Talking Stick Features 28 September + OctOber 2012 VOlume 30, ISSue 1 The Magazine of The associaTion of college and UniversiTy hoUsing officers-inTernaTional Building in a Sense of Security Beyond locks and alarms, developers integrate a number of features into their designs to protect students better. 37 The Importance of Assessment The University of Wisconsin–Stout has put the results of their resident assessment to good use, improving programs and student services. talking stiCk Symbol of International Friendship ACUHO-I’s talking stick, or speaker’s staff, was hand-carved of wood by the Ohiat Band of the British Columbia Indian Nation. Canadian ACUHO-I members presented it to the association in July 1973 during our annual conference at the University of British Columbia. The inscription reads: It is a sign of authority carried when proclamations are to be made or a meeting of chiefs is in session. ... A token of common heritage both to Canadians and Americans. Columns 6 16 Vision Are You In? Res Life Using Alumni to Energize Community Residence hall programs rely on alumni to bring energy and life experience to the community. 20 Special Focus Can We Really Have It All? Looking at different approaches to blending work and home. Departments 4 New Member Highlight Spotlight on Texas A&M University, Kingsville PLUS more than half of the campuses within the State University of New York system are revamping halls; learn how some campuses relax with a little game of zombie chasing; and institutions assisting troubled students online by the numbers. 8 Just In 24 Regroup Choosing Sides Sticking up for students without getting stuck in the middle. Cover: Fleming-Hovlid Hall houses 380 students. Hovlid was renovated in 2010 during the construction of the North Point Dining and Fitness Center. The two halls, Fleming and Hovlid, were officially linked to the dining and fitness center when it opened. Fleming was renovated in 2012. Photo credit: University of Wisconsin, Stout 13 Your ACUHO-I 14 Transitions 27 Calendar 44 Conversations Let’s talk about how campuses are taking shape within the ideals of the ACUHO-I 21st Century Project. 47 First Takes 48 Reporting Out 54 Welcome 56 Snapshot september + october 2012 3