ResEdChat Ep 143: Everyone Can Be A Leader: Equity-Based Leadership in the Halls

On this episode of ResEdChat, join our host Noah Montague and guest Ayanna Ross, Associate Director of Residence Life at Miami University of Ohio, to talk about studentย leadership development. Student leadership is integral to the college student experience, but how does it look in residence halls? How does identity come into play for students and staff as they are growing as leaders? Are we really doing enough? Noah and Ayanna discuss these topics, share insights into leadership theory, tell stories, and talk about tangible ways to help students grow as leaders while they are living with us in the halls.ย 

ResEdChat Ep 141: The Generational Remix: From Decades Apart to One Team

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Crystal talks with Dr. Megan Gerhardt, Professor at Miami University and author ofย Gentelligence. They explore how generational norms impact the way we live, work, and lead in campus housing, and why curiosity is the key to unlocking stronger, more connected teams. From late-night crisis responses to everyday communication breakdowns, Dr. Gerhardt offers fresh insight and practical tools to turn generational tension into opportunity.

ResEdChat Ep 132: The Courage to Unlearn: Shifting Mindsets in Higher Ed

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, host Jas sits down with Thomas Bruick to discuss "unlearning" and mindset change. In student affairs and higher education,ย unlearningย refers to the intentional process of letting go of outdated beliefs, assumptions, or practices to make space for the "new." It involves critical self-reflection, openness to change, and a commitment to slowing down our thoughts to make informed decisions. This process is especially relevant as institutions evolve to better serve and respond to societal shifts with our student populations.ย 

Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety in Residence Life

In residence life, building community is foundational. Yet, achieving it necessitates cultivating an environment where students and staff feel psychologically safe. Psychological safety, a concept rooted in organizational behavior and leadership theory, refers to an environment of rewarded vulnerability. It is a culture where individuals feel safe to speak up, take risks, and be themselves... Continue Reading →

Fostering Courageous Leadership: “Rising Strong” and Embracing Vulnerability in Residence Life

In the evolving landscape of residence life, emotional intelligence and authentic connection are becoming increasingly vital components of effective leadership. One concept that has gained significant traction in both academic and professional spaces is vulnerabilityโ€”not as a weakness, but as a profound measure of courage. For professionals in student housing, embracing vulnerability offers a path... Continue Reading →

This Meeting Couldn’t Have Been an Email

This meeting could have been an email. How many times have you said this? How many times have you heard this? Within higher education, weโ€™re notorious for having standing meetings that are often longer than they need to be, knowing that the information could have been communicated via email. Amidst the chaos that was my... Continue Reading →

ResEdChat Ep 67: Recognizing the Emotions and Support Needed to Successfully Navigate a Student Staff Union Petition with Jean MacKimmie

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Stewart chats with Jean MacKimmie, the Director of Residential Life at University Massachusetts Amherst as they explore the potential emotional impacts of student staff unionization drives.ย  They explore Jean's experience at University Massachusetts Amherst over two decades ago when the RA team became the first successful Resident Advisor unionization in the US and what her experiences have been since then working in this environment.ย  Hear first hand from Jean, as she details sage advice that she has provided other campuses that have faced similar events, and discover the support required for all levels of staff.ย  Roompact invites you to join to hear why Jean is regarded as THE expert when it comes to student staff unions!

ResEdChat Ep 29: Dr. Gregory Thompson on Campus Politics and Building Relationships

In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, Crystal chats with "Dr. G" about the complexities of campus politics. We delve deeper with our guest on how to understand and navigate a campus organization--both the explicit and implicit expectations and norms. Along the way there are many practical strategies and tips on how to get a handle on campus politics and relationship building in your own work.

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