The Office of Residence Life is responsible for administration and management of the campus residence halls and residence life houses. They coordinate the housing assignment, room changes, the implementation of all residential life policies, and the administration of the spring housing process. The Associate Dean and the Assistant Directors for Residence Life provide leadership, direction and vision for the department. The Area Directors (ADs) are master’s level professionals who are each responsible for the operation of two to three residence halls, supervising Resident Assistants (RAs) implementing recreational and educational activities, advising residential governance and administering the Earlham Community Principles and Practices. RAs are returning students selected and trained to assist students with academic, social and personal concerns. They are located on each floor of the residence halls and are available for individual meetings and to make referrals when appropriate. RAs also design and implement community building activities and educational programs for the benefit of their floors.

Earlham is a residential college with ninety percent of all students living in College housing. Whether living in one of the College's residence halls or in one of the College-owned houses, living arrangements are designed to contribute to an atmosphere conducive to learning and individual growth.

Residence Life programs are important in helping students develop skills for living that will last a lifetime.

The Office of Residence Life is located on the first floor of Earlham Hall, as part of the larger Office of Student Development.

Residence Life Mission Statement

Within the broad context of Principles and Practices the Residence Life Program is shaped by a view of residence halls and houses as learning environments. The most important learning that occurs outside the classroom takes place between students (Schroeder and Mable, 1994). The nature of the residential program is interactive and integrated to support strong community development. The priority is on student leadership and involvement. Students living out their daily experience in reflective dialogue with peers will support connections as they learn from one another. Students guiding the nature of the program is at the heart of this learning mission.

Outcomes

• Student Leadership and Autonomy
• Student Governance and Responsibility
• Student Interpersonal Confidence
• Student Centered Environment
• Students Supporting Students
• Student Community Development

Specific Program Components

• A student governance structure that supports student leadership and community.
• Housing assignments that support sustained community development.
• Programs that support academic performance and creative learning environments.
• Student led conduct systems for prompt student/community feedback that balance individual rights and responsibilities.
• Formal and informal interaction among diverse students, ensuring all student populations are engaged in community.
• Facilities that are responsive to students. (life, programs and learning)