As we kick off the fall semester and a new membership year, this edition is packed with ways to connect, grow, and get involved with UMR-ACUHO. Inside, you’ll find:

• UMR-ACUHO Elections
• Applications are DUE Friday, September 12th
• Annual Conference Highlights
• Get details on annual awards, the Rail Run, live podcast recording, Connections Luncheon, school-hosted socials, pre-conference workshops for every level, and a lineup of exceptional speakers and presentations
• Conference Logistics
• Information on hotel accommodations, registration, raffles, and the silent auction call for items
• Membership Renewal Information
• Stay connected and engaged for the year ahead
• UMR in ACUHO-I
• Check out UMR's involvement in ACUHO-I for experiences such as NHTI and elected ACUHO-I positions
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Write for Perspectives: Article Submissions due September 12th
• Roundtable Conversation: Thursday, September 18th
• Webinar Series: Wednesday, September 24th
• UMR-ACUHO In Summary Podcast
• Empowering Future Student Affairs Leaders through STARS College
• UMR-ACUHO Annual Awards are Now Open
• Submissions are DUE Monday, September 29th, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT
• Call for Membership Advocacy Coalition Awards
• Continued Scholarship Opportunities

The Upper Midwest Region – Association of College & University Housing Officers (UMR‑ACUHO) is now welcoming applications to serve on the 2025–2026 Executive Team.

At this time, we currently have no applicants, and we would love to see our delegation represented on the Executive Committee. This is a unique opportunity to take on a strategic leadership role, helping to shape the vision of UMR-ACUHO, guide operations, and support committee work throughout the upcoming membership year.

Serving on the Executive Team means more than just a title — it’s a chance to influence the future of our profession, foster collaboration across the region, and expand your own professional network. If you’ve been considering getting more involved, now is the perfect moment to step forward and lead.

We encourage you to apply and represent our delegation!

Our Open Roles:

• President-Elect
• Treasurer
• Communications Coordinator
• Inclusion & Equity Coordinator
• Corporate Sponsors Coordinator
• Technology & Sustainability Coordinator

Interested? Visit the UMR‑ACUHO Executive Team page to learn more about open roles, review application instructions, and submit your materials: umr-acuho.org/page/execteam.

Apply by Friday, September 12th, 2025 to be considered!

We’re full steam ahead! Registration is officially live for the 2025 UMR-ACUHO Annual Conference in La Vista, Nebraska, occurring October 29-31, 2025.

This year’s conference theme, “Full Stead Ahead,” invites us to explore what it means to lead with momentum, navigate change with confidence, and keep our communities on track for success. Expect dynamic keynote speakers, engaging educational sessions, meaningful networking, and a few surprises along the way.

Look Forward To:

• UMR-ACUHO Presentation of Annual Awards (See Bottom of Newsletter on How to Submit Nominations)
• William B. Sweet Distinguished Service Award
• Robert E. Mosier Professional Enrichment Award
• Outstanding Mid-Level Professional Award
• Outstanding New Professional Award (Master's)
• Outstanding New Professional Award (Bachelor's)
• Support Staff Recognition Award
• The Drake Martin Commitment to Social Justice Award
• Graduate Student Social Justice Action Award
• The Rail Run
• Grab a team, follow clues, snap photos, and compete for prizes in this interactive challenge designed to get you exploring and meeting new people.
• Live Podcast Recording
• Join us for a live taping of the UMR-ACUHO Podcast featuring guest voices and real-time conversations from the conference floor.
• The Connections Luncheon
• Whether you’re a mentor, mentee, or just looking to build your network, the Connections Lunch is a great chance to connect—and includes a small gift for those who participate! Select this on your registration form to RSVP.
• School-Hosted Socials
• The Engagement Committee is encouraging campuses to host informal outings during open meal times to build cross-campus connections in relaxed social spaces.
• Pre-Conference Workshops for Every Level
• Exceptional Speakers & Presentations
• Opportunities to Grow and Connect

Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned UMR veteran, we can't wait to welcome you aboard.

Pre-Conference Workshops

We’re thrilled to officially announce two Pre-Conference Workshops in partnership with Gallup as part of the 2025 UMR Annual Conference in Omaha! These workshops will take place on Wednesday prior to the full conference and are designed to enrich your professional development experience from the moment you arrive.

Entry-Level Professional Workshop

• Designed for graduate students and new professionals, this session will help you better understand and leverage your unique Strengths. Expect guided reflection, practical tools, and a chance to connect with peers across the region.

Mid-Level Leaders & Senior Housing Officers Workshop

• Tailored for mid-level and senior roles, this session uses the CliftonStrengths lens to help leaders manage teams effectively and enhance organizational culture.

Pre-Conference Workshop Information

• These Pre-Con Workshops are included in your registration options and will offer a robust and energizing start to our “Full Stead Ahead” experience.
• Taking the CliftonStrengths online talent assessment is encouraged, but not neccessary to partake in these Pre-Con workshop options.

Registration Rates - Early Bird Deadline is October 6th!!! Register Now!!!

• Daily Registration: $150 | After Oct 6: $225
• Student Registration: $200 | After Oct 6: $275
• Professional Member: $250 | After Oct 6: $425
• Non-Member: $350 | After Oct 6: $425

To receive member rates, please ensure your UMR-ACUHO administrator has renewed your institution's membership for the 2025-2026 fiscal year prior to registering for the conference.

UMR-ACUHO offers an institutional membership model, making it easy for your entire department to stay engaged. When your institution pays a single annual membership fee, all staff members within your housing and residence life department are included as members.

This means everyone—from entry-level professionals to senior housing officers—can take advantage of UMR-ACUHO’s professional development opportunities, networking events, resources, and leadership experiences without any additional individual dues. It’s an accessible, cost-effective way to support your whole team’s growth and connection to the regional community.

Membership Fees

• Fall Occupancy 1–1,000: $55
• Fall Occupancy 1,001–2,000: $110
• Fall Occupancy 2,001–3,000: $165
• Fall Occupancy 3,001 and above: $220

We’re excited to announce that the annual UMR-ACUHO Conference will be held at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha–La Vista Hotel & Conference Center. This conveniently located, all-suite hotel offers comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities.

• Hotel room rate: $159 per night (plus tax) for a king or double suite.

Attention: When UMR-ACUHO secures sleeping rooms at our host hotel for the annual conference (commonly called room blocks), the property is carefully evaluated to ensure it meets our standards and can comfortably accommodate attendees and exhibitors. These room blocks provide negotiated rates at a discounted price. Booking through the official conference housing website not only guarantees your reservation is secure and meets conference standards, but also helps UMR-ACUHO fulfill contractual obligations with the hotel, which supports the association financially and keeps overall conference costs down. UMR-ACUHO does not endorse booking hotel reservations via sources other than through our conference housing website link.

The Traditions and Recognition Committee hosts a fundraising event during the annual conference to provide scholarships and awards for UMR members. Additionally, our ACUHO-I Foundation representative, Rian Nostrum, sponsors a silent auction to provide contributions to the ACUHO-I Foundation allowing support for ACUHO-I learning opportunities, like STARS College and other ACUHO-I experiences. 

If you have an interest in donating an item for the raffle or silent auction to help us raise money for these efforts, please reach out to Brooks Hetle, Immediate Past President, at brooks.hetle@ndsu.edu. Your contribution is greatly appreciated! 

The Vice President plays a vital role in ACUHO-I’s work. In the first year of the cycle, Derek will represent the association with external business partners, collaborate with the President-Elect to support ad hoc committees and task forces, lead constitutional review and revisions, and serve as the Executive Board liaison to the ACUHO-I Research and Educational Foundation Board of Trustees.

This is an outstanding accomplishment not only for Derek, but also for our region. Having one of our own in this national leadership role is a point of pride and a powerful reminder of the influence and expertise our association brings to the global stage.

The James C. Grimm National Housing Training Institute (NHTI), organized by ACUHO‑I, is an intensive professional-development institute designed for housing professionals with three to seven years of full-time experience. The 2025 session took place July 8–11, 2025, at the University of Washington in Seattle.

NHTI offers a unique environment—small group workshops grounded in the Core Competencies of the ACUHO‑I curriculum—covering topics such as budget and facilities management, human-resource leadership, belonging, planning and assessment, risk management, power dynamics, and current issues in higher education housing.

UMR-ACUHO Participants at NHTI 2025

UMR‑ACUHO boasted a particularly strong presence at NHTI. The following members were selected to participate:

• Aaron Nethery – UW‑Whitewater
• Emily Morgan – Washington University in St. Louis
• Paige Harris – University of Wisconsin–Madison
• Haley Doze – University of Kansas
• Todd Davis – University of Wisconsin–Madison
• Joey Gemuenden – University of Kansas
• Kaylee Skweres‑Lee – University of Wisconsin–Madison
• Richard Martinez - University of Missouri-Kansas City

NHTI 2025 Faculty Lineup

The 2025 James C. Grimm National Housing Training Institute (NHTI) faculty brought together a distinguished cohort of campus housing and residence life leaders—each bringing their expertise, vision, and impactful leadership to the Institute.

UMR‑ACUHO was particularly proud to have two outstanding members from our region serve on the NHTI 2025 faculty:

• Sarah Waters (University of Kansas)—Executive Director, Housing & Residence Life. Sarah contributed her leadership and deep experience in shaping student housing environments.
• Lucas D. Novotny (University of Nebraska–Lincoln)—Executive Director, Housing & Dining Services. Lucas brought a wealth of expertise in service leadership and operational excellence.

Join us from 4-5PM on Wednesday, September 24 for a webinar on rebuilding a Camps and Conferences program presented by Katie Ridgway from the University of Kansas.

Katie Ridgway is the Assistant Director for Housing Services at the University of Kansas, where she oversees Desk Operations and Camps and Conferences. With over seven years of experience at KU, Katie brings a deep understanding of housing operations, process improvement, and team development. Her recent work rebuilding the Camps and Conferences program from the ground up highlights her strengths in strategic planning, feedback-driven change, and cross-functional collaboration. Beyond her campus role, Katie serves on a regional committee within UMR-ACUHO. When she is not working, Katie enjoys spending time with her two energetic Australian Shepherds, who keep her active and bring her joy!

We also extend our sincere thanks to Roompact for sponsoring our webinar series through the Professional Development Committee. Thanks to Roompact’s generous support, we are able to provide honorariums to our presenters and ensure our community continues to benefit from engaging, high-quality educational content.

Join us from 3-4PM on Thursday, September 18 for a Roundtable Conversation on Student Leadership with MACURH Regional Advisors Casey Dworzynski and Kelley Robinson.

Empowering Future Student Affairs Leaders

Do you know undergraduate students who are curious about a career in student affairs, residence life, or campus housing? STARS College is a unique opportunity for them to explore the field, connect with mentors, and gain a clearer sense of their professional path.

This year’s virtual program will be held on October 5, 12, and 19, 2025 and will include:

• Large-group presentations that introduce the field of student affairs and housing.
• Small learning communities led by experienced faculty mentors who provide guidance and support.
• Networking opportunities with peers and professionals across the country.

Thanks to the Gary Schwarzmueller Endowment, scholarships are available to help cover registration costs. Scholarship applications are due Monday, September 29, 2025.

Additionally, UMR-ACUHO has the ability to support those interested in attending STARS College. To learn more about this opportunity, email Treasurer Matt Allbright at umracuho.treasurer@gmail.com.

We’re excited to bring you the In Summary podcast—created by higher education professionals for higher education professionals. Through thoughtful conversation and a variety of topics, we aim to share insights, spark ideas, and offer fresh perspectives relevant to our field.

New episodes drop bi-weekly, typically on Tuesdays, with occasional bonus content to enhance your listening (or viewing) experience throughout the workday. Tune in, reflect, and grow with us—and don’t forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe. Hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes!

Each year, UMR-ACUHO recognizes colleagues who make a lasting impact on housing and residence life across our region. Now’s your chance to honor the professionals and staff who inspire you!

• DUE DATE FOR NOMINATIONS: Monday, September 29, 2025 at 11:59pm CDT
• Submit Nominations To: brooks.hetle@ndsu.edu

• William B. Sweet Distinguished Service Award
• The William B. Sweet Distinguished Service Award is UMR-ACUHO's most prestigious award. The nominee should represent a standard of excellence through contributions and dedication to the regional and international housing association and profession. The nominee’s career achievements should leave a positive and lasting impact, and they should be viewed as a role model for colleagues and new professionals.

• Robert E. Mosier Professional Enrichment Award
• This award recognizes an individual in the Upper Midwest Region who has made outstanding contributions to the professional development of their colleagues in college student housing. The nominee may not have served in the highest levels of department, university or association leadership but has impacted staff within and outside their home institution(s). The nominee should have established a record of involvement in professional enrichment opportunities on their own campus, within UMR-ACUHO, and other professional organizations at the state, regional or national level.

• Outstanding Mid-Level Professional Award
• This award recognizes an individual in the Upper Midwest Region who displays outstanding ability as a mid-level professional in college student housing and whose leadership has impacted staff positively and significantly. The nominee should have established a record of contributions outside of their stated job responsibilities and shown a commitment to improving the housing profession.

• Outstanding New Professional Award (Master's)
• The UMR-ACUHO Outstanding New Professional Award is awarded in the Master’s and Bachelor’s categories. These two awards recognize an individual in the Upper Midwest Region who displays outstanding ability and potential as a new professional in college student housing.



• Outstanding New Professional Award (Bachelor's)
• The UMR-ACUHO Outstanding New Professional Award is awarded in the Master’s and Bachelor’s categories. These two awards recognize an individual in the Upper Midwest Region who displays outstanding ability and potential as a new professional in college student housing.

• Support Staff Recognition Award
• The Support Staff Recognition Award is designed to show appreciation to support staff members on our campuses (i.e., building service worker/custodian, administrative assistant/secretary, dining/food service employee, etc.). Every campus has deserving individuals who should be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the student housing community.

Are you considering attending an ACUHO-I sponsored conference this year? UMR-ACUHO is proud to support its members through the UMR-ACUHO Endowment Fund, which provides financial assistance to individuals from member institutions seeking to attend these impactful events. This scholarship funding can help offset the cost of conference registration, travel, and lodging—making it easier for professionals across our region to engage in meaningful development experiences.

If you're interested in applying for funding support, don’t miss your chance - apply today through the UMR-ACUHO Endowment Fund and invest in your professional journey!