2024 Pro & Grad Recruitment Guide

PROFESSIONAL AND GRADUATE STAFF RECRUITMENT GUIDE

MESSAGE FROM OUR DIRECTOR

Hello, future Eagle! I am excited you have expressed interest in joining the University Housing team at Georgia Southern. We are a growing team of compassionate, student centered professionals who strive to provide a safe and inclusive environment for all who live and work with us. We would love for you to join our team!

I started with Georgia Southern back in 2009 as a Resident Director, with the intent of staying for two years and then heading back home to Florida to continue my career. remember coming to campus for my interview, nervous about what I would find, and immediately felt like I belonged. The students were excited to be here, the RAs were passionate about their work, the institution was growing, and everyone I met was so welcoming. It felt like home.

Here we are, 15 years later, and the same holds as true today as it did then. Our students are diverse, passionate, and driven. Our RAs are thriving as leaders every day. The institution has grown immensely, now with three campuses - two of which are residential, and continues to grow each year. And the people - I can’t say enough about how great the people are. I consider myself blessed each day to be able to surround myself with such a caring and competent team and campus partners who genuinely invest in the development and success of our students.

I never anticipated I would be here at Georgia Southern this long. I have been poured into as a person and professional in every role I’ve held. I’ve been challenged, I’ve been supported, and I’ve developed new skills that continue to make me a well rounded professional. That is something I impress upon our team - something we carry into our work each day. You won’t find a team of professionals who are more invested in your growth than here at Georgia Southern. The experiences you receive at every level will prepare you to succeed in your current role, and set the foundation for success in the future.

As you take a look through this recruitment book, I hope you will see the passion our team puts into their work. Do you see yourself being a part of the great things we have going on here at Georgia Southern? Chat with our team and let’s see if University Housing at Georgia Southern can be the right fit for you! I hope you, too, can feel at home.

Meg Heins Director of Residence Education

MESSAGE FROM THE ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS OF RESIDENCE EDUCATION

We are thrilled you have shown an interest in applying to Georgia Southern University. The potential to have you join our Eagle family as a Graduate Assistant, Graduate Resident Director, or Resident Director is an exciting one for us, as hopefully it is for you. We feel the experiences one can gain as a Georgia Southern GA, GRD, or RD is among the best that you will find in your search for similar positions.

In our years of working in a housing position, we have enjoyed our time at Georgia Southern more than any other experience. A significant portion of that enjoyment comes from recruiting folx like yourself to become part of Eagle Nation. We are always excited to see what new faces and new perspectives are going to become part of our family. University Housing is a great place to work, and this is not JUST our attempt at trying to get you to come to South Georgia. We value authenticity, transparency, learning, care, development, communication, growth, balance, ownership, and stewardship in our daily work and lives. We know that while you’re here with us that you have certain goals and priorities, and we work to ensure that you have grown and filled at least some of your knowledge and experience gaps.

We acknowledge the complexities and difficulties we are all navigating in today’s world and society. Our experiences running a successful search for both graduate and full-time staff in recent years has given us confidence that our process helps our candidates to gain a comprehensive understanding of what it means to be a part of our department. We value and espouse transparency through our process, and are seeking for you to gain an understanding of our culture as much as we are hoping to ascertain your personality, skills, and interest in our department.

We are looking for great new additions to our University Housing family on both the Savannah and Statesboro campuses, and we hope you will give us the opportunity to explore the fit that might exist between you and us. We are committed to making the experience a positive one, and look forward to discussing your potential as a Georgia Southern Eagle! Take Flight: Your Professional Journey Starts Here at Georgia Southern

Bonnie Brackett

Katie C. Fester

Getting to Know Southern

PEOPLE. PURPOSE. ACTION.

Georgia Southern is a university rich in history. Since its humble beginnings as First District A&M School in 1906 through its 2018 consolidation with Armstrong State University, the school has established a wide range of traditions which serve to distinguish it from its peers and deepen the bond with its own students as each year passes. The Eagle Nation is built on these bonds, soaring on the cheers of students, alumni and loyal fans who shout “Georgia…” and know with confidence the answer they’ll receive.

Georgia Southern has grown to three distinct campuses, serving the needs of one dynamic institution. The Statesboro Campus is 900 acres of Georgian-style, red-brick historic buildings and modern contemporary buildings set amid pines and oaks and is home to more than 20,000 students; the Armstrong Campus in Savannah is a 268-acre arboretum campus just minutes away from historic downtown Savannah and is home to over 4,000 students; and a modern, state-of-the-art facility in Hinesville is geared for local and militaryaffiliated students.

Georgia Southern is now the state’s largest and most comprehensive university south of Atlanta and is classified as a Doctoral/R2 “high research” institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Emphasis on the continued development of our resources, educational platforms, and programs led to being ranked #1 for the 2021 Best Online Colleges in Georgia by EDsmart and Learn.org. Additionally, Georgia Southern University makes strides to be inclusive and is included in the national Campus Pride Index for LGBTQ+ Inclusivity. To learn more about Georgia Southern’s accolades, please check out the University’s Points of Pride.

Georgia Southern University

ACADEMIC COLLEGES

Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering & Computing

College of Arts and Humanities

College of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Parker College of Business College of Education

Waters College of Health Professions

Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health

College of Science and Mathematics

Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies Honors College

Top

6

Best Colleges

in Georgia by Advisory HQ

24:1

Statesboro Student/Faculty Ratio

15:1

Armstrong Student/Faculty Ratio

STUDENTS FROM

NAMED “MILITARY FRIENDLY” GOLD SCHOOL FOR THE TENTH YEAR IN A ROW

Our FBS Football Program has competed against teams such as UGA, Clemson, Alabama, and LSU. We’ve also won the GoDaddy Bowl (2016, Raycom Media Cameilla Bowl (2018), and New Orleans Bowl (2020).

UNIVERSITY HOUSING

Guiding Principles WAYS WE SHINE

UNIVERSITY VALUES

Our Vision

“People. Purpose. Action: Growing ourselves to grow others”

Our Mission

At Georgia Southern University, our learner-centered culture prepares us to think, lead, teach, and serve. We value collaboration, academic excellence, discovery and innovation, integrity, openness and inclusion, and sustainability. We promote talent and economic development to enhance quality of life through scholarly pursuits, cultural enrichment, student life, and community engagement across distinctive campuses. Our success is measured by the global impact of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

Our Values

Collaboration

Georgia Southern University embraces shared governance, teamwork, and a cooperative spirit that shapes our engagement with students, faculty, staff and communities.

Academic Excellence

Georgia Southern University academically challenges students, providing them with the knowledge, experiences, and support they need to develop into productive and responsible citizens.

Discovery and Innovation

Georgia Southern University promotes environments and technologies that encourage and facilitate creative, problemsolving collaborations among students, faculty, staff, and community partners.

Integrity

Georgia Southern University creates a caring, respectful environment that is deeply committed to ethical decisionmaking in the spirit of collegiality.

Openness and Inclusion

Georgia Southern University values the diversity of all people, communities, and disciplines with an unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion.

Sustainability

Georgia Southern University is a conscientious steward of resources and supports the well-being of students, faculty, staff, and communities.

University Strategic Pillars

Student Success

Teaching and Research

Inclusive Excellence

Operational Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Sustainability Community Engagement

Our Vision

University Housing sets the foundation for overall student success

Our Mission

University Housing is committed to the support of student learning in a residential community; and, Georgia Southern University’s larger mission to be one of the best comprehensive universities in the Nation.

University Housing fosters the development of respect, responsibility, and accountability in students by providing engaging living/learning environments within safe, affordable and comfortable housing.

University Housing educates students in order that they may become productive citizens and life-long learners.

Our Motto

We care, we engage, We educate

Department Core Values Care Engage

“University Housing provides a residential environment conducive to the educational success and personal development of our students”

• Our award-winning staff members and initiatives generated through nominations submitted at the state, regional and national levels. Most recently our staff members were presented with the following: Katie Fester and Meg Heins, Contribution to Campus Award, from Georgia Housing Officers in 2023; Chyna Anderson, Graduate Assistant of Excellence, from Georgia Housing Officers in 2023; Ben Wicker, SEAHO Founders Award, from SEAHO in 2022; Meg Heins, Outstanding Professional Award, from Georgia Housing Officers in 2022; and Georgia Gee Whiz Award, for an innovative program, from Georgia Housing Officers in 2022.

• Our recent participation in the Regional Entry Level Institution (RELI) in 2023.

• We continuously encourage professional, graduate and student staff and are regularly selected to present at regional conferences such as SEAHO, GHO, NACAS, NASPA Strategies and GRASS.

• We have staff members who hold leadership positions within regional and state organizations such as SEAHO, GCPA and SAACURH. The conference coordinator for SEAHO 2021’s annual conference was a University Housing staff member.

• Our team of professional and graduate staff comprised on individuals from a myriad of backgrounds, geographic locations and institutions which creates a staff that is dynamic and possesses a wealth of perspectives.

• We are engaged in a Public-Private partnership (P3) with external partners, the Corvias Group, in three residential complexes on the Armstrong Campus.

• Our assessment-based developmental practices include: a three-year assessment cycle, student satisfaction surveys, 360 staff evaluations and an annual assessment or research project completed by each RD as a method of staff learning, departmental decision making and individual professional development.

• University Housing sponsored traditions such as our Pop Up Pumpkin Patch, Haunted Tour, and Spring Break Safety program, as well as our continued and active participation in traditional campus and University opportunities, such as Celebrate, admission events, and student leadership programming.

• Our department maintains a strong focus on professional development for staff at the Resident Director, Graduate, and Student Staff levels.

• The Georgia Southern Drag Show is an event that happens in the spring semester to showcase Drag Artists that amplify the appearance of gender. For many individuals on campus, this can be the first drag show they have experienced in person and Georgia Southern departments help to create a space for the art of drag to be showcased. Though certain aspects change year to year, the key takeaway always stands: Find your community where you can be yourself! This event is highly collaborative with the Office of Multicultural Affairs and University Housing with many local organizations such as Boro Pride and First City Pride.

HOUSING VALUES

WHO’S WHO IN OUR HALLS

Director of Residence Education

The Director of Residence Education has the overall responsibility of the day-today operations as well as short- and long-term planning of Residence Education. The Director supervises the Associate Directors and the Senior Administrative Assistant of Residence Education.

Associate Director of Residence Education

The Associate Director of Residence Education (Statesboro) is responsible for the oversight of Residential Curriculum practices, professional staff development & training, and policy management. The Associate Director (Savannah) supervises the Operations Coordinator, Resident Directors, and Graduate Assistants.

Assistant Director of Residential Learning

The Associate Directors of Residence Education are responsible for the day-to-day oversight of their respective campus. The “ADORE” supervises the staff, chairs multiple committees, works collaboratively with campus partners, and assists the Director with oversight of the department.

Assistant Director of Residence Education

Assistant Directors of Residence Education (ADs) have primary responsibility for supervising Resident Directors and one-half of the residential population. ADs are responsible for many of the departmental committees and have collateral responsibilities they oversee.

Resident Director

Resident Directors (RDs) are full-time, master’s degreelevel professionals responsible for the daily supervision and management of a residence hall. This includes supervising Resident Advisors (RAs) and up to one Graduate Resident Director, managing departmental committee responsibilities, implementing a Residential Curriculum plan, managing conduct issues in the building and completing administrative tasks to support the operation of the residence hall.

Administrative Assistant of Residence Education

The Administrative Assistant of Residence Education serves as the primary administrative support of Residence Education, including the Associate Director and Assistant Directors. The position is also responsible for managing daily operations for the office’s student workers.

Graduate Resident Directors

There are Graduate Resident Directors (GRDs) who are master’s-seeking graduate students who work 20-25 hours/week. The GRDs each supervise four to seven Resident Advisors, manage the desk and serve as hearing officers for student conduct violations. The GRD assists the Resident Director with administrative duties for the building.

Graduate Assistants for Residence Education

The Graduate Assistants (GA) who work in our central office on a variety of tasks. These include special events, curriculum development, academic initiatives, assessment, the Residential Learning Communities program and administrative/financial support for the department.

Resident Advisors

Resident Advisors (RAs) are responsible for building community and initiating learning opportunities on an assigned floor/wing/hall of a residence hall. These undergraduate staff members work closely with their fellow RAs and their Resident Directors (RDs) to assist students in building relationships, resolving conflict and creating a safe, enjoyable living environment.

Desk Assistants

Desk Assistants (DAs) are part of a team of students who are primarily responsible for the daily operation of residence hall front desks. These undergraduate staff members perform tasks such as lockouts, key audits and equipment checkouts at each residence hall front desk. They also provide administrative support to their Resident Director (RD). Returning DAs have the opportunity to become a Senior Desk Assistant (SDA) who supports the GRD in desk management and staff oversight.

Resident Director Administrative Assistants

RD Administrative Assistants work with the RDs to complete shopping trips needed for programming supplies as well as assist in additional administrative tasks as needed including compiling assessments, making advertisements and other duties as assigned.

ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

BECOME AN EAGLE BENEFITS AND PERKS

RESIDENT DIRECTOR POSITION

These team members are an integral part of a growing department of 6,400 residents in eleven residential complexes across two campuses – the Armstrong Campus and the Statesboro Campus. The University Housing department dually serves in the vibrant Divisions of Student Affairs and Auxiliary Services, this position is dedicated to fostering and facilitating an inclusive community focused on student learning and success. The Resident Director (RD) is a professional staff member responsible for the administration and management of one of our diverse, residential settings. RDs will train, evaluate and supervise 7 to 19 undergraduate student leaders and up to one or two graduate student leaders; implement a Residential Curriculum; adjudicate conduct cases; serve in a campus-wide, on-call rotation; and participate in a primary departmental adjunct area. The RD position has been identified as a Campus Security Authority (CSA) under the Federal Law (Jeanne Clery Act), with significant student and campus responsibilities. CSA’s are obligated to report crimes reported to them which occurred on campus, in public areas bordering campus, and in certain non campus buildings owned or controlled (leased) by the University.

Remuneration:

The RD position is a 12-month position; salary is $43,000. As living in a residence hall is required, a 2-bedroom furnished apartment is provided at no additional cost. Utilities and services are provided: water/sewage, inunit laundry, electricity, trash, and internet. An unlimited meal plan will be provided in fall and spring semesters while classes are in session. The University System of Georgia benefits package is also included. Professional staff members may reside with a domestic partner/ roommate and/or have a pet in their on campus residence (within provided guidelines). Professional development opportunities and funds are available upon approval.

Job Specifications/Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Higher Education Student Services, Counseling, or a related field

• Student staff supervision experience and knowledge of the residence hall environment

• A strong desire to work directly with college students in a learning environment

• Demonstrated skills in the following areas: leadership, supervision, crisis intervention, group dynamics, administrative tasks, professionalism, and programming in a residence hall setting

• Experience serving on an on-call rotation for emergency response

• Ability to work with a diverse population and contribute to inclusive communities

• Ability to lift 25 pounds with or without accommodations

Opportunities for Professional Development

Here at Georgia Southern, we are very committed to your professional development. We strive to produce well-rounded professionals who are able to successfully take the next step in University Housing or any other area in Student Affairs. Below are some of the opportunities staff have taken advantage of in the past:

• Internal housing committees: RD Recruitment, RD Training, RA Selection, RA Training, Assessment, Grad Recruitment & Development, Residential Learning and Administrative Review

• Professional Development Council (Student Affairs)

• Serve on a Curriculum Subcommittee

• Develop and Teach a Session for the Housing Incentive Program

• Student Organization Advisor (Departmental and University Student Organizations)

• Monthly Staff Development Opportunities

• Funded attendance at state, regional and/or national conference; paired with submitting a conference session proposal

• Write an Article for a Campus, Regional, or National Publication

• Attend Department/Campus Professional Development Sessions

• Individualized Plan with Supervisor

• Teach an RLC1000 course for select RLC communities

BECOME AN EAGLE

GRADUATE RESIDENT DIRECTOR POSITION

The Graduate Resident Directors (GRD) in University Housing work in a residence hall to which it is principally assigned but may also assist with the administration of a partnered residence hall. The GRD will directly supervise up to 7 Resident Advisors (RA), assist with training, provide indirect supervision of the entire RA staff, and evaluate their direct reports. Additionally, the GRD will serve as a conduct hearing officer. The GRD may also be responsible for supporting the Residential Curriculum efforts in their hall or complex in addition to Departmental, Divisional, and Institutional programmatic events. The GRD ensures the creation of an environment that is conducive to the academic, personal and professional growth of each resident while remaining consistent with the goals and objectives of Georgia Southern University. The GRD is supervised by a full-time staff member within Residence Education.

Job Specifications/Qualifications

• Prior residence hall/student services experience is strongly preferred.

• Ability to work with diverse populations.

• As a graduate student enrolled in academic classes at Georgia Southern, Graduate Resident Directors must be enrolled as a full time student each semester and maintain a 3.0 GPA in order to qualify for a graduate assistantship. Graduate Resident Directors must take at least 9 hours a semester. They can be enrolled in any program with the College of Graduate Studies, but highereducation-related fields are preferred.

• Work week for this position averages 20-25 hours.

• Commitment to student learning, celebration of diversity, and raising social awareness.

• Applicant should have demonstrated skills in the following, highly preferred areas: leadership, supervision, crisis intervention, group dynamics, flexibility, professionalism, and programming in a residence hall setting.

• A strong desire to work with college students in a residence hall environment.

• As the position is considered the Graduate Resident Director’s primary non-academic activity, GRDs may not accept other employment. A GRD may not have a significant responsibility in an extracurricular activity. Please discuss outside involvement with your supervisor at the beginning of each semester to assess appropriateness.

• Ability to physically lift 25 pounds and respond to emergencies in on-campus residence halls.

• Service in the second-tier on-call crisis response duty rotation will occur multiple times each semester.

• Must successfully complete background investigation.

Remuneration:

The GRD appointment is 10 months (August to May). Salary for the position is $10,000 year which is paid on a monthly basis. Graduate Assistants (who are unconditionally accepted into graduate school) receive a tuition waiver of the standard in-state and out-of-state tuition but must pay a reduced matriculation fee of $25 per semester along with all assessed University and Technology fees. Some programs are approved to charge a premium tuition rate that is not covered by the standard tuition waiver. This position is classified as a Graduate Assistantship, so standard employee benefits are not provided. The GRD will report to campus for training two to three (2-3) weeks in advance of the beginning of the Assistantship’s formal start date. The GRD will receive additional pay (determined by the length of time required) for this training period. As living in a residence hall is required, a furnished apartment (valued at $450/month) is provided at no additional cost. All utilities are provided with the exception of long distance telephone. The GRD apartment is available to the staff member for the academic year (beginning with staff training in July through mid-May, following hall closing). Exceptions may be made for staff returning to a position for their second academic year to have access to their apartment year round.

$10,000

AND PERKS

BECOME AN EAGLE

GRADUATE ASSISTANT FOR RESIDENCE EDUCATION POSITIONS

The Graduate Assistants for Residence Education (4 positions) are directly supervised by members of the Residence Education Leadership Team. If selected for this position, GAs will be responsible for completing 20-25 hours a week through regular office hours, weekly check-ins with their direct supervisor, and some night time or weekend requirements as needed. The GA is expected to maintain confidentiality, demonstrate professionalism, and will be trusted with student information.

responsibility in an extracurricular activity. Outside involvements should be discussed with the supervisor at the beginning of each semester to assess appropriateness.

Duties and Responsibilities:

While all the GAs of Residence Education work together on a multitude of items, they each have a collateral area to focus on. These areas and their respective responsibilities are:

1. Assessment & Administration

2. Residential Learning

BENEFITS AND PERKSBENEFITS AND PERKS

“I love the close knit community of students, and how at home I felt when I came on to the campus.”

These positions assist in departmental efforts to create supportive learning environments that enable students to be personally, academically, and professionally successful. By intentionally designing meaningful experiences, collaborating with campus partners on high-impact practices, and assessing departmental efforts – these GAs allow us to achieve our departmental learning goals.

Job Specifications/Qualifications

• Enrolled in Georgia Southern’s Master of Education in Higher Education Administration Graduate Program preferred but not required.

• Qualified candidates must be able to generate and maintain appropriate documentation pertinent to various processes and procedures as needed.

• Qualified candidates must be able to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate flexibility, professionalism, problemsolving, and effective communication skills. Ability to take initiative on ambiguous projects is desired.

• Qualified candidates must be able to generate and maintain appropriate documentation pertinent to various processes and procedures as needed.

BENEFITS AND PERKS

• Prior experience assessing programs, working with curricular models, program planning, training staff, and/or working in a residence hall environment preferred.

• Candidates must have a basic understanding of assessment practices and how to effectively analyze data.

• Candidates should have a strong desire to support the academic and social needs of residence hall students through the Residential Curriculum model, the Residential Learning Community Program, and through programming, recognition efforts, and effective campus partnerships.

• Candidates must be enrolled as a full time Graduate student at Georgia Southern University for fall and spring semester and maintain a 3.0 GPA.

• Candidates must be able to work with diverse populations.

• Candidates must be able to physically lift a minimum of 25 pounds.

• Candidates must successfully complete a background investigation.

• The position is considered the GA’s primary, non-academic activity and hired GA’s may not accept other employment at the university. The GA’s may not have significant

3. Staff Development & Support

4. Programming & Communication

In addition to their collateral areas, these GAs may be responsible for the following miscellaneous tasks.

• Evaluating departmental assessment results and producing reports to stakeholders.

• Maintaining accurate records of residential student activity fee funds.

• Producing and maintaining support resources for student and professional staff.

• Participating in internal and external professional development opportunities.

• Co-leading one or more Residential Learning Communities.

• Initiating communication and marketing strategies for residential students and staff.

• Co-facilitating student learning and departmental programmatic efforts.

• Serving as a conduct officer to adjudicate student conduct cases within University Housing.

• Attending committee meetings and one-on-one supervision meetings with supervisor.

• Assisting with 3 scheduled University Open Houses each year and prospective student tours as needed.

• Assisting University Housing with staff recruitment, interviewing, and training as needed.

• Attending workshops and training sessions as needed or required.

• Maintaining a neat, organized, and clean work area.

• Performing other duties as assigned.

The complete job description may be found here.

Remuneration:

The position’s appointment period is 10 months (August to May) and salary for the position is $10,000/year (paid on a monthly basis). GA must be accepted unconditionally into the Graduate School to receive a partial tuition waiver and outof-state fee waiver. As this position is classified as a graduate assistantship, standard employee benefits are not provided. This position may be required to report to campus for training 2-3 weeks early in exchange for additional pay (determined by the length of time required for training). This position does not provide housing, but the GA may choose to live on campus at their own expense.

$10,000

-KATIE KNIGHT, CENTRAL GRAD HOMETOWN: ATHENS, GA

“I love the large scale feel that the University holds as an institution and the small town southern roots that the university sits within.”

-BRANDON LONG, GRD

HOMETOWN: LUDOWICI, GA

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER HERE!

“There is a level of care that goes beyond what I have experienced in other work and academic environments.”

-JEROME REIMERS, HOMETOWN: MILDURA, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

MEG HEINS

Director of Residence Education

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Florida Southern College - B.S., Lynn University - M.Ed.

Hometown: Winter Haven, FL

Campus: Armstrong and Statesboro

Meg has been part of the GS family since 2009 in a variety of roles. She loves helping student, graduate, and professional staff along their professional journey (hello Individualization & Developer StrengthsQuest!). She is a wife and mom of two who enjoys spending time with her family and going on adventures!

KATIE FESTER

Associate Director of Residence Education

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Wofford College - B.A., Columbia College - M.Ed.

Hometown: Easley, SC

Campus: Armstrong

Katie is a driven leader who enjoys connecting students and staff to opportunities that will help them grow and develop as positive leaders. Katie is all about making every opportunity a learning strategy. Katie leads the department in residential learning efforts and initiatives and oversees the staff of the Savannah Campus.

BONNIE BRACKETT

Assistant Director of Residence Education

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Elon University - B.S., University of Georgia - M.Ed.

Hometown: East Point, GA

Campus: Statesboro

I’ve had some amazing opportunities to live and travel all over the world, including several states up and down the Eastern coast and five years in the Middle East. However, I’m a Georgia girl at the core and I have enjoyed being able to settle down closer to family. You’ll often find me with a coffee cup in my hand, a good book in my bag, and my running shoes nearby. I also love traveling (especially on the coast) and photography!

DANIEL CHAVEZ NUNEZ

Assistant Director of Residence Education

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Education: University of South Carolina -B.S., University of South Carolina- M.S.

Hometown: Davie, Florida

Campus: Statesboro

My name is Daniel Chavez Nunez, but most call me Chavez. I enjoy watching foreign films and media because of that, I have learned to appreciate a variety of film genres that I used to never watch before. enjoy gift giving and writing cards for others; through this got into fountain pens and inks, as well as trying to relearn writing in cursive. Recently, I have also gotten into growing plants.

EMILY CHAVEZ NUNEZ

Assistant Director of Residence Education

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Clemson University -B.S.

Hometown: Davie, Florida

Campus: Statesboro

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida Gulf Coast University and my M.Ed. in Counselor Education from Clemson University prior to joining the University Housing team in June 2023. My favorite thing about the Assistant Director of Residence Education role is creating opportunities for staff members to grow through supervision and leading the department’s Training & Development efforts. In my free time, you can find me hanging out with my dog Flynn or planning my next trip to Disney.

NAOMI SAXON

Assistant Director of Residence Education

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: University of West Georgia -B.S., University of Central Arkansas - M.S.

Hometown: Augusta, GA

Campus: Armstrong

She loves being able to shine creatively! With her sweet Miniature Schnauzer by her side, there is NOTHING she can’t achieve. Just remember to be the Fountain not the Drain!

DANIEL “DAN” CAIN

Assistant Director of Residence Education

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Education: Stoney Brook University -M.S.

Hometown: South Jersey

Campus: Statesboro

I hail from South Jersey, which is close to Philadelphia. As a first gen student, I found myself highly engaged with university housing as well as balancing my athletic career and studio art classes. Having professionally worked in a variety of higher education departments since 2008, I have developed a passion for relational support and holistic career adaptability.

CATHY LUCAS

Senior Administrative Assistant

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Hometown: Greenwood, SC

Campus: Statesboro

Originally from Greenwood, SC, Cathy’s family moved to Statesboro when she was 10 years old. She is married to her husband, Dennis, and together they have 5 grown children and 8 grandkids- ranging in age from 10 years old to 25 years old. She enjoys spending time with family, crafting, and being outdoors.

PROFESSIONAL STAFF

MARJORIE LAMB

Coordinator of Office Services

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Converse College- BFA, Webster University -MBA

Hometown: Canton, OH

Campus: Armstrong

A large part of Marjorie’s career is in property management of various organizations. Two of her longer tenures have been Savannah College or Art & Design ( 9 years) and Alpha Genesis (12 years)in operations management. It has been a privilege to work with amazing teams with one goal- “How can we make it better” - at nontraditional campuses, swimming pool facilities, breeding/research facilities, military housing, design firms, vacation rentals, recycled glass manufacturing plants, and sports venues. She hails from Port Royal, SC and loves to spend time at home and share this beautiful town with friends.

TANIKA “TT” VALENTINE

Administrative Assistant

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Rowan University - B.A., Georgia Southern University - M.Ed.

Hometown: Aschaffenburg, Germany Campus: Statesboro

Originally born in Aschaffenburg Germany, but grew up in Claxton Ga. Love to spend time with my family and my wife Casey. We enjoy going to the beach and relaxing at home with our nieces and nephews and family.

J. MAXWELL “MAX” KIMBROUGH

Resident Director

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Education: National University -Ed.D.

Hometown: Wetumpka, Alabama Campus: Statesboro

Max has been with GS since February 2023 and is currently completing an Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership. Outside of work and studies, he enjoys graphic design projects and shopping. Max is also an introvert that loves traveling home to AL and spending time with his family.

MCKENNA TOLLETT

Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: University of Georgia -M.Ed.

Hometown: Fort Myers, Florida

Campus: Statesboro

McKenna is in her first year as a Resident Director here at Georgia Southern University. Prior to being at Southern, McKenna received her Master of Education in Student Affairs from the University of Georgia. McKenna has a passion for student development and fostering intentional spaces for staff and students to connect with each other. McKenna loves all things Taylor Swift and Disney and tries to spread some pixie dust everywhere she goes.

ALEXIS “LEX” MCGARVEY

Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Georgia Southwestern State University - B.S., Walden University - M.S.

Hometown: Rockland County, NY

Campus: Statesboro

Hello! My name is Alexis McGarvey, you can also call me Lex! This year has been a big year, am recently engaged as of February 18th, 2023. love to watch scary movies, I enjoy the thought of reading (key word thought, I buy books, and never sit down to read), and I enjoy building relationships with peers/campus/community partners. I value people and I want to offer any support or care that can to build those relationships.

NAILAH FARARA

Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Georgia Southern University - B.A., Georgia Southern University - M. Ed.

Hometown: Lilburn, GA

Campus: Statesboro

Nailah is a second year RD that is excited to continue learning in her role. She is a proud Double Eagle and values the “True Blue” spirit. In her free time, Nailah enjoys spending time with her family, listening to audiobooks, and eating really good food!

ERICKA FULTON

Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Alcorn State University- M.S. Ed.

Hometown: Jacksonville, FL

Campus: Statesboro

am a Jacksonville, FL native who loves traveling, online shopping, and binge watching a good Netflix series.

KAITLYN VAN DYK

Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Rowan University - B.A., Georgia Southern University- M.Ed.

Hometown: Franklin, NJ

Campus: Statesboro

Kaitlyn is a fourth year Resident Director, and a Georgia Southern alum! She loves engaging with students and supervising her student staff team in Centennial Place. Kaitlyn is passionate about creating spaces where people are empowered to be themselves, and living authentically. She enjoys shopping with local vendors at the Statesboro Farmers Market, and attending First Friday events in town. Kaitlyn enjoys spending time with people she cares about, near and far, and can often be found walking with her chihuahua, Colbie Jean.

KELLIANNE CURLEY

Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Salisbury University - B.S., Georgia Southern University

Hometown: Rockland County, NY

Campus: Armstrong

Working as a new professional fills Kellianne with enthusiasm and joy because of the ongoing networking and development. She loves to engage with others who are passionate about what they do – this is why she loves to smile and bring her positive energy.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW

Working for University Housing at Georgia Southern is a great way to open doors and build lifelong skills in adaptability, customer service, discipline and leadership. We aim to see all of our staff grow in these areas and eventually fulfill their professional and personal goals, wherever that may take them. Check out some of our talented staff who have gone on to do great things all over the nation.

Name: Ryan Hall

Adam Schwarz

Heather (Worley) Valentine

Erik Sorensen

Julie (Cantor) Ogburn

Ryan Heins

Ramona Howard

Jeff Carter

Danna Lewis

Matt Brigner

Ariel Leget-Clarke

Richard Gamble

Meg (Kopp) Heins

Eric Petersen

Dan Zimmerman

Sammie Linton

Annise Richard

Stephanie Rewitzer

Sally (Adams) Saydshoev

Jonathan Adams

Malerie (Hervey) Payne

Erin Cleary

Georgia (Campbell) Friedhof

Emily (Ender) Pendexter

Dustin Roberts

Sherilyn Klatt

Quenshia Graves

Verva Jean Shumate

Telecia Taylor

Kenzel Hill

Colton Goodman

Kimberly Bradley

Ainsley Hallenbeck

Sarah Hart

Jerrod Robinson

Emilee Duffy

David Ndozi

Naomi Saxon

Gabrielle Johnson

Kelly Szcerkowski

Current Position/Title:

Human Resource Specialist

Assistant Director of Housing and Residential Life

Academic Advisor

Assistant Director for Residence Life

Civil Rights Investigator - Office of Equal Opportunity

Director of Business & Administrative Services, University Housing

Academic Program Manager

Degree Audit Specialist

Director of Career Services College of Business

Area Coordinator

Assistant Director, Living Learning Communities & Academic Initiatives

Academic Advisor

Director of Residence Education

Resident Director

Assistant Director for Academic Initiatives

Residential Leadership Coordinator

Adidas

Leadership Scholars Program Coordinator

Associate Director for Academic Initiatives and Staff Programs

Director of Career Services

Human Resources Consultant

Assistant Director, Academic Success Center

Assistant Director

Graduate Program Advisor

Assistant Director Residential Education

Assistant Director of the First-Year Experience

Program Coordinator

Assistant Director of Student Success

Assistant Director for Housing and Operations Guest Services

Living Learning Community Coordinator

Assistant Director of Residential Life

Assistant Director of Residential Academic Engagement

Assistant Director of Residential Life

Hall Director

Assistant Director of Residential Life

Hall Director

Hall Director

Assistant Director of Housing and Student Conduct

Assistant Director of Residence Education

Assistant Director of Residence Life

Coordinator of Instruction

The University of Missouri, KC Minnesota State University, Mankato College of Charleston University of Cincinnati

Georgia

Virginia Commonwealth University

George Mason University

Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University Jacksonville University

Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University

University of South Carolina Beufort Georgia Southern University

Southern Illinois Unviersity - Carbondale

Southern University

GRADUATE STAFF

CHYNA ANDERSON

Graduate Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Georgia Southern University - BHSc

Hometown: Yemassee, SC

Campus: Armstrong

I enjoy putting myself out there professionally and making those connections that’ll be impactful in the long run. Surrounding yourself around people who you can learn from is always exciting!

EMEKA IGWE

Graduate Resident Director

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Education: Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria -B.S.

Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria

Campus: Statesboro

Emeka Igwe is a Graduate Resident Director currently in Eagle Village. He is a mechanical engineering major and also runs a mentorship program for teenagers who love engineering and have passion for science and technology. He loves all things sports and his favorite sport is soccer. He is also an avid soccer fan of Chelsea football club in England. In his free time he enjoys taking walks in nature.

HELEN CHISOLM

Graduate Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Western Carolina University -B.S.Ed

Hometown: Savannah, Georgia

Campus: Statesboro

As I am a southern girl at heart! I love being outdoors, specifically on the water. I grew up boating, seashell hunting, crabbing, and fishing. When the weather is bad though, you can find me inside reading a book or baking a new recipe. I am also an avid cat mom to my boy, Figaro! We spend our days outside, watching the squirrels and wildlife.

LAURA MICAN

Graduate Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Thomas University -B.S., Thomas University -M.S.

Hometown: Bogotá, Colombia

Campus: Armstrong

I am a very outgoing and adventurous native from Colombia. I thrive in productive and organized environments that motivate me to go beyond my goals to succeed in life. I like to represent myself as God-fearing and faith driven.

NA’ILAH MOORE

Graduate Assistant for Residence Education

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Georgia State University -B.S., Georgia Southern University -M.S.

Hometown: Fayetteville, GA

Campus: Statesboro

Na’ilah is a first-year GRD, but a second-year grad student who was an RA last year. She loves to read and write books and hopes to become a published author one day! She loves working in housing because seeing the development of RAs is such a reward.

NOAH SMITH-FLETCHER

Graduate Resident Director

Pronouns: They/Them/Theirs

Education: Ball State University - B.A.

Hometown: Warsaw, IN

Campus: Statesboro

I’m a big fan of dressing up for Halloween and spreading holiday cheer. I love reading and video games. Georgia Southern Housing has given me the opportunity to spread my wings through experience based learning!

KICHA PINTHIERE

Graduate Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Georgia Southern University -ED.S.

Hometown: Providence, Rhode Island

Campus: Statesboro

Kicha earned her BA in Psychology with a Minor in Education from University of Hartford. She is now pursuing her M.Ed. & Ed.S. in School Psychology here at Georgia Southern. Kicha finds pleasure in exercising daily, site seeing, and spending time with family! Kicha enjoys connecting/networking with others and helping them reach ultimate success which is what she loves most about being a GRD!

DIKAYLA MERCER

Graduate Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Bethune-Cookman University -B.S.

Hometown: Tampa, Florida

Campus: Statesboro

I am Dikayla, a first year Higher Education Administration student, who works in Centennial Place as Graduate Director. I am a very outgoing and spunky individual so the opportunity to engage with residents in our community brings me a sense of fulfillment. I think it’s important that I note one of my few personality traits is being a Pisces! I Also love to do my makeup and let my nephew do literally whatever his little heart desires!

GRADUATE STAFF

ALIYAH DELOACH

Graduate Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Bethune- Cookman University -B.S.

Hometown: Atlanta, GA

Campus: Statesboro

Aliyah DeLoach is a Graduate Resident Director at Southern Pines, embarking on her first year in university housing. Currently pursuing a master’s in Higher Education Administration here at Georgia Southern, Aliyah’s zest for life extends beyond academics, as she finds joy in traveling, taking pictures, and spending quality time with her family.

DENISA WILSON

Graduate Resident Director

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Georgia Southern University -B.S.

Hometown: Marietta, Georgia

Campus: Armstrong

Hi my name is Denisa Wilson! I am in the MBA program at Georgia Southern. I enjoy long nature walks, indoor cycling, and have just started picking up playing pickleball. Anything that can get me up and active is what I love doing and look forward to connecting more with people on campus!

AVA WILLIS

Graduate Assistant

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Georgia Southern University B.S.

Hometown: Richmond Hills, GA

Campus: Statesboro

Hi! My name is Ava Willis, and I have a bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Food Sciences from GSU. I am currently in a combined master’s and dietetic internship program, where I am obtaining my master’s in Nutrition. My favorite thing to do is read, and I wish I could do it all the time! My favorite part about working for University Housing is the encouraging environment, and the freedom to pursue my degree while working!

MYA GILLIARD

Graduate Assistant

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Clark Atlanta University -B.S.

Hometown: Hinesville, GA

Campus: Armstrong

I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy student on the Armstrong campus. I have been working for housing for about 5 months and I love it. It allows me to interact with a number of different people and develop skills that will be crucial for me in the healthcare field. If I’m not at work or studying, I’m usually just hanging out with friends.

DANIEL UKENE

Graduate Assistant

Pronouns: He/Him/His

Education: Covenant University - B.S.

Hometown: Calabar, Nigeria

Campus: Statesboro

Daniel is an Information Technology Specialist, who is currently a Central Grad Assistant for Georgia Southern University Housing, while completing his Masters in Information Technology. He loves culture, art and people. He believes in self improvement, and also believes that everyone can potentially become a better version of themselves, if they are willing to try.

NADEJA KING

Graduate Assistant

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: University of West Georgia -B.S.

Hometown: Decatur, Georgia

Campus: Statesboro

Hello, my name is NaDeJa King, and I am currently pursuing my Master’s Degree in Counselor Education with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have a strong passion for mental health advocacy, social justice, and equity. Drawing inspiration from my faith as a follower of Jesus Christ profoundly shapes my values, fostering a compassionate and understanding approach. This approach assists me in my role as a Graduate Assistant, specifically assigned to Eagle Village, where I am dedicated to helping residents.

DEBORAH OSAHOR

Graduate Assistant

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Education: Bingham University -B.S.

Hometown: Edu, Nigeria

Campus: Armstrong

Hi! My name is Osahor Deborah, and I have a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Bingham University. I am currently earning my Masters in accounting at Georgia Southern University. My favorite thing to do is music. I love to sing and play the guitar. I love to crunch numbers, swim and try new stuff. My favorite part about working for University Housing is the encouraging environment, and the freedom to pursue my degree while working at the same time learning more about accounting and budgeting in real time.

ARMSTRONG CAMPUS

At A Glance...

In 1935, Savannah Mayor Thomas Gamble founded the Armstrong Campus — then known as Armstrong Junior College — in order to help stimulate Savannah’s economy and advance opportunities for local youth who could not afford to attend college away from home. The school began with 175 students and was located in the historic Armstrong House on Bull Street at the northern end of Forsyth Park.

In 1966, after receiving four-year status and a 250-acre donation from The Mills B. Lane Foundation and Donald Livingston, Armstrong moved to its current location on Abercorn Extension in Savannah’s southside.

Throughout the next 30 years of growth, Armstrong added graduate programs in business and education and became a Regional Health Professions Education Center. The institution’s growth culminated in 1996 with university status and a new name: Armstrong Atlantic State University.

Just two years later, Armstrong collaborated with Georgia Southern and other USG institutions to create the Liberty Center in Hinesville in order to offer degree programs to the active duty and veteran military and their families in the area. Liberty County is the home of Fort Stewart, the largest military base east of the Mississippi.

In 2018, Armstrong and Georgia Southern University consolidated, creating an institution which retained the Georgia Southern University name comprised of nine colleges on three campuses: the Statesboro Campus, the Armstrong Campus in Savannah, Georgia, and the Liberty Campus in Hinesville, Georgia.

“The team at the Armstrong campus is very supportive and committed to the student success, maintaining the housing facilities, and providing a multitude of FUN activities and events!”

-MARJORIE E LAMB,

STUDENTS

5,121

CAMPUS RESIDENTS

1,223

FUN FACT

1966—The college moves to its new (and current) site. Eight original buildings were constructed, now considered the campus Quad.

Windward Commons

• Professional Staff: Resident Director (1), Graduate Resident Director (1)

• Resident Advisors: 14

• Residents: 560

• Suite style

• Communities: Alliance TC, Healthy Living TC, Honors LLC, Lab LLC

• Professional Staff: Resident Director (1), Graduate Resident Director (2)

• Resident Advisors: 12

• Residents: 580

• Apartment style

University Crossings

• Professional Staff: Assistant Director for Housing Operations and Guest Services (1 - shared with University Terrace)

• Occupants, (Faculty/Staff and Guest Lodging): 100

• Apartment style

LIFE IN SAVANNAH

The coastal city of Savannah, Georgia is known for cobblestone streets, picturesque parks, horse-drawn carriages and antebellum architecture. Each year, Savannah attracts millions of visitors, eager to experience the excitement and local flare of River Street, the thrill of historic ghost tours and the enriching culture and cuisine of the city. Known as “America’s Most Haunted City,” Savannah offers historic sightseeing like you’ve never seen before. Notable historic sites in Savannah include the birthplace of Girl Scouts Founder Juliette Gordon Low, the Georgia Historical Society (the oldest continually operating historical society in the South), the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences (one of the South’s first public museums), the First African Baptist Church (one of the oldest African- American Baptist congregations in the U.S.) and the Central of Georgia Railway roundhouse complex (the oldest standing antebellum rail facility in the U.S.). The city’s burgeoning beer scene, local artisans and charming stores are all hallmarks of what make Georgia’s first city such an amazing place to live. Check out more information about Savannah at visitsavannah.com

THINGS TO DO

Forsyth Park is perfect for lounging in the grass or throwing a Frisbee. Dating back to the 1840s, Forsyth Park occupies 30 acres in the Historic District. The iconic water fountain at the center is a landmark in itself, but Fragrant Garden, walking trails and a quaint café make for a relaxing spot on your itinerary.

Hop on board a trolley tour to get an overview of Savannah! A trolley tour will help you get better acquainted with Savannah’s historical sites and interesting history.

Sample a bit of local flavor, and visit one of Savannah’s many breweries. Service Brewing Company, Southbound Brewing Company, Coastal Empire Brewing Co., and Moon River Brewing Co. offer a wide variety of brews and showcase local entertainment.

Take a stroll down memory lane by visiting museums such as the American Prohibition Museum, Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum Inc., and the Savannah History Museum.

Enjoy the 22 square parks within one-square-mile in downtown Savannah, including the high energy, artistic, and music filled squares called Savannah City Market.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SAVANNAH

Interested in learning more about Savannah? Scan this QR code to view the “Visit Savannah” website. Get more information about events, festivals, places to stay, planning essentials for your next trip and more!

PLACES TO EAT

Over the last few years, Savannah’s food scene has exploded, with a plethora of fine dining and casual hangout spots popping up throughout the city. For instance, The Grey offers a contemporary spin on Southern classics and is housed in the old Savannah Greyhound station. It offers a more upscale dining experience with fresh takes on dishes such as field peas, fried chicken and good ol’ fruit cobbler. The Green Truck Pub is a different kind of location, showcasing a variety of burgers made with fresh, locallysourced ingredients and ice cold beverages. Also, Rocks on the Roof offers a fun spot to hang out with friends and watch the boats come in down the Savannah River. There’s an almost limitless amount of places to choose from in downtown and throughout the rest of the city.

STAFF PICKS

We asked our staff about what their favorite things to do in Savannah are, and here is what they had to say!

Wormsloe Historic Site - Katie S

Marine Science Center - Erin M

Plant Riverside District geode displays - Erin M

River Street - Katie K, Gabby

Downtown SavannahKelly S, Diedre, Meg

Starland Yard - Noah S

“EVERYTHING” - Alexis M

The beach - Almost everyone!

Leopold’s Ice Cream - Jerome

Flying Monk Noodle BarKelliane C

STATESBORO CAMPUS

At A Glance...

The Statesboro Campus was founded in 1906 as a school for teaching modern agricultural production techniques and homemaking skills to rural school children. The First District A&M School began within two decades to shift its emphasis to meet the growing need for teachers within the state. Its name and mission were changed in 1924 to Georgia Normal School as a training ground for educators, though it continued to accept “preparatory” or high school students. Five years later in 1929, full-fledged senior college status was granted as South Georgia Teachers College.

Ensuing decades saw additional name and mission changes: to Georgia Teachers College in 1939 and Georgia Southern College in 1959. Continued program and physical expansion, including one seven-year stretch, 1984-91 in which enrollment doubled from just over 6,000 to more than 12,000 students, led to a final transformation in 1990 to Georgia Southern University.

The growing demand for online learning has brought online bachelor’s degrees in business, nursing and information technology. Master’s programs are offered online in nursing, business, accounting, economics, computer science, coaching, kinesiology and a broad choice of education fields. A doctoral program in nursing is also available.

SWEETHEART CIRCLE

Some universities have “squares,” but Georgia Southern University has Sweetheart Circle. Sweetheart Circle derives its name from what students used to call the “Sweetheart Campus.” The rolling lawn of picturesque live oaks and pecan trees has played host to many important events in the University’s history, including countless marriage proposals and wedding ceremonies – a tradition that continues today. It is said that if you walk around the circle three times with your sweetheart, you are sure to be married.

GEORGIA!... SOUTHERN!...

Georgia Southern alumni and fans all know this famous Eagle “shout out.” Georgia Southern spirit is alive and well as fans and alumni make sure everyone knows who we are. Whether you run into a fellow alum in the airport, see a classmate at a restaurant in Atlanta or are cheering on your Eagles at a sporting event, the chant “Georgia …” — “Southern…” are the only two words you need to know.

CAMPUS RESIDENTS

4,467

STUDENTS

18,919

Watson Hall

• Professional Staff: Graduate Resident Director (1)

• Resident Advisors: 7

• Residents: 180

• Traditional style

Eagle Village

• Professional Staff: Resident Director (2), Graduate Resident Directors (2)

• Resident Advisors: 22

• Residents: 798

• Deluxe suite style

• Communities: Eagle Educators LLC, Lab LLC

Freedom’s Landing

• Professional Staff: Resident Director (2), Graduate Resident Director (1)

• Resident Advisors: 21

• Residents: 976

• Apartment style

Kennedy Hall

• Professional Staff: Graduate Resident Director (1), Graduate Resident Director (1)

• Resident Advisors: 12

• Residents: 414

• Suite and apartment styles available

• Communities: Geektopia TC

Southern Pines

• Professional Staff: Resident Director (1), Graduate Resident Director (1)

• Resident Advisors: 15

• Residents: 624

• Deluxe suite style

• Communities: Innovation LLC, ROTC LLC

Centennial Place

• Professional Staff: Resident Director (2), Graduate Resident Directors (2)

• Resident Advisors: 32

• Residents: 1001

• Suite and apartment style available

• Communities: Honors LLC, Golf Team

Southern Courtyard

• Professional Staff: Resident Director (1), Graduate Resident Director (1)

• Resident Advisors: 12

• Residents: 474

• Apartment style

• Communities: Baseball, Volleyball, Men’s & Women’s Basketball, Creative Living RLC

LIFE IN STATESBORO

Statesboro is the county seat of Bulloch County, GA and is home to all major municipal offices for the county.

Statesboro proper includes a downtown with government offices and area businesses, a newer and ever expanding retail strip along US Highway 301 and a range of residential communities. Beyond 301, which serves as an unofficial boundary, you’ll find a more rural and agricultural area. There are many local shops and restaurants for you to find. Statesboro is also able to meet your needs with a variety of shops and restaurant chains including Walmart, TJMaxx, Hobby Lobby, Buffalo Wild Wings, Belk, Longhorn Steakhouse, Chicken Salad Chick, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, Panda Express and Sonic. Statesboro is also the home of the original Zaxby’s. Check out more information about Statesboro at statesboroga.gov.

THINGS TO DO

Averritt Center for the Arts is located in downtown

Statesboro. This beautiful performance space is the place to see local ensembles, occasional traveling shows or take a variety of art classes. On campus, the Performing Arts Center is another place to see shows and performances.

Eagle Creek Brewery is Statesboro’s own brewpub. It’s a great place to enjoy time with friends, watch a game and take a sixpack home with you! Open Wednesday through Sunday.

The Clubhouse is 38 acres of outdoor fun and 42,000 square feet of indoor fun, including The Coca-Cola 125 Raceway with fully electric go-carts, a golf range and minigolf course, 24 lanes of bowling with four luxury lanes in a private suite, state-of-the-art arcade, and laser tag arena.

PLACES TO EAT

There’s a variety of different cuisines and dining styles showcased in Statesboro’s many restaurants. Sugar Magnolia Bakery & Cafe specializes in fresh baked breads and treats, both sweet and savory including breakfast pastries, cookies, brownies and much more! Del Sur Taqueria and Cantina is a Tex-Mex restaurant located in the heart of Statesboro on the famous Blue Mile. Del Sur is the perfect sort of place you hope to discover with friends. Their specialty is gourmet tacos with a southern flare. Fueled by the food journey of the proprietors, Soyumi was developed as a concept to broaden the horizons of its patrons as well as its team members. Coined from the phrase that’s exclaimed when something tasty hits the spot: “it’s so yummy!” they strive to provide an Asian-fusion dining experience that is unlike any other.

PLACES NEARBY

Savannah, GA is approximately an hour drive from Statesboro. This beautiful and historic city has tons to offer. Tybee Island, GA is the closest major beach to Georgia Southern at just over an hour from Statesboro. Tybee Island is a scenic spot to spend a day or a whole weekend.

Magnolia Springs State Park is known for its crystal clear springs. This state park is located 45 minutes north of Statesboro and offers fishing, biking, hiking, camping and the great outdoors.

Hilton Head, SC is known for its 24 world-class golf courses and wide variety of restaruants. Hilton Head is a jewel to experience and only an hour-and-a-half away from Statesboro.

LEARN MORE ABOUT STATESBORO

STAFF PICKS

Bites

Top’s China Express

McAllister’s

El Sombrero

Rolling Monkey

Nonna Picci Wood Fired Pizza

Interested in learning more about Statesboro? Scan this QR code to visit the Statesboro Convention & Visitors Bureau website. Get more information about places to stay, things to do, services, events, things to know and more!

INTEGRATION OF A RESIDENTIAL CURRICULUM

LEARNING IN THE RESIDENCE HALLS

Our staff know that living on campus is more than just having a place to sleep. It is one of the most impactful out-of-classroom experiences for students during their college experience. Because of this, our department is dedicated to providing a supportive and engaging environment which helps students succeed during and beyond their time in our halls. Our goal is to provide a space for residents to grow as individuals, connect with others, and understand the impact they have on their community.

In order to reach this goal, our department has utilized a residential curriculum model since the summer of 2012. A residential curriculum model is a specific method of delivering intentional, sequenced education in the residence hall environment to promote student growth and success. Stemming from an educational priority and department goals, this model serves as the foundation upon which our department operates. It influences our priorities, decisions, staff training practices, professional development plans and student engagement practices.

OUR CURRICULUM MODEL

Our department’s curriculum begins with our Educational Priority. This priority states that “students who participate in the residential experience will become engaged citizens and lifelong learners who actively contribute to the betterment of themselves and their communities.” In order to integrate student development theory into our practices, the model’s frame uses Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs as it’s Guiding Theory. Using this framework, our priority is broken into two categories of goals, Student Success Goals and Learning Goals, which each have their own Outcomes. Using a variety of active and passive Strategies (ways we engage with the students), we accomplish our priority.

Below you can see how our guiding theory frames our curricular model. Reading it from the ground up, you can see how these goals and outcomes work together to provide students with a transformative experience which contributes to their success personally, academically, and professionally.

IMPLEMENTING OUR CURRICULUM MODEL

To accomplish the goals of our curricular model, we use a variety of engagement methods. These strategies could be events, newsletters, socials, skills building workshops, staff development opportunities, participation in specialty communities and more. While varied in nature, they fall within four categories based on who is implementing the strategies and the strategy audience.

COMMUNITY-WIDE STRATEGIES

Our community-wide strategies are designed to help residents of a specific community develop a strong sense of belonging and desire to engage. They are implemented by our Resident Advisors, with the guidance of their supervisors. These strategies include:

• Intentional Interactions – Conversations with individual residents that are meaningful and tracked by the RAs for the purposes of identifying students who may need additional support and informing staff on the student trends happening in their complexes.

• Student Success [EM1] Strategies – Fun in nature, our RAs host active events monthly for their community to help them build connections and develop a community identity with their peers.

• Passive Strategies - Interactive, yet passive, strategies are implemented monthly by RAs with the direction of their supervisor. These could be newsletters, electronic communication, bulletin boards, and more which address all goals within the curricular model.

COMPLEX-WIDE STRATEGIES

Each complex (hall, apartment area, etc) hosts strategies specifically designed for their students monthly with the guidance of the Assistant Director of Residential Learning (AD ResL). The complex’s graduate and professional staff design and lead these strategies with the assistance of their RAs each month. These strategies include:

• Active Strategies – Each month there are two large-scale, engaging events for the residents of each complex. One addresses our Student Success Goals and the other addresses one or more Learning Goals.

• Passive Strategies – With the assistance of the RAs, each complex sends out monthly newsletters and educates residents on curricular goals through bulletin boards, door to door programs, etc.

DEPARTMENT-WIDE STRATEGIES

Graduate and Professional staff serve on one or more crosscampus planning committees for large-scale strategies each semester. These strategies focus on one or more Learning Goals, usually involve campus partners, and they are open to all residents. Some of our signature events include:

• March Madness / Spring Break Bash

• The Black Student Business Pop-Up

• Celebrate Savannah Week

• National Coming Out Day Celebration

• Night at the Selfie Museum

• Pop-Up Pumpkin Patch

• Haunted Housing

• Staff Appreciation Week

Additionally, our department is dedicated to the continued development of each of our staff members. Through continued development workshops, staff meeting mini-developments, and participation in self-directed development opportunities, we make sure that we are growing ourselves so that we can grow others.

RESIDENTIAL LEARNING COMMUNITY STRATEGIES

In addition to our general curricular model, we also provide residents with the opportunity to participate in one of our Residential Learning Communities (RLCs). These communities range from thematic to academic in nature and they are located on both campuses. Each RLC has additional learning goals for their residents and strategies for accomplishing these goals are developed by the RLC Advisory Board, which includes RAs, graduate / professional staff, campus partners, and the AD ResL. If hired and placed into a hall with one of these RLCs, staff can anticipate being involved in the following ways:

• Theme Communities (TC) – Open to all residents, staff tailor community–wide strategies to address the theme of the RLC. Additionally, staff host monthly events that address a RLC-specific goal.

• Living-Learning Communities (LLC) – Residents who apply to live in a LLC must meet certain requirements, usually major or campus program specific. Advisory Boards for LLCs include campus partners, who are involved in the planning and implementation of learning-based strategies (which sometimes includes a connected course Resident Directors may help teach throughout the year). RAs in this community will tailor their community-wide strategies to the theme of the community.

RESIDENTIAL LEARNING COMMUNITIES

COST OF LIVING

experience by joincommunity

(LLC) live together and participate program together. may be required.

Open to students with declared Education, this community opportunity to learn more the U.S. Education System and support to be successful in

Major Within the College of Common Course

students who have accepted an College, this community helps with peers, faculty, and uppersuccessful transition to college and

Into the University Honors

students with declared Engineering & Computing, this students personal, academic, and great way to build your propeers, faculty, alumni, and local

Major Within the College of

with declared majors in the Mathematics, this community proacademic support, engaging learnmeaningful faculty connections projects, and social events.

Major Within the College of Participation in Common Course

Tailor your residential experience by joining a specialty community

Below are the RLCs offered for the upcoming year, where they are located and more about how our staff are involved.

University Housing offers students the opportunity to shape their living experiences by participating in one of our Residential Learning Communities (RLCs). RLCs are a unique way for students to live with others who may have similar majors, who are involved in the same campus programs, or who share an interest or identity. Students who live in an RLC are more likely to have higher GPAs and a stronger sense of belonging to the university.

For a full list of each RLC’s requirements, application process, and to learn more about RLC programming, please visit GeorgiaSouthern.edu/Housing/ResidentialLearningCommunities.

For a full list of each RLC’s requirements, application process*, and to learn more about RLC programming, please visit GeorgiaSouthern.edu/Housing/ ResidentialLearningCommunities.

Theme Community (TC)

Army ROTC LLC [EM2] — Open to all ROTC cadets and military science majors, staff in this community give cadets a place to unwind, socialize and learn skills that will enable their personal, academic and physical success.

TCs are composed of students who live together in the same residence hall space who share a common interest or identity. Specialty programming and events are provided.

Location: Southern Pines, Statesboro Campus

We know that where you live is important, and the staff at Georgia Southern all have the things they love and enjoy about living in South Georgia. Many folx who are entering their first full-time position or graduate studies do not necessarily take into consideration all the costs associated with living on your own. Things like gas, groceries, entertainment, and taxes all factor into the cost of living. In South Georgia we are glad to boast a low cost of living in comparison to a majority of other locations in our region. This low cost of living, coupled with the remuneration for our positions, make Georgia Southern a great option for saving some money and even paying off some debts while gaining valuable professional experiences. We pulled our information from the NerdWallet ‘Cost of living calculator’ which you can check out for yourself at nerdwallet.com/cost-of-living-calculator.

Creative Living — Open to all students, this community allows students to share their creative passions, interests, and skills with others.

Location: Southern Courtyard, Statesboro Campus and Windward Commons, Savannah Campus

Creative Living — Open to all students, this community allows students to share their creative passions, interests, and skills with others. This community is ideal for those interested / majoring in art, music, theatre, writing, etc.

Geektopia TC — Open to all students, this community allows students to share their favorite passions and fandoms. Whether it’s comics, gaming, cosplay, anime, etc - this community is the best place to geek out.

Eagle Educators LLC — Open to students with declared majors in the College of Education, staff in this community provide students with the opportunity to learn more about the complexities of the U.S. Education System and provides them with opportunities to develop their teaching skills through connected classes.

Location: Eagle Village, Statesboro Campus

Global Crossroads TC — Open to all, this community provides domestic and international students with an opportunity to learn about other cultures while becoming a member of the Eagle Nation. Ideal for those interested in study abroad or majoring in foriegn languages, global studies, or international business.

Geektopia TC — Open to all students, staff provide students in this community with the opportunity to share their favorite passions and fandoms. Whether it’s comics, gaming, cosplay, anime, etc - this community is the best place to geek out with residents.

Location: Kennedy Hall, Statesboro Campus and Windward Commons, Savannah Campus

Healthy Living TC

Healthy Living TC — Open to all students, staff help residents explore healthy lifestyles and health-related career options.

Location: Windward Commons, Savannah Campus

Lead and Serve TC — Open to all students, this community provides students with workshops, events, and socials that help them develop their leadership skills, gain event planning experience, & engage in their local/campus community.

Honors LLC — Open to Honors College students, staff create opportunities out of classroom skills building and time to connect with peers, faculty, and upperclassman.

Location: Centennial Place, Statesboro Campus and Windward Commons, Savannah Campus

R.I.S.E. TC – Open to second year students living on the Armstrong Campus, this new community will help students get the most out of their sophomore year through peer networking, personal development activities, & professional development workshops.

Innovation LLC — Open to students with declared majors in the College of Engineering & Computing, this community supports students personal, academic and professional success through connected courses, workshops, competitions, and networking events.

Location: Southern Pines, Statesboro Campus

Lab LLC — Open to students with declared majors in the College of Science & Mathematics, staff provide students with academic support, engaging learning opportunities and meaningful faculty connections through common courses, projects and social events.

Location: Eagle Village, Statesboro Campus

TRADITIONS

Celebrate Together - Armstrong

Celebrate Together - Armstrong is a yearly event that features a festival of departmental and student organizations, as well fun extras that include a dunk tank, foam pit, rock wall, archery tag and live DJ, to bring together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community at large. The purpose of this event is to bring the community together and create a space where individuals can be proud of the network around them and the Georgia SouthernArmstrong Campus community.

Campus Partners are invited to sponsor a “GusMobile.” We will have multiple trips with partners to hand out free goodies, educational materials, and more. Our graduate assistants help support this effort and multiple staff volunteers are generally asked for.

PUPP (Pop Up Pumpkin Patch)

PUPP offers our students a variety of support and networking that meets their needs. During this event we had several campus and community partners come and develop good conversations around where their offices are located, what their department can offer our student population, and how to contact them. We also worked with a few community partners that provided activities that increase dopamine; these activities include hayrides, therapy goats, and bunnies.

Haunted Trail

Haunted House / Trail that also teaches students about safe sex, party culture, and campus safety. This event is a staple for our residential communities, as students love to come out and engage with Housing Staff in a very spooky way!

Gus Mobile

Drag Show

The Georgia Southern Drag Show is an event that happens in the spring semester to showcase Drag Artists that amplify the appearance of gender. For many individuals on campus, this can be their first drag show they have experienced in person and Georgia Southern departments help to create a space for the art of drag to be showcased. Though certain aspects change year to year, the key takeaway always stands: Find your community where you can be yourself! This event is highly collaborative with the Office of Multicultural Affairs and University Housing with many local organizations such as Boro Pride and First City Pride.

National Coming Out Day

Annual program celebrating Nat’l Coming Out day and teaching students about the history/identity of the LGBTQA+ community.

Black Business Pop Up

Celebratory event that allows Black (and other minority based students) the opportunity to showcase their selfstarted business, promote campus organizations, and more. This event typically includes campus partnerships with COB and campus organizations. This event allows for our students to engage in fellowship with other students and organizations, learn more about the network surrounding them, and sets up a space for residents and students to engage with like minded individuals.

TRADITIONS

March Madness

Each hall is expected to contribute a table to the event which focuses sex ed, alcohol/drug safety, physical/mental safety, and the importance of self-care. Includes campus partnerships with multiple offices. This event connects students to their University Resources while also having them network with these campus partners.