Student Housing Mission Statement

Building learning centered communities through individual support and respect

Our Central Values

• We provide essentials – shelter, security, nutrition – and strive for excellence in all we do
• We promote academic success, growth, leadership, and participation in all our communities
• We foster unity and understanding while celebrating the individual
• We offer a variety of innovative and affordable environments through effective management

Inclusion Statement

We proudly commit to preparing our students and staff to thrive in a global community. We seek to understand and affirm all identities we serve to develop a culture where individuals challenge assumptions and engage in open discourse. Through representative staff and equitable policies we will continue to serve the evolving needs of our diverse communities.

About Lawrence and the Kansas City Area

Founded in 1854 by Free Staters, Lawrence has a population of more than 90,000 in a multicultural, friendly, small town atmosphere with many of the attractions of a big city. Beautiful and historic downtown Lawrence boasts more than 150 shops and restaurants. From high-end clothing stores to local specialty shops, downtown Lawrence has what you're looking for.

Kansas City is just next door and is world renowned for barbecue as well as jazz and blues. Kansas City is home to fine dining, the Nelson-Atkins Art Museum, the Jazz Hall of Fame, Chiefs football, and the Kansas City Royals baseball team.

Hear from a few of our current complex directors

Al.Jones@ku.edu
Alan Jones on supervision
“Supervision has been the toughest and most exciting part of my job. Being able to help coach new professionals into the field and watch as they succeed has been the most professionally rewarding aspect of my career thus far.”

sjohnsonjr@ku.edu
Steven Johnson Jr. on advising and student engagement
“Advising has been such an integral part to my experience as a full-time staff member. Being able to mentor student leaders, and coach them into being role models in our housing and campus community has been rewarding. My greatest success as an advisor was watching as my students implement an amazing recognition program, honoring both staff and students for their contributions to the housing community. The affirmation shared at the conclusion of the program was overwhelming, and motivated student leaders to reflect on how to make it even better in the next year. As an advisor, I find fulfillment in being able to focus on developing the whole student. Astin’s Involvement Theory describes how a students’ engagement with campus can positively contribute to their overall success. I find each day that as I am able to help students co-create their own objectives and learning goals, they are more successful as students and whole beings.”

pmfreeman@ku.edu
Paige Freeman on being an entry-level professional
Serving as a Complex Director for KU Student Housing has been an adventure! I knew that I would gain experiences that would strengthen my administrative, organization and interpersonal skills. However, I was not aware of the family that I would join as an employee. KU Student Housing is more than a place where I work, but a place that I call home. If you are looking for a family-oriented place that’s founded on professionalism, inclusivity and fun, KU Student Housing is the place for you. A family tells you exactly what you need to hear, shares the truth and adds value. KU Student Housing has done that for me as an entry-level professional.