University of Delaware

Office of Residence Life

2008-2009 Program Plan

Introduction

Upon the first day of hall opening, students will encounter Arrival Survival Teams and will meet a welcoming resident assistant (RA) staff as they pick up keys, activity and event information, orientation materials, safety information, and get an early opportunity to join hall government. On their floor, the student will see a set of information boards with tips, staff contact information, welcome signs on their door, and the RA’s best effort to decorate floor public areas in an informative and welcoming fashion. Technology staff will work to get all students hooked in to the electronic campus. Connections with parents will be established through a residence hall meeting. Students will be introduced to University policies. Safety and security guidelines will be reviewed and discussed. From the outset, students will be encouraged to get to know their neighbors, have fun, and make good choices as they begin their lives as college students. After the first “meet and greet” activity as a floor, the RA will invite students to attend one of several first-week evening activities designed to welcome all to campus. This is simply day one in the residence halls at UD.

Residence hall operations are carried out 24 hours a day during the academic semesters and these operations are comprehensive and multi-faceted in serving the needs of the University’s more than 7,300 resident undergraduate students. Hundreds, if not thousands, of social and fun activities take place in the residence halls every year. Some of these are as simple as visiting with the RA in the lounge – some require far greater planning. They are all part of an integrated whole that makes up student life in the residence halls. During the time that they are occupied by our students, our residence halls are our students’ homes. They are the places students return to after a long day of class and where they come for sleep, comfort, solace, relaxation, and fun. The Residence Life staff at the University of Delaware strives on a daily basis to provide residential environments for students that are safe, comfortable, and exciting and allow them to concentrate on being students. Resident Assistants and Hall Directors (HDs) provide a level of service to students that assist them as they transition from high school to college and from one year to the next. They help students struggling with challenges and connect them with the resources they need to be successful at our University. In addition to that, the residence halls provide a rich environment for learning. The Residence Life program plan is designed to enrich that environment. Even so, the program described in this document represents only one aspect of Residence Life activities and accounts for less than one third of an RA’s responsibilities. Appendix 1 on page 42 of this document describes the other two thirds.

Program Goals

The Residence Life program encourages students to become engaged and active citizens by understanding how their thoughts, values, beliefs, and actions affect the people with whom they live and by recognizing their citizenship responsibilities at a local, national, and global level. Exploring concepts of citizenship is a meaningless activity in the residence halls in the absence of solid strategies for the development of residential communities. A major premise for the citizenship priority stems from the idea that students have significant opportunities for peer dialogue and idea exchange in the residence hall setting. Peer interaction is not only one of the most significant determinants of student satisfaction, but a powerful influence in overall student success in college. Establishing a healthy and engaging community is a pre-requisite to any exploration of citizenship. Reaching out to students and encouraging them to share their unique perspectives with others is also foundational. Social activities, serious discourse, and general feelings of belongingness are all related to the overall sense of community. The result of efforts by Residence Life staff should be the development of strong student-to-student connections and the creation of healthy and positive communities.

In order to develop program goals in a meaningful manner, significant limitations were considered. The value of putting our energies towards a limited number of program goals in order to do them well, rather than do many poorly, was in our minds as we crafted this proposal. Most importantly, these program goals have been drafted through a serious exploration of the University of Delaware’s educational priorities. A listing of the structural considerations are offered below.

Structural Considerations:

The formulation of program goals for the residence halls began with a series of structural design characteristics and assumptions:

1. The plan is to be tied to the educational aims of the University of Delaware as articulated by the current Strategic Planning process, the General Education Goals of the University of Delaware, and the University of Delaware Mission Statement. They are thus “distinctly UD” in nature.
2. The plan is to be informed by programmatic goals and student learning outcomes established by the First Year Experience Committee in the fall of 2007.
3. Students will not face penalties, perceived or real, for failing to engage in residential activities and programs. Staff and students will be aware that no activity in the residence halls is mandatory.
4. Activities and programs are to be reflective in nature with an emphasis on the student’s own meaning making process.
5. The unique physical design and social dynamics inherent in residence halls are to be heavily considered in the development of activities.
6. The program plan designed and implemented by the Office of Residence Life should be transparent and copies of it readily available whenever requested.

Proposed 2008-2009 Program Goals:

Working with the FYE Office, the Office of Undergraduate Studies, and other UD entities that support an institutional approach to an integrated first year experience, Residence Life will strive to provide learning opportunities to students that contribute to the achievement of the FYE student learning outcomes. The Residence Life program will provide opportunities for students to:

1. Explore their personal skills, values, traits, and attitudes.

2. Recognize how history, background & culture affect one’s perspectives.

3. Analyze the impact of their actions within the context of their daily lives and the democratic processes that take place in the residence halls.

4. Understand their own and others’ concepts of justice.

5. Develop a personal and career plan that considers their contributions to society.

6. Learn to articulate their point of view while respectfully engaging in dialogues about different ideas.

7. Explore the connections that exist between the concepts of sustainability, personal choice, community, and citizenship.

Proposed Activities - First-Year Residence Hall Areas

This First-Year residential plan will be implemented where first-year students live including Rodney, Dickinson, Russell, and Independence Complex. This plan was developed in an effort to support the educational and social needs of the first-year students living on-campus. We have created a series of activities that promote interaction, prompt self-reflection, and facilitate the building of a sustainable community through exploration of citizenship. The programs will not only support the individual needs of students and floor communities, but will also build connection among students across all first year complexes. It should be noted, that participation in all activities is entirely optional.

Residence Life staff members in first-year areas strive to provide students with the skills and resources they need to transition from high school to college. College serves as a period of critical personal and identity development.

Cornerstones of the First-Year Program Plan:

Resident Assistant (RA) and Resident Relationship:

The RA-resident relationship can be critical to the success of a first-year student. A series of optional RA conversations are included as part of the plan to help stimulate this important relationship.

Community of Stakeholders:

For our purposes a stakeholder is defined as a person or group who can affect or is affected by actions in the halls. We believe that students are members of multiple communities. In each of these communities, we hope students will analyze both their responsibilities and the benefits of community membership. Floor meetings will provide opportunities for students to explore these issues.

Floor Meeting Series:

The floor meeting series offered in the first-year areas will include discussions of sustainability and provide students with opportunities to explore the relevance of sustainability to their lives as UD students.

Personal Development Series:

Through this monthly program series, students will be offered opportunities for personal and individual development. The specifics of this series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input.

Complex Community Council (CCC) Structure:

As in the past, CCCs will be student-governing bodies that will make meaningful decisions about what occurs in their living environment and the types of opportunities students in the complex have available to them. While some CCC activities are articulated in this plan, many will be determined throughout the year by the students residing in the residential complex.

A Vibrant and Engaged Campus:

The University of Delaware is an active campus with learning opportunities around every corner. In order to support and take advantage of these opportunities, the program plan articulates, under the heading “Campus Resource Connections,” how RAs and HDs will inform and encourage student attendance and participation in campus events.

Current & Relevant:

The programs and activities in this plan are designed to anticipate and react to what is occurring in the local, national and global landscape. Our students will have the opportunity to participate in dialogues attuned to real world problems and issues.

Traditional Residence Hall Activities:

While the task at hand is the development of a program plan, the Office of Residence Life coordinates the following activities. Some of these are mentioned in the plan that follows in an effort to illustrate the breadth of staff activities.

· Welcoming floor environments - door decorations, bulletin boards, lounge decorations, advertising of campus events, birthday boards, etc.

· Floor dinners, study breaks and stress relievers

· Facilitation of roommate and community agreements

· Mediation of student conflicts

· Programs related to health education and wellness

· Holiday parties and floor decorating contests

· Leadership opportunities through hall governments and special interest communities

· Talent and art shows/contests

· Intramural athletics and tournaments (dodge ball, volleyball, Frisbee, soccer, field days, etc.)

· Video game tournaments and traditional game nights

· Activities co-sponsored with dining services

· Monthly resident recognition activities with the National Residence Hall Honorary

· Service projects (book drives, food drives, volunteering, other fundraising)

· Recycling efforts

For a full description of how Residence Life activities and programs will be assessed, see Appendix 2 on page 44.

The program plan that follows has many similarities to residence life programs across the country. See Appendix 3 on page 46 for examples of the variety and types of programs being offered elsewhere.

August/September

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include time management, transition, home-sickness, test taking skills, budgeting, exercise and nutrition, body image, stress management, conflict resolution, negotiating new roles with parents, hygiene.	1, 3, & 5
	The Many Perspectives on Sustainability	A campus-wide program with faculty which will provide students with the opportunity to learn about different perspectives and insights related to sustainability. Faculty representation will include those from disciplines such as business and economics, sociology, political science, and environmental sciences. UD’s Sustainability Task Force will be asked to help develop this program. Break-out group conversations on specific topics will follow the event for students seeking additional information and discussion.	2, 4, 6, & 7
	Campus Safety	Community Police Officers: Provide information about campus safety and University programs. (building-staff)	3 & 7
	Individual Consumption Introduction	Students will be introduced to the concept of individuals’ consumption in relation to environmental impact. This will be an important prelude to power and energy conservation efforts in the halls. (building-staff)	1, 3 & 7
Social Events	Spirit Week Events	A week of events focused on strengthening students’ connection with each other and the UD community. Events will focus on building school spirit and friendly rivalries among floor communities. (football game, volleyball tournament, etc)
	Eat & Greet	An event to help residents connect with their floor community. RAs will take their residents to the dining hall for a meal during the 1^st weekend of the semester.
	1^st Night Activities	RAs will take residents to a series of activities that help them become acclimated to the campus culture and community.
Floor Meetings	Building Meeting	HDs/CCs introduce learning opportunities for the year, present info. about residence hall policies, student code of conduct expectations, CCC recruitment, and introduce RAs. (building-staff)	3 & 7
	Opening Day Floor Meeting	Introduction of community members and discussions about community expectations. Facilitate community team builders to establish connections among residents. Remind residents about Alcohol EDU. (floor-RA)	2, 3, 6 & 7
	Community Meeting	All floor residents will be able to engage in activities to discuss individual goals, expectations, and visions for the floor community. The group negotiates among individual expectations to develop a mutually agreed-upon statement of community standards and a set of goals for the year. (floor-RA)	1, 3, 6, & 7
RA Conversations	Individual & Mutual Goal Setting	RAs will offer to meet with individuals and or roommates to help them discuss their visions for the community. Residents will have a chance to discuss their individual and mutual goals, as well as set the groundwork for a relationship with their RA. (floor-RA)	1, 2, 3, 5, 6 & 7	X

Bulletin Boards	CCC Structure and Info	Visual display of CCC (residence hall government) structure and election information.	3
	Floor Visuals	Floor visuals to announce programs and activities and create a welcoming environment for community members.	7
	Latin American Heritage Month	Information about the Latin American community in the United States.	2
	Student Leadership Opportunities	Information about the different leadership opportunities available on campus and around the city of Newark.	3
	National Campus Fire Safety Month	Information from the Office of Occupational Health & Safety about campus fire safety.	3
	Study Tips	Academic tips, such as note taking skills and how to study for exams.	3 & 5	X
	Goal Setting	Recommendation on how to set achievable and measurable goals.	3 & 5	X
	Compelling Question: Presidential Elections	Interactive bulletin board on which residents can post their answers to the following question, “Who are you voting for and why?”	2, 3, & 6
	Celebrate Your Successes	Ongoing floor visual: Students can post representations of their achievement of an academic goal for the month (RAs have certificate template).	1	X
	”Have you considered this?”	Monthly sustainability tips and/or questions	3 & 7
Complex Community Council (CCC) Initiatives	Recruitment & Training & A Constitution Day Event	Complex staff will focus on recruitment and election of students to participate in a student run governing body. These processes will duplicate democratic processes currently used in the US to select elected officials and craft constitutions. The recruitment and election process will include elements such as debates, caucuses, and training for student leaders. (building-staff)	1, 2, & 3
	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders. (complex-students)
	New Castle County Department of Elections	The residence halls will hold their own “election day.” The residence hall staff will attempt to work with the Delaware Election Commissioner to provide students the opportunity to elect their Complex Government officials in the same manner they would participate in U.S. electoral processes, while also encouraging students to register to vote. (complex-staff)	2 & 3
Campus Resource Connection	Student Activities Night	RAs will take their floor community to the Student Activities Night. Students will be introduced to the wealth of co-curricular opportunities available on campus. (floor-RA)	1
	Latino Heritage Month	Staff members will advertise campus-wide Latino Heritage Month events. (building-staff)	1 & 2

Other

Operational Processes

Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Typical issues during this time are campus familiarization, academic environment adjustment, homesickness, roommate conflicts, test anxiety, balancing social and academic responsibilities, first parties, long distance or new relationships, and establishing study habits. (all areas-all staff) Administrative processes: early check-in, general check-in, opening, fire drills, mail/packages, keys, duty rounds, office hours, etc.

3

October

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include time management, transition, home-sickness, test taking skills, budgeting, exercise and nutrition, body image, stress management, conflict resolution, negotiating new roles with parents, hygiene.	1, 3, & 5
	Code of Conduct Chat & Chew	Provide Q&A session about the Code of Conduct/behavior expectations facilitated by GA for Community Standards and Complex Coordinators. (building-staff, GA)	4
Social Events	Freshman Field Day	1^st year students will gather to participate in a variety of engaging activities and contests. (complex-staff)
Floor Meeting	October Floor Meeting	-Alcohol EDU follow up and community development activities. -Residents will be asked to bring one of their favorite material possessions to floor meeting and will have the opportunity to discuss what it means to them and then explore with their floor mates issues related to sustainability and their selected item. (floor-RA)	1, 2, 6 & 7
RA Conversations	Individual & Mutual Goal Setting (Cont.)	Students will have the opportunity to discuss the progress of their room/suite /cluster goals. RAs can provide resources to students and respond to roommate conflicts that may be surfacing. (floor-RA)	1, 2, 3, 5, 6 & 7
Bulletin Boards	National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness	Information on the individual & community impact of binge drinking.	3
	Citizens of the Month	Monthly recognition of residents who make positive contributions to the community.	1,3, & 7
	Compelling Question: Defining Love	Interactive bulletin board on which residents can post their response to the following question, “How do you define love?”	1, 2, & 6
	Sustainability Definitions	Introduce students to key sustainability terms and concepts.	7
	Study Tips	Provide students tips about studying for midterms or preparing for papers, including information about campus resources.	3 & 5	X
	Celebrate Your Successes	Ongoing floor visual: Students can post representations of their achievement of an academic goal for the month (RAs have certificate template).	1	X
	“Have you considered this?”	Unplug America: In support of national “Unplug America Day”- October 13; provide information about the “Unplug America” activity.	3 & 7
Campus Resource Connection	Career Services Series	In partnership with the Bank of America Career Services Center and the Center for Counseling and Student Development, this series is designed to inform students about available services. (complex-staff)	1 & 5
	National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week	Help students consider responsible alcohol decision making, RAs will advertise the entire collection of Wellspring sponsored National Alcohol Awareness Week events and bring students to Love Your Body Day. (complex-staff)	1
CCC Initiatives	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders. (complex-students)
	Halloween Events	A variety of events hosted by CCC to celebrate Halloween. (complex-students)
Other	Operational Processes	Student conduct conversations, keys/cards, triples assistance, room changes, fire drills, mail/packages, duty rounds, office hours (RA & HD), crisis response, etc. (all areas-all staff)	3

November

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	What Matters?	This self-reflection activity will allow students the opportunity to explore and examine a variety of things that they value (places, people, memories, goals, etc.). This exploration process, and subsequent discussion with peers, will help them explore motivations for their own and their peers’ internal decision-making processes. (building-staff)	1, 2, & 3
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include time management, transition, home-sickness, test taking skills, budgeting, exercise and nutrition, body image, stress management, conflict resolution, negotiating new roles with parents, hygiene.	1, 3, & 5
Social Events	Thanksgiving Dinners	Floor will join for a Thanksgiving meal.
	Complex Video Game Tournaments	Residents can participate in various video game tournaments in which the proceeds will be donated to a charity of the winner’s choice.
Floor Meeting	November Floor Meeting	RAs will inform students about policies and procedures for the Thanksgiving break. RAs will facilitate a conversation about environmental impact of consumption patterns through a simulated “shopping” exercise. (floor-RA)	1, 2 , & 7
RA Conversations	General Follow-up	Students will be invited to discuss any transitional issues they may be having. (floor-RA)	1, 2, & 3
Bulletin Boards	Winter Holidays	Information about various November/December religious holidays and traditions.	2
	Study Tips	Provide students tips about studying for midterms or preparing for papers, including information about campus resources.	3 & 5	X
	Compelling Question: Climate Change	Interactive bulletin board on which residents can post their answers to the following question, “Is the planet REALLY getting hotter?”	6
	Compelling Question: Free Speech	Interactive floor bulletin board on which residents can write what the term free speech means to them.	6
	Alternative Spring Break	Information about service trip opportunities during the Spring Break period.	3 & 5
	Military Service Recognition	In recognition of Veteran’s Day and those students who have families deployed, a bulletin board will be designed to recognize current military service members and veterans emphasizing the importance of citizenship through service to the country.	7
	Citizens Of the Month	Monthly recognition of residents who make positive contributions to the community.	1, 3, & 7
	Celebrate Your Successes	Ongoing floor visual: Students can post representations of their achievement of an academic goal for the month (RAs have certificate template).	1	X
	“Have you considered this?”	Monthly sustainability tips and/or questions	3 & 7
Campus Resource Connection	IT User Services: Virtual Citizen Series	With the help of the Office of Information Technologies, each building staff will explore what it means to be a citizen through the lens of technology. Students will have the opportunity to explore ways to become a good citizen through social networking sites, responsible computing, legal downloading and sharing practices. They will also be educated on the broad and specific consequences of their cyber actions. (building-staff)	3, 4, & 7	X
	Career Services Series	In partnership with the Bank of America Career Services Center and the Center for Counseling and Student Development, this series is designed to inform students about available services. (building-staff)	1 & 5
CCC Initiatives	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders. (complex-students)
Other	Operational Processes	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. (all areas-all staff) Administrative processes: room changes, fire drills, mail/packages, keys, duty rounds, office hours, etc.	3

December

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	End of Semester Donation Drives	Collection of clothes and non-perishable foods for donation to various charitable organizations. (building-staff)	2 & 7
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include time management, transition, home-sickness, test taking skills, budgeting, exercise and nutrition, body image, stress management, conflict resolution, negotiating new roles with parents, hygiene.	1, 3, & 5
	Consumer Decision-Making	This program will provide students with opportunities to learn about sustainability issues related to retail stores. Guest speakers and faculty members will be involved in the planning and facilitation. (complex-staff)	7
Social Events	Study Breaks / Stress Relievers	Each building will host an event during finals week to help students take a brief break from studying. (building-staff)		X
Floor Meeting	End of the Semester Meeting	RAs provide information about the process and procedure for semester closing. RAs will also provide information about the open room change period. (floor-RA)	3
RA Conversations	General Follow Up	RAs will continue to build their relationships with students through general interactions. (floor-RA)	1, 2, & 3
Bulletin Boards	Closing Information	Closing and room change information posted on each floor.
	Charity Options	Interactive bulletin board on which students share their favorite charitable organizations.	6 & 7
	Finals Success Tips	Information about how to prepare and study for final exams.	5	X
	“Have you considered this?”	Sustainable Vacationing: Information about eco-friendly vacation locations and tips for traveling in an environmentally friendly manner.	7
	Sexual Health Information	Information on healthy decision-making and sexual health resources on campus.	3
	Celebrate Your Successes	Ongoing floor visual: Students can post representations of their achievement of an academic goal for the month (RAs have certificate template).	1	X
	Citizens of the Month	Monthly recognition of residents who make positive contributions to the community.	1, 3 & 7
CCC Initiatives	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders. (complex-students)
Other	Operational Processes	Work to meet general safety, security, and personal needs of students. (all areas-all staff)	3

January

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
	Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service	A number of service opportunities in the residential complex and surrounding community will be available. In 1994 Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, designating the King Holiday as a national day of volunteer service. Instead of a day off from work or school, Congress asked Americans of all backgrounds and ages to celebrate Dr. King's legacy by turning community concerns into citizen action. (complex-staff)	2, 3, 6, & 7
Programs	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include time management, transition, home-sickness, test taking skills, budgeting, exercise and nutrition, body image, stress management, conflict resolution, negotiating new roles with parents, hygiene.	1, 3, & 5
Social Events	Winter Community Connections	Events to build community for the few students that remain during winter session (building-staff)
RA Conversations	General Follow Up	RA will seek out those residents enrolled in winter session to further the sense of connection with those students. (floor-RA)	1, 2, & 3
Bulletin Boards	Closing Information	Closing and room change information posted on each floor.
	Charity Options	Interactive bulletin board on which students share their favorite charitable organizations.	3 & 7
	Finals Success Tips	Information about how to prepare and study for final exams.	5	X
	Sustainable Vacationing	Information about eco-friendly vacation locations and tips for traveling in an environmentally friendly manner.	3 & 7
	Alternative Spring Break	Information about service trip opportunities during the Spring Break period.	5
Other	Operational Processes	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. (all areas-all staff)	3

February

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Freshman Year Philanthropy Kick-off	Each complex will initiate a philanthropic endeavor for the spring semester. (complex-staff) Rodney and Dickinson: Soap for Hope (http://www.udel.edu/PR/UpDate/01/15/resident.html) Russell and Independence: Heifer International (http://www.heifer.org/)	2, 4, & 7
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include time management, transition, home-sickness, test taking skills, budgeting, exercise and nutrition, body image, stress management, conflict resolution, negotiating new roles with parents, hygiene.	1, 3, & 5
Social Events	Welcome Back Party	A welcome back party will be held in each complex for returning first-year students. At each social event, information will be posted on walls and event supplies to inform students of the economic and environmental impact of the event and items. (complex-staff)	7
Floor Meeting	Spring Opening Floor Meeting	RAs will revisit the fall Community Agreements; orient new students; review policies, alcohol issues, and safety guidelines; introduce new community members; welcome students to a new semester; and introduce students to Recyclemania and Relay for Life initiatives. (floor-RA)	3 & 7
	Community Resource Tracking	Students will be introduced to a personal tracking inventory of their consumption patterns. Floor members will be provided the current budgets for their floor, the complex, and the Complex Community Council. They will have the opportunity to ask questions, engage in conversations about how fiscally responsible they have been, and discuss their goals for the spring. (floor-RA)	3, 6, & 7
RA Conversations	Discovery Wheel	-Students will have the opportunity to reconnect with their RA after the winter semester.   -Also, students will be given the opportunity to participate in the Discovery Wheel process. The Discovery Wheel is a portion of the "Becoming a Master Student" publication by Ellis (access rights will need to be addressed if approved). This self-evaluation tool allows for reflection on 12 areas including motivation, time management, memory, note taking, reading & testing, diversity, communication strategies and skills. Following the computer based questionnaire, the student obtains results in a visual chart and an additional set of goal questions are offered. Students will get a chance to explore their visual chart with their peers. (floor-RA)	1 & 5

Bulletin Boards	African American Heritage Month	Information about the African American heritage month activities.	2
	Spring Semester Goals	Students may post their goals for the semester on the bulletin board	5	X
	Living Options: On vs. Off Campus Living	Information about on- and off- campus living options.	1 & 3
	Citizens of the Month	Monthly recognition of residents who make positive contributions to the community.	1, 3, & 7
	“Have you considered this?”	Recycling: Monthly sustainability tip and/or question.	7
	Student Leadership Opportunities	Provide students with information about the different leadership opportunities available on campus and around the city of Newark.	3
	Celebrate Your Successes	Ongoing floor visual: Students can post representations of their achievement of an academic goal for the month (RAs have certificate template).	1	X
	Compelling Question: Presidential Priority	Bulletin board on which students can post their response to the following question, “What should be the priority of the new President of the United States”	1 & 6
Campus Resource Connection	Career Services Series	In partnership with the Bank of America Career Services Center and the Center for Counseling and Student Development, this series is designed to inform students about available services. (complex-staff)	1 & 5
	Vagina Monologues	Staff will advertise the Vagina Monologues. (complex-staff)	2 & 4
	Housing Fair	Staff will advertise this event (complex-staff)	3
	African American Heritage Month	Staff will advertise these campus events (complex-staff)	1, 2, & 6
CCC Initiatives	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders. (complex-students)
	Freshman Spring Semi-Formal	This event, co-sponsored by all first year Complex Community Councils, will give students the opportunity to come together on a common initiative while providing a safe social event for the campus. Student groups will convene planning committees. (complex-students, staff)
Other	Operational Processes	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. (all areas-all staff) Administrative processes: Spring opening/check-in, room changes, fire drills, mail/packages, keys, duty rounds, office hours, etc.	3

March

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Freshman Year Philanthropy (continued)	See February for description	2, 4, & 7
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include time management, transition, home-sickness, test taking skills, budgeting, exercise and nutrition, body image, stress management, conflict resolution, negotiating new roles with parents, hygiene.	1, 3, & 5
Social Events	Roommate Challenge	Students will have the opportunity to find out how much they know about their roommate and floor mates while participating in a friendly competition. (complex-staff)
Floor Meeting	Recyclemania	RAs will provide information about closing for Spring Break, emphasizing spring break safety. Residents will also discuss the upcoming campus wide initiatives around Recyclemania. (floor-RA)	1 & 7
RA Conversations	Discovery Wheel (continued)	This conversation will be a continuation from February. Students will have the opportunity to discuss goals that may have been stimulated by the discovery wheel activity. (floor-RA)	1 & 5
Bulletin Boards	Women's History Month	Information about successes and challenges of women nationally and globally.	2
	Mid Term Study Tips	Study tips for mid-term exams and finals.	3 & 5	X
	IT User Services: Virtual Citizen	Information about the Virtual Citizen series	3 & 7
	Citizens of the Month	Monthly recognition of residents who make positive contributions to the community.	1, 3, & 7
	Celebrate Your Successes	Ongoing floor visual: Students can post representations of their achievement of an academic goal for the month (RAs have certificate template).	1	X
	“Have you considered this?”	Monthly sustainability tip and/or question	3 & 7
Campus Resource Connection	IT User Services: Virtual Citizen Series	In collaboration with the Office of Information Technologies, each building staff will explore what it means to be a citizen through the lens of technology. Students will have the opportunity to explore ways to become a good citizen through social networking sites, responsible computing, legal downloading and sharing practices. They will also be educated on the broad and specific consequences of their cyber actions. (complex-staff)	3, 4, & 7
	Women’s History Month	Staff will advertise campus wide events (complex-staff)	2 & 7
CCC Initiatives:	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders. (complex-students)
	Resapalooza	An outdoor festival held each spring, sponsored by the Resident Student Association. Each Complex Community Council participates in the planning and execution of this event and also to provide complex specific entertainment (booth). Student groups will convene planning committees. (campus-wide-student leaders)
Other	Operational Processes	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. (all areas-all staff) Administrative processes: room changes, fire drills, mail/packages, keys, duty rounds, office hours, etc.	3

April

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Dueling Documentaries - Sustainability Closing the Loop	Two documentaries will be shown; each offering a different perspective on issues related to sustainability. Students will have an opportunity to engage in conversations about the issues. Faculty members from related disciplines will be invited to help select the films, plan the event, and help to facilitate the conversation. (complex-staff)	2, 6, & 7	X
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include time management, transition, home-sickness, test taking skills, budgeting, exercise and nutrition, body image, stress management, conflict resolution, negotiating new roles with parents, hygiene.	1, 3, & 5
	Earth Day	Events to celebrate Earth Day (building-staff)	2 & 7
	Freshman Year Philanthropy (continued)	See February for description	2, 4, & 7
Social Events	Around the World in 80 Minutes	Students will explore different countries by visiting the different buildings within each complex. The continents that will be visited are: Africa, South America, Europe and Asia. Faculty members and RSOs will be asked to assist and participate. (complex-staff)	2	X
	Complex Idol	Students will compete in a complex-wide competition. Students will showcase a talent and a cause of the student’s choosing. (building-staff)
Floor Meeting	Floor Follow Up	RA will continue to build floor community. Floor progress in community initiatives such as Recyclemania and Relay for Life will also be discussed. (floor-RA)	3 & 7
RA Conversations	General Follow-Up	This conversation will serve as an opportunity for students to discuss any issues they may be facing, and the Resident Assistant will be able to help direct them to resources as necessary. This conversation will also provide students an opportunity to reflect on and finalize their discovery wheel plan. (floor-RA)	1 & 5
Bulletin Boards	Sexual Assault Awareness Month	Information about sexual assault awareness.	3
	Stress Relief Tips	Tips for relieving stress during the end of year.	3	X
	Complex Idol Information	Information about the Campus Idol competition.
	Earth Day	Information about Earth Day.	7
	Citizens of the Month	Monthly recognition of residents who make positive contributions to the community.	1, 3, & 7
	Celebrate Your Successes	Ongoing floor visual: Students can post representations of their achievement of an academic goal for the month (RAs have certificate template).	1	X
	“Have you considered this?”	Monthly sustainability tip and/or question.	3 & 7
Campus Resource Connection	Sexual Assault Awareness Month	Staff will advertise campus events (complex-staff)	6 & 7
CCC Initiatives	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders. (complex-students)
	Resapalooza (continued)	An outdoor festival held each spring, sponsored by the Residence Student Association. Each Complex Community Council participates in the planning and execution of this event and also to provide complex specific entertainment (booth).
	Freshman Semi-Formal	A campus-wide freshman semi-formal dance. (campus-student leaders)
Other	Operational Processes	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. (all areas-all staff) Administrative processes: room changes, fire drills, mail/packages, keys, duty rounds, office hours, etc.	3

May

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Trading Stuff	Students can bring their unwanted items at the end of the year to trade with one another. Unwanted items will be transported to UDon’t Need It Campaign site (building-staff)	1, 2, & 7
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include time management, transition, home-sickness, test taking skills, budgeting, exercise and nutrition, body image, stress management, conflict resolution, negotiating new roles with parents, hygiene.	1, 3, & 5
	Freshman Year Philanthropy (continued)	See February for description	2, 4, & 7
Social Events	End of Year Social Events	A series of social events to commemorate the end of the academic year. (building-staff)
	Celebrate Your Successes Party	A party to celebrate students’ academic achievements. (floor-RA)		X
	Awards Banquets	Student Leadership Awards and other honors will be distributed to students who make significant contributions to the Residence Hall and University of Delaware community. (campus-RL Assistant Director)
Floor Meeting	Closing and Closure	RAs plan community activities that provide closure and provide information about the spring closing process. (floor-RA)	3 & 7
Bulletin Boards	Asian/ Pacific Islander History Month	Information about the Asian/Pacific Islander heritage.	2
	Closing Information	Information about closing procedures
	Floor Memories & Pictures	Interactive bulletin board on which community members can share their favorite memories of the community and post their pictures.
	Citizens of the Month	Monthly recognition of residents who make positive contributions to the community.	1, 3, & 7
	Celebrate Your Successes	Ongoing floor visual: Students can post representations of their achievement of an academic goal for the month (RAs have certificate template).	1	X
	“Have you considered this?”	Monthly sustainability tip and/or question.	3 & 7
Campus Resource Connection	Relay for Life	Support this campus-wide event through floor/building teams and fundraising.
	Asian/ Pacific Islander History Month	Staff will advertise campus-wide Asian Pacific Islander Month events. (complex-staff)
CCC Initiatives	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders. (complex-students)
	Closing Budgets	Each CCC will audit their own budgets and converse about how well they managed the students’ resources during the course of the year. Each CCC will put forth a “Fiscal Recommendation Plan” for the following year’s government.	3& 7
Other	Operational Processes	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. (all areas-all staff); Operational Processes Administrative processes: room check-out, mail/packages, keys, duty rounds, office hours, etc.	3

Proposed Activities – Upper-Division Residence Hall Areas

The upper-division residence halls include Central, Christiana Towers, Gilbert/Harrington, James Smith Hall, Ray Street, and the buildings currently under construction on Laird Campus. Each of these areas includes a mix of approximately 4000 sophomore, junior, and senior students. The upper-division halls have unique characteristics and traditions resulting from special programs such as Special Interest Housing, Upper-class Honors housing, and apartment-style living. Naturally, the wider variety of options affects the programming for these areas.

The upper-division plan includes many activities and programs from the first-year program designed to promote student interaction, attend to social needs (with a special emphasis on transfer students), and generate opportunities for students to contribute to community life. The upper-division plan attempts to continue reflection and exploration of citizenship with students while also asking them to examine their undergraduate goals and take advantage of the multiple ways the University can help them achieve success.

While we attempt to offer multiple opportunities to students who may be experiencing a “sophomore slump” in terms of clarifying goals and actions, we also recognize the wealth of talent and skills in the student body; upper-division students are able to openly contribute to and share in leadership responsibilities within group learning activities. Therefore, all programs are designed to give as much voice as possible to the students. Significant efforts are also made to partner with faculty members and student leaders (both formal and informal) through residence hall initiatives.

Repeating Themes in the Upper-Division Program Plan:

Resident Assistant (RA) and Resident Relationship:

The RA-resident relationship can be critical to the success of a residence hall student. In the upper-division halls, the role can often move from one of support to a partnering relationship. A series of optional RA conversations are included as part of the plan to help stimulate this important relationship. Community floor meetings, residence hall student government (CCC), and the promotion of campus events also continue to be priorities in the upper-division halls.

World Headlines:

Newspapers from across the globe will be examined on a monthly basis to extrapolate one major event. Four to six articles, representing different perspectives, will be posted in public spaces for students to review. We will collaborate with a faculty member possessing journalism expertise as this project is developed.

UD: Sustainably Staffed:

A member of the University of Delaware community who is working on sustainability initiatives will be identified and featured monthly (with member permission). It is expected that many aspects of sustainability, visible in our local community (UD), will be featured through this monthly series.

Personal Development Series:

Through this monthly program series, students will be offered opportunities for personal and individual development. The specifics of this series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input.

Service Initiatives:

Four service projects and two philanthropy efforts will be coordinated in an effort to offer opportunities for students to make their own unique contributions to the community.

Career Connections:

Most upper-division building staffs will work in collaboration with the Bank of America Career Service Center and with the Center for Counseling and Student Development to present information to students and provide opportunities for students to get connected to these services.

Monthly Posting:

A monthly posting will be crafted, with the participation of appropriate units, to offer information on major commemorative dates such as Latino Heritage Month, African American Heritage Month, World AIDS day, and others. The monthly posting will also provide students with a listing of activities, events, and campus lectures should they wish to explore the topic further.

August/September

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Welcome Newsletter	This newsletter will introduce students to the residential complex and will be distributed to student rooms prior to fall move-in. (complex-staff)	1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include stress management, conflict resolution, exercise and nutrition, body image, healthy relationships, off campus living skills, financial responsibility, and group dynamics.	1, 3, & 5
	Career Connections	On a monthly basis each complex, in collaboration with the Career Services Center, will provide opportunities to student to explore career related topics which may include the interview skills, new professional etiquette, returning home, and alumni speakers.	1, 5, & 7
	The Many Perspectives on Sustainability	A campus-wide program with faculty which will provide students with the opportunity to learn about different perspectives and insights related to sustainability. Faculty representation will be sought from disciplines such as business and economics, sociology, political science, and environmental sciences. UD’s Sustainability Task Force will be asked to help develop this program. Break-out group conversations on specific topics will follow the event for students seeking additional information and discussion.	2, 4, 6, & 7
Social Events	Complex Kick-off Week	Each complex will host various social events to build community within and across buildings. (complex-staff)
	Special Interest Housing (SIH) Communities Events (Ray St.)	Each community will offer a program based on their theme. (Ray Street SIH leaders)
	Freshman Reunions	Rodney/Dickinson/Russell “class” reunions to re-connect freshman year cohorts (Towers-complex staff)
	Weekend Events	On Friday and Saturday evenings residents are invited to one of the lounges for various social activities.
Floor Meetings	Opening Day Floor Meeting	Opening Floor Meeting – This is an avenue for students to get to know their RA and other floor residents through participation in various team-building activities. The RA will discuss the floor vision and expectations for the year. (floor-RA)	2, 3, 6, 7
	Opening Day Building Meeting	Opening Building Meeting – Students will become familiar with residence hall polices, code of conduct expectations, including a discussion of alcohol policies and expectations, Complex Community Council (CCC) leadership opportunities, the building staff, and the Community Policy Officer. Led by the Hall Director, there will be a discussion of the potential student experiences. All learning outcomes and opportunities will be presented through this meeting. Note: Christiana Towers does not conduct building meetings. Topics addressed at floor-level.	3, 7
	September Floor Meeting	Engagement & Leadership – A quiz-style community development activity and discussion that initiates a student’s assessment of his/her levels of engagement and leadership. RAs will also emphasize the September bulletin board which draws connections between specific leadership opportunities and the resident’s self-assessment of the above. (floor-RA)	1, 5
	Initial Meeting	RAs will introduce themselves to each resident on their floor, welcome him/her to the floor community, and answer any opening-day questions. This initial connection is also purposeful for the RA to show their availability to students. (floor-RA)
RA Conversations	Goal Setting	Building on the September floor meeting, this optional RA-student dialogue lays the foundation for a mutually beneficial relationship. Moreover, the conversation allows the student to construct and verbalize his/her personal and career goals while considering strategies to achieve those goals. (floor-RA)	1, 5
	Roommate Agreements	Those students opting to complete a roommate agreement will be able to develop strategies for respectful conversation and coexistence. Student pairs will also be encouraged to choose a sustainable goal and hold one another accountable for the achievement of that goal over the course of the semester. (roommate pairs-RA)	2, 6, 7
Bulletin Boards	Floor Vision	A statement created by each RA communicating the living-learning environment he/she hopes to cultivate in conjunction with the floor community. This vision sets the stage for the October stakeholder agreement by introducing the role each student could play on the floor.	1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7
	Welcoming Messages	RAs will be responsible for creative a visually appealing floor environment that welcomes students to their community. These include door decorations, welcome back banners, and other thematic visuals.
	Campus & Sustainability Resources	RAs will create a visual display of campus resources and sustainable resources at UD.	7	X
	National Campus Fire Safety Month	Each building will have a bulletin board detailing fire safety facts.	3
	Learning Outcomes Introduction	A floor bulletin board introducing the seven learning outcomes will serve as a complimentary element to the floor vision, opening building meeting, and welcome newsletter.	1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7
	Leadership Opportunities	This bulletin board shows the connections between the September floor meeting and specific leadership opportunities available within the complex and across campus.	1
	UD: Sustainably Staffed	A bulletin board will highlight a university employee and their contributions to a sustainable society through their chosen vocation. This is meant to provide an example of the connections that exist between sustainable decision making, a community, and citizenship.	7
Complex Community Council (CCC) Initiative s	Recruitment	Students will be introduced to leadership opportunities within the complex though an informational recruitment campaign. Students expressing interest will be able to publicize their candidacy, develop a platform, and solicit votes from other students within the complex. Students will also be able to complete a survey on the importance of voting; the results of which will be posted on complex websites.	1, 3
	Student Leader Training (Ray St.)	Special interest housing leaders’ orientation, team building, training, and goal setting.	1, 3, 5
	Elections/Executive Board Formation	Students will be able to learn about democratic processes through CCC elections, meet the executive board candidates, learn about community expectations and opportunities, and ultimately select their student leaders. Those students who did not vote will have an opportunity to select a candidate the next day through a mock “absentee ballot.” Simultaneously, working with a faculty member (Ed Freel), information about becoming involved in national campaigns and the polling process will be made available to students.	1, 3, 5, 6
Campus Resource Connection	Student Activities Night	Staff will support the university and student activities through advertisement and support of student attendance at this event. (floor-RA)	1
	Latino Heritage Month	Information related to Latino Heritage Month will be posted along with reflective questions. Campus events and opportunities will be advertised as additional opportunities for exploration of this topic. (complex-CC and Assistant Director)	1, 2
Other	Administrative processes & responding to student needs	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Administrative processes: early check-in, regular check-in/opening, RHR/IR conversations, keys/card administration, room changes, fire drills, packages, duty rounds, office hours, crisis response, etc).	3

October

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Stakeholder Agreement	Through a group problem resolution activity, students will be able to analyze the impact of their actions within the context of their daily lives and the democratic processes that take place in the residence halls by voluntarily engaging in a discussion with their community about the connections between sustainable decision-making, their community, and citizenship. (floor-RA,HD)	1, 3, 6, 7
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include stress management, conflict resolution, exercise and nutrition, body image, healthy relationships, off campus living skills, financial responsibility, and group dynamics.	1, 3, & 5
	Career Connections	On a monthly basis each complex, in collaboration with the Career Services Center, will provide opportunities to student to explore career related topics which may include the interview skills, new professional etiquette, returning home, and alumni speakers.	1, 5, & 7
	Service Initiatives	Upper-division students will be encouraged to identify one concern they have and go through the experience of making a complaint, suggestion, or recommendation for change to a political body or representative. Resources and contacts will be provided. (complex-staff)	3, 6
	Know Your Rights	A campus-wide program that will provide students with opportunities to learn about their rights and responsibilities as UD students. (campus-CC, Assistant Director, OJA asked to assist)	3, 4, 6
	SIH Communities' Events (Ray St.)	Each community will offer a program based on their theme.
Social Events	Weekend Events	On Friday and Saturday evenings residents are invited to one of the lounges for various social activities.
	Art Under the Stars (Central)	Students will have the opportunity to attend an event centered on art in all forms (music, painting, dancing, etc).
Floor Meeting	Career Services Presentation	After being trained by the staff of the Career Services Center, Hall Directors will discuss resources necessary for internships and vocational searches. This presentation will be developed in collaboration with the Career Services Center Staff. (floor-HD)	5
RA Conversations	General Follow-up	Students will have the opportunity to talk with their RA about service initiatives, classes, and life on the floor. (floor-RA)	1, 2

Bulletin Boards	World Headlines	A current event reflecting an ethical issue will be selected and various angles will be portrayed through at least 5 national and international newspaper sources in a bulletin board format. (floor-CC, Assistant Director)	4	X
	UD: Sustainably Staffed	A bulletin board will highlight a university employee and their contributions to a sustainable society through their chosen vocation. This is meant to provide an example of the connections that exist between sustainable decision-making, a community, and citizenship.	7
	National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness	Information on the individual and community impact of binge drinking on the students.	3
Campus Resource Connection	Campus Sustainability	Information about sustainability and UD will be posted along with reflective questions. Campus events and opportunities will be advertised as additional opportunities for exploration of this topic. (complex-CC and Assistant Director)	7
	National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week	Staff will both advertise/support campus-wide events and develop complimentary programs, as requested, around this topic. (complex-staff)	3
CCC Initiatives	Halloween Events	CCC’s will host a variety of Halloween-themed social events including Freak Week (Ray St.), Haunted Annex (GH), and Halloween in Warner (Central).
Other	Administrative processes & responding to student needs	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Administrative processes: RHR/IR conversations, keys/card administration, room changes, fire drills, packages, duty rounds, office hours, crisis response, etc).

November

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Purchasing Power	Each complex will hold a program to provide students with the opportunity to learn about common business practices and their connection to sustainability. Faculty members will be asked to assist with the design and facilitation of these programs. (complex-staff)	2, 3, 4, 7	X
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include stress management, conflict resolution, exercise and nutrition, body image, healthy relationships, off campus living skills, financial responsibility, and group dynamics.	1, 3, & 5
	Career Connections	On a monthly basis each complex, in collaboration with the Career Services Center, will provide opportunities to student to explore career related topics which may include the interview skills, new professional etiquette, returning home, and alumni speakers.	1, 5, & 7
	Service Initiatives	Students will be given the opportunity to take part in service activities at the Delaware Food Bank, participate in can-drives, and will receive information on hunger and homelessness issues in Delaware and nationally. (campus-staff)	3, 4, 7
Social Events	SIH Communities Events (Ray St.)	Each community will offer a program based on their theme. (Ray Street-student leaders)
	Weekend Events	On Friday and Saturday evenings residents are invited to one of the lounges for various social activities.
	Casino Night (Central)	A social experience for students in central complex.
Floor Meeting	Map It Out	Students will have the opportunity to work together to explore where sustainable decision making, community, and citizenship intersect. Faculty will be consulted in the design of the outline for this exercise. RAs will also address Thanksgiving closing process. (floor-RA, HD support)	3, 4, 7	X
RA Conversations	General Follow-up	Students will have the opportunity to discuss that month’s programs and activities with their RA. (floor-RA)	1, 3, 7
Bulletin Boards	World Headlines	A current event topic reflecting an ethical issue will be selected and various angles will be portrayed through at least 5 national and international newspaper sources in a bulletin board format. (floor-CC, Assistant Director)	4
	UD: Sustainably Staffed	A bulletin board will highlight a university employee and their contributions to a sustainable society through their chosen vocation. This is meant to provide an example of the connections that exist between sustainable decision making, a community, and citizenship.	7
	Military Service Recognition	In recognition of Veteran’s Day and those students who have families deployed, a bulletin board will be designed to recognize current military service members and veterans emphasizing the importance of citizenship through service to the country.	7
	Sustainability Tips	A bulletin board about corporate America and sustainability. Career Services will assist in the collection of materials for this board.	7
Campus Resource Connection	National Hunger & Homelessness Month	Information about hunger and homelessness will be posted along with reflective questions. Campus events and opportunities will be advertised as additional opportunities for exploration of this topic. (complex-CC and Assistant Director)	3, 4, 7
CCC Initiatives	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders.
Other	Administrative processes & responding to student needs	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Administrative processes: Thanksgiving closing, RHR/IR conversations, keys/card administration, room changes, fire drills, packages, duty rounds, office hours, crisis response, etc).

December

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include stress management, conflict resolution, exercise and nutrition, body image, healthy relationships, off campus living skills, financial responsibility, and group dynamics.	1, 3, & 5
Programs	Career Connections	On a monthly basis each complex, in collaboration with the Career Services Center, will provide opportunities to student to explore career related topics which may include the interview skills, new professional etiquette, returning home, alumni speakers, and graduate school preparation.	1, 5, & 7
	Donation Drives	End of term food/clothing drives for charitable donation (building-staff)	3
Social Events	SIH Communities Events (Ray St.)	Each community will offer a program based on their theme. (Ray Street-student leaders)
	Weekend Events	On Friday and Saturday evenings residents are invited to one of the lounges for various social activities.
Floor Meeting	Closing Information & Spring Preview	RAs will review fall semester closing procedures and checklists. Also, staff will describe March’s “Study Abroad Show & Tell” for those students studying abroad over winter session to prepare presentations for other community members. (floor-RA)	2
RA Conversations	General Follow-up	Students will have the opportunity to talk with their RA about end-of-semester issues.(floor-RA)	5
Bulletin Boards	World Headlines	A current event topic reflecting an ethical issue will be selected and various angles will be portrayed through at least 5 national and international newspaper sources in a bulletin board format. (floor-CC, Assistant Director)	4
	UD: Sustainably Staffed	A bulletin board will highlight a university employee and their contributions to a sustainable society through their chosen vocation. This is meant to provide an example of the connections that exist between sustainable decision making, a community, and citizenship.	7
Campus Resource Connection	World AIDS Day	Information about AIDS will be posted along with reflective questions. Campus events and opportunities will be advertised as additional opportunities for exploration of this topic. (complex-CC and Assistant Director)	2, 4, 6

CCC Initiatives	Study Breaks	Complex Community Councils will be encouraged to provide study breaks to relieve student stress during this busy time of year.
	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders.
Other	Administrative processes & responding to student needs	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Administrative processes: fall semester closing and check-out, mid-year room changes, RHR/IR conversations, keys/card administration, room changes, fire drills, packages, duty rounds, office hours, crisis response, etc).

January

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Social Events	Community Builder	Each RA will be responsible for a community builder with their floor that encourages connections among winter session residents. (floor-RA)
Floor Meeting	Safety Meeting	Students taking winter session classes will be invited to the lounge to remind them how to stay safe during a lower-occupancy period in the residence halls. (building-staff)	3
RA Conversations	General Follow-up	With lower occupancy during winter session than at any other time of the academic year, RAs have an opportunity to connect with those students taking winter session classes on a different level.(floor-RA)
Bulletin Boards	World Headlines	A current event topic reflecting an ethical issue will be selected and various angles will be portrayed through at least 5 national and international newspaper sources in a bulletin board format. (floor-CC, Assistant Director)	4
	UD: Sustainably Staffed	A bulletin board will highlight a university employee and their contributions to a sustainable society through their chosen vocation. This is meant to provide an example of the connections that exist between sustainable decision making, a community, and citizenship.	7
Other	Administrative processes & responding to student needs	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Administrative processes: check-in, mid-year room changes, RHR/IR conversations, keys/card administration, room changes, fire drills, packages, duty rounds, office hours, crisis response, etc).

February

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
	Service Initiatives	Recyclemania kick-off- students will participate in campus-wide activity to promote recycling efforts. (complex-staff)	3, 7
Programs	Career Connections	On a monthly basis each complex, in collaboration with the Career Services Center, will provide opportunities to student to explore career related topics which may include the interview skills, new professional etiquette, returning home, and alumni speakers.	1, 5, & 7
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include stress management, conflict resolution, exercise and nutrition, body image, healthy relationships, off campus living skills, financial responsibility, and group dynamics.	1, 3, & 5
	SIH Communities Events (Ray St.)	Each community will offer a program based on their theme. (Ray Street-student leaders)
Social Events	Weekend Events	On Friday and Saturday evenings residents are invited to one of the lounges for various social activities.
	Central Live (Central)	Music talent show (central complex-staff, student musicians)
Floor Meeting	Metaphor Meeting	Students will have the opportunity to pick a metaphor that illustrates their view of sustainably. This creative expression allows students to understand themselves more completely by applying abstract constructs to communicate with peers. Students will also be asked to describe what metaphor they use and how their metaphor might symbolize something about their culture and history. Faculty will be consulted on the design of this activity. Recyclemania and Relay for Life will also be introduced. (floor-RA)	1, 2	X
RA Conversations	Sustainable Discussion	During this optional conversation, students will be asked to reflect on their fall semester with specific consideration for their feelings and opinions about sustainability. Subsequently, students will have another opportunity to set semester goals with their RA (with focus on sustainability and engagement goals). (floor-RA)	4, 7
Bulletin Boards	World Headlines	A current event topic reflecting an ethical issue will be selected and various angles will be portrayed through at least 5 national and international newspaper sources in a bulletin board format. (floor-CC, Assistant Director)	4
	UD: Sustainably Staffed	A bulletin board will highlight a university employee and their contributions to a sustainable society through their chosen vocation. This is meant to provide an example of the connections that exist between sustainable decision making, a community, and citizenship.	7
	Living Options	Housing Fair, off-campus apartment safety, Good Neighbor (Newark citizenship) information).
	Alternative Spring Break Options	A bulletin board depicting service opportunities over spring break will be displayed within each building.	5
Campus Resource Connection	African American History Month	Information about African American History will be posted along with reflective questions. Campus events and opportunities will be advertised as additional opportunities for exploration of this topic. (complex-CC and Assistant Director)	2, 4, 6
	Vagina Monologues	Staff will advertise this event. (complex-staff)	2, 4
	Housing Fair	Staff will advertise this event. (complex-staff)
CCC Initiatives	Spring Budget Planning	Executive board members will draft a spring budget proposal for submission and approval.
	Valentines Events	Complex Community Councils will be asked to plan a program related to Valentine’s Day.
	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders.
Other	Administrative processes & responding to student needs	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Administrative processes: spring check-in, RHR/IR conversations, keys/card administration, room changes, fire drills, packages, duty rounds, office hours, crisis response, etc).

March

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Study Abroad Show & Tell	Students who studied abroad over winter session will have the opportunity to share and elaborate on their experiences with fellow community members. (building-staff)	1, 2, 4	X
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include stress management, conflict resolution, exercise and nutrition, body image, healthy relationships, off campus living skills, financial responsibility, and group dynamics.	1, 3, & 5
	Career Connections	On a monthly basis each complex, in collaboration with the Career Services Center, will provide opportunities to student to explore career related topics which may include the interview skills, new professional etiquette, returning home, and alumni speakers.	1, 5, & 7
	SIH Communities Events (Ray St.)	Each community will provide a program based on their theme. (Ray Street-student leaders)
Social Events	Weekend Events	On Friday and Saturday evenings residents are invited to one of the lounges for various social activities.
	Warner Week (Central)	A social experience for students in central complex.
Floor Meeting	Media Clippings	Finding yourself in the media. Find the You in YouTube. Recyclemania and spring break closing (including spring break safety tips) will be discussed. (floor-RA)	1
RA Conversations	General Follow-up	Students will have the opportunity to discuss the media clippings floor meeting and re-visit how they are doing on goals, semester progress, stress level, etc. (floor-RA)	1, 5
Bulletin Boards	World Headlines	A current event topic reflecting an ethical issue will be selected and various angles will be portrayed through at least 5 national and international newspaper sources in a bulletin board format. (floor-CC, Assistant Director)	4
	UD: Sustainably Staffed	A bulletin board will highlight a university employee and their contributions to a sustainable society through their chosen vocation. This is meant to provide an example of the connections that exist between sustainable decision making, a community, and citizenship.	7
	Spring Break Ambassador	Tips on being a positive representative of US when out of the country for break. Study Abroad Office will be asked to assist with content.	2	X
Campus Resource Connection	Women’s History Month	Information about women’s history will be posted along with reflective questions. Campus events and opportunities will be advertised as additional opportunities for exploration of this topic. (complex-CC and Assistant Director)	1, 2, 4, 6
	Recyclemania	Staff will encourage students to take a personal investment in UD’s Recyclemania campaign through active contribution and peer encouragement. This on-going event also serves as the service initiative for the month.	7
CCC Initiatives	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders.
Other	Administrative processes & responding to student needs	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Administrative processes: spring break closing, RHR/IR conversations, keys/card administration, room changes, fire drills, packages, duty rounds, office hours, crisis response, etc).

April

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Soap for Hope	Staff will encourage students to take a personal investment in UD’s Soap for Hope campaign through active contribution and peer encouragement. (building-staff)	3, 7
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include stress management, conflict resolution, exercise and nutrition, body image, healthy relationships, off campus living skills, financial responsibility, and group dynamics.	1, 3, & 5
	Career Connections	On a monthly basis each complex, in collaboration with the Career Services Center, will provide opportunities to student to explore career related topics which may include the interview skills, new professional etiquette, returning home, and alumni speakers.	1, 5, & 7
	Media Contest: The Citizen I want to be…	This program is for those students who choose to explore each of the seven learning outcomes. Through this essay, video, paper, poem, song, or other creative endeavor, the student can present a point of view on all of the learning outcomes while answering, “Describe the citizen you want to be.” Winning submissions will be available for all students to view and winners will receive gift certificates to the University Bookstore. (building-staff)	1, 2, 5
	Faces of Facebook	In partnership with the Career Services Center, students will have the opportunity to receive feedback on their Facebook page. (campus-CC, Assistant Director)	5
	Careers in Sustainability	A campus-wide event sponsored in partnership with the Career Services Center and the Center for Environmental Energy and Policy. Students will have the opportunity to learn about various careers and vocational paths that compliment sustainable practices. (campus-CC, Assistant Director)	5, 7	X
	Service Initiative	Students will have the opportunity to take part in events with state and municipal parks to assist with tree-planting initiatives. Information about deforestation will be disseminated. (campus-staff)	7
Social Events	SIH Communities Events (Ray St.)	Each community will offer a program based on their theme.
	Weekend Events	On Friday and Saturday evenings residents are invited to one of the lounges for various social activities.
	Art Under the Sun (Central)	Students will have the opportunity to attend an event centered on art in all forms (music, painting, dancing, etc).
Floor Meeting	Service Initiative Planning	Students will learn more about the various service initiatives taking place through April and May, specifically soap for hope, relay for life and installments to the ONE campaign. At this meeting, students may choose to become team leaders or floor representatives for these initiatives. (floor-RA)	3, 7
RA Conversations	General Follow-up	Students will have the opportunity to discuss their interest in being a floor representative for service initiatives, the media contest, and Careers in Sustainability program. (floor-RA)	3, 7
Bulletin Boards	World Headlines	A current event topic reflecting an ethical issue will be selected and various angles will be portrayed through at least 5 national and international newspaper sources in a bulletin board format. (floor-CC, Assistant Director)	4
	Sexual Assault Awareness Month	Information about SAAM activities and events	2, 4
	Earth Day	Promotion of Earth Day events and campus speakers	7
	UD: Sustainably Staffed	A bulletin board will highlight a university employee and their contributions to a sustainable society through their chosen vocation. This is meant to provide an example of the connections that exist between sustainable decision making, a community, and citizenship.	7
Campus Resource Connection	CBC Step Show	Information about step shows and other cultural celebrations within the black community will be posted along with reflective questions. The campus event itself will be advertised as an opportunity for exploration of this topic. (complex-CC and Assistant Director)	2
CCC Initiatives	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders.
Other	Administrative processes & responding to student needs	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Administrative processes: RHR/IR conversations, keys/card administration, room changes, fire drills, packages, duty rounds, office hours, crisis response, etc).

May

	Title	Description	Program Goals Connection	Support for Academics
Programs	Debate: Sustainability	Students who choose to participate in this campus-wide event will be able to explore their personal values, plan and deliver an argument, and engage in respectful dialogue with peers. This specific topic allows both participants and observers to consider the connections that exist between sustainability, community, and citizenship. Faculty members will be asked to assist with the design and facilitation of these programs. (campus-staff)	4, 6, 7	X
	Personal Development Series	This program series will be developed based on assessment by building staff and student input. Topics may include stress management, conflict resolution, exercise and nutrition, body image, healthy relationships, off campus living skills, financial responsibility, and group dynamics.	1, 3, & 5
	Career Connections	On a monthly basis each complex, in collaboration with the Career Services Center, will provide opportunities to student to explore career related topics which may include the interview skills, new professional etiquette, returning home, and alumni speakers.	1, 5, & 7
	Service Initiative	Students will have the opportunity to participate in urban revival activities and join groups converting vacant lots into useable public space in Wilmington. (campus-staff)	2, 3
Social Events	Student Recognition & Celebration	All complexes will either share or create various recognition and end-of-the-year celebration events. For example: Student Leadership Awards, Ray Fair (Ray St.), and CRAB Fest (Christiana Towers).
	SIH Communities Events (Ray St.)	Each community will offer a program based on their theme. (Ray Street-student leaders)
	Awards Banquet	Student leadership awards recognizing contributions of residence hall students and communities. (campus-Assistant Director)
	Weekend Events	On Friday and Saturday evenings residents are invited to one of the lounges for various social activities.
Floor Meeting	Closing & Celebration	RAs will celebrate community accomplishments (i.e. Recyclemania, soap for hope, and relay for life fundraising), recognize community leaders (both formal and informal), and wrap up the year. RAs should also remind the community of the learning outcomes and ask that they self-evaluate their progress in achieving those outcomes. (floor-RA)	5, 7
RA Conversations	General Follow-up	Students will have the opportunity to reflect on their academic year goals and consider them as they close out the year. RAs may also begin the process of saying goodbye or redefining relationships for the following year. (floor-RA)	5, 7
Bulletin Boards	World Headlines	A current event topic reflecting an ethical issue will be selected and various angles will be portrayed through at least 5 national and international newspaper sources in a bulletin board format. (floor-CC, Assistant Director)	4
	UD: Sustainably Staffed	A bulletin board will highlight a university employee and their contributions to a sustainable society through their chosen vocation. This is meant to provide an example of the connections that exist between sustainable decision making, a community, and citizenship.	7
Campus Resource Connection	Relay for Life	Staff will encourage students to take a personal investment in UD’s annual Relay for Life through active contribution and peer encouragement.	7
CCC Initiatives	Social Events & Study Breaks	Complex Community Councils will be encouraged to provide end-of-the-year social events and study breaks to relieve student stress during this busy time of year.		X
	Student Leader Initiatives	On-going events initiated, planned, and organized by CCC student leaders.
Other	Administrative processes & responding to student needs	Work to meet the general safety, security, and personal needs of students. Administrative processes: spring check-out & closing, RHR/IR conversations, keys/card administration, room changes, packages, duty rounds, office hours, crisis response, etc).

Appendix 1

The Life of a Resident Assistant at UD

It is important to note that the Residence Life program plan is simply one aspect of Residence Life at the University of Delaware. In reality, an RA’s job includes the programs, RA conversations, and floor meetings described in this plan (one third); social functions and relationship and community building activities (another third); and resource and administrative functions (the final third). Residence hall operations exist in a 24 hour-a-day framework and are multi-faceted. The program plan illustrates one such facet. This description has been prepared to describe the remaining two thirds of the RA job, the more traditional day-to-day activities that RAs engage in with students. Many of these activities serve as foundational elements of developing healthy, positive, and safe communities.

To narrate everything that happens in the residence halls outside of the program plan would likely add 50+ pages to the existing plan. Rather, the goal of this description is to provide an overview of the types of activities that occur that are typical, but which have intentionally not been illuminated in the preceding materials. It is hoped that this description will provide a useful context within which to understand the residence halls at UD.

Social Functions & Community and Relationship Building Activities:

After opening, every effort is made to build student-to-student connections in the residence halls. Achieving a sense of belonging for each student is one of the paramount roles of the RA. As such, floor dinners, ice-breakers, floor socials, birthday celebrations, and stress relievers play a steady role in the routine of floor life. These types of activities are easy to plan and initiate and RAs do so as a matter of course. Specific efforts are also taken to encourage students to plan and coordinate these activities in order to add to the overall frequency and variety. These opportunities are encouraged at floor meetings, in general conversations, and through discussions at hall government meetings.

Social integration is also a focus of more structured community development activities such as floor Community Agreements and roommate/suitemate/apartment agreements. While these activities serve the purpose of encouraging students to live comfortably together in very small and intimate spaces, they also encourage students to participate in peer-to-peer problem solving, sharing of goals, boundaries, and discussions of personal visions for community life at UD. Though these methods often help students engage in community living in a positive and healthy manner, peer conflict is almost universal in this type of living environment and staff members play a continual role as conflict coaches, advisors, and formal mediators.

Major building-wide, campus events and student organization efforts serve to heavily supplement the floor and room level community-building efforts. Hall decorating contests for Halloween, holiday celebrations, talent contests, and student art shows are a mainstay of residence hall life. UD Pep-Rallies can be found in many halls, while in others hall staff members organize outdoor games, barbeques, and activities. RAs continually promote engagement in fun and social campus events, allowing first year students to integrate with upper division students; encouraging student interaction with peer groups outside the halls; and broadening student awareness of campus happenings.

As the year continues, basic ice-breakers and “get to know you” activities lose their attractiveness as students meet their own social needs. Student staff and student leaders develop a more advanced understanding of student interests and begin tailoring activities, events, and social functions to fit the distinctive nature of each floor and hall group. Some floors will become heavily involved in intramural activities and sport-related tournaments. Others will go to each home football game or will “adopt” the volleyball team. Still others will socialize via video-game tournaments, movie nights, or game nights. Efforts are made to initiate these types of traditions on all floors. Building-wide features will also emerge based on staff encouragement of unique student interests. Engaging students in these fun and social types of activities, whether on a small scale or large, represents a third of an RA’s time.

Resource & Administrative Functions:

The final third of the RA’s job is focused on serving as a resource, fulfilling administrative roles, and completing duties that pertain to the safety and security of residents. All RAs are trained on campus resources and serve to continually point students in “the right direction.” During their training they learn about tutoring services, S.O.S., Career Services, Library resources, etc. and act as the first source of information for general questions. Staff members are also routinely approached with deeper problems such as relationship violence, eating disorders, depression, death of a family member or friend, and academic failure. Referring students to a professional Residence Life staff member in these situations is the expectation.

Student behavior and boundary testing also require much work by the RA to address disruptions, follow up formally and informally with students who fail to respect the rights of others, and encourage students to assert on their own behalf. RAs document all policy violations, many of which are referred into the judicial system where RAs serve as the presenting party at hearings. Weekly, RAs take their turn on duty doing rounds in the hall and sitting office hours, sorting mail, and completing the various administrative responsibilities associated with managing a hall.

Hundreds, if not thousands, of social and fun activities take place in our halls every year. Some of these are as simple as hanging out with the RA in the lounge – some require far greater planning. They are all part of an integrated whole that makes up student life in the residence halls. The social, community, and fun nature of life in the halls cannot be fully captured on paper or articulated within a plan. But these elements not only comprise a significant amount of the time that RAs spend with students, they are essential. Ultimately, the program plan adds depth and reinforces the connection of the residence halls to the University mission and the FYE program, and can enrich the quality of life students enjoy while on campus. But learning of any sort in the halls would be improbable if students did not enjoy their experience, connect with the students with whom they live, and feel safe and comfortable.

Appendix 2

2008-2009 Assessment Plan

Assessment will be focused on three primary areas:

1. Student satisfaction

2. Student learning outcomes

3. Information about student attitudes, experiences, and engagement (primarily via data drawn from the Office of Institutional Research)

Each of the three focus areas are informed by different sources, summarized below.

Student satisfaction:

The Office of Residence Life in collaboration with Housing Assignment Services, Facilities, and Dining Services will conduct a survey based primarily on student satisfaction through Educational Benchmarking Incorporated (http://www.webebi.com/). This survey will be conducted via a web link sent out to students in December. EBI provides longitudinal tracking as well as comparisons with the group of approximately 270 participating colleges with a separate comparative group based on Carnegie Classification.

Student responses are reported on nineteen satisfaction factors from ninety-seven questions on a seven-point Likert scale. While all factors are of general interest, Residence Life staff will concentrate their examination on the following factors in the area of satisfaction:

· Hall Student Staff

· Hall Programming

· Room/floor Environment

· Safety/Security

· Climate-Fellow Residents are Tolerant

· Climate-Fellow Residents are Respectful

· Climate-Sense of Community

· Satisfaction with University

· Resident Satisfaction (with on-campus living)

· Overall Learning Experience

· Overall Program Effectiveness: Full Residence Experience

Student learning outcomes:

The Office of Residence Life learning outcomes are heavily informed by the FYE outcomes. It is anticipated that both the FYE Committee and the Office of Educational Assessment will be taking steps to assess the FYE Student Learning Outcomes. Residence Life will offer to play a support role in these efforts but will not independently initiate any assessment efforts in this area.

Information about student attitudes, experiences, and engagement:

The Office of Institutional Research conducts a number of surveys that are directly relevant to the work of the Office of Residence Life. Residence Life will work with Institutional Research to identify elements of the National Survey of Student Engagement, the Entering Student Needs Assessment, the Alumni Survey, and the Retention and Graduation Rates Report that are instructive to Residence Life efforts and goals.

Engagement will also be analyzed through very traditional means of tracking and counting. Student attendance patterns for activities, programs, meetings, and hall government will be tracked numerically (no individual student tracking) and reviewed throughout the year. Other tracking and counting methods will include incident reports, vandalism occurrences, and damage billing reports.

Appendix 3

Residence Life Programs at Other Institutions

Efforts by residence life professionals to add educational value to the residential experience have taken place since the early 1970’s through a variety of approaches. It is well known that a residential campus contributes a distinctly different experience to on-campus students than to commuters or students earning on-line degrees. It can be asserted that much of these contributions come from the shared living environment alone, but residence life programs across the country attempt to capitalize on the existence of concentrated populations of students to add value to the overall educational experience by encouraging students to examine issues that they may not regularly find in the classroom environment.

Students do much more than simply eat, sleep, and study in the residence halls. They explore issues, test boundaries, and engage (many for the first time) in community-oriented decision-making that transcends personal interests. Some residential life programs focus solely on behavior control and adjudication of policy. Others focus on social life and entertainment elements. The practice however, of many top ranked universities, is for residence life staff to introduce a wide spectrum of opportunities for students to consider as they make decisions about how they will engage in society after the short-lived social structure of college life concludes.

The Housing and Residential Education staff at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill work to create living communities which “augment and extend the intellectual climate of the University as well as educate and promote citizenship, civility, and responsibility.” In addition to traditional housing, they offer living-learning communities such as those focused on service and leadership; women’s experiences; men at Carolina; The Carolina Experience; as well as communities organized around themes (language houses, substance-free environments, etc.). One living learning program called, The Connected Learning Program, “extends the bounds of the classroom by allowing students to shape their own learning outside the classroom” and relies heavily on faculty involvement and peer mentors. The Sustainability Learning Community also involves faculty partners and offers programs that “expose students to intellectual topics, campus resources, unusual areas of study, and unique co-curricular opportunities in and around Chapel Hill.”

The University of Maryland has a series of Living Learning Communities including the EcoHouse, CIVICUS, and Women in Engineering. The Global Communities living learning community is described as “Global Communities, located within Dorchester Hall, is an exciting living experience, rich in cultural diversity and academic enhancement. Students from more than 30 countries and the United States, representing a variety of cultural backgrounds, come together to form an international community.”

The University of Virginia has an intentionally structured first-year experience for all new students that allows “faculty and students to interact in meaningful ways outside the classroom.” New students are housed with roommates in residential communities in which “learning through diversity is an underlying educational objective.” Components of this FYE include new student orientation; academic advising; guidance from peer mentors; self-governance; educational, social, and cultural programs; and interaction with faculty and administrators.

Students participating in the Second Year Experience program at James Madison University are expected to participate on a hall committee; attend four “leadershops;” develop a professional portfolio; complete community service; and engage in mentoring, a leadership conference, or spring retreat. JMU also has six learning communities and an international living community.

The mission of Penn State University Residence Life is “to provide a safe, comfortable, secure, and nurturing living-learning environment that is conducive to students' academic pursuits and personal growth while fostering a sense of community, civic responsibility, and an appreciation of diversity.” PSU lists its educational priority as “Respect and Responsibility” and further articulates that “Residents will explore, understand, and demonstrate respect for self and others and responsibility for self, community, and the environment. Penn State’s strategic plan includes, among many other things, to “Educate students on PSU’s Penn State Principles, specifically in the areas of ‘respect and responsibility’ which is Residence Life’s educational priority.”

The University of Richmond’s Housing Office promotes its mission as “dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment that compliments student academic and social development.” On the same page, it articulates it’s diversity statement as “The University of Richmond is committed to developing a diverse workforce and student body, and to modeling an inclusive campus community which values the expression of differences in ways that promote excellence in teaching, learning, personal development, and institutional success.”

Cornell University’s Residential Initiative strives to “involve faculty in meaningful ways in the residential experience of students and promotes student engagement in the governance and direction of their living communities, giving them opportunities for leadership, service, and community building.” Program houses are themed living and learning communities that allow students to develop interests, (such as theater, art, music, the environment, or ethnic or cultural identity), outside the classroom. Faculty members regularly visit and interact with students living in these houses to provide mentorship and support.

At Dartmouth College the Office of Residential Life strives for high quality out-of-the classroom interactions between faculty and students. The Faculty Engagement Initiative includes such programs as fireside chats; sophomore advantage programs; community dinners; graduate advisor faculty discussions; and faculty student initiated programs. Through involvement with faculty and other educational initiatives, the Residential Life staff at Dartmouth strives to facilitate the development of “...empowered and informed students who are also responsible…through discussion, critical analysis, and introspection, they come to understand their roles in their community and in society at large and accept active participation… by weaving moral reasoning into the social fabric of life and work, they help communities and society shape their ethical values, and then live and work by those values.”

Schools from Arkansas to Alaska could be examined and the findings would be similar. Residence life departments across the country are engaged in efforts to contribute to the educational mission of their own particular institution, but in an incredibly wide ranging manner. Diversity education, wellness education, special interest theme housing, and academic theme housing features are apparent throughout the entire country, with sustainability related missions and educational emphasis areas rapidly catching up. A residence life program absent of educational mission and goals is becoming quite rare, though admittedly the range of practices and approaches is quite wide.