Talking Stick November + December 2013 volume 31, Issue 2 The Magazine of The associaTion of college and UniversiTy hoUsing officers-inTernaTional Features 28 Partnerships in Programming Two partnerships are created to boost each other and the student experience. 36 Mind over Matter Research shows that students crave a meaningful identity in a fast-paced world, and meditation spaces help them achieve it. 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. Columns 6 Vision 16 Res Life Build Today to Benefit Tomorrow Creating and maintaining vendor relationships is an important part of professional development. Departments 24 Cover: Broward Hall at the University of Florida in Gainesville houses The Serenity Room, which provides students and staff a centrally located meditation room that is open to all members of the campus community. See page 40 to see how changing a physical space made a positive change in the lives of many. Photo Credit: University of Florida Business Operations 4 When to Scrap, Remodel, Build, or Buy? How to decide what kind of housing management system you need 20 8 Just In Special Focus Sharpen Your Focus How to run successful focus groups New Member Highlight Spotlight on Baylor University PLUS the power of professional presentations; phone apps that bring convenience to the workday; new student accommodation in Amsterdam; overhear making plans for graduate housing; and counting the community colleges that offer on-campus housing by the numbers. 13 Your ACUHO-I 14 Transitions 27 Calendar 44 Conversations 47 First Takes 48 Reporting Out This magazine is printed on recycled stock which is made from 10% post-consumer waste. 54 New Members 56 Snapshot November + December 2013 3