Living History
One of my favorite parts of working in housing and higher education is the connection it provides to a rich and storied tradition. My campus, Seattle University, probably is considered a relatively new institution, and we are nearing our 130th anniversary. So when I think about the role I play within the hundreds of years’ worth of history, not to mention the millions upon millions of people who have walked all these campuses, it makes me appreciate how I am a part of something much larger than myself.
I suspect that campus housing professionals who read the new book Living On Campus: An Architectural History of the American Dormitory by Carla Yanni will have a similar reaction. She is an art historian, so she addresses the subject with a different eye than many of us might, but throughout the book she explains the ways residence hall architecture evolved to meet the changing needs, demographics, and desires of students and campus administrators. As one reads the book, it is remarkable to note all the changes that have occurred, but, in many ways, it’s equally remarkable to notice the similarities that have persisted through the years. In this issue of Talking Stick we are fortunate to feature a lengthy excerpt from the book and also have her answer questions from our writers, and I encourage you to check it out.
Another rich tradition we all belong to is that of our Association. This year actually marks the 70th anniversary of the first housing officer conference. While ACUHO (no “I” yet) was officially formed in 1952, it was July 28, 1949, when 62 representatives from 33 campuses all met at the University of Illinois to discuss solutions and strategies to meet the influx of new students buoyed by the G.I. Bill. It was there that the attendees discussed ways to make housing safe, plentiful, and affordable. They promoted the important role housing can play in a student’s success. And they acknowledged the skill and knowledge they possessed as true housing professionals.
Today, as we near the doorstep of a new decade and a time of great change within higher education, it’s important to take time to reflect on where we’ve been as we plot where we are going. Our buildings may look a bit different – as do our student populations and the issues they face. But, in the end, it all comes back to providing facilities and services that best serve the students’ needs. If history has taught us anything, it’s that we find more success when we all work toward that common goal.
Alvin Sturdivant
ACUHO-I President
On the Cover
The Martha Cook Building at the University of Michigan is one of the historical halls profiled in the new book Living On Campus. Learn more.
PHOTO CREDIT: UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN