February 2024

Latest News

SHRL Faculty-in-Residence Program Fosters Academic and Social Ties

In a strategic move to blend academic and residential experiences, the University of Houston (UH) proudly champions its Faculty-in-Residence (FIR) Program. This innovative collaboration between the Divisions of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs aims to strengthen the connection between students' academic and residential learning experiences.

The FIR Program brings together faculty members from various disciplines who live on campus and work closely with Student Housing & Residential Life (SHRL) professionals to enhance students' overall learning, engagement and success. Research has shown that interactions with faculty outside the classroom positively impact GPA, degree completion, and the overall college experience. (*Davenport, A. M., & Pasque, P. A. (2014). Adding Breadth and Depth to College and University Residential Communities: A Phenomenological Study of Faculty-in-Residence. Journal of College & University Student Housing, 41(1).

Dr. Scott Gilbertson pictured with wife Michelle

Scott Gilbertson, Ph.D., with Michelle Gilbertson, Ph.D.

Scott Gilbertson, Ph.D., associate dean of faculty affairs in the College of Natural Science and Mathematics, has participated in the FIR Program for three years. While his wife, Michelle Gilbertson, Ph.D., is a faculty member at another institution, she is also committed to UH and his equal partner. Gilbertson reflected on a personal touch to the FIR Program with anecdotes that go beyond the classroom.

"While my wife was tutoring one of our students, it came up that I enjoyed playing the soccer video game FIFA. At the end of the semester, after doing well on his exam, the student asked if I was up for playing FIFA. We had an impromptu gathering with some playing video games and others discussing Marvel comic characters, investing in sneakers, and summer plans,” said Gilbertson.

Jerrod Henderson, Ph.D.

Jerrod A. Henderson, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Cullen College of Engineering has taken a keen interest in the FIR Program. Dedicated to increasing the number of students pursuing STEM careers, Henderson is the co-founder of the St. Elmo Brady STEM Academy, an initiative aimed at exposing underrepresented students to hands-on STEM activities. Henderson’s reach through the FIR Program extends beyond the regular academic year to impact residents during the summer months.

"As a FIR in Cougar Village II, I've designed a faculty-led learning abroad experience around the National Academy of Engineering Grand Challenges, inviting students to explore global problem-solving. To make myself more accessible, I host multiple programs and pop-up meet-and-greets, encouraging students to engage with engineering and connect with the resources available on campus. As an FIR, I see myself as a connector, ready to link students to the resources they need for success,” said Henderson.

Ted Ingwersen, Ph.D., associate director of Residential Life, highlights the unique role of FIRs in demonstrating academic culture.

“The UH faculty-in-residence actively yet informally demonstrate academic culture through their presence and visibility in the communities. However, the best interactions are those that we rarely hear about such as the individual relationships they develop with students who oftentimes simply need someone to guide them through everyday life. We are very proud of the holistic work they do and thankful for their dedication to students,” said Ingwersen.

Melody Li, Ph.D.

Melody Yunzi Li, Ph.D., an assistant professor of Chinese Studies, brings her passion for teaching and cultural engagement to the FIR Program at Cougar Village I. With expertise in Asian diaspora literature and modern Chinese culture, Li emphasizes collaborative study sessions and cultural events. She expressed the importance of group engagement for learning development.

"The collaborative study sessions not only provide students with a more casual study space to study and connect with their fellow residents but also give opportunities for them to form a bond with each other and me,” said Li.

Lyle McKinney, Ph.D.

Lyle McKinney, Ph.D., associate professor and director of the Higher Education Leadership & Policy Studies Program in the College of Education and FIR for University Lofts, believes that residence halls are powerful spaces that can significantly enhance students' sense of belonging and connection to the university.

“From Move-in weekend until graduation day, the goal is to create a living community where students really feel like they are ‘seen and heard’. And probably even more foundational than that, is for students to know the professional and student staff in their residence hall truly do care about their well-being and success,” said McKinney. “UH is a big place and many residents aren’t initially aware of all the academic support and student organizations available to them. So, by partnering with organizations across campus and inviting them into the residence halls, it makes it easier for residents to find their ‘niche’ and affinity groups across campus.”

Mckinney’s focus is centered on creating a vibrant living community where students feel heard, understood and supported throughout their academic journey.

Todd Romero, Ph.D.

Todd Romero, Ph.D., an associate professor of history and associate dean of undergraduate studies in the College of Arts and Social Sciences, brings a wealth of experience to the FIR Program at The Quad.

In his fourth year as a FIR, Romero addresses the challenges students face when arriving at a large, state institution. He sees his role as a resource for residents, guiding them toward campus resources, such as financial aid, scholarships, mentoring opportunities and student clubs. Highlighting the diverse and accomplished student body, Romero expressed his admiration for interactions through the FIR Program.

"Students come from backgrounds that represent the globe. They are incredibly accomplished, incredibly talented, and they bring all kinds of knowledge that I'm always eager to learn more about. I'm always energized by the excitement they bring to campus and their passion for the world,” said Romero.

Kavita Singh, Ph.D.

Kavita Singh, Ph.D., an English professor, adds to the diverse fabric of the FIR programming at Cougar Place. Specializing in Caribbean literature and culture, she is passionate about language, performance, and popular culture. Born in Guyana and fluent in Spanish and French, Singh brings a global perspective to residence life, fostering an environment where cultural awareness and academic pursuits intertwine. Reflecting on her role as a FIR, Singh shared an affinity for relationship building.

"Being an FIR allows me to connect with students who bring a range of backgrounds, experiences, energy, and motivation to their time here. Through various events, I can engage with these exciting, incredible, and interesting human beings,” said Singh.

In addition to her commitment to fostering connections within Cougar Place, Singh is planning to extend the cultural and educational experience beyond the residence hall. She intends to invite interested and selected residents of Cougar Place to join her students, who are enrolled in one of her courses, to watch theatre performances in the city during the spring semester.

This initiative builds on Singh's past involvement with the residents, where she took 10 residents to watch the opera last semester. Additionally, she organized bi-weekly study halls and engaged with resident students over dinner on weekends.

These dedicated faculty members, along with others in the FIR Program, play a pivotal role in creating a vibrant and supportive environment for students at UH. Through diverse programming, impromptu interactions and a commitment to building a strong community, the FIR Program contributes significantly to the overall development and success of students, making UH a hub of academic and social growth.

Kittle Appointed Vice President for UH Divison of Student Affairs

Excerpt taken from DSA News story by Germaine Washington, Division of Student Affairs Marketing and Communications Director.

Paul Kittle, Ph.D.

The University of Houston (UH) has announced the appointment of Paul Kittle, Ph.D., as the vice chancellor/vice president for the Division of Student Affairs (DSA) following a nationwide search.

With a professional background spanning over 29 years in higher education, Kittle has demonstrated his commitment to fostering vibrant campus life and holistic learning environments. His expertise covers a diverse range of areas, including accessibility services, budget management, critical incident response, fraternity/sorority life, student engagement and Title IX compliance.

For additional information about Kittle’s appointment, log on to https://uh.edu/dsa/news/2024/welcomes-dr-paul-kittle.php

Featured Events

Conference Assistant Recruitment

As part of Student Housing & Residential Life (SHRL), Conference Housing coordinates overnight accommodations and meeting space reservations for summer guests. Organizers and planners for various camps, conferences and workshops often utilize the University of Houston’s (UH) facilities for their meeting needs. Conference Assistants (CAs) play a pivotal role as student staff liaisons, creating a welcoming environment through exceptional customer service for all participants.

CAs are critical to the conference experience, supporting community development and building relationships with our summer guests. Their broad spectrum of responsibilities includes facilitating the guest check-in/check-out process, staffing residence hall front desks, conducting room checks and participating in on-call shifts. We are looking for individuals committed to providing outstanding customer service, building leadership skills, thriving in a team dynamic and serving as a guest resource – a SHRL ambassador.

The CA application period runs from Jan. 30 until 1 p.m. on Feb. 23. To learn more about the position and application process, please visit the CA recruitment page.

For ADA accommodations or to request additional information, contact the Conference Services team at StayatUH@uh.edu.

Announcements & Resources

Campus Resource Listing

Helpful resources for UH students.

Campus Dining
832-842-9053

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
713-743-5454

Cougar Cupboard
uhcupbrd@central.uh.edu

FIXIT
713-743-4948

Learning Advancements for UNdergraduate Cougars of Houston (LAUNCH)
713-743-5411

Parking & Transportation
832-842-1097

Student Health Center
713-743-5151

Student Housing & Residential Life
713-743-6000

University of Houston Police Department
713-743-3333

2024-2025 Housing Application Now Open!

Live your best life on campus next year! The 2024-2025 Housing Application is open for current and incoming University of Houston (UH) students.

Immerse yourself in the complete college experience as part of a community where student growth and development are nurtured. Seize the opportunity to LEARN just a few steps away from your residence hall. DISCOVER new hobbies and interests. EMPOWER others to join you on this exciting new journey.

When you live on campus, you are setting yourself up for success. On-campus residents benefit from close proximity to numerous support services, academic and social engagement opportunities within their residential communities, direct access to a live-in faculty member and more.

Ready to apply? Follow these simple steps.

Have questions regarding housing options, building amenities or the application process?

Reach out to a SHRL staff member at 713-743-6000 or via email at housing@uh.edu.

CoogsCARE: Supporting Mental Health and Wellness

At the University of Houston (UH), we prioritize your well-being. In addition to you practicing self-care, we underscore the significance of cultivating a community that actively cares for our fellow Coogs. UH provides several resources to support your mental health and overall wellness, accessible through the CoogsCARE platform online: https://uh.edu/coogs-care/.

In times of crisis, 24/7 support is available through Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) by dialing 713-743-5454, texting 988 or chatting online at 988 Lifeline Chat and Text. For additional information, log on to the CAPS website.

Report Residential Facility Issues with FIXIT

Many times, a resident is the first to encounter a maintenance issue within their residence hall. In such instances, you can easily report the issue to UH Facilities Services through text message, email, phone call or by using the FIXIT icon in AccessUH. To initiate a FIXIT request, follow the steps below:

Log in to AccessUH and locate the FIXIT icon.
Send a text message to fixit@uh.edu.
Send an email to fixit@uh.edu.
Call 713-743-4948 or 3-4948 (FIXIT) on campus.

Your assistance in reporting facilities issues is appreciated, as Student Housing & Residential Life staff continue to work to enhance the on-campus living experience for all residents.

What makes our campus special to you? Is it the people, the environment, the place itself?

Join UH Student Housing & Residential Life (SHRL) on Instagram from Feb. 7 through Feb. 13 and share your stories during the “Share the Love” campaign. Follow @UH_Housing for daily prompts and share your responses for the chance to win UH-branded prize items!

The rules are simple:

Follow @UH_Housing on Instagram.
Be on the lookout for daily prompts.
Share your stories and tag @UH_Housing, #UHLiving and #ShareTheLoveSP24.

Winners will be announced daily!

Visit the SHRL website for rules and more information. https://uh.edu/housing/_contests/share-the-love-spring-2024

Upcoming Events

RHA Lunar New Year Celebration

Feb. 12, 2024
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the UH Residence Halls Association (RHA) from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Student Center South - Houston Room. Enjoy free snacks, T-shirts, cultural performances and more!

RHA Black History Month Cookout

Feb. 27, 2024
Join the UH Residence Halls Assocation (RHA) in Lynn Eusan Park from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. for the Black History Month Cookout. All UH Students are invited to attend!

Spring Break

March 11-16, 2024
Plan a trip with roommates or friends, or simply enjoy the break from classes.

Frontier Fiesta

April 18-21, 2024
Frontier Fiesta, a cherished tradition since 1939, is a festival held each spring on the UH Campus. Learn More

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