As the University of Utah embarks on an ambitious framework to build the “college town magic” experience, officials finalized organizational changes within Auxiliary Services and Student Affairs to enhance student life and improve operational efficiency across campus.
The changes, made with the U’s planning growth in mind, started to develop on April 1, when the University of Utah Housing department—formerly under Student Affairs, began to report to Auxiliary Services, led by associate vice president Jennifer Reed and part of the portfolio of the university’s chief operating officer, Jeff Labrum.
“This is the right step in turning our vision and goals into a concrete reality,” said Reed. “Our unprecedented growth in support of President Randall’s vision of a ‘college town magic’ led us to streamline processes, and making these changes will be crucial for our work in the next decade. We are excited for what is coming.”
Focusing on a more holistic campus experience, the decision entailed changing the name of the housing department to the University of Utah Housing and Dining Programs. Nested under Auxiliary Services, the department will now have the range to work with key campus and external partners in the future planning of new food and housing options, not only for students but for the entire campus community.
Final phase
The final and main operational change will be the separation of reporting between residential education and housing operations, taking effect this July 1. With the organizational adjustment, the Residential Education unit will remain under Student Affairs and will change its name to the Office of Residence Life. This separation allows both units to specialize while continuing to work collaboratively.
“While operational structures may shift, our commitment to supporting students’ well-being and success remains the same,” said Lori McDonald, vice president for Student Affairs. “We recognize how housing operations play a vital role in students’ day-to-day lives on campus, which is why we are committed to maintaining a strong, collaborative relationship with Auxiliary Services—ensuring that, regardless of internal reporting lines, students continue to enjoy a supportive and well-rounded residential experience.”
The Residence Life team, comprised of over 200 professional and student staff members, builds programs and creates events on campus, serving as the first point of contact for students in residence halls, while fostering leadership, belonging, and purpose. From a student accountability perspective, the Office of Residence Life has partnered on the conduct, care and support provided by the Office of the Dean of Students since last year, making this change a clear advantage for a consistent student experience.