Restructuring of Housing and Residential Education leads to new Office of Residence Life

At the University of Utah, living on campus is designed to be more than just four walls and a bed. It’s a lifestyle—a one-stop hub for support, connection, and growth. With a recent restructuring of Housing & Residential Education, the newly formed Office of Residence Life is ensuring this vision remains a reality while strengthening Student Affairs’ commitment to student well-being and success.

The change: As of July 1, Residential Education and Housing Operations formally shifted reporting lines. Housing operations now reports through Auxiliary Services, allowing for sharper focus on facilities and logistics. Residential Education, however, remains within Student Affairs under its new name: the Office of Residence Life.

This placement is intentional. Student Affairs specializes in helping students develop life and leadership skills through events, programs, and community-building. Research from University Analytics and Institutional Reporting shows that students who live on campus are 20% more likely to graduate, and the Office of Residence Life plays a critical role in that success.

Why it matters: By staying within Student Affairs, the Office of Residence Life continues to emphasize personal growth, belonging, and leadership opportunities—hallmarks of the residential experience. Resident Assistants (RAs) and other student employees benefit directly, gaining leadership and conflict resolution skills that will serve them long after graduation.

This restructure also strengthens accountability and care. In Fall 2024, staff from the former Housing and Residential Education department joined the Office of the Dean of Students to create a unified case-management system. This means student cases are now coordinated consistently across the university, ensuring timely responses and equitable support.

As part of this system, Resident Outreach Coordinators (ROCs) provide direct support to residents facing challenges in academics, mental health, finances, or housing. ROCs offer immediate help and, when needed, long-term connection to campus resources—ensuring students never feel like they have to navigate challenges alone.

What students can expect: With more than 200 professional and student staff, the Office of Residence Life will:

• Serve as the first point of contact for residential students, making support accessible and personal.
• Build community through both large-scale programs and floor-level traditions.
• Provide leadership opportunities through the Residence Hall Association, National Residence Hall Honorary, and Community Councils.
• Maintain a 24/7/365 on-call structure so students know support is always available.

Partnership across campus: Though operational functions have moved to Auxiliary Services, the Office of Residence Life will continue to work hand-in-hand with the new Housing and Dining Programs. Together, they will ensure that living on campus remains a well-rounded experience where students feel cared for, connected, and prepared for success.

The bottom line: This restructure highlights what Student Affairs does best: fostering student development, creating opportunities for belonging, and ensuring every student has the support they need to succeed. The Office of Residence Life isn’t just about housing—it’s about shaping a student’s journey and making campus feel like home.