HONOR AND UNITE
Celebrating 10 Years of the Residential Commons Model
History of
Southern Methodist University (SMU) has placed a strong emphasis on residential life since its founding in 1911, recognizing the value of on-campus living in fostering student engagement and academic success. The University's first student residence, the Women's Building (later known as Atkins Hall), was constructed in 1912. Over the following decades, SMU expanded its housing options, particularly between 1926 and 1964, when 18 permanent residence halls were built, accommodating around 2,500 students These residences primarily housed first-year students, with some halls evolving into themed communities focusing on areas such as Honors, Engineering, Fine Arts, and Service.
In the early 2000s, SMU began reimagining its approach to residential life, seeking to create a more holistic and engaging student experience The goal was to integrate academic and social aspects of university life more effectively, aligning with models seen at prestigious institutions that emphasize faculty involvement in residential communities This led to the development of the Residential Commons system, a significant transformation in SMU’s housing model. Officially launched in 2014, the Residential Commons introduced 11 distinct communities, each designed to create a sense of belonging and camaraderie among students while supporting their academic and personal growth.
the Residential Commons
The implementation of the Residential Commons required substantial investments in infrastructure. Five new residential buildings were constructed, while eight existing halls were renovated to align with the new model. Additionally, a two-year live-on requirement was established for first- and second-year students, reinforcing the University's commitment to an immersive residential experience. A key component of this initiative was the Facultyin-Residence program, which placed faculty members in each Residential Commons, fostering stronger connections between students and educators outside the classroom This approach aimed to create dynamic, supportive livinglearning environments where students could engage in intellectual discussions, leadership development, and social bonding within their residential communities.
By the 2019–2020 academic year, SMU reached a milestone: five years since the Residential Commons model was implemented To assess its impact and ensure continued success, the University conducted a comprehensive review of the program’s mission and effectiveness This evaluation resulted in a refined definition of the Residential Commons model, reaffirming SMU’s dedication to creating an inclusive, academically enriching, and communityfocused residential experience. The updated framework introduced core pillars that emphasize connection, leadership, and student well-being, ensuring that the Residential Commons remain an integral part of student life at SMU for years to come.
Today, SMU’s Residential Commons continue to be a cornerstone of the student experience, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging while enhancing the academic and personal development of students. The program exemplifies SMU’s commitment to providing a holistic education, ensuring that students not only succeed academically but also grow as individuals in a supportive and engaging residential environment.
Leading our
Faculty-in-Residence
Willie Baronet, 2020-Present
Rita Kirk, 2014-2020
Residential Community Director
Molly Brooks, 2022-Present
Lauren Anne Cove, 2014-2022
Faculty-in-Residence
Jack Levison, 2021-Present
David Son, 2014-2021
Residential Community Director
Lauren Eisenschenk, 2023-Present
Liv Johnson, 2022-2023
Madison Mucci-Ferris, 2016-2021
Cassie Luke, 2015-2016
Kate Bell-Miller, 2014-2015
Faculty-in-Residence
Leanne Ketterlin Geller, 2020-Present
Martin Camp, 2014-2020
Residential Community Director
Maddie Steele, 2023-Present
Lucas Watson, 2022-2023
Samantha Glasford, 2021-2022
Emily Kilburg, 2018-2021
Sam Gavic, 2014-2018
Faculty-in-Residence
Daniele Forlino, 2021-Present
Keith Robinson, 2018-2021
Will Power, 2014-2018
Residential Community Director
Macon Stockholm, 2020-Present
Mayra Salinas, 2017-2020
Tiffany Richardson, 2014-2017
Faculty-in-Residence
Maria del Pilar Melgarejo, 2023-Present
Sandra Duhe’, 2018-2023
Beth Wheaton, 2014-2018
Residential Community Director
Dylynne Dodson, 2022-Present
Kurtis Hawn, 2021-2022
Sarah Ballman, 2017-2021
Jon Hess, 2014-2017
Faculty-in-Residence
Justin Germain, 2023-Present
Alice Kendrick, 2016-2023
Mark Fontenot*, 2014-2016
Residential Community Director
CJ Schufford, 2020-Present
Ty Krueger, 2014-2019
Residential Commons
Faculty-in-Residence
Ashley Stone, 2022-Present
Jim Hart, 2019-2022
Mira Detcheva, 2014-2019
Residential Community Director
Greelie Bauman, 2024-Present
Maya Reeves, 2017-2024
Bethany Martindale, 2015-2017
Jerry Staples, 2014-2015
Faculty-in-Residence
Alberto Pastor, 2021-Present
Lilijana Elverskog, 2016-2021
Robert Krout*, 2013-2016
Residential Community Director
Roman Peterson, 2022-Present
Nate Faust, 2019-2022
Rena Gore, 2016-2019
Krystal Owens, 2014-2016
Faculty-in-Residence
Andy Graybill, 2019-Present
Tom Tunks, 2014-2019
Residential Community Director
Mal Williams, 2022-Present
Maria Schoppa, 2017-2022
Charlotte McCloud, 2014-2017
Faculty-in-Residence
Deb Branch, 2020-Present
Mark Kerins, 2014-2020
Residential Community Director
Elizabeth Turner, 2024-Present
Rylie Ackley, 2022-2024
Jessica Borne, 2021-2022
Nick Blair, 2018-2021
Katie Little, 2015-2018
Liz Rader, 2014-2015
Faculty-in-Residence
Carol Dickson-Carr, 2021-Present
Ann Batenburg, 2014-2021
Residential Community Director
Ryan Nelson, 2024-Present
Samuel Moore, 2022-2023
Alexander Jennings-Rentz, 2019-2022
Trevor Sutton, 2016-2019
Michelle Madsen, 2014-2016
*Robert Krout moved in and began his term a year prior to the roll-out of the Resiential Commons model
*Mark Fontenot served as the Faculty-in-Residence for Cockrell-McIntosh prior to 2014
Expanding the Impact
Since the start of the residential commons model, the program has significantly amplified its reach and influence through two innovative programs that incorporate high-impact learning practices in the residential experience. This comprehensive model recognizes that meaningful education extends service and learning beyond the classroom and prepares students to be engaged in their commons and local communities. By integrating structured learning opportunities directly into residential life, these programs transform living spaces into dynamic environments for personal and intellectual growth.
The Peer Leader Program
Academic Initiatives within RLSH facilitates the peer leader program through the residential commons Within the peer leaders, there are four distinct teams: Engage Dallas Student Directors (in partnership with Engage Dallas), WESTies (Wellbeing Education Student Team with the SMU Office of Wellbeing), Spiritual Life Mentors (with the Office of Chaplain and Religious Life), and Peer Academic Leaders (PALs with the Office of General Education). Together, this cohort of over 40 dedicated students designs and implements monthly programming within the Commons, creating meaningful experiences that enhance residential life while supporting academic success, wellbeing, spiritual growth, and community engagement.
Engage Dallas
Engage Dallas is a place-based community engagement initiative that operates through the residential commons In 2019, Boaz Commons piloted a program to partner with local community organizations to offer residents opportunities to serve the Dallas community. Since then, the program has expanded to all the residential commons and partners with over 30 non-profits in South and West Dallas The program employs student directors for each of the Commons and offers monthly group service events as well as individual service experiences and summer internships Through this initiative, the goal is for students to not just serve, but to grow in their understanding of what it means to invest in and come alongside those who are consistently working to care for the city of Dallas.
Commons Cup
The Commons Cup is a set of friendly competitions that promote commons pride and affiliation. The Commons Cup includes a variety of events, all included in four equal categories: Athletics, Intellectual, Community Engagement, and Creativity Each Commons Cup event is created to enhance the four-year residential experience, with an emphasis on building affinity to campus through the Residential Commons experience.
Athletics includes intramurals, field day style events, and competitions that promote athletic activity. Intellectual includes competitions that promote leadership, problem solving, or academic pursuits. Community Engagement includes competitions in which the primary purpose is to grow and support students, the commons, SMU, or greater Dallas community.
Creativity includes competitions that promote student’s artistic expression, originality, and individual talent.
Commons Cup Winners
2014-2015: Crum Commons
2015-2016: Armstrong Commons
2016-2024: Boaz Commons
2024-2025: Morrison McGinnis Commons
By the Numbers
Residents have lived in the Commons since 2014
Service hours since 2020
Armstrong-ing
You've heard of boulevarding Armstrong has Armstrong-ing. Friday afternoons in the fall, we head out into our quad, grill up a delicious snack, play spike ball, and throw a Frisbee or a football. This tradition brings together our residents and highlights our value of inclusivity
About our Namesakes
Both 1982 SMU graduates, Bill and Liz Armstrong received their bachelor’s degrees in geology. During their time as students, they lived on campus and participated actively in SMU-in-Taos programs and Greek life Liz as a Pi Beta Phi and Bill as a Phi Gamma Delta. Though they met in Geology 101, it was their participation in Fort Burgwin’s geology field camp that brought them together as a couple. Their interest in geology and exploration continued past their time at SMU and led to successful careers in the oil and gas industry and numerous entrepreneurial endeavors.
Armstrong Commons
About our Namesakes
Bows + Bowties
Once a year we invite the entire campus to join us at a beautiful off-campus location for a formal dance. The Boaz formal has a DJ, a photo booth, and desserts and is often cited as a favorite memory. We load up on a bus with our friends from other Commons and head out to a stellar Dallas location. In the past, we have hosted our formal at the Dallas Arboretum with an incredible view of the Dallas skyline. It’s a great night to dress up and enjoy an evening with all of your friends.
Boaz Commons
Hiram Abiff Boaz was the first vice president and second president of SMU He was born in Murray, Kentucky on December 18, 1866 Hiram Boaz graduated from Southwestern University with a bachelor’s degree in 1893 and a master’s degree in 1894 and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order. Hiram Boaz served as SMU’s president until 1922 and later retired in 1938.
Caroline Browne Boaz was married to Hiram Abiff Boaz and considered one of the "first ladies" of SMU after her husband became the second president Dr William S Tate is quoted as saying that Caroline and her husband had lives that were an example and an inspiration to the students of SMU Hiram Boaz was quoted at the dedication for Boaz Hall as giving credit to Caroline Boaz for his inspiration and success. They were married for 68 years.
Cockrell-McIntosh Commons
About our Namesakes
Cockrell Hall was named after Judge Joseph Elmore Cockrell (1859–1927). He was the former chair of the SMU Board of Trustees and was instrumental in the establishment of the Dedman School of Law at SMU. As the former president of the Dallas Bar Association, Joseph Cockrell began discussions with SMU administrators regarding the law school in 1919. In fall 1925, classes began at the School of Law with Joseph Cockrell as the interim dean.
McIntosh Hall was named after John Strayer “Dutch” McIntosh (1879–1945) Known as the “handsomest man on campus,”John was a professor of classical languages and head of the Latin and Greek Department from 1915 to 1945. He often played tennis with his students. He was chairman of the Faculty Athletic Committee and served as president of the Southwest Conference. John also led the graduation ceremonies as the University marshal from the first convocation in 1915 until he died in 1945.
The Cockrell Classic
The Cockrell Classic is CM's signature event. Once a year, we gather to celebrate the cooler weather. We're always looking for new ways to engage with residents and our theme evolves to suit resident interests. One thing is for sure: sweet treats, fun games, and good music creates a cozy and fun environment for CM residents to wrap up the semester!
About our Namesakes
Sylvie and Gary Crum have shown a commitment to expanding opportunities across the SMU campus through their far-reaching leadership and generosity. Gary Crum received his Bachelor of Business Administration from SMU in 1969 and was an active member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He went on to earn his Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin in 1972.
Gary Crum serves on the SMU Board of Trustees and the Cox School of Business Executive Board and has received Distinguished Alumni Awards from SMU and the Edwin L. Cox School of Business. Sylvie Crum is active in numerous civic activities in their home community of Houston. Graduating from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in French, she formerly served as the University of Texas System Board of Regent’s representative on the Intercollegiate Athletic Council for Women and is a member and former chair of the Longhorn Foundation Advisory Council. She also serves as a director for the United States Lacrosse Foundation.
Crum Commons
The Great Crumpkin is a fall tradition inspired by, "It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" a film by cartoonist great Charles Schulz. The Great Crumpkin is a fall celebration of the arts - we host a festival of film, music, and dance for SMU students to showcase their talents. While enjoying the festival, we also savor carnival treats, a delicious catered meal, and fun fall activities like yard games and pumpkin painting
The Great Crumpkin
About our Namesakes
Dallas civic leader Kathy Crow earned her Master of Business Administration from the Cox School of Business. In addition to serving on the SMU Board of Trustees, she is a member of the executive boards of the Cox School of Business and the Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development. She also has served in the Women’s Economics and Finance Series at Cox Harlan Crow earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin and soon afterward joined Trammell Crow Company. He has worked with Crow-affiliated entities for nearly 40 years and currently serves as chairman and CEO of Crow Family Holdings. He is a member of several boards of directors, including the George W. Bush Presidential Library Foundation, the American Enterprise Institute, and the Monticello Foundation Board.
During the spring semester, Kathy Crow Commons comes together to enjoy a tradition that combines good food, good music and good times. Crowchella is a student-led, student-talent-filled arts festival that highlights all things SMU and Dallas! Be on the lookout for your opportunity to show off your talents + celebrate the KCC crew each spring.
Kathy Crow Commons
Crowchella
About our Namesakes
Loyd Commons was named for Paul B Loyd, Jr (’68) and his wife Penny Requa Loyd for their generous $5 million gift for the new residential commons buildings. The gift was announced during the Founders Day Celebration in April 2012. SMU has benefited in countless ways from the long-standing support of Penny and Paul Loyd, Jr. Their contributions have impacted areas across the University, including athletics, student programs and scholarship support.
The Loyds’involvement at SMU includes Mr Loyd’s service as a member of the Board of Trustees, and both Mr and Mrs Loyd serve on several University boards and committees The Loyds received the Mustang Award in 1999 in recognition of their remarkable philanthropic support of SMU.
In 2012, Mr. and Mrs. Loyd provided a leadership gift for a new Residential Commons facility. Fittingly, the building is located near Ford Stadium, the home of SMU football and the Paul B. Loyd, Jr. All-Sports Center. These campus landmarks are a testament to the Loyds’ ongoing commitment to the many facets of the SMU educational experience SMU is honored to name Loyd Commons in recognition of their continued generosity
Llama Rama
Llama Rama is Loyd's Annual Fall Carnival. Loyd celebrates the fall season with food, games, and fun.
Loyd Commons
McElvaney Commons
About our Namesakes
Eugene McElvaney (1897 – 1971), McElvaney’s namesake, was the Senior Vice President for the First National Bank in Dallas. In 1939 Eugene McElvaney became a university trustee. Because of his passion and work towards the success of the university he served as the Chairman of the SMU Board of Trustees from 1952-1956 McElvaney also served as a university promoter and fundraiser, and was a major influence on the establishment of the SMU Press in 1937. Since his time here members of the McElvaney family have been an integral part of SMU.
Food, Fun, and Tie-Dye: before the spring semester comes to an end, we enjoy a taste of summer fun Part barbecue, part carnival, all fun.
Camp McElvaney
About our Namesakes
Mary Hay Hall is named in honor of Mary Randle Hay*, former SMU Dean of Women
Mary Randle Hay (1864-1953) was the widow of Stephen J Hay, the mayor of Dallas when SMU was established. Following her husband’s death in 1916, Mary Hay became SMU’s Dean of Women, serving from 1923-1934. Dean Hay’s leadership led to the construction of more housing for women student, and in 1927, under her leadership, all resident women students were able to move into Virginia and Snider Halls.
Peyton Hall is named in memory of George L Peyton, member of the SMU Board of Trustees. George L. Peyton (1884-1939) was a Methodist minister, director of Wesley Bible Choir, Professor of Religion, and member of the Board of Trustees at SMU from 1934-1939. Following his death, Leila Peyton Hall (1888-1972) finished her husband’s term on the SMU Board of Trustees. In addition to funding the construction of Peyton Hall in her husband’s honor, she also funded the Peyton Lectureship in Preaching Following her death in 1972, the Leila Peyton Hall Endowment was established in her memory as part of the President’s Scholars Program in 1977.
Robert Hall Shuttles (1878-1955) was a Dallas area businessman, churchman, philanthropist, and former chair of the SMU Board of Trustees.
MHPS Commons
Taste of Diversity
Taste of Diversity is MHPS Commons’ annual event designed to uplift our own value statement of Diversity, Harmony, Unity, and Integrity At this event, community members have the opportunity to develop an understanding of different cultures around the world through the best possible gateway: food! Cuisines from across the world, locally sourced in Dallas, are on display as students learn about the country and culture they come from along with student performances.
SnoMac Winter Festival
SnoMac is a large winter festival and celebration of the winter season. For the past 8 years, members of the Morrison-McGinnis Commons Council fully take the lead in brainstorming, planning, and executing an event that attracts 250-300 people from the SMU community Get excited for great food, fun activities, and other traditional components to celebrate the season.
About our Namesak
J. Ray Morrison was the first head football coach and athletic director for SMU. Morrison was responsible for building by hand the practice fields at SMU by carting squares of sod from nearby to the designated location on campus. He is remembered in American football history for his “Flying Circus”offense that helped popularize the forward pass, today a staple of the sport
Dr. John H. McGinnis was the first professor and original member of the SMU faculty. McGinnis, known for his “strength of individuality”(C.W. Ferguson, “The Other End of the Log”), was a professor of English, founder of the SMU Press, and creator of The Dallas Morning News’weekly book section.
Morrison-McGinnis Commons
About our Namesakes
Richard Ware, our namesake, was born and raised in Amarillo, Texas. Mr. Ware attended SMU where he earned his B B A and was the President of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity After receiving his M B A , Mr Ware continued a family tradition by making his career in banking. He became the president of Amarillo National Bank in 1981. The bank is still family owned and operated, as it has been for the last five generations. Mr. Ware continues to support the SMU community through his role on the SMU Board of Trustees. He also served as Vice-Chair of the Board from 2006 to 2008 He was recognized with SMU's Distinguished Alumni Award in 2008 and has been selected by the SMU student body multiple times as Outstanding Trustee of the Year. The Ware Family demonstrates a long-standing tradition of supporting SMU through remarkable generosity and involvement in areas which include student leadership, fraternity and sorority life, recreational activities and athletics. The Wares frequently attend traditions in our Commons, such as Conclave and Krewe du Ware. They love supporting our community and enjoy interacting with students.
Ware Commons
Krewe du Ware is one of our most anticipated and exciting community traditions. Each year, on the weekend before Fat Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, we host the best Mardi Gras celebration on campus right outside our main entrance, on the Ware Lawn Starting early in the fall semester, a team of students led by the Commons Council produces this event that is open to all who wish to attend. In the past, Krewe du Ware has boasted an attendance of 500 and continues to grow. From our crawfish boil to the live jazz band and street performers, KDW has something for everyone to enjoy. This whimsical, large-scale event also includes a royalty competition and many Mardi Gras activities, all designed and planned by student leaders in our community It truly is the event of the season.
Krewe du Ware
Virginia-Snider Commons
About our Namesakes
J. Virginia Hall is described as having “a gable over the main entrance decorated with an oval window and festoons of fruit and drapery” She is named for Virginia K Johnson, a religious and social worker in the Methodist Church who established an occupational training school for at-risk women in Dallas’Oak Cliff neighborhood.
Snider Hall has “a central gable sporting an unusual polychromatic elephant, purchased overseas by a benefactor of SMU, and festoons of foliage”Snider Hall is named for local real estate magnate C W Snider, of Snider Plaza fame
VieSta
VieSta is the signature event for VirginiaSnider Commons and is one of the most anticipated events of the year. This annual event is hosted by the Virginia-Snider Leadership team, which is comprised of Commons Council, Peer Leaders, and Resident Assistants. VieSta is an outdoor event that is hosted in the Health Center Quad nestled outside of Virginia-Snider The event is comprised of inflatables, food, and most importantly fun. VieSta occurs in the Spring semester and celebrates all the memories made throughout the year as a commons.
Our Donors
TheuniqueexperienceoflivingintheresidentialcommonsatSouthernMethodist Universitywouldnotbepossiblewithoutthegenerosityofourdonors.
Gary T. Crum ’69 and Sylvie Plangman Crum
Richard Ware ’68
Bill Armstrong ’82 and Liz Martin Armstrong ’82 and The Armstrong Foundation
Anita Ray Arnold and Truman Arnold
Harlan R. Crow and Katherine Raymond Crow ’94
Paul B. Loyd, Jr. ’68 d P R L d
Traylo
Craig A. Leupold a
Rodger F. James M. P
RC10Fest
Our celebration of the 10-year anniversary of the Residential Commons culminated with RC10 Fest. This unforgettable event brought together 550 attendees, including alumni, students, staff, and former and current faculty-in-residence, in a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
The night was filled with excitement and community spirit, featuring a variety of engaging activities and interactive experiences. Attendees tested their luck in the Human Claw machine, competed in carnival games, and got creative with build-your-own bouquets. They also had the opportunity to personalize mini stuffed Perunas with fun accessories and enjoy delicious offerings from local food trucks. A live DJ kept the energy high throughout the night, while guests selected their choice of commemorative RC10 apparel as a keepsake of this milestone celebration The RC10 Fest truly captured the essence of the Residential Commons experience fostering connection, honoring tradition, and celebrating the vibrant community within the commons.
Reflections from the
BeingaFiRwasan incrediblyuplifting experienceforour family.Weloved cooking,dining, visiting,andlivingwith students.Foodisour lovelanguage,andwe treasurethemany connectionsand memorieswemadein Cockrell.
-SandyDuhe’, CMFiR2018-2023
MyfirstfriendsatSMUwerepeoplewholived inthecommons.WemetatUmphreyLee DiningHallanddiscoveredwealllivedatMHPS. Fromthere,webecamefastfriendsaswe exploredallthatcampusandtheCommons hadtooffer-fromSundayNightSnacks,to specialevents,Boulevarding,andmore.Imet myhusbandatMHPS!Hewasoneofthefirst peopleImetatSMU.Wequicklybecame friendsandtherestishistory! OurFiR,Liljana, usedtohost"SundayNightSnacks"whereshe wouldbaketreatsforthewholeCommons.It wasagreatwaytoendtheweekendand preparefortheweekaheadasacommunity.
-RheannaOsborne, MHPSResident,Classof2021
Residential Commons
LivinginKathyCrowResidentialCommons(KCC)trulymademy experienceatSMUunforgettable.AsaResidentAssistant(RA) forthreeyears,Ihadthechancetobuildstrongconnections withmyfellowresidentsandbepartofanincrediblecommunity. SomeofmybestfriendstothisdaycamefrommytimeinKCC, andtherelationshipsIformedtheremadeSMUfeellikehome. Thesenseofbelongingandcamaraderieshapedmycollege experienceinwaysIneverexpected,makingeverychallenge moremanageableandeverysuccessmoremeaningful.Ahuge partofwhatmadeKCCsospecialwastheincredibleleadership andmentorshipIreceived.KathyCrowCommonswasmore thanjustaresidencecommons-itwasacommunitythat shapedmySMUexperienceforthebetter,andIwillalwaysbe gratefulforthepeoplewhomadeitfeellikehome.
-NehaHusein
KCCRA,Classof2019
Advice from
“Gettoknow communit includingy Faculty-i Residenc Participate muchasyou
eafraidtoleaveyourdooropenandtalkto ple-especiallyduringthefirstsemesterof herishthetimeyouhaveinthehallsbecause esoffriendshipsarehardtofindelsewhere.”
“Thelifeofthemindiscultivatedthrough interactionswithfaculty,studentsandstaff thatchallengeyourbeliefs,shareyour identitiesandcultivatecriticalthinking!”
Former Residents
