In this episode of ResEdChat, join our host Noah Montague and guest Keresa Murray, Resident Director at Ohio University as they talk about navigating conflict in the Residence Halls. Far too often, students and people at large avoidย conflictย whether it be out of fear, polarization, or even safety. That said, conflict and navigating disagreement are a crucial part of life and thus a crucial part of the residential experience that is important for us to talk about and reflect on as residence life professionals. In this episode, Keresa and Noah explore the talk about conflict management, share impactful stories, and provide practical advice to Residence Life Staff.
ResEdChat Ep 149: Supporting Academic Success Through Connection, Not Just Curriculum with Abby Groth
In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, guest host Dustin Ramsdell chats with Abby Groth, a current Roompact blogger from the University of NebraskaโLincoln about her unique journey from art museums to residence life and how sheโs using that perspective to reimagine student support. Abby shares how learning communities, peer mentorship, and early intervention surveys are transforming the student experience and contributing to academic success outside the classroom. She also gets candid about what doesnโt workโand why residence life doesnโt need to do it all.
ResEdChat Ep 126: Sober Spaces in Higher Ed: A New Path for Student Wellness
In this episode of Roompact's ResEdChat, host Jas Nettles is joined by Hayley, the Recovery Program manager at Baylor. Recovery programs on college campuses aren't new but have definitely become more of trend that's designed to support students recovering from substance use disorders (SUDs). These programs, often part of student affairs or wellness initiatives, provide resources such as peer support, counseling, sober living spaces, and recovery-friendly social events. They aim to create a supportive environment that enables students to maintain their recovery while pursuing academic and personal goals.
Addressing A Hidden Crisis: Food and Housing Insecurity In The Residence Halls
For many professionals working in college housing, the assumption is that students living in residence halls (with access to dining plans) are among the most food and housing secure on campus. However, this assumption often overlooks the nuanced realities of food and housing insecurity that persist even within the residence halls. These are critical issues... Continue Reading →
A Guide For ResLife Pros Navigating Modern Student Activism
In recent years, student activism has reemerged as a defining characteristic of college and university life across North America. While the causes and contexts vary (from calls for institutional divestment to labor rights for student workers) the common thread is clear: students are demanding a more active role in shaping the institutions they are a... Continue Reading →
Understanding the Challenges of Your Residents Returning Home
Going back home after living in the residence halls can be a mixed bag. On one hand, itโs exciting seeing family, catching up with old friends, sleeping in your own bed. But on the other hand, itโs not always as easy or comforting as it sounds. For some students, returning home can bring up unexpected... Continue Reading →
They Not Like Usโฆ Actually They Are! Engaging Student-Athletes in our Residence Halls
The other day there was a hint of Fall in the air when I stepped outside to do my morning walk. It brought a much needed level of excitement and joy! Excitement and joy because itโs September and we made it here (goodbye August!) also because yay for cooler weatherโฆ especially here in the South. ... Continue Reading →
ResEdChat Ep 73: Beyond Room and Board: Supporting Students’ Basic Needs
In this episode of ResEdChat, join host Crystal Lay, and Guest Judy Juarez Crawford, Director of Student Basic Needs at University of California-Riverside, as they discuss basic needs and food and housing insecurity. Judy provides numerous suggestions on how campuses can support students and staff in an area often plagued by stigma. She also offers valuable insights into how we should respond to student staff in recruitment processes who rely on the role for room and board.
ResEdChat Ep 70: Cultivating Connection:ย Addressing Loneliness in Housing
When we consider the experiences of our on-campus students, our focus revolves around fostering community, facilitating connections, and aiding in transitions. But do we specifically consider the issue of loneliness? In this episode of ResEdChat, join Crystal and Dr. Carl Dindo, Director of NAUโs Counseling Center, as they explore the concept of loneliness. Carl offers practical tips and abundant resources on how to cultivate a culture of connection for both our students and ourselves.
Why Grief Matters in Residence Life and Higher Education
Several weeks ago I was speaking with a student who had recently found out their parents had to say goodbye to the family dog. They had shared this with someone else on campus and was met with a well-intentioned but ultimately unsupportive comment inquiring if and when they may get another fur baby. For this... Continue Reading →
ResEdChat Ep 59: Dr. Charlie Potts on Re-Engaging Men in Residential Education
We're kicking off the new year with a fascinating episode exploring masculinity and how institutions need to engage and retain men on campus. Charlie speaks with Dustin about his recent ACUHO-I magazine article that included research he recently completed on this topic.



