Ever positive, Housing looks to hire

Associate Director of Housing Matt Lamsma believes that any employee coming into the off-campus housing department is diving into a phenomenal and exciting program. When previous Resident Director Greg Simons left Gonzaga shortly before the return of students, the remaining staff was a little skeptical of the situation.

"Greg was offered a fantastic job at his alma mater," Lamsma said. "It was a year earlier than he [Simons] had planned."

Residence Hall Association adviser Esther Gaines seconded Lamsma in saying they had no hard feelings toward Simons. "It's just an odd time of year," Gaines said.

This fall semester has brought the usual turmoil of new and returning students to the housing department. Nearly exploding at the trim, the building brims daily with residents eager to fill out forms and receive their keys.

"We've really had to deal with the nuances of the system this year," Lamsma said. He expressed the difficulty of fitting a multitude of students into limited space. "I had to open Corkery this year — it's just a learning process."

Gaines also agreed with this observation saying, "It has just taken up time that would have been spent elsewhere."

Gaines was outwardly complimentary of the staff. "Everyone has been pulling weight wherever they can." Gaines mentioned the hard work the CAs have taken on and how the entirety of the staff has tag-teamed to accomplish their goals this spring.

Housing has hired a temporary employee to help fill in the gaps, but compensating for someone who dealt so closely with the system and students has been difficult. Both Gaines and Lamsma agreed that what they really need is a new residence director.

"I'm looking for someone with the head of an MBA student for the business side of things, and the heart of a student affairs specialist," Lamsma said. "This person should be able to manage rent as well as help and coach students through the process."

Gaines was surprised by the large number of replies to the job listing and has conducted several phone interviews. Applicants were invited to campus last week for further interviewing.