Alvernia

Orefield resident

serves as RA

In the fall 2024 semester, Alvernia University Resident Assistants including Alexis Cruz, of Orefield, successfully hosted 73 programs while balancing their academic pursuits, extracurricular commitments, and leadership responsibilities.

These events reached 1,081 students, strengthening the campus community and providing meaningful engagement opportunities for residents.

“I am incredibly proud of the dedication and creativity our RAs have shown this semester,” said Associate Director of Residence Life, Logan Houptley, M.S. “Their commitment to fostering community within our residence halls is evident in the number of students they have engaged. Each program is a reflection of their hard work and dedication for making our residence halls feel like home.”

Programming efforts within Residence Life align with key student development outcomes, including sense of belonging, health and wellness, cultural awareness, self-sufficiency, and academic success.

Through intentional event planning, Cruz and the RAs play a vital role in providing a sense of belonging where students can learn and engage with one another in a positive way.

Cruz came back with the RAs in January for spring training, which featured a new conference-style model that allowed them to focus on personal growth and skill development.

Beyond programming, the impact of the RA role extends far beyond event planning-it’s about mentorship, support, and developing connection.

“As student affairs professionals, we know that learning also happens beyond the academic setting,” Houptley said. “The work our RAs do directly contributes to student engagement and success, and it is rewarding to see the enthusiasm from both our RAs and the students they serve.”