Twelve Spartan Resident Assistants, along with two NSU employee advisors, recently attended the Virginia Association of College and University Housing Officers (VACUHO) Resident Assistant Conference. Hosted by the University of Mary Washington November 3-4, the NSU delegation represented Sparta with pride, professionalism, and sheer excellence.

Twenty-four colleges and universities attended the annual event, with students representing George Mason University, Virginia Union University, Old Dominion University, the College of William and Mary, Christopher Newport University, Virginia Commonwealth University, and others.

Prior to the conference, four resident assistants from NSU submitted two program proposals for inclusion among the conference workshops and breakout sessions. Both proposals were accepted and were presented, including “Bridge the Gap” (Caleb Wright and Quamain Knight, facilitators) and “A Different World: Engaging and Fostering Diversity” (Danielle Brown and Ashley Miller, facilitators). Additionally, Dominique Johnson’s “B.Y.O.B. (Bring Your Own Bra)” program hosted in October on NSU’s campus in Samuel Scott Hall, increasing awareness on the topic of breast cancer prevention, was recognized by a blue ribbon panel as Outstanding Interactive Program in a nomination submitted prior to the conference.

Lastly, Norfolk State University was voted Most Spirited School (Large Delegation) at the conference for the students’ effervescent display of spirit, energy, and enthusiasm.