Conversations That Matter: The Next Generation in Student Residential Facilities

Image of a student with a backpack on campus

Wake Forest University’s new residential facilities–part of the institution’s transition to a three-year residency requirement–are unique in several respects. First, they were designed to mirror the stages of students’ social development. For example, the new facilities offer a more communal atmosphere for freshmen, sophomore assignments based on “friendship groups” that students have formed, and apartment-style housing for upperclassmen.

Second, the design process included significant student involvement, including:

  • Student focus groups
  • Participation of a blended committee of students and administrators in the design process

Recently, we reached out to Donna McGalliard, dean of residence life and housing, and to Eric Moss and Bynum Walter from Ayers Saint Gross, to learn more about the decisions Wake Forest University made, and what other institutions can learn from their success.

Audio: Interview with Wake Forest University and Ayers Saint Gross

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