! If you
said the late night calls at 3 am, great, but not the
answer I am looking for. If you said your RA staff, I
will fight to the death to agree with you!
Sometimes, we forget how much of a joy they can
be. These student leaders support us as well as
assist us in every way possible. When I have a long
stressful day, I can always count on my RAs to tell
jokes or find different ways to brighten my day.
From staff dinners to staff bonding, being around
these great student leaders leaves a positive impact
on my life. To see that their lives can be
overwhelming and are still maintaining a positive
attitude is a blessing. From my experience, I can
honestly say my RA staff is like my family and I
truly appreciate them. In essence, be sure to show
appreciation for your RA staff because they
perform so many functions for us. If you are having
a frustrating day, I encourage you to spend some
time with your staff outside of the academic
environment. Believe it or not, you can learn a lot
from them. I know I have!
Elvis Gyan is an Area Coordinator at The College of Saint
Positive RA-inforcement Elvis Gyan, The College of Saint Rose
December 2011 Issue Number 3
Phot
o of
and
pro
vide
d by
Elv
is G
yan.
Photo of Elvis’ staff provided by Elvis Gyan.
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 2
A message from the president A Very Special Thank You to our Past Presidents
Paula “Raz” Randazza, Rivier College
During the month of November, many people utilize social media to give ―30 days of thanks‖ as they reflect with gratitude on their lives. In NEACUHO, there are multiple initiatives and accomplishments for which I am appreciative, but more often, it is the people for whom I am most grateful; among them, our Past Presidents. NEACUHO has a rich history and a strong foundation created by our Past Presidents. While it is certainly their option to go quietly into the world of past presidency, many of them remain active in our organization. They serve in the top role, as President, to less visible roles as either appointed or elected advisors. Their love of the organization keeps them active; their commitment to the field keeps them encouraging, mentoring, and contributing to the organization that helped them develop professionally. While there is no requirement to continue serving, I want to give a special ―thank you‖ to all of our Past Presidents, especially those who continue to actively serve NEACUHO.
Most recently, I met the Past President from 1971-72 at the Annual Conference at RIT. It had been years since Deanne Molinari had been part of NEACUHO, but she took her place with the Past Presidents at our banquet and was proud at how far the organization had progressed, while still observing our fun-loving traditions. Chuck Lamb (84-85), continues to serve NEACUHO as our representative to the ACUHO-I foundation. Chuck has nearly perfect attendance at our annuals and since serving as President he has held a variety of roles within the organization, both elected and appointed…he never refuses a NEACUHO request! Carol Boucher (90-91), who has been inspirational to many women in our field, continues to submit program proposals to share her expertise; she has chaired more than one self-study task force, and continues to support our leaders behind the scenes. Val Randall-Lee (95-96) and Bob Jose (97-98) serve on the senior advising team to our annual host committee. Dr. Henry Humphreys (00-01) served as a mentor and presenter at our recent RD2B conference.
Maureen O. Wark (04-05) and Terri Panepento (06-07), ensure their staff members attend conferences and join committees, while still finding opportunities to provide important feedback to the organization. Tom Wozniak (94-95), Tony Esposito (99-00), Sabrina Tanbara (07-08), Cathy Raynis-Meeker (08-09), and Jeff Horowitz (09-10) serve on our strategic planning committee in different focus areas, continuing to provide influence and shape the organization‘s future. Dr. Beth Moriarty (01-02) reaches out to past hosts and prepares an Annual Conference ―how-to‖ manual. In addition, she continues to provide top-notch program sessions at our events. Dr. Jon Conlogue (05-06) served on our self-study task force and continues to represent NEACUHO with the RELI initiative among many other things. Rich Bova (96-97), Gary Bice, Jr. (02-03), Kathi Bradford (03-04), Jen Hapgood (10-11), all currently serve on the Executive Board in varied roles, guiding us and using history to inform our future; always helping to make NEACUHO a better organization. These small acknowledgements in no way capture all of the contributions of our Past Presidents or describe their many accomplishments through the years. These men and women serve as host chairs, serve on committees, provide key note addresses, attend and mentor at local events, offer a listening ear, or a serve as a sounding board when needed. I routinely see many of our Past Presidents, and they usually ask three questions: How are we serving all levels of our membership (new, mid, and CHO)? What‘s going on with the budget? How are you enjoying being the President? They all give me that knowing glance or that encouraging look because they want the same thing as I do – a NEACUHO that is financially stable, has quality offerings for all of our membership levels, and insurance that the organization, they helped to build, will continue to grow and develop well into the future. To the Past Presidents of the Northeast Association of College and University Housing Officers: Thank you for all that you have done and all that you continue to do for NEACUHO. Kind Regards,
“It is the people [in NEACUHO] for whom I am
most grateful.”
Phot
o of
and
pro
vide
d by
Pau
la R
anda
zza.
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 3
Letter From the Editor Peter Nardone, 2011-12 NEACUHO Media & Publications Chair
Binghamton University
Happy December NEACUHO! I hope this edition of The Navigator
finds you well. As yet another semester is coming to an end, I first
would like to say congratulations! You made it. Second, I would
like to say it‘s alright to give yourself a pat on the back for a job well
done. One of the hardest things to do in life is to give and receive
recognition; especially when it comes to yourself. It‘s not because
we don‘t want to, but because we sometimes tend to overlook our
individual accomplishments and don‘t like to gloat about the things
we have done. During some of the busiest times of year, it can be
easy to overlook some really great things and accomplishments.
As we so often do, we recognize our student staff for all the great
things they accomplish each semester. Whether it was
assisting with an event for the benefit of your residential
community, working through a conflict that unexpectedly arose or
being an active contributor to staff discussions, we make
recognition of our students one of our top priorities for all the good
they have done. I encourage you as a professional staff member to
take the time to bring that same level of recognition to your peers
and colleagues.
Take a look back at what you have done to improve services within
your department this year. Was there someone whom made a
difference in your day, week, month or semester? Take the time to
reach out and tell that person or persons just how much you
appreciate the work they do.
A little recognition can go a long way. By bringing a positive
attitude to our work lives, we influence all those around us in ways
we may not even notice. This holds true the students who see us
daily and other professionals as well.
This year has been a great year for NEACUHO. There has been a
lot of useful conferences in the region as well as events in our
respective districts. If you are looking for ways to get more
involved in terms of professional development, NEACUHO might
be right up your alley!
In looking back at 2011, I can honestly say it‘s been a great year. I
hope you can say the same. This time of year gives us a chance to
catch up with loved ones and hopefully you can take some time for
yourself. I truly believe that making an extra effort to actively
self-reflect and put years past into perspective can be a helpful tool
in terms of setting new goals and seeing which goals we did or did
not accomplish moving forward.
For a new professional that may have started their first full time
position, take a look back at your performance program and see if
there are more challenges you want to embark on. If you want to
get more involved in other areas on campus, simply reach out and
ask a supervisor or mentor how you can go out an continue to make
an impact on those around you.
Regardless of any new goals you set for yourself going into the new
year or how you plan on getting more involved, remember not only
is it important to take some time for yourself to prioritize, but to
ensure that you are giving credit where credit is due. Whether it
was a colleague that made a difference in your department, or
something you did, go out and recognize those (including yourself)
for all the great things you did this year.
As we put another semester and year behind us, know that you
made a difference and it‘s never too late to change.
Peter Nardone is the Interim Assistant Director for New Student Programs
at Binghamton University. To contact Peter, please email him at
Cortland, NY – Michael Holland died suddenly on October 29, 2011. He was 52. Mike worked at the State University of New York at Cortland for over thirty years. He most recently served as Executive Assistant to Vice President of Student Affairs and a long history as the Director of Residential Services for over twenty years as well as Assistant Director or Residence Life and began his career at Cortland as a Residence Director. Mike also served as the President of the SUNY Residence Life and Housing Administrators.
Mike was an alumnus of Erie Cathedral Prep (PA), and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. As an Administrator at SUNY Cortland for the past 30 years, he was a recipient of the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Professional Service and served as an academic advisor to students at the college. He was also a devoted member of Holy Cross Church and the greater Dryden community. A devoted husband, father, and community member, Michael was a volunteer basketball, soccer, and baseball youth coach for many years. He was a man of integrity filled with love and compassion for everyone around him. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Joanne Frantz Holland; four children: Michael Holland, Jr., Mary Holland, Dan Holland, and Kate Holland. He will be sorely missed by friends, family and colleagues. In lieu of flowers, memorials are directed to the Michael C. Holland, Sr. Scholarship, c/o Dryden Central School, P.O. Box 88, Dryden, NY 13053-0088. This fund will provide resources for the education and development of students from Dryden High School. Submitted by Chuck Lamb, Rochester Institute of Technology.
Photo of Mike Holland provided by Sarah Unruh.
Photos provided by Sarah Unruh.
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 5
Timing of our Annual Conference: Early June on a Wednesday-Friday.
The Conference Bid: The purpose of the bid is to give the committee an idea of how our organization‘s members would experience a conference held at your institution. Although the initial deadline has passed, Annual Conference bids are still being accepted! Complete bid packets were mailed out to member institutions‘ contact persons in early August.
After you submit the bid: Bids from all schools will be reviewed and a committee will conduct selected site visits in the late fall semester. A recommendation for the 2013 conference will be made to the Executive Board and applicants will receive notification in early spring. The host school selected will be expected to register and send a delegation to the 2012 Annual Conference (June 6-9) at Northeastern University in Boston Massachusetts to: Provide the host an opportunity to shadow the 2012 host committee. Staff a host site table to supply information about the 2013 Annual Conference. Present at the closing banquet an invitation to members to attend the conference hosted by
your institution.
Continued on next page...
Annual Conference Bid Information
Want to show off your campus to over 200 of your colleagues? Is your staff hardworking and motivated?
Are you free in June of 2013 or 2014?
If you answered yes to all of these questions, then you may be ready to bid for the 2013 or 2014 NEACUHO Annual Conference!
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 6
Would you like to talk to past Annual Conference host chairs? The following past hosts would be happy to talk with you about their experience as host chairs:
If you are unable to bid at this time: There are many opportunities to host other NEACUHO events on your campus and we are always looking to visit new institutions. If you are interested in hosting a one-day conference or workshop during the 2012-13 year, please let me know. These opportunities include the New Professionals Drive-In, the Spring Drive-In, the Residential Operations Drive-In, one day retreats sponsored by the Social Issues Committee and Executive Board meetings.
Need More Information: If you have any questions about bidding for NEACUHO 2013 or 2014, please contact Cindy Long Porter, NEACUHO President-Elect, by emailing [email protected] or by calling (203) 582-8722.
Carol Sacchetti Director of Student Programs
and Leadership Roger Williams University One Ferry Road
NEACUHO Elections 2012 Do you want to be part of the leadership of NEACUHO? Here’s your chance!
Five positions available:
President-Elect (3 year term: 1 year each as President-Elect, President & Past President)
Secretary (2 year term)
Three District Coordinators (2 year term each)
Eastern New York and Vermont
ENY- NY zip codes beginning with ―12‖
Metro New York
MNY – NY zip codes beginning with ―10‖ or ―11‖
Massachusetts
Specific expectations for each position may be found in the NEACUHO Constitution on the organization website, www.neacuho.org (under ―About Us‖). These positions commence at the close of the 2012 NEACUHO Annual Conference at Northeastern University, June 6-9, 2012. The nomination period for the above elected positions above begins January 9,2012, and will be accepted through February 6, 2012. An announcement will be sent out to the membership at the opening of nominations.
Top Seven Reasons You Should Submit a Proposal to Present at the
2012 Annual Conference
Expand your professional credentials– add depth to your resume. Name visibility– are you looking for a job? Why not sell yourself through sharing your knowledge? Great networking opportunities– people really will engage you in conversations after you present!
You would have a wicked awesome excuse to travel to Boston to the Annual Conference. Co-present with another professional– another professional who shares a passion for the topic: your supervisor or reunite and present with a former co-worker.
Help provide for the professional development of your fellow colleagues...we all like to help others don‘t we?
Impress your students– you are eligible for wicked cool prizes...who doesn‘t want their name on a plaque to hang in their office?
The Call For Programs for the 2012 Annual Conference is just
around the corner.
Watch NEACUHO.org in January for the 2012 Annual Conference Call For Programs.
Folks who are completing their first year or 40th year in the field are asked to share their expertise and passion for student affairs
Greetings from the Membership Coordinator! Below you will find a listing of all the institutions that have renewed and completed the payment process for membership as
of December 2011. Congratulations to everyone!
Membership Information
Institution State District Size Institution State District Size
Albertus Magnus College CT CT/RI Small Mercy College NY Metro NY Small
Alfred State College NY WNY Large Merrimack College MA MA Medium
Amherst College MA MA Medium Montserrat College of Art MA MA Small
Assumption College MA MA Medium Mount Ida College MA MA Small
Bard College NY ENY/VT Medium Newbury College MA MA Small
Barnard College NY Metro NY Large Nichols College MA MA Small
Bay State College MA MA Small Northeastern University MA MA Extra Large
Becker College MA MA Small Nyack College NY Metro NY Small
Binghamton University NY WNY Extra Large Pace University NY Metro NY Medium
Boston College MA MA Extra Large Plymouth State University NH ME/NH Large
Boston University MA MA Extra Large Post University CT CT/RI Small
Brandeis University MA MA Large Quinnipiac University CT CT/RI Extra Large
Bridgewater State University MA MA Large Rhode Island College RI CT/RI Medium
Bryant University RI CT/RI Large Rivier College NH ME/NH Small Castleton State College VT ENY/VT Small Rochester Institute of Technology NY WNY Extra Large
Cathy Raynis Meeker NY Metro NY Affiliate Roger Williams University RI CT/RI Large
Cazenovia College NY WNY Small Sacred Heart University CT CT/RI Large
Central Connecticut State University CT CT/RI Large Saint Anselm College NH ME/NH Medium
Chester College of New England NH ME/NH Small
Showa Boston Institute for Language & Culture
MA MA Small
Clark University MA MA Medium Skidmore College NY ENY/VT Medium
Colby College ME ME/NH Medium Southern Maine Community College ME ME/NH Small
Colby-Sawyer College NH ME/NH Medium Springfield College MA MA Large
College of Saint Rose NY ENY/VT Medium St. John Fisher College NT WNY Medium
College of the Holy Cross MA MA Large St. John's University- Staten Island NY Metro NY Small
Connecticut College CT CT/RI Medium Stony Brook University NY Metro NY Extra Large
Daniel Webster College NH ME/NH Small SUNY College at Cobleskill NY ENY/VT Medium
Dean College MA MA Small SUNY College at Fredonia NY WNY Large Eastern Connecticut State University CT CT/RI large SUNY College at Geneseo NY WNY Large
Emerson College MA MA Medium SUNY College at Plattsburgh NY ENY/VT Large
Endicott College MA MA Medium SUNY College at Purchase NY Metro NY Large Fairfield University CT CT/RI Large SUNY College of Technology at Delhi NY WNY Medium
Fitchburg State College MA MA Medium The Culinary Institute of America NY ENY/VT Medium
Continued on next page...
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 9
Membership Information
Institution State District Size Institution State District Size
Framingham State College MA MA Medium The Juilliard School NY Metro NY Small
Green Mountain College VT ENY/VT Small TC3 NY WNY Small
Herkimer County Community College NY WNY Small Union College NY ENY/VT Medium Husson College ME ME/NH Medium Unity College ME ME/NH Small
Husson University ME ME/NH Medium University at Buffalo NY WNY Extra Large
Iona College NY Metro NY Medium University of Bridgeport CT CT/RI Small
Ithaca College NY WNY Extra Large University of Connecticut CT CT/RI Extra Large
Johnson and Wales University RI CT/RI Large University of Hartford CT CT/RI Medium
Johnson State College VT ENY/VT Small University of Maine at Farmington ME ME/NH Medium
Keene State College NH ME/NH Large University of New Hampshire NH ME/NH Extra Large
Lasell College MA MA Medium University of New Haven CT CT/RI Large Lincoln Culinary Institute (Lincoln Educational Services) CT CT/RI Small University of Rhode Island RI CT/RI Large
Lyndon State College VT ENY/VT Small Utica College NY WNY Medium
Malloy College NY Metro NY Small Vassar College NY ENY/VT Large
Manhattanville College NY Metro NY Medium Vicky Massey (Fordham University) NY Metro NY Affiliate
Marist College NY ENY/VT Large Wentworth Institute of Technology MA MA Medium
Marymount Manhattan College NY Metro NY Small Wesleyan University CT CT/RI Large
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts MA MA Medium Western New England University MA MA Medium
Worcester Polytechnic Institute MA MA Medium
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 10
Membership Update
Paula “Raz” Randazza, President
Hello NEACUHO Members!
I am so pleased to provide you a mid-year update on our
organization. We began the 2011-12 year as our Annual
Conference concluded at RIT in June. Since that time, the
Executive Board has had three group meetings, working as a team
to move the organization forward. In addition, each of us has
worked through our position requirements towards achieving our
goals of increased membership, financial stability, improved
communications, and providing high quality events/publications/
activities for our members.
Those involved with the Strategic Planning Steering Committee
have begun to meet with their think tanks in order to carve out
initiatives in each of our five focus areas. We have had three
successful conferences: the Fall Drive-In, focusing on Ideas Worth
Sharing; the Fall RD2B, designed to inform and educate our
undergraduates for entry into the field; and the Residential
Operations Drive-In and Trade Show, redesigned this year to offer
our operations specialists a top notch experience in residential
campus master planning.
You are currently reading our 3rd newsletter, and many of you have
already attended or will soon attend a roundtable or social in one of
our six districts, sponsored by the District Coordinators. Speaking
of the DCs – their teamwork along with the guidance of our
Membership Coordinator has us on track to reach all of our
membership goals! With new members come new opportunities
and with sustaining members come trusted friends – this certainly
has helped with our site selection process which is currently
underway for the 2012-13 year.
The NEACUHO website (www.neacuho.org) has been updated, and
we have again invested in the technology needed to reduce travel to
meetings by offering on-line options. We have also continued to
update our operations manual to ensure that the
organization can rely on standard operating procedures while still
allowing for new initiatives that make each year unique.
The Corporate Relations Committee has secured six partners and
two associates; our relationship with our corporate friends is
invaluable to the success of our organization. The Finance Task
Force has reviewed, revised, and recommended a balanced budget
while ensuring that all of our financial guidelines were honored.
These two accomplishments allow us to offer you all of the benefits
of membership in NEACUHO.
It has been a successful first six months, and we look forward to the
next six months during which we will offer the 5th annual Social
Issues Retreat Series, the Spring RD2B, a Risk Management/Legal
Issues webinar, three additional newsletters, the New Professionals
Conference/Mid-Level Institute, the 2012 Annual Conference at
Northeastern University, and, finally, the first ever NEACUHO
Strategic Plan!
It is an exciting time for NEACUHO! I want to offer each of you
the opportunity to be a part of the next six months–You can
participate by recognizing a colleague through our awards
nomination process; submitting a program proposal to share your
knowledge; volunteering to join one of our ten committees, or
applying to be chair; running for an Executive Board position,
writing an article for the newsletter, attending a district event, or
joining us at one of our four spring conferences. Please enjoy the
benefits of NEACUHO membership! If you have a suggestion,
comment, complaint, or complement, I invite you to contact me
anytime so that I can better serve you. NEACUHO‘s success is only
possible because of our committed members. Thank you, for your
continued interest in our organization.
Kind Regards,
“NEACUHO’s success is only possible because of our committed members.”
Thank you to those who came out to the Connecticut and Rhode Island Resident Assistant Selection Roundtable. It was a great event for all those in attendance. Also, a huge thank you to UCONN and Nancy Abohabtab for hosting the roundtable and being so accommodating to us. One of the participants, Paul Serignese of Eastern Connecticut, had this to say about the round table. "Knowing that other campuses encountered similar problems and we were not alone was reassuring and everyone was helpful with advice how to address the problem.‖
There are many exciting development opportunities provided by NEACUHO in the near future. Go to www.neacuho.org for more information on The Social Issues Retreats on January 5 and 6, 2012. Your colleagues have been working hard to put together outstanding events; I hope you take advantage of them. For those of you who were affected by the pre-Halloween snow storm and power outage, we hope that no one is left in the dark and the damages at your institutions and homes were minimal.
Each summer Connecticut and Rhode Island host an RA Training conference. If you are interested in being on the mailing list, hosting, and or just want more information, please feel free to contact me.
Happy holidays everyone! I want to wish you all the best of luck as you close down your halls and campuses for the winter break. Enjoy your holidays and rest up for the second half of our year. Thank you to all whom attended the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York on Friday, December 9 for a roundtable discussion titled ―Res Life – Moving Our Processes Online.‖ Over the break I‘ll be working to set up a roundtable discussion for us in the spring. If you would like to host this discussion on your campus, have a topic idea, or have preferred dates in mind please feel free to email me. To contact Joe, please email him at [email protected].
With only a few weeks left to the semester, things are gearing up! I hope you are all going to enjoy a well deserved and much awaited winter break. We had our first district roundtable of the year at Brockport this past month and it was amazing! With SUNY Fredonia, Genesee Community College, Monroe Community College and everyone at Brockport, we had a fantastic discussion about sexual misconduct and how to respond, plus what other institutions are doing to raise awareness and be proactive. If you are interested in hosting a district roundtable for next semester or possibly host a webinar, please contact me as I am beginning my search for schools as well as topics. Have a wonderful holiday season and hope to speak with some of you soon! To contact Kristen, please email her at [email protected].
The Annual RLAGS Conference took place on November 5, 2011 at Southern New Hampshire University. Twelve New Hampshire institutions participated in the RA Conference. It was a great opportunity for professionals and para-professionals to communicate their unique issues, ideas, and plans for programming and department initiatives. I was able to take the opportunity to provide a roundtable on ―Getting Involved‖ for professionals in attendance. The roundtable presentation gave participants the opportunity to talk and discuss ideas, provide feedback to the District Coordinator about district involvement in NEACUHO, as well as receive information about how to get involved in RLAGS and NEACUHO! Next year‘s RLAGS Conference is scheduled for November 3, 2012 at Keene State College. There is an upcoming district social in the works to reach out to the Maine institutions. The conversation will be around winter training and a best practice question and answer. It will be a great opportunity to connect and learn more about how our district can be involved in the organization. I will be sending out more information as it becomes available but keep an eye out for a district social near Portsmouth, NH coming in December. Lastly, the district is preparing for the Social Issues Retreat Series set to take place January 5-6, 2012 at Southern New
Hampshire University. ME/NH will host the social for that conference and we are excited to open up Northern New England to
NEACUHO. Additionally, I am looking for institutions in the ME/NH district who would be interested in hosting a conference
We had our first social of the year at Uno‘s in Yonkers, New York on October 27. Thank you for coming out in that bad rainy weather. It was really great to see you all. We had folks from Pace University-Pleasantville campus, Manhattanville College, Hofstra University and SUNY Purchase College. We did not discuss anything heavy. The group in attendance simply enjoyed each other‘s company and talk about what‘s happening with their departments and institution. Don‘t worry; there will be more socials to come. If you have an idea for January or February, please let me know.
Membership Updates: we have 18 institutions registered as members. If you are still looking to become a member, please click here. You can always email the Membership Coordinator, Stephanie Ketterl, at [email protected] or myself with membership related questions. I hope everything goes well for the rest of the semester.
The Social Issues Committee‘s Annual Winter Retreat Series is taking place January 5-6 at Southern New Hampshire University, just a short drive away in Manchester, NH. Massachusetts own Tanika Mangum of Newbury College is the chair of the committee this year, so be sure to support her by going! This year the retreat will feature a special banquet to recognize this impressive event. Keep your eyes peeled for information about registration on the NEACUHO website soon! Be on the lookout for the call to programs for the Annual Conference to come out around the first of the year. There is always a huge need for programs in order to make sure that the conference is a great success, so start talking to colleagues and perhaps co-presenters now about potential topics! Also, please remember that all members are welcomed to send along articles for the NEACUHO Navigator. It‘s always good to learn from our colleagues and be kept up to date about current trends and the goings on in the region. Believe it or not, folks are already starting to talk about the 2013 Annual Conference. Cindy Long-Porter NEACUHO’s President-Elect, is looking for potential host sites for the annual and other conferences. If your institution would be at all interested in hosting, feel free to send along an email and let me know so I can pass the information to Cindy. It‘s always great to have these types of events in our own state, and since some of our institutions are fairly central within the region, it is often convenient for other districts as well! Finally, I‘m working with Jess Faulk of Simmons College to host a very interesting workshop/roundtable on the use of technology and social media. We are hoping to host the event at Simmons College sometime in January. I have also been chatting with Jessica Donovan of Clark University and Shruti Tekwani (RMLI Chair), of Wentworth Institute of Technology about hosting a great workshop program in February focusing on legal issues in Residence Life & Housing, which will serve as an opportunity for our members to learn more, and will hopefully draw in some new non-member institutions. To contact Eric, please email him at [email protected].
Cathy’s Column Want a better understanding of the behavior of students today?
Need help finding balance at work and at home?
Searching for advice on a career?
Looking to have a different perspective on some questions you are simply just not getting answered elsewhere?
Why not Ask Cathy? If she doesn‘t have the answer, she‘ll ask someone who does! Consider submitting
your questions for the chance to have them answered in the next issue of The Navigator.
Check out this month’s column on page 33 of The Navigator.
Photo of, and provided by, Cathy Raynis Meeker.
Massachusetts Eric Rollo
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 14
Committee Updates
Greetings from the Media & Publications Committee! The committee has been hard at work the past several months putting together the latest issue of The Navigator! This month we feature several articles including a write-up from the Fall 2011 NEACUHO Drive-In including a spread of photos, updates from our Regional Affiliations Director from ACUHO-I, Cathy‘s Column, Membership Spotlight and much more! If you are interested in contributing to the newsletter, send all inquires to any member of our committee. If you are interested in joining The Media & Publications Committee, we are always looking for individuals who have a passion for writing, working with social media and content management. Cheers to a new year!
The Program Committee is excited that in just one month, in January 2012, we will announce the official Call For Programs for the 2012 Annual Conference. Although the conference is not until June, NEACUHO members are asked to submit proposals from January through early March. Bookmark NEACUHO.org today and check out the website for the official call for programs starting in January 2012. We are excited to offer a full range of program offerings at the Annual Conference in Boston at Northeastern University this coming year, including poster presentations. If you are interested in joining the Program Committee this year it is not too late. We are gathering in late March to select the programs to be offered at the Annual Conference and then reconvene as a committee at the Annual Conference in June for a variety of committee responsibilities.
If you are thinking that you would like to get more involved in professional development, network with others in the field, and have an excellent reason/excuse to attend the Annual Conference in June, then please consider joining the Program Committee. Already comprised of a great group of members, the Program Committee is always looking for additional membership.
The Annual Host Committee at Northeastern is hard at work developing a conference that offers the best blend of professional development and socializing in the city. Boston is home to so many historic and exciting destinations, we hope to give each of our Annual Conference attendees a glimpse of our hometown. The conference will be housed in our newest residence hall, International Village. International Village is one of the largest, single facility residency halls in all of Massachusetts. INV, as we call it, is also LEED certified in keeping true to Northeastern‘s commitment to maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment on campus. Be sure to visit our website here as new updates will be available soon! Also join our Facebook page by ―liking‖ us. Let us know if you are attending by answering our poll. Northeastern is very excited to host this year‘s Annual Conference and we cannot wait to see all of you this summer. Be sure to request the dates now, (June 6-9, 2012) so you don‘t get left out of what is sure to be one of the best annual conferences! See you in June! To contact Tim, please email him at [email protected].
NPDC is happy to report that the Fall RD2B Conference at Rhode Island College was very successful. Thank you to Rhode Island College for your great hospitality! Thank you to all of those who volunteered their time as mentors for our up and coming new professionals! The Spring RD2B will be held at Skidmore College (look for our advertisement in this month‘s issue of The Navigator). Registration will open promptly on January 9, 2012. We are also looking forward to putting on a great day for new professionals across the membership at the New Professionals Conference on March 16 at SUNY Cobleskill. SUNY Cobleskill is one of the most central points for the NEACUHO membership, and we hope to see you there! Our theme for the day along with the Mid-Level Institute is ―Building Blocks for your Future‖. To contact Casey, please email her at [email protected].
Thank you for a successful Fall Drive-In Conference. Please see the wrap up article featured in this issue of The Navigator. The Professional Development Committee is currently working on developing the Mid-Level Institute which will take place on March 16, 2012 at SUNY Cobleskill. To contact Kristin, please email her at [email protected].
L.A.M. Enterprises, Inc. (http://lam-solutions.com)
Proforma—Shrader and Shrader
(www.shraderandshrader.com) or (www.proforma.com/shrader)
Corporate Associates: Dr. Maura Cullen
(www.TheDiversitySpeaker.com)
Dynamic Influence (dynamicinfluence.org)
Please visit the websites of our Corporate Partners and Corporate Associates!
2012 Diversity Summit
The Diversity Student Summit features one of the nation‘s premiere diversity speakers, Dr. Maura Cullen. The Summit will dramatically increase student‘s level of diversity skills and knowledge to be more effective campus leaders. This positive high energy and high impact learning environment will focus on many facets of diversity, not just one issue. It will be hosted by University of Rhode Island in Kingston, RI on March 3, 2012. Go to www.DiversityStudentSummit.com to learn more & see what past attendees have to say about this incredible event!
NEACUHO Would Like to Thank Our Corporate Partners & Corporate Associates
“Helping to keep you connected to the needs of your students’ world.”
ACUHO-I and You: Collaboration for Professional Development
Chuck Lamb, Rochester Institute of Technology
With the holidays upon us the last thing you probably need is
another individual or group with a tin cup out requesting financial
assistance. We all are trying to ―Pay the Rent‖, reduce our debt load
and calculate the fiscal wiggle room for the potential purchase of
holiday gifts! The monetary demands for all of us are significant in a
chosen profession where the salary could be considered less than the
private sector. That‘s why this is not an appeal for your do-re-mi at
this time!
This is simply a reminder or an introduction about the ACUHO-I
Foundation. The ACUHO-I Foundation was formed in 1988 to
provide a way for individuals, institutions, corporations,
government agencies, and other foundations to support the
collegiate housing profession through gifts and grants.
In previous Navigator articles I have shared with you the ways the
foundation works for you and other colleagues and your
professional development as a residence life/student housing
professional. These are exciting and challenging times for our
profession and having a little bit of assistance along the way is
always beneficial.
The ACUHO-I Foundation is our fundraising vehicle and we can‘t
provide the assistance to you without fiscal support of our members
and others. Many of the corporate partners and friends from whom
we purchase goods and services are and have been significant
contributors to the Foundation. Some ACUHO-I and NEACUHO
members have chosen to ―pay back/pay it forward‖ to promote the
efforts of the foundation. It might be with a $5 of $10 raffle ticket at
the regional conference. Some have chosen to make an annual
contribution. Others actively participate in the Silent Auction at the
ACUHO-I Annual Convention. Whatever the reason, many
contribute with different amounts because they care about the
future of the profession and ultimately the lives of students living in
the residence halls and apartments on our campuses.
These are some colleagues in the NEACUHO family who have
contributed to the ACUHO-I foundation. I asked them to comment
on the reason they ―gave back‖ via contribution to the Foundation
and here are their remarks:
“ACUHO-I has been a constant in my career since 1983. Early on,
it gave me opportunities to connect with more experienced
colleagues from similar institutions from whom I learned much and
to whom I am most grateful. Those interactions provided perspective
that informed my work. This is just as true today. ACUHO-I has
been good to me in so many ways and I truly would not be where I
am today without its influence. It is my privilege, and I'm not
kidding, to be able to give back to our profession and our
Association that has meant so much to me.”
-Eddie Hull
Executive Director of Residential Life
UMass Amherst
“I give to the ACUHO-I Foundation because as a professional I
strongly believe that I should support my professional organization.
Personally, I have benefitted from the foundation through financial
assistance to attend the Annual Conference via the “Best of Awards”.
I think that the way we sustain our profession is by investing in its
future and the work of the foundation supports younger
professionals and encourages them to be involved. The foundation
also recognizes the hard work and dedication of members who go
above and beyond.”
-Beth Moriarty, Ed.D.
Director of Residence Life and Housing
Bridgewater State University, MA
“ACUHO-I has been good to me in so many ways.”
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“I started to give to the foundation at my first ACUHO-I
conference in 1995. I realized that if I had one of those green
ribbons that I wouldn't continued to be hassled to give...in a good
way of course! So I signed up for the 5x$50 program and continued
to give once that commitment ended. I made the jump to Major
Donor because ACUHO-I, and NEACUHO, allowed me to continue
to serve on the Foundation Board as an Associate Member during
my unexpected "year off" from active employment. I made the
internal commitment to do what I could when I once again had a
steady paycheck. I continue to give because as my professional alma
mater, this organization has provided me with education from
colleagues that has had a profound impact on students that I have
worked with all these years; my professional network; and friends
who mean as much as my family. Without the support of the
Foundation, this organization would have far less depth.”
-Gary Bice, Jr.
Director of Residence Life
SUNY Fredonia
My simple request is to keep your ACUHO-I Foundation in mind in
the future. Continue to read articles like this in future issues of The
Navigator and/or ACUHO-I Talking Stick about the opportunity to
pay back/pay forward and the continuing ways the ACUHO-I
Foundation assists the profession and particularly its members.
We fully realize you have numerous competing demands for your
discretionary income. Just consider the foundation if a contribution
can be made by you at some time in the future! Thanks and best
wishes for the spring term!
Chuck Lamb is a Director of Residence Life at the Rochester Institute of
Technology. To contact Chuck, please email him at [email protected].
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 18
The Campus Housing Operational Survey
Flo Johnson
Chair of the NASPA Assessment Student Voice Consortium
ACUHO-I understands how much you value data to make informed decisions about your campus housing operations. That is why we are so excited to join with the NASPA Assessment & Knowledge Consortium, and Campus Labs (formerly Student Voice) to compile an incredibly robust database of the information you need to succeed. The ACUHO-I Campus Housing Operational Survey, when complete, will offer data and benchmarks on virtually every aspect of campus housing including operations, staffing, students, and facilities. The Campus Housing Operational Survey is open November 16, 2011 - March 16, 2012. Compiling this information will require the cooperation of many campus housing organizations like yours. It also will require a significant investment of time and, likely, the work of multiple individuals within your organization. However this investment will be returned many times over. Campuses that complete the survey and subscribe with Campus Labs will be able to analyze their results and benchmark them against all other campuses. ACUHO-I members will be eligible for discounts on data analysis. We also are offering reduced rates for smaller housing operations to make this valuable resource accessible to as many campuses as possible. Please share this information with other institutions in your organization so they can also have the opportunity to participate. I have included two web sites that can provide additional information. Links: FAQ page The Student Residential Experience presentation
Cathy’s Column Ask Cathy! Want a better understanding of the behavior of students today? Need help finding balance at work and at home? Searching for advice on a career? Looking to have a different perspective on some questions you are simply just not getting answered elsewhere? Why not “Ask Cathy?” If she doesn’t have the answer, she’ll ask someone who does! Consider submitting your questions for the chance to have them answered in The Navigator.
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Cathy, I have recently switched institutions (actually this
has been my third institution change in the past six years)
for a position in which I am greatly excited about! I am
an advocate for change and certainly would love to bring
new ideas to my new department, however I am concerned that working in a
variety of colleges in such a short period of time makes my ideas lack
"depth". I am good at adapting to my surroundings and don't want to come
off as too strong too early. Any ideas or advice?
Congratulations on your new opportunity. Your
excitement about your new position will be
welcomed by those who have worked there long
term and/or by those who are exhausted from
surviving a challenging semester.
As I contemplated your question, the first thing that came to me
were the words respect and balance.
Respect. Being a change agent and having new innovative ideas is
great. You are often able to energize and improve a service or
program of the department. On the other hand, sometimes being a
change agent at an institution where you‘re new limits your ability
to empathize with those who have been there a while. You may
never have stayed at an institution long enough to start a program
and then to have another change agent come in and try to change
your program for the better. The trick is to be a change agent who is
extremely respectful of all who have worked hard at your institution
before you were there! If you learn about the history of the
program, who worked hard to see it succeed over the years, and
come to understand how it was developed, you will be able to
modify your ideas for change to suit that department. You will also
demonstrate greater sensitivity to those who have invested in the
program or event over the years, and that will help you draw allies
to your ideas. By listening to those who have developed the program
or event, adapting your change ideas based on this history, and
building positive relationships with those who have invested in the
program before your arrival, you will be able to build a network of
support as you implement changes. In addition, talk to your
supervisor to make sure you are representing their hopes for change
before you move forward. Ultimately you will be more effective as a
change agent if you are respectful of the history of the program, the
department, and your supervisor‘s wishes. Your supervisor should
guide the speed, breadth, and depth of the changes you implement.
Balance. Change agents who do not carry out that change with
both respect and balance may make that change happen, but may
also step on toes and limit their own ability to stay at an institution.
Change agents as well as those who work on a program long term
can balance one another for the good of the department. The energy
of a new person and the energy of a seasoned staff member can also
balance each other for the good of the department. Keep in mind
that you are probably not the first person with a good idea and your
idea may have been tried at your new institution at some point in its
history. It seems like you are starting to see that those who develop
a program and nurture it may have a ―depth‖ of understanding of the
history of a program that may be beneficial to the ongoing quality of
services that a department offers. I would suggest you find balance as
a change agent by learning from those with ―depth‖ at the new
institution. This balance will allow you to effectively implement
change by fine tuning and building on the good and great ideas that
are already established at the new institution. Your ability to respect
the old and implement the new
will make you a welcomed and
respected member of the
department.
I wish you all the best at your
new institution.
Q:
A:
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THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 34
Cathy, with conference season just around the corner, I
am strongly encouraging my professional staff to take
advantage of memberships, conferences regionally as well
as nationally and even presenting at drive-ins. Other than
conferences, what are some ways I can get my staff to take advantage of
professional development opportunities? And, while at conferences how should
I make sure they are getting the most "bang" for their buck? I am trying to
be as supportive as I can while meeting their needs as well. Thank you.
I think it is great that you are supportive of the
professional development of your staff. As you
know, in addition to attending and presenting at
regional and national conferences and retreats,
professional development can happen in many other ways. Some
additional ways to get your staff to take advantage of professional
development opportunities include:
1. Take staff to professional development presentations and events
so they see you actively engage with colleagues and invest in
your own professional development.
2. Be active in professional organizations. Your role modeling will
have a profound impact on your staff.
3. Make sure your department hiring materials, mission
statement, and job expectations show that you value and expect
that all who work there to participate in a variety of professional
development activities.
4. Encourage staff to get involved in committees and leadership
positions of professional organizations.
5. Encourage staff to write and share their ideas with on-line
websites, journals, or blogs.
6. Develop a reading list to help staff grow in different areas. Set
expectations for reading each semester.
7. Develop a professional development program that allows staff
to learn and talk about the things they are reading,
experiencing, and learning. Incorporate new findings in the
field, training to enhance skills, and knowledge the staff should
gain in order to be prepared for current and future positions.
8. Implement opportunities for staff to talk about, present, and
share what they learn at conferences. Often we attend sessions
and never get to share what we‘ve learned. By sharing the
information, we educate others, reinforce our own learning,
and collectively develop ideas from conferences that may help
to improve programs and services for the department.
9. Attend presentations by faculty and other speakers on campus
and in the community that will enhance the staff‘s
understanding of students or the work we do.
10. Develop a system that tracks, encourages, and reinforces staff to
actively participate in different types of professional
development opportunities.
Ultimately each individual is responsible for his or her own
professional development. Often new professionals think it is the
institution‘s responsibility to develop them by sending them to
conferences. It is nice if an institution can afford that, but we all
need to invest in our own professional development and make sure
we approach it in a multifaceted manner. Each of us needs to help
our supervisors to understand our dreams and aspirations so they
can help guide us to experiences and materials that will help us
grow. Individually, we can use free time to learn more about skills
and knowledge that will improve our abilities. We can read research
articles, journals, books, blogs, newsletters, and websites to stay
current in our field. We can write, present, research, blog, film,
and share in order to preserve and enhance our ideas. Professional
development is also enhanced by the connections we make with
others in our field. This community of learners can be an amazing
source of rich conversations that force us to think, learn, and grow.
We need to create a community of learners all around us to point
the way to information, conferences, retreats, presentation,
research, and writing opportunities. Hopefully the friends and
colleagues we work with along the way will challenge and support
us to grow and prepare for future positions. As a supervisor, it is
extremely important to challenge staff to meet new people at
conferences and to also get out of their offices and develop
relationships across campus.
I think the biggest way for new staff to see the value of
memberships, conferences, and presentations is to see you and their
other bosses actively engaging in professional development. Make it
an expectation of employment and consistently encourage and
reward their active involvement in professional organizations. Take
staff with you so they see the value of long term involvement in
professional organizations. To make the most of a conference or
retreat, talk about your expectations before anyone attends one.
Make sure your staff understands they will come back and present
on a certain topic (assessment, staff selection, occupancy, diversity
topics, veterans, parents, student development, technology) and
that you expect they will develop a resource list and outline of the
main points of information they learn. Take the staff meeting or
professional development time to allow staff to present what they
have learned at the conferences. I believe doing so can make staff
accountable so they are more likely to attend sessions. By presenting
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A:
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THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 35
at the staff member‘s home institution, the rest of the staff learns
about sessions they could not attend, each person learns how to
present, and learning that took place at the conference is reinforced.
In addition, if the list of programs comes out in advance, guiding
staff to topics or presentations that will help them grow and develop
to better meet their goals could help you get the best bang for your
buck.
Answers submitted by, Cathy Raynis Meeker, PhD, President of NEACUHO
2008-09.
Cathy is NEACUHO’s 2011 Lifetime Service Award recipient for her work and dedication to the organization and within the field. If you have a question for her email Peter Nardone at [email protected].
Your question will be answered anonymously in the next issue.
Thank you to all of the program presenters at the 2011 Fall Drive-In Conference
The day could not have been successful without you!
Ryan Young, Associate Director of Residential Life for Training & Development, Pace University
Dave Stender, Complex Coordinator, Johnson and Wales University
Jennifer Durocher, Assistant Dean for Student Life, Albertus Magnus
Sally Bertolino, Assistant Director of Residence Life, Merrimack College
Jessica Looney, Resident Director, Merrimack College
Max Koskoff, Resident Director, University of Hartford
Robert Hackenson, Speaker/Entertainer, Dynamic Influence
Matthew Barry, Outreach Coordinator, WPI
Cindy Long Porter, Associate Vice President of Student Affairs/Dir. of Residential Life, Quinnipiac University
Megan Igoe, Residence Hall Director, Quinnipiac University
Ryan Greelish, Resident Director, Bridgewater State University
Beth Moriarty, Director of Residence Life and Housing, Bridgewater State University
Shelly Keniston, Associate Director of Residence Life and Housing, Bridgewater State University
Erin Kennelly, Resident Director, Bridgewater State University
Erin Courville, Resident Director, Bridgewater State University
Heather Macmillan, Resident Director, Assumption College
Marie Lalor, Assistant Director, Housing & Operations, Connecticut College
Michael Sale, Director, Implementation & Training Services, Adirondack Solutions
Jennifer Crane, Associate Director of Residential Life, Quinnipiac University
Thomas Kelley, Resident Director, Rhode Island College
Joel Quintong, Director of Residential Life, Sacred Heart University
Robert Hackenson, Speaker/Entertainer, Dynamic Influence
Beth Moriarty, Director of Residence Life and Housing, Bridgewater State University
Shelley Nicholson, Assistant Director of AMERICORP Job Ready Program, Mount Wachusett Community College
Gary Bice, Jr., Director of Residence Life, SUNY Fredonia
Michael Hamilton, Assistant Director, WPI
Tanika Mangum, Newbury College, Area Coordinator/Housing Operations Coordinator
Nicoy Pusey, Area Coordinator, Herkimer County Community College
Keith Johnson, Resident Director, Iona College
Heather Quire, Resident Director, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
Chris Rader, Assistant Director of Residential Life, Sacred Heart University
Mary Feeny & Jared Otte, Bowditch and Dewey
Matthew Foster, Complex Coordinator, WPI
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 36
Something you want to see in The Navigator?
Let us know if there is something you’d like to see included in the
next issue!
If you have a question about the latest trends in housing and higher
education, but don’t know where to find the answer, let us do the work!
Are you the expert on a topic? Write an article and share your knowledge
with the Northeast. See page 40 in this issue for submission guidelines.
Membership Spotlight Welcome to the NEACUHO Member Spotlight; each issue The Navigator will let you meet and learn
about the dedicated individuals that are part of NEACUHO. Meet up and introduce yourself to our
Spotlights at various NEACUHO Events
Position: Assistant Director of Residence Life
Institution: SUNY Purchase College
How long have you been in your current role? I‘ve been at
Purchase for 6 years and this is my 3rd year as an Assistant Director.
Education: M.A. in Higher Education in Student Affairs and B.S.
in Family Studies from University of Connecticut.
NEACUHO Involvement: In 2008, I signed up for my first
committee which was Professional Development Committee and
within PDC, I‘ve chaired Mid-Level Institute and Spring Drive-In
Conference. I‘ve also served on the Program Committee for 2 years
and now I‘m the Metro NY District Coordinator. I will be finishing
up my DC position at the end of the Annual Conference in 2012.
Biggest issue(s) facing new professionals and/or CHOs: I
think parents and sometimes grandparents are still a challenge for
us. Sometimes, they can be a great support for what we try to
accomplish with our students but sometimes they can be the
complete opposite. I had a parent call me to find out about the RA
selection process. I explained everything to her and ended our
conversation with ―make sure your daughter attends the information
session and encourage her to contact me with any questions.‖ But
not too long after, the same mother called me with more questions.
Yes, it is great that they want to be involved and are involved but
sometimes it takes away the opportunity for the student to grow.
What piece(s) of advice do you want to share with new
professionals about working in the field? When I was a new
professional, I did not know how to say ―no‖. I thought if I said ―no‖
that meant, I wasn‘t committed or that I was a bad staff
member. That really took a toll on me because instead of spending
time for myself where I can recoup, I was at work. In our field,
personal wellness is very important. Sometimes, it is OK to say ―no‖
to the late night events or supervising off campus events on the
weekends. Always, let you know supervisor know how you are
doing and what you are doing at work. You never know, sometimes
your supervisor will be the one saying ―no‖ for you because you‘ve
been working very hard.
Favorite tradition your department does: Our Director, John
Delate, takes us out for lunch at a local restaurant every semester.
He is a busy man on our campus. So it‘s nice to have his undivided
attention and talk to him about everything else but work.
Sometimes, he‘ll apologize and ask us about something work related
but those conversations do not last too long. We usually talk about
how we are doing, our future vacations/trips and crazy things
happening in the world. This especially helped during my first
semester at Purchase because it really allowed me to see John as a
person rather than just a supervisor.
Biggest challenge(s) you have faced: My first year as a
professional. I had been an RA for 3 years and even earned a
Master‘s degree but it still did not prepare me for my first hall
director job. I was so unsure of everything I did. I didn‘t know how
to supervise students who were only 2-3 years younger than me. I
surely did not know how to have an educational conversation during
judicial meetings. With help of colleagues and supervisors, I
survived my first year and grew tremendously as a professional.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In five years, I still
would be doing what I enjoy doing which is staff selection and
training. I really enjoy doing paraprofessional selection and
especially the meetings that I get to have with candidates who didn‘t
get a position. It‘s my opportunity help them grow so next time,
they can be selected for a position.
What does NEACUHO mean to you? NEACUHO is a lot like
my first RA position. It gave me opportunities to come out of my
shell and explore and grow as a professional. It is a safe place for me
Angela Kang
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THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
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Membership Spotlight to ask questions, get honest feedback and receive tremendous
support. I honestly believe everyone should be involved with the
organization.
Position: Associate Dean for Cultural,
Residential and Spiritual Life. In my role, I direct
the Residential Life program and provide
oversight to the John D O‘Bryant African American institute, the
Latino Student Cultural Center, the Asian American Center and the
Spiritual Life Center.
Institution: Northeastern University
How long have you been in your current role? 3.5 years
Education: Master‘s Degree in Economics
NEACUHO Involvement: President/Past President Elect,
Member at Large/Mass District Representative, Vendor Chair,
Program Tri Chair
Biggest issue(s) facing new professionals and/or CHOs:
New professionals – lack of understanding of the role/place of
customer service in working with today‘ s students. CHOs - in the
midst of a busy environment where there are far too many difficult
and complex demands I find that our major challenge is slowing
down enough to speak to and learn from our junior staff members
and students.
What piece(s) of advice do you want to share with new
professionals about working in the field? Stay away from the
office drama, master your first job before you move to the
next, understand that politics and ‗game playing‘ are not the same
thing, and find a mentor (someone who knows more than you do).
Make sure that your brain is engaged before you put your mouth in
gear. When working with staff, say ‗yes‘ whenever you can, ‗no‘
when you must. Understand that your degree helped you get your
job… it absolutely won‘t help you keep your job. We must become
comfortable with principles of assessment as it is becoming
increasingly more important for us to describe and defend our value
to the institutions we work for. Be organized, take risks, have fun.
Opportunity knocks but temptation leans on the doorbell… Stay
away from the things that you KNOW you ought not do!
Finally…. Watch ‗the Walking Dead‘ – A GREAT Show.
Favorite tradition your department does: End of year awards
banquet for professional and para professional staff. They are
publically recognized and eternally shrined on our wall of fame.
Biggest challenge(s) you have faced: Terminating a staff
member. This is something I have had to do too many times. It‘s
never easy, I hope it never will be.
Where do you see yourself in five years? Working in Full
Time Ministry
What does NEACUHO mean to you? It has been my home and
has afforded me the opportunity to learn, meet wonderful people
that have become lifelong friends and learn skills that have been
critical to my career. It is where I got my start and where I hope to
finish.
Bob Jose
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 39
Thank you to all who submitted articles to the October issue of
The Navigator
You Make A Difference!
Tyrone Brown, Clark University Marissa Derderian, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Matthew Foster, Worcester Polytechnic Institute Bill Fox, ACUHO-I
Thomas Kelley, Rhode Island College Cindy Lake, SUNY Cortland
Chuck Lamb, Rochester Institute of Technology Cathy Raynis Meeker, Former NEACUHO Past President
Eric Rollo, Bay State College Jeremy Shepard, Bay State College
Sarah Unruh, SUNY Cortland
Photo of Kara Curcio provided by Tim Touchette.
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 40
Transitions and Recognitions Rochester Institute of Technology
Transitions
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is happy to welcome Marc Goldman to the staff as the new Associate Director of Residence Life. Marc joins us from the University of Illinois where he served for a number of years most recently as Senior Assistant Director of Residence Life and also held the positions of Area Coordinator and Assistant Director for Academic Programs during his 15 year tenure in Urbana-Champaign. Marc received his BA from Cornell College in Iowa and his MA from Syracuse University. He also earned an MS in Library and Information Science from the University of Illinois. Marc also worked at Syracuse University for 2 years as an Complex Director prior to his term at Illinois. We would also like to recognize Sharon Kompalla as she has been promoted from Assistant Director of Residence Life-Apartment Area to Associate Director of Residence Life and is responsible for over 3,200 beds in the 5 different apartment communities at Rochester Institute of Technology as well as the Greek Housing area. Cha Ron Sattler, former Associate Director of Residence Life, has been named Associate Director of the Women's and Gender Center at RIT where she will assist with the delivery of services to a burgeoning aspect of the vibrant RIT campus. Bill St. Jean, former 2011 NEACUHO Conference Host chair, was recently honored by his peers at RIT as the recipient of the Staff Council Award for Excellence.
Assignment & Billing Coordinator: Northeastern University would like to announce that Luci-Jean Mary is the Senior Assignment & Billing Coordinator. Sheryl Bunnell is transitioning from Customer Service Manager to Assignment & Billing Coordinator.
Assistant Director: Northeastern University would like to announce that Kara Curcio was recently hired as the Assistant Director for Living Learning Community & Academic Initiatives. First Year Experience Specialist: Northeastern University would like to announce that Johanna Martin was recently hired as the First Year Experience Specialist.
Global Initiatives and Diversity Education Specialist: Northeastern University would also like to announce that Chong Kim was recently hired as the Global Initiatives and Diversity Education Specialist. Resident Directors: Northeastern University would like to announce that Curtis Creekmore (FLYS Complex), Kevin Dillon (Speare), James Frier (Stetson West), Emily Johnson (Stetson East) and Patrick Lesswig (West Villages B&C) were recently hired at Residence Directors.
Northeastern University Transitions
Photo of Patrick Lesswig provided by Tim Touchette.
Photo of Chong Kim provided by Tim Touchette.
NEACUHO is an organization of housing, residential life, and student services professionals and paraprofessionals within the Northeast region dedicated to providing opportunities for
colleague support, professional development, sharing of information, collaboration, communication, research, and recognition of outstanding contributions to the field.
The association serves member institutions within Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
The Navigator issue schedule:
The Navigator Article Submission Guidelines
When submitting an article, please complete to the following: Program: Microsoft Word Font Type: Perpetua (use Times New Roman if Perpetua is not available) Font size: 12 Spacing: use only one space after a period, not two Paragraphs: use line breaks between paragraphs, do not indent Formatting: refrain from using columns and text boxes; bullets and numbering are acceptable Author information: include the author name, job title, institution, and email address at the beginning of the article, before the
title Title: create a title for your article; include it after the author information and before the article text Graphics: charts, graphs, etc. may be formatted into the article as needed Photos:
Photos pertaining to the article should be inserted at the end of the article or emailed as an attachment; do not format them into the article
Include a photo of yourself and other authors; they should be submitted like other pictures Saving the document: the title of the document should be: TwoWordsofTitle.AuthorLastName (example: RoomSelection.Smith)
The Media and Publications Committee thanks you for taking the time to follow the Article Submission Guidelines.
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 41
NEACUHO is an organization of housing, residential life, and student services professionals and paraprofessionals within the Northeast region dedicated to providing opportunities for
colleague support, professional development, sharing of information, collaboration, communication, research, and recognition of outstanding contributions to the field.
The association serves member institutions within Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
The Navigator issue schedule:
The Navigator Article Submission Guidelines
When submitting an article, please complete to the following: Program: Microsoft Word Font Type: Perpetua (use Times New Roman if Perpetua is not available) Font size: 12 Spacing: use only one space after a period, not two Paragraphs: use line breaks between paragraphs, do not indent Formatting: refrain from using columns and text boxes; bullets and numbering are acceptable Author information: include the author name, job title, institution, and email address at the beginning of the article, before the
title Title: create a title for your article; include it after the author information and before the article text Graphics: charts, graphs, etc. may be formatted into the article as needed Photos:
Photos pertaining to the article should be inserted at the end of the article or emailed as an attachment; do not format them into the article
Include a photo of yourself and other authors; they should be submitted like other pictures Saving the document: the title of the document should be: TwoWordsofTitle.AuthorLastName (example: RoomSelection.Smith)
The Media and Publications Committee thanks you for taking the time to follow the Article Submission Guidelines.
NAVIGATOR THE
Submit to
April Submit articles by March 12
Newsletter distributed week of April 9
June Submit articles by May 7
Newsletter distributed week of June 4
February Submit articles by January 16
Newsletter distributed week of February13
THE NAVIGATOR • DECEMBER 2011
PAGE 42
NEACUHO Mission Statement
NEACUHO is an organization of housing, residential life, and student services professionals and paraprofessionals within the Northeast region dedicated to providing opportunities for
colleague support, professional development, sharing of information, collaboration, communication, research, and recognition of outstanding contributions to the field.
The association serves member institutions within Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
Meet our Corporate Partners and Associates Adirondack Solutions, Inc. Dr. Maura Cullen Dynamic Influence Foliot Furniture John Savoy & Son, Inc. L.A.M. Enterprises, Inc. Proforma– Schrader and
Schrader
twitter name “NEACUHO”
Facebook Group: “NEACUHO and friends”
Facebook Page:
facebook.com/NEACUHO
Want to stay connected with NEACUHO?
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