Housing Director Mentors Young Professionals About 'Physical Environments and Student Success'

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Takama Statton-Brooks recently mentored several new student housing professionals from various universities across the country. She is the director of residence education for University Housing.

Takama Statton-Brooks, director of residence education for University Housing, recently served as a mentor for the Southwestern Association of College and University Housing Offices (SWACUHO-U) during a two-day workshop designed for new professionals working in student housing.

SWACUHO-U provides a mentor/cohort-based professional development experience for professionals with two years or less full-time experience. Participants engage with peers and experienced successful colleagues to gain skills and competencies needed to be successful as they grow in the profession.

Each year, the SWACUHO Professional Development Committee selects eight focused topics intended to support new professionals in their work with students and staff. Topics rotate based on feedback from participants and trends noticed in the region and profession.

She was assigned to work with 4 new professionals and facilitated the presentation on "Physical Environments and Student Success" as her focused topic. This year's SWACUHO-U was held in Denton, Texas, from Nov. 6-7.

"Cohort coaches provide models of professional development to their mentees" said Don Yackley, chair of the SWACUHO Professional Development Committee.

With almost 20 years of experience in higher education, Takama Statton-Brooks, has spent most of her career advocating for students and operationalizing policies, services and programs to support students.

During her time at the University of Arkansas, she has grown departmental partnerships between academic units and residence halls. As the director for residence education, her work encompasses a broad range of practical experience such as leadership and organizational development, crisis management, student development, and student advocacy.

About University Housing. University Housing is a department within the Division of Student Affairs serving a residential community of around 6,200 on-campus students. More than 200 students find employment opportunities with University Housing each year. We offer educational programs that support the success of students and services that help students focus on academics at the University of Arkansas. Living on campus starts with a housing contract.

About the Division of Student Affairs. The Division of Student Affairs supports students in pursuing knowledge, earning a degree, finding meaningful careers, exploring diversity, and connecting with the global community. We provide students housing, dining, health care resources, and create innovative programs that educate and inspire. We enhance the University of Arkansas experience and help students succeed, one student at a time.