WKU News

A delegation from Western Kentucky University’s Department of Housing & Residence Life attended the annual Southeastern Association of Housing Officers (SEAHO) conference in Charleston, SC, held February 27-March 1, 2024.  

The team brought home two awards from the event. Lana Kunkel, Director of Housing Operations, received the SEAHO Service Award, which is chosen by the senior housing officer of the member institution to recognize a staff person who has made significant contributions to residence hall students and the housing organization. Only one other professional from Kentucky received this award.  

“In times when the Housing and Residence Life department encountered adversity, Lana stepped up and provided the leadership and support the team needed,” Assistant Vice President for Student Engagement & Executive Director for HRL Dr. Catherine LaRoche said. “Lana cares deeply about the HRL team and WKU students, and that care and passion is on full display on our campus. She guides and mentors both our professional and student staff with a blend of wisdom, empathy, and strength.Under Lana’s leadership, people have clear direction and feel connected and supported. We are thankful to have Lana on our team, and she is most deserving of this recognition.” 

Kirsten Hooks, WKU Housing & Residence Life Marketing Coordinator, won the SEAHO Case Study Competition, alongside Jordan McLelland, an Assistant Director from the University of South Carolina Upstate.  

The Case Study challenged new professionals to consider their crisis response in a politically motivated situation including university officials and campus students. The team shared their case study proposal with the SEAHO Professional Development Committee prior to the conference. 

SEAHO is a regional affiliate of the Association of College and University Housing Officers - International (ACUHO-I). The association represents the dedicated professionals of higher education student housing in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. SEAHO advances excellence in housing programs and staff by promoting best practices, networking, professional development and involvement opportunities.