Talking Stick FEATURES 36 MAY + JUNE 2010 VOLUME 27, NUMBER 5 THE MAGAZINE OF THE ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY HOUSING OFFICERS-INTERNATIONAL Flourishing Careers Facilities management may seem like a man’s world. Five women share their advice to survive and thrive within it. 46 The Top 10 (plus 1 ) Looking for great ideas to improve your bottom line, customer service, and more? You can find them here. COLUMNS 6 Vision Get involved to help you and your association grow. 18 Res Life Don’t Break the Programming or the Bank Campuses find ways to keep programs vibrant while cutting costs. TALKING STICK Symbol of International Friendship ACUHO-I’s talking stick, or speaker’s staff, was hand-carved of wood by the Ohiat Band of the British Columbia Indian Nation. Canadian ACUHO-I members presented it to the association in July 1973 during our annual conference at the University of British Columbia. The inscription reads: It is a sign of authority carried when proclamations are to be made or a meeting of chiefs is in session. ... A token of common heritage both to Canadians and Americans. 22 Facilities Flexible Communities The proper furnishings can help a living-learning community thrive. DEPARTMENTS 4 8 Online Now Just In Spotlight on Boston University PLUS lights, camera, LLP; sustainability grants; overnight stays for commuters; dog days; and climate commitments by the numbers. 26 Academic Communities An Ounce of Prevention Year after year, first-year programs make sure students get off on the right foot. 30 Special Focus Invest Your Social Capital A recent book explains how online networks can enrich your housing operations. 13 16 34 58 Your ACUHO-I Transitions Calendar Conversations Let’s talk about progress on the 21st Century Project. COVER: Residents at North Dakota State University take their chances and spin their way through a game of LIFE. PHOTO: NDSU Publications Department 61 62 70 First Takes Reporting Out Welcome Snapshot This magazine is printed on recycled stock by PXP Ohio, which has been awarded Greenworks status for its environmental practices. 72