Cal State Fullerton’s Housing and Residential Engagement staff is committed to providing outstanding residential experiences and learning opportunities for students. Recently, one of the largest professional organizations on the West Coast for housing professionals recognized CSUF’s Housing and Residential Engagement for the positive impact it has made on the Titan community.
Each year, the Western Association of College and University Housing Officers hosts WACE, an annual conference designed to promote meaningful connections, provide innovative and relevant professional development opportunities, and serve its members. At WACE 2024 in Anaheim, CSUF Housing and Residential Engagement staff played a significant part in the day. Staff representing Facilities, Administration, and Conferences and Residential Engagement were in attendance. The following were a few highlights from day:
- Kafele Khalfani, director of Housing and Residential Engagement, was honored as the recipient of the Charles L. Miller Leadership and Service Award. Named after the late Charles L. Miller, the 30th president of WACUHO, the award is bestowed on those who “have made a difference in the association as well as in the lives of colleagues and the student population that the association serves.” Miller exemplified the highest level of dedication to the profession, and provided outstanding leadership and role modeling for seasoned veterans and new professionals. He was also known for his tremendous sense of humor. Khalfani embodies all that Miller stood for as a professional.
- Laura Martinez, lead custodian, was awarded a New Professionals Scholarship. The New Professionals Annual Conference Award recognizes outstanding achievement and provides encouragement to graduate and new professionals in the WACUHO region.
- Marissa Simonetti, community coordinator for Housing and Residential Engagement, was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for her service on the Southern and Central Student Leadership Drive-In. The purpose of the award is to give WACUHO committee chairs an opportunity to bestow a special recognition upon a committee member like Simonetti, who has made a significant contribution to the success of a WACUHO committee.
- Bri Guzman, community coordinator for Housing and Residential Engagement, presented a program entitled, “Melanin Magic in Management — Women of Color Career Advancement.”
- Jenn Ortiz, assistant director of Residential Engagement, is completing her term as vice president for WACUHO and will be serving as the annual conference co-chair for the 2025 conference that will be hosted in Lake Tahoe.
Cal State Fullerton currently provides residence hall and apartment style living for approximately 2,000 students that is safe, clean and convenient. Living on campus is an excellent way for students to enhance the educational experience. The 2024-25 academic year pre-housing application for interested prospective residents is now open. For more information, visit the student housing application process website.