Student Housing Matters

Join the Conversation is a podcast of the Student Housing Matters blog. The Student Housing Matters blog is about matters relating to on-campus student housing, as well as why quality on-campus student housing really matters. We want this blog to serve as a forum for sharing ideas and insights about how your on-campus student housing can do things beyond simply housing students. How it can be used as a more powerful tool to recruit and retain students on your campus. http://studenthousingmatters.com

Gray Bekurs Talks the Impact of Housing on Student Recruitment & Retention 07/12/2024

Transforming student housing spaces with Liz Toombs 04/18/2024

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Financial Reporting in Student Housing with Emily Hill and Stephanie Lachina 10/12/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Inside COCM's DEI Task Force with Dr. Mecca Marsh, Corey Reedy, and Kern Williams 09/29/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Inside COCM's DEI Task Force with Dr. Mecca Marsh, Corey Reedy, and Kern Williams "I think that the important part is making sure that we have a variety of voices at the table... looking at what their concerns are and their perspective. That's going to be important as the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) task force moves forward," - Kern Williams Join us as we celebrate COCM's 20th anniversary with the theme "Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Building the Future." College campuses are the pulse of the political landscape, and it's crucial to engage the right people in the conversations to incite change. On this episode of "Student Housing Matters," h, Corporate Support Specialist for COCM sits down with , Vice President of Operations, and Regional Vice President to introduce and discuss the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) task force at COCM. They share how the task force came to be at COCM and the significance of having a variety of voices and perspectives addressing the unique needs and experiences of ALL individuals. Listen in to learn how these professionals are navigating the complex landscape of student housing and the various means the DEI Task Force is employing to improve inclusion, celebrate differences, and create a welcoming environment within COCM. Topics Covered Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in education: How the formation of the DEI Task Force at COCM has evolved to support the holistic well-being of ALL employees Discover how the task force has adapted to include those in the LGBTQ+ community and to address a broader range of issues in the legal and social landscape The major accomplishments of the DEI Task Force over the past 3-4 years The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in highlighting the need for DEI education to address challenges in marginalized communities The role of the DEI task force in building a legacy and the future for DEI efforts at COCM How the task force is toward alignment with the school's values in a continuous mindset of improvement and forward movement How listeners can join COCM to be a part of the legacy Resources Connect with Corey Reedy Connect with Kern Williams Connect with Dr. Mecca Marsh Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/28180790

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: How COCM's Student Housing Calculator Revolutionizing Student Housing with Doug Brown 09/08/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: How COCM's Student Housing Calculator Revolutionizing Student Housing with Doug Brown “Housing is a critical activity that relates directly to the status of the university, and if it's not healthy, the rest of the institution is not either,” - Doug Brown, President, COCM Join us as we celebrate COCM's 20th anniversary with the theme "Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Building the Future." On this episode of "Student Housing Matters," Gray Bekurs, Vice President of Business Development sits down with Doug Brown, President of Capstone On-Campus Management (COCM) to discuss COCM’s implementation of the Student Housing Calculator for use in forecasting housing demand based on historical data and enrollment trends The conversation explores how and why the Student Housing Calculator was created, how the calculator simplifies what seems like a complex problem, and the importance of understanding the critical parameters necessary for filling housing relative to enrollment. Listen in as Doug shares interesting stories related to the use of the Student Housing Calculator, the outcomes on long-term planning, and how this innovative tool is helping institutions in the student housing industry make more informed decisions to manage housing resources more effectively. For more information on the visit or . Topics Covered Doug shares how and why the Student Housing Calculator was created The critical parameters for understanding occupancy and filling housing relative to enrollment Why the first time-to-college student product is so important The key indicators and data the Student Housing Calculator uses to calculate housing occupancy and yield The biggest difference between the housing calculator and market studies in determining who to build for in the future How the Student Housing Calculator helped one struggling institution realize they could close a building for renovations without a shortage of beds Why the Student Housing Calculator is available free of charge and how it will help people in the housing industry Resources Connect with Doug Brown Connect with Gray Bekurs Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/27976911

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Fostering Leadership Excellence with Dr. Sharon McDade 08/31/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Fostering Leadership Excellence with Dr. Sharon McDade "Strike up conversations with everyone you possibly can while you're at conferences, you never know what threads will come from them. Thank you, Doug, for talking with me on a bus ride, oh, so many years ago. And [to COCM] for being such engaged participants in addressing leadership issues for the fellows," - Dr. Sharon McDade Join us as we celebrate COCM's 20th anniversary with the theme "Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Building the Future." On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Alton Irwin, Director, and Chief Marketing Officer at COCM, sits down with Dr. Sharon McDade to discuss her involvement with COCM and the Fellows Program of the American Council on Education (ACE). , a seasoned higher education leader, is the senior executive leadership and search consultant with Greenwood Asher & Associates' leadership and strategic services, specializing in searches for educational leaders and organizational development. With an illustrious background, Dr. McDade's impact extends globally, encompassing diverse leadership programs, keynotes, and scholarship, making her a prominent figure in advancing leadership in higher education. The conversation explores Sharon’s experiences in leadership development and higher education and her interactions with COCM, particularly her engagement in the Fellows Program case study involving Pennyfield College. Listen in as she shares stories of her collaborative relationship with COCM leaders Doug Brown and others, highlighting how their expertise and innovative ideas contributed to the Fellows Program of the American Council on Education (ACE) and the impact of her leadership development initiatives within the higher education community. Topics Covered Dr. McDade discusses the role of leadership development programs in promoting leadership positions, particularly for women and individuals of color The impact of the ACE Fellows Program The collaborative partnership between Dr. Sharon McDade and COCM (Capstone) in enhancing the Fellows Program's case study including the Pennyfield College simulation Dr. McDade's transition to Greenwood Associates and her role in facilitating strategic planning processes for various higher education institutions The far-reaching effects of leadership development initiatives in the higher education landscape Connect with Dr. Sharon McDade Connect with Alton Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/27901926

Leading Maintenance Teams with Care & Respect – with Hermond Lawson, Chris Adams & Chenal Alford 08/25/2023

Leading Maintenance Teams with Care & Respect – with Hermond Lawson, Chris Adams & Chenal Alford What makes a Director of Facilities successful in leading their maintenance team? It’s more than just showing up and doing the job. And it’s more than just taking good care of the facility. Success comes from taking care of the students and staff as well, building relationships with them as people to make sure they have what they need to thrive. Chris Adams is Director of Facilities for The Village at the University of South Florida, Chenal Alford (better known as Al) is Director of Facilities for Millennium Hall at Towson University, and Hermond Lawson serves as Assistant Director of Facilities for Walker Avenue Apartments at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Hermond, Chris and Al join host Jeremy Steed to explain how they got their start in facilities maintenance at COCM and share their experiences working at different sites in multiple roles. Hermond, Chris and Al discuss how campus maintenance has evolved since the 2000s, describing why ongoing training is crucial for their teams and how the design of the facilities themselves have changed to benefit students. Listen in to understand how Hermond, Chris and Al build a culture of respect and transparency on their teams and learn how their genuine care for staff and students contributes to their success! Topics Covered How Hermond, Chris & Al got their start in facilities maintenance at COCM Hermond, Chris & Al’s experiences working at different COCM sites in multiple roles How facilities maintenance has evolved since the 2000s What Hermond learned from the students he was teaching to answer maintenance calls Hermond, Chris & Al’s appreciation for the support they receive from COCM leadership The ongoing education and training required for maintenance teams How Hermond, Chris & Al build a culture of respect and transparency among their teams How the facilities themselves have changed over time to benefit students Connect with Hermond, Chris & Al Connect with Jeremy Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/27850878

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: COCM's Early Days and Path to Success with Patrick Savolskis 07/14/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: COCM's Early Days and Path to Success with Patrick Savolskis "The great thing about Capstone is it gives you the ability to get some skills that you wouldn't have, otherwise, for years. Especially because in housing, it's not like you're back in the office somewhere, just pushing paper; you're right there on the frontline with students," - Patrick Savolskis Join us as we celebrate COCM's 20th anniversary with the theme "Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Building the Future." On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Alton Irwin, Director, and Chief Marketing Officer at COCM, sits down with Patrick Savolskis, one of the very early employees of COCM. is the Executive Director Purchase College Association at SUNY-Purchase. He has over twenty years of success both in higher education and private industry. Patrick spent five years in the privatized student housing market managing properties and working with development teams for new construction and turning around failing properties by building a solid staff and focusing on what was important at each property. During the conversation, Patrick shares interesting stories and reminisces about the early days of COCM, where meetings took place in hotel rooms, highlighting the company's humble beginnings and expresses admiration for COCM's growth. Listen in as Patrick reflects on what he learned from his time at COCM, the valuable skills he gained, and how they’ve served him in his work life post COCM. Plus, he shares his advice with new employees of COCM. Topics Covered How Patrick came to COCM and the roles he served in during his tenure COCM—the early days: small teams and humble beginnings Patrick’s career post COCM The value of working at COCM, learning atypical skills, and working for a family-like organization Why leadership that helps you succeed is better Patrick's advice for new employees of COCM Connect with Patrick Connect with Alton Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/27464643

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Green River College and COCM: A Partnership for Student Success with George Frasier 07/10/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Green River College and COCM: A Partnership for Student Success with George Frasier "I've really enjoyed working with Capstone. Capstone is truly a learning organization, and our relationship has evolved over time. I've never doubted that we had their attention. I appreciate that commitment to the project and making sure the resident life experience is where it needs to be," - George Frasier, Green River College Join us as we celebrate COCM's 20th anniversary with the theme "Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Building the Future." On this episode of Student Housing Matters, , SVP of Business Services at COCM, sits down with George Frasier of Green River College. is the Vice President for College Advancement and Executive Director of Green River College Foundation. George is a non-profit executive and development professional with 28 years of experience and is passionate about supporting the educational dreams and aspirations of Green River Community College students. George discusses his role at the Green River and the college's focus on meeting students where they are, helping them find their path, and the transformative power of education in the community college and vocational space. Listen in as George shares the significance of student housing at Green River, its integration into the college's mission, the instrumental role that COCM played in fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for students, and his personal stories and experience working with several COCM staff members. Topics Covered George's background and his role at Green River College What didn’t work, and the three partners that worked toward the integration of student housing into Green River's mission The pandemic’s impact on Green River’s international population and their adaptive changes The evolution and success of the management partnership with COCM and the importance of strong partnerships in ensuring student success George shares his personal stories and positive experiences working with COCM employees The transformative power of education in the community college setting Connect with George Connect with Masha Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/27416175

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: COCM and BGSU A Powerful Partnership with Sheri Stoll 06/22/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: COCM and BGSU A Powerful Partnership with Sheri Stoll "It was just this juxtaposition of people from very different places with their heads down working on stuff. And I thought, you know, this is going to work, and it's going to work well. And everything that we couldn't have hoped for, and more has happened. And I'm very appreciative." - Sheri Stoll Join us as we celebrate COCM's 20th anniversary with the theme "Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Building the Future." On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Alton Irwin, Director, and Chief Marketing Officer at COCM, sits down with Sheri Stoll of Bowling Green State University in Ohio, one of Capstone's esteemed long-time clients. is the Vice President for Finance and CFO at Bowling Green State University (BGSU). With a background in public higher education, she previously held positions at Kent State and Northeast Ohio Medical University. With over 16 years of experience at BGSU, Sheri has played a vital role in the university's financial management and strategic decision-making processes. During the conversation, Sheri reflects on her early career in public accounting, the unexpected path that led her to BGSU, and her behind-the-scenes insight into the vibrant campus culture at BGSU and its impact on the students there. Listen in as Sheri shares the dynamic partnership between BGSU and COCM, the challenges they faced along the way, and how the reassurance of having a trusted partner paved the way for their successful long-term collaboration. Topics Covered Sheri's early career in public accounting and pursuit of an MBA The campus culture and student experience at BGSU The housing management partnership between BGSU and COCM and the challenges they faced when getting starting The benefits of a long-term partnership and stable on-site presence brought by COCM The continuous support and resources provided by Capstone Connect with Sheri Stoll Connect with Alton Irwin Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/27233424

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Lasting Connections and Leaving a Legacy with Dr. Amy Lorenz 06/20/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Lasting Connections and Leaving a Legacy with Dr. Amy Lorenz "COCM is receptive to hearing from their team. So…speak up if there's something that you need or have feedback on. Most people are really willing to listen and work with you to help create something better."— Dr. Amy Lorenz Join us as we celebrate COCM's 20th anniversary with the theme "Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Building the Future." On this episode of Student Housing Matters. Alton C. Irwin, Director, and Chief Marketing Officer at COCM, sits down with Dr. Amy Lorenz, former COCM student housing professional and current Director of Residence Life at the University of North Florida. is a highly experienced professional in the field of student housing. In her current role at the University of North Florida, she oversees the residence life team, including the Assistant Directors of Residence Life and the Residence Life Coordinator of Educational Initiatives. As a valued member of the Housing and Residence Life Senior Leadership team, Amy brings a wealth of expertise to her position. During her conversation with Alton, Amy reflects on her time at COCM, the memorable traditions and the lasting connections she made with colleagues across multiple campuses, and her active participation in women's leadership. Listen in to learn more about Amy's journey with COCM, her journey from COCM to the University of North Florida her current role as the Director of Residence Life, and her valuable advice for new COCM employees. Topics Covered Introduction to Dr. Amy Lorenz and her roles with COCM at Marshall University and Bowling Green State University Amy shares memorable experiences, traditions, and stories about women's leadership initiatives during her time at COCM The transition to the University of North Florida and Amy’s current role as Director of Residence Life Amy’s advice for new COCM employees Connect with Dr. Amy Lorenz Connect with Alton Irwin Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/27200073

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Professional Development, Relationships, and the Power of Campus Living with Erik Elordi 06/16/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Professional Development, Relationships, and the Power of Campus Living with Erik Elordi "You've got something unique here with COCM with so many different types of schools. One of the things I loved about COCM is the ability to move on within the company and grow and progress. I would really encourage people to do that as much as possible. It's really worth it,"— Erik Elordi Join us as we celebrate COCM's 20th anniversary with the theme "honoring the past, celebrating the present, and building the future." On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Alton C. Irwin, Director and Chief Marketing Officer at COCM, sits down with Erik Elordi, a former COCM staff member and now the Director of Campus Services at the University of Idaho. Erik shares his journey of how he came to work with Capstone On-Campus Management (COCM), his initial hesitation in working for a third-party company, and the story of what made him decide to apply. He discusses his various roles within the company, the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how he utilized his skills in different ways to support the company. Listen in to learn about his experience at COCM and the organization's impact on student outcomes. Plus, what his current role as Director of Campus Services at the University of Idaho entails and his advice as a former COCM employee for employees new to the company. Topics Covered Erik's introduction and his journey to COCM Erik shares his initial hesitation about working for a third-party company and the story of what convinced him to apply The challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic Erik's role at the University of Idaho as the Director of Campus Services The impact of COCM and on-campus housing on student outcomes and graduation COCM’s support for professional development and the all-around person Erik shares his advice for new employees at COCM Connect with Erik Connect with Alton Irwin Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/27168168

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: From Unexpected Hire to Key Player with Tamiko Thompson 05/23/2023

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: From Unexpected Hire to Key Player with Tamiko Thompson "I may not have direct contact with our clients and owners and residents, but when I can fix a problem, or solve an issue for someone, that's what gives me satisfaction every day," — Tamiko Thompson Join us as we celebrate COCM's 20th anniversary with the theme "honoring the past, celebrating the present, and building the future." On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Kern Williams, COCM's Regional Vice President, sits down with Tamiko Thompson, Accounts Payable Manager, who has been with COCM since March 1997. Tamiko shares the story of her unexpected hiring at COCM and her initial impression of the company. Then she reflects on the evolution and remarkable changes she has witnessed over the years, with a focus on the transformative impact of technology on the accounts payable process. Gain valuable insights from Tamiko's extensive experience as she shares the essential role of remarkable service, the unwavering commitment to excellence in student housing management, and her anticipation for what lies ahead at COCM. Plus, discover what brings her the greatest satisfaction in her role as the Accounts Payable Manager. Topics Covered Tamiko shares her journey to COCM and her initial impressions of the company Tamiko's role as the Accounts Payable Manager and the daily functions of the AP process The changes Tamiko has witnessed over the years, including technological advancements and the vendor verification process How COCM has evolved over the years by embracing innovation while maintaining a strong focus on exceptional service The #1 thing that brings Tamiko satisfaction in her job The significance of remarkable service and its impact on client satisfaction Tamiko’s anticipation for the future at COCM, including plans for continued growth and success How COCM's 20th-anniversary celebration reflects the company's commitment to progress and excellence in student housing management Connect with Tamiko and Kern Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/26924436

20 Years of Growth and Innovation: Celebrating COCM's Impact on Student Housing 05/19/2023

20 Years of Growth and Innovation: Celebrating COCM's Impact on Student Housing In this episode of the Student Housing Matters Podcast, host , Chief Marketing Officer celebrates the 20th anniversary of Capstone On-Campus Management by looking back at the company's early days. He is joined by three longtime employees of COCM: is the President and Founder of COCM. Doug's passion for higher education and dedication to fostering partnerships have been instrumental in shaping COCM's success. His visionary leadership has led the company to become a leader in managing student housing, challenging industry norms, and setting new standards along the way. , the Regional Vice President at COCM, drives growth and exceeds expectations through exceptional leadership. With a talent for building strong university relationships and mentoring her team, Michelle's contributions have made a lasting impact on the student housing industry. the Senior Vice President for Business Systems at COCM, brings extensive expertise and invaluable insights to the company. Marsha's commitment to innovation and ability to navigate complex challenges have made her an invaluable asset to COCM's success in the dynamic student housing landscape. The discussion kicks off with the guests sharing how they came to join COCM, and Doug shares a behind-the-scenes look at the events that led him to establish COCM. The conversation then delves into memorable moments from the early days of COCM and reflections on the company's growth and the importance of promoting from within. Join Alton and the guests as they reflect on the journey of COCM, from its humble beginnings to becoming a leader in managing student housing. Hear their stories, insights, and the lessons they've learned along the way. Topics Covered Reflecting on 20 years: celebrating COCM's journey of success, innovation, and impact The journey begins: how COCM found its footing in the student housing industry Insights into the early days of hiring at COCM How COCM built strong relationships with universities Revolutionizing the approach to managing student housing programs The key to transforming troubled projects into success stories Nurturing talent and cultivating long-term employee success How COCM provides career acceleration and diverse exposure Sharing the lessons learned: wisdom and advice for new employees entering the student housing field Connect with Doug Brown Connect with Michelle Smith Connect with Marsha Sapper Connect with Alton Irwin Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/26887236

Creating a Positive Living Experience - with COCM's Maria Saad 02/21/2023

Creating a Positive Living Experience - with COCM's Maria Saad For Maria Saad, of the COCM team providing guidance and making a positive impact on students' lives is not just a job—it's a passion. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Maria sits down to share her insights on the student housing industry. As someone who believes that 'it's more of a learning experience for the students,' Maria shares why she ‘is passionate about providing guidance and making a positive impact on student's lives and why, for her, 'it's all about the experience' and 'making that connection' with students. In this episode, Maria takes us on a journey through her experiences from her multifamily background to her current role at CSCM. We discuss the challenges facing the industry today and Maria shares her wisdom on how to create a successful student housing experience that goes beyond the classroom and the importance of providing guidance and teaching moments for students who are living on their own for the first time. Maria also shares her experience attending Lease Con and the profound impact it had on her approach to creating a positive living experience for students. She shares several strategies for personifying the brand and becoming the experience, which is the biggest focus for her and her team in driving growth and making a connection with students. Listen in to hear Maria's unique perspective on the importance of creating a positive living experience for students and the impact it can have on their lives. Topics Covered Maria shares her background in multifamily housing and transition to student housing The importance of providing guidance and teaching moments for students The impact attending Lease Con had on Maria The importance of transparency in student housing How Maria and her team approach creating a positive living experience for students Key strategies for becoming the experience and personifying the brand in student housing The impact that Maria hopes to leave on the student housing industry. Connect with Brittany Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/25994190

Introducing COCM’s New EVP of Operations – with Jeremy Biddy 01/19/2023

Introducing COCM’s New EVP of Operations – with Jeremy Biddy “It's been an interesting, interesting time since early spring of 2020. And I think what we have learned are some lessons about how we can better provide service for both our students and our employees… Those folks on the front line really are the key to our success. We know that, and we're going to work really hard to make sure they understand that we understand that.” —Jeremy Biddy is the new Executive Vice President of Operations at COCM. He began his professional career working to prevent shoplifting at Kmart before transitioning to an opportunity in student housing at Spring Hill College in July of 2002. In 2008, Jeremy joined the team at COCM, where he has served as Site Director, Regional Manager, Regional Vice President and Senior Vice President of Operations. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Jeremy joins host Alton Irwin to share his journey from Kmart to COCM, discussing some of his mentors in student housing and what they taught him about putting students and staff first. Jeremy describes what he is most looking forward to in his new role, sharing his goals around applying best practices across the COCM portfolio and leveraging technology to work smarter, not harder. Listen in to understand Jeremy’s commitment to delivering top-notch service and learn how he plans to support students and staff as COCM’s new EVP of Operations! Topics Covered Jeremy’s first job out of undergrad as District Loss Prevention Manager for Kmart What inspired Jeremy to pursue an opportunity in the Housing Department at Spring Hill College Jeremy’s many roles at COCM since he joined the team in July 2008 Some of Jeremy’s mentors in student housing and what he learned from them about putting students and staff first What Jeremy is most looking forward to in his new role as EVP of Operations at COCM Jeremy’s goals to apply best practices across the COCM portfolio and leverage technology to work smarter, not harder Jeremy’s commitment to support sites in delivering top-notch service Connect with Jeremy Connect with Alton Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/25608738

From Desk Attendant to EVP of Operations, a Look Back-with Sandy Hill 12/29/2022

Web3 and Using Smart Contracts in Student Housing with Michael Huereque - with Michael Huereque 12/13/2022

Web3 and Using Smart Contracts in Student Housing with Michael Huereque - with Michael Huereque Web3 is coming and it will revolutionize the internet and how we transact business in all aspects of our lives. In the student housing arena, technologies like blockchain and smart contracts can offer digital credentialing, making the real estate process faster, more efficient, and even more secure. But, like with all new technologies, many new terminologies are being bandied about, with more questions than answers. So how can we begin to understand these technologies and how they will be employed in student housing? is an entrepreneur with unique experiences in traditional and non-traditional media and marketing. As the founder and former executive vice president at Agency Fifty3, Michael managed marketing services for over 1000 communities and helped the agency bring home 68 awards and six years, including being voted a top place to work. For the last two years, Michael has switched gears, taking a deep dive into studying Web3 and how it will drastically change the way we do business in the future. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Michael joins host Brittany Pieper to discuss what Web3 is and his mission to bring it into the multifamily and student housing industry. Listen in for Michael's insight on technologies such as blockchain and smart contracts and how they work in student housing. He'll share how student housing industry leaders can prepare to use these new technologies to recruit and retain residents. Plus, why he wants to use blockchain to revolutionize the way things work in multifamily housing. Topics Covered Michael shares what Web3 is How blockchain works How smart contracts originated with the invention of vending machines How smart contracts streamline the contractual process in real estate How industries like healthcare are already successfully using smart contracts The difference between a centralized and a decentralized system Why decentralized is a safer alternative for your crypto wallet The possible applications for the metaverse for multifamily and student housing and the resident experience How industry leaders can prepare to recruit and retain residents using these new technologies Why Michael wants to revolutionize the way things work in multifamily housing Connect with Michael Connect with Brittany Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/25168254

Advocating for Gender Equality Through the COCM Women’s Alliance - with Hannah Mountford 11/29/2022

Advocating for Gender Equality Through the COCM Women’s Alliance - with Hannah Mountford Sexism, racism, and economic and educational inequality are just some of the significant challenges and barriers women face today. There are gender injustices everywhere, and women often struggle to make their voices heard. So, what can student housing organizations do to make gender equality a priority? Hannah Mountford serves as the Director of Facilities and Operations at Roundtree commons. As a hard-working team player, she takes great pride in her master’s degree focused on Counseling Education with an emphasis on Student Affairs from Mississippi State University. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Hannah joins host Brittany Pieper to discuss why she chose COCM, the importance behind her position within the Women's Alliance, and the impact the Women's Alliance has on the student housing industry. Hannah shares several examples of how the Women's Alliance is creating a safe space for members of COCM to share concerns, network, and champion one another. Listen in for Hannah's insight on how the Women's Alliance advocates for women by bringing people together and helping them feel valued and recognized, giving them a voice so the critical conversations that need to happen for more equality can happen. Topics Covered How she came to be the Director of Facilities at COCM in Plattville, Wisconsin Why COCM was the right choice for her at this point in her career What the Women's Alliance at COCM is Why Hannah wanted to become involved in the COCM Women's Alliance How the Women's Alliance helps create a safe space for members of COCM to champion for one another The impact Hannah hopes to make with her involvement with the Women's Alliance How cultivating connections in a safe space can help vital gender equality conversations take place Why transparency is critical in student housing Hannah shares her goals for the Women's Alliance and COCM Connect with Hannah Connect with Brittany Email /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/25152324

Immersive Marketing for Student Housing – with Rami Kalla 09/06/2022

Immersive Marketing for Student Housing – with Rami Kalla It’s one thing to see photos or even watch a two-dimensional video of a student housing complex you’re interested in. But what if you could experience what it’s like to walk around the apartment, sit by the pool and even play cornhole with other students on the property—from anywhere in the world? Or even well before the property is built? Rami Kalla is Founder of , an award-winning video production company and marketing firm that creates engaging content, photo-realistic renderings and VR tours for several well-known brands in the student housing space. With a goal to help clients maximize their content across all channels and put more heads in beds, Rami and his team have helped clients successfully recruit and retain students year after year. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Rami joins host Brittany Oliver to explore how immersive marketing takes people to another world and explain why it’s a game changer for marketing in the student housing space. Rami discusses the future of immersive technology, describing how VR glasses are likely to evolve and what the hardware will be capable of in the years to come. Listen in for Rami’s insight on lifestyle photography as a marketing strategy in student housing and learn how Point in Time’s technology can help your company or organization meet its lease-up goals. Topics Covered How Rami’s early passion for film translated to a career in marketing for student housing How immersive marketing takes people away to another world Rami’s first experience with virtual reality and why he knew it would be a game changer for marketing How VR allows students to experience an apartment and its amenities well before it's built in a fully immersive, hyper-realistic environment The future of immersive technology and how it’s likely to affect student housing How VR and AR glasses are likely to evolve and what the hardware will be capable of How Rami thinks about people who are slow to adopt immersive technology and want a human touch How Point in Time’s technology helps companies and organizations meet their heads-in-beds goals Why Gen Z responds to lifestyle photography as a marketing strategy A case study of how Point in Time helped a client explain roommate matching through 15-second animated videos Connect with Rami Email Connect with Brittany Email Resources /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/24281832

Dynamic Women in Leadership – with Erica Steele 07/29/2022

Proptech to Serve Student Housing – with Chase Minnifield & Lincoln Ogata of EZ Turn 06/21/2022

Proptech to Serve Student Housing – with Chase Minnifield & Lincoln Ogata of EZ Turn Do you seem to have the same issues with turn year after year? Are you still using paper lists? And communicating with vendors in a fragmented way? What if you could use a proptech platform to streamline the process, making turn season (and many other aspects of your student housing operations) run much more smoothly? CEO Chase Minnifield and COO Lincoln Ogata are the cofounders of , the world’s first property project management software. The EZ Turn web portal and mobile app helps student housing professionals manage the day-to-day operations of their facilities, including the turn process, quarterly inspections, scheduling and communication with students and service providers. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Chase and Lincoln join host Brittany Pieper to discuss the challenges the student housing industry faces in terms of maintenance and operations and describe how sites of any size can benefit from EZ Turn technology. Chase and Lincoln explore why the current generation of students demands more from operations teams, offering advice on how to communicate with residents and give them an avenue to air complaints. Listen in for Chase and Lincoln’s insight on automating the turn process and leveraging proptech data to make it faster, easier and more efficient! Topics Covered How Chase’s experience as a turn services vendor inspired him to build EZ Turn How Lincoln’s background in the Navy’s construction battalion led him to student housing EZ Turn’s role as the original property project management tool and why it’s useful for a site of any size The challenges the student housing industry faces in executing quarterly inspections Why the current generation of students demands more from operations teams Chase & Lincoln’s advice on communicating with students and giving them an avenue to air complaints Chase & Lincoln’s predictions re: disruptions likely to change student housing operations Chase & Lincoln’s experience running a minority-owned business Automating the turn process and leveraging data to make it faster, easier and more efficient The impact Chase & Lincoln want to have on student housing and proptech Connect with Chase & Lincoln Connect with Brittany Email Resources /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/23430671

Storytelling for Student Housing – with F.J. Talley 05/19/2022

Storytelling for Student Housing – with F.J. Talley Storytelling is a powerful teaching tool. It helps us engage with history and make sense of complex ideas. Telling stories is also an effective way to demonstrate the value of a business or organization and help consumers make informed decisions. So, what does that mean for us in the student housing industry? How can we best use storytelling to communicate with students, their parents and each other? is a career educator with more than 40 years of experience. He began his career in student affairs and has since served as Dean of Students, Adjunct Professor, Associate Provost and President of a small college in Michigan. Seven years ago, F.J. added published author and professional copywriter to his resume, penning several novels as well as a blog entitled . F.J. also writes blogs, e-newsletters and case studies for businesses selling to colleges and universities. His first non-fiction title, Parenting a College Student, is due out in June. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, F.J. joins host Brittany Pieper to discuss the power of story in helping us frame our lives and make important decisions. F.J. explains how case studies lend credibility to a business and where to share these stories for maximum benefit to your organization. Listen in for F.J.’s insight on using blog content to demonstrate market authority and learn how to leverage storytelling as a marketing tool in the student housing space. Topics Covered How the challenges F.J. faced in his first year as an undergraduate informed his decision to pursue a career higher ed What inspired F.J. to add writing to his professional resume The power of stories to help us frame our lives and make important decisions How case studies lend credibility to a business like COCM F.J.’s insight around the 2 main types of case studies Where to share case studies for maximum benefit to your organization How blogs demonstrate market authority in the student housing industry and F.J.’s advice on how often to publish new blog content The role of collaboration in making great things happen (in student housing and beyond) Connect with F.J. Connect with Brittany Email Resources /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/23159555

Digital Marketing Strategy for Student Housing – with Matt Pavlick 05/03/2022

Digital Marketing Strategy for Student Housing – with Matt Pavlick The bar for providing an unforgettable student housing experience gets higher every year. And it’s crucial for a student housing community to develop a digital marketing strategy that showcases its differentiators and truly stands out from the rest. That's where a strong agency collaboration comes in. Matt Pavlick is President at , a full-service digital marketing agency that specializes in student housing. GRO serves 200 communities in 100 markets, leveraging proven digital marketing strategies to reach 100% pre-leased well ahead of schedule. Matt earned the Student Housing Business Innovator Award for Best Digital and Mobile Marketing Campaign two years running, and his team is dedicated to helping student housing communities develop their identity and execute multi-channel marketing strategies that generate opportunities and put heads in beds. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Matt joins host Brittany Pieper to discuss what owners and operators should look for in a partnership with a digital marketing agency and describe what communities with limited budgets can do to build an online presence. Matt offers his take on holistic versus paid advertising, explaining where to invest your ad dollars and how to take advantage of video as part of a successful organic social media strategy. Listen in for Matt’s insight on digital marketing in the metaverse and learn how your student housing community can stay competitive and maintain authentic, human connection in the quickly evolving online world. Topics Covered Matt’s journey to starting a digital marketing agency that serves the student housing industry What Matt learned from other industries that lends to his success in marketing student housing online The ownership mentality and proactive, customized approach owner-operators should look for in a partnership with a digital marketing agency Why Matt recommends paid search advertising for communities with limited budgets The benefit of maintaining an online presence through SEO or a limited brand awareness campaign—even if you’re leased up to 100% Why Matt suggests having real estate in paid ads, the local maps pack and the top organic listings on Google Matt’s insight on the importance of short-form video as part of a successful organic social strategy Why advertising dollars don’t go as far on TikTok as other social media platforms Matt’s take on virtual reality, the metaverse and the future of digital marketing What makes one-on-one, in-person interactions the most powerful marketing strategy of all Connect with Matt Connect with Brittany Email Resources /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/22991378

The Role of Mental Toughness in Facing Life’s Challenges – with LaRae Quy 03/29/2022

The Role of Mental Toughness in Facing Life’s Challenges – with LaRae Quy Circumstances in our world have challenged individuals to be resilient in ways they never have before. The pandemic was new territory for all of us. As our world is changing, we need to activate new skills in order to land on our feet. Mental toughness is believing you will prevail when confronted with the unknown. So, how do you develop the mental toughness that will see you through? grew up on a remote cattle ranch in Wyoming. Her influences there prepared her for her 24-year career as an undercover counterintelligence agent and spokesperson for the FBI in Northern California. Her upbringing, combined with her career achievements, helped her develop the mental toughness required to survive in environments of great risk and uncertainty and the survival skills she would need to navigate life. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, LaRae joins host Brittany Pieper to discuss how the student housing industry can benefit from team members receiving training on mental toughness, and how mental toughness aids individuals and organizations. Listen in as LaRae shares her journey toward developing her own mental toughness and offers listeners strategies for failing forward, balancing burnout and mediocrity, and suggestions for safe spaces in which to develop mental toughness. Topics Covered How growing up on a remote cattle ranch prepared LaRae to overcome life's obstacles LaRae’s definition of mental toughness and why she believes is it so essential for Gen Z What makes strong-minded individuals unique according to LaRaeThe 4 key components of resilience Why high ideals play a bigger role in defining mental toughness for Gen Z The biggest risks individuals face in developing a strong mindset Key strategies for individuals and organizations to develop mental toughness in a safe space low risk way How the student housing industry can benefit from mental toughness training Connect with LaRae Connect with Brittany Email Resources /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/22601186

Diversity in American Higher Education - with Frank Wu 03/08/2022

The Supply Chain’s Effects on the Furniture Industry and Student Housing - with the Division Twelve Team 02/24/2022

The Supply Chain’s Effects on the Furniture Industry and Student Housing - with the Division Twelve Team We all know about the supply chain issue. Manufacturers, companies, and even individual buyers know they’re more susceptible to issues receiving their products than ever before. But what is the impact on the furniture and student housing industries? is a minority-owned contract furnishings company, representing the finest manufacturers in the contract furnishings industry. President Christopher Washington is joined on the podcast today by Vice President of Account Management and Product Management, Nathan Re, Director of Marketing and Sales, Judd Levinson, and Director of Interior Design and Project Management, Cathy Brown. On today’s episode of Student Housing Matters, host Brittany Pieper sits down with the team from Division Twelve to discuss furniture industry trends, the supply chain issue, and how student housing can be better prepared for the challenges ahead. Listen in to learn more about how issues in the supply chain impact student housing! Topics Covered Background on Division 12 and all four guests on the shows Current problems for industry manufacturers due to the supply chain issues and the impact it’s having on the industry The significant price increases from 2020 to 2021 in manufacturing and shipping How material shortages have affected the furniture industry and student housing Logistics problems and the causes of the foam shortage and the impact it’s leaving on the furniture industry Juggling manufacturer lead times and product price increases to meet deadlines Importation of goods from other countries vs working with American-made goods The best strategies for guaranteeing manufacturing and shipping deadlines Projection for industry lead times in the foreseeable future The long-term impact people and companies face when furniture lead times are not planned properly The shift in the furniture industry to appeal to younger generation preferences Connect with Christopher Washington Connect with Judd Levenson Connect with Brittany Email Resources /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/22237880

How Strategic Leadership Can Change the Face of Higher Education - with Richard Gaumer, Dr. W. Joseph King, and Brian C. Mitchell 02/16/2022

How Strategic Leadership Can Change the Face of Higher Education - with Richard Gaumer, Dr. W. Joseph King, and Brian C. Mitchell Higher education has evolved drastically over the last century. These unprecedented times have put the strategic leaders of colleges and universities inside a whirlwind of financial, demographic, and social challenges. On today’s episode of Student Housing Matters, guest host Alton Irwin sits down with Richard Gaumer and the authors of the new book , W. Joseph King and Brian C. Mitchell. They discuss the importance of accepting strong leadership in order to modernize practice, monetize assets, and focus on core educational strategies. Dr. Brian C. Mitchell previously served as President and first CEO of Bucknell University and is a past chair of many other colleges, universities, and athletic conferences. Dr. W. Joseph King served as the President of Lyon College and Executive Director of the National Institute for Technology in Liberal Education. Also joining us on the show today is Richard Gaumer, a highly regarded and distinguished professional whose career is dedicated to internal corporate management and assisting struggling institutions in becoming stronger and more sustainable. King, Mitchell, and Gaumer are all principals of , an organization offering solutions to the people, programs, governance, and facilities challenges facing higher education. In addition to Leadership Matters, King and Mitchell also co-authored . Topics Covered Recommendations from the new book Leadership Matters: Confronting the Hard Choices Facing Higher Education Higher education struggles, such as higher sticker prices, tuition discounting, and loss of consumer confidence The difference between strategy and strategic planning How higher education institutions can make a difference in the communities they reside in Capabilities and inefficiencies of shared governance in relation to academic endeavors and economic enterprises What colleges and universities need to do to adapt and thrive in the modern age King, Mitchell and Gaumer’s hope for the future of higher education Connect with Dr. W. Joseph King Connect with Brian C Mitchell Connect with Richard Gaumer Connect with Alton Email Resources by W. Joseph King and Brian C. Mitchell /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/22144139

Emotional Intelligence in Student Housing – with Natalya Cook 02/10/2022

Emotional Intelligence in Student Housing – with Natalya Cook It’s important for students to feel valued in the place where they live. And emotional intelligence is key in giving Gen Zers that sense of belonging and connection. So, what can student housing organizations do to make EQ a priority? How can we create a culture where students feel seen, heard and understood? is one of the newest team members at COCM. She serves as Marketing Coordinator for , a unique collection of student housing communities on the campus of Marquette University. Natalya is also a published author, versatile creative and passionate activist on a mission to inspire others and make them feel valued. On this episode of Student Housing Matters, Natalya joins host Brittany Pieper to define emotional intelligence and discuss how she applies it in her current position at THE MARQ. Natalya shares several strategies organizations can use to market in an emotionally intelligent way, describing how Gen Z’s demand for authenticity is playing out in the student housing space. Listen in for Natalya’s insight on getting into the mind of a student to plan community events and learn how to reach Gen Z by creating a healthy environment based on transparency, vulnerability and trust. Topics Covered How Natalya defines emotional intelligence and why it’s essential in student housing Why emotional intelligence is overlooked in our personal and professional lives How Natalya sees Gen Z’s demand for authenticity playing out in the student housing space How Natalya applies emotional intelligence in her current position as Marketing Coordinator at THE MARQ The alignment between what COCM stands for and Natalya’s purpose to inspire others Why it’s crucial for Gen Z students to have a sense of home and feel like they belong What strategies organizations can use to market to Gen Z in an emotionally intelligent way How to get into the mind of a Gen Z student for the purpose of planning community events How to reach Gen Z by creating a culture where students feel seen, heard and valued Connect with Natalya Connect with Brittany Email Resources /episode/index/show/jointheconversation/id/22083758

Achieve 100% Occupancy in a New Student Housing Community – with ReNesha Martin 11/30/2021

Student Housing Matters

TOPICS