Anniversary of Association of Residence Halls

Photo Courtesy from Illinois State University

NORMAL, Ill. – Free food, party games, and reunions will be held this upcoming weekend for the Illinois State University community.

ISU will host its annual Homecoming week, featuring a multitude of events such as parades, colorful decorations all across the campus, and its highly anticipated football game.

Along with the wide range of events that the university provides, is the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Association of Residence Halls.

For 50 years the Association of Residence Halls has been the backbone of student government at ISU.

The Association of Residence Halls (ARH) holds the duty of making recommendations to the department of university housing in order to improve the living experience of those who reside in the halls.

Not only does the ARH improve the lives of those it serves, but it also provides students with a unique opportunity to be leaders within their communities.

The celebration of the ARH will be held in two different events. The first of these being an ARH alumni reunion. ARH alumni will be able to come back and see how ISU has changed over the years they have been gone, as well as reconnect with other former ARH members. They will also get the chance to connect with past members and it will enable alumni to meet with current ARH members to discuss their experiences within the organization. 

The second event the ARH is hosting is a tailgate before the Homecoming football game. This part of the celebration will be open to all members of the student body to come and enjoy free food, play outdoor games, and connect with members of the ARH.

“It is our third residential tailgate of the semester,” said Assistant Director of University Housing Ed Campbell. “That will be hosted on the Tri-Towers lawn, it’s open for all students to attend. We’re also extending the invite to ARH alumni as well. Enjoy some free food, play some football games and connect with our students.”

This event will be one of a handful that the ARH has had the opportunity to host since many pandemic restrictions have been voided since returning to campus.

“The virtual events were great and I think they went well, we did the best we could, but the in-person events mean so much more to our staff and students,” said Campbell. “For me personally it’s all about giving students the opportunity to really connect with others. Because that’s what I feel like living in the residence halls is all about.”

The ARH alumni reunion event will be held on Friday, October 15, and will be exclusive to members of the ARH and alumni of the organization.