“This national recognition underscores the University of Idaho’s commitment to providing an enriching on-campus living environment that puts our students first,” University of Idaho President Scott Green said. “Our RHA’s dedication to leadership and community building exemplifies the spirit of the Vandal Family.”

The School of the Year award recognizes institutions that excel in student engagement, campus involvement, residential programming and national engagement. U of I’s RHA stood out for restructuring its outdated representative system into smaller, high-impact Housing Area Teams. This model gave students more direct responsibility, strengthened peer-to-peer accountability and ensured every residence area had an active voice. The result was stronger participation, more efficient meetings and better communication among students, staff and leadership.

RHA also expanded its impact with more than 30 student-led programs aimed at building community and enriching the on-campus experience. Highlights included the 46th annual Tower Trick-or-Treat, which welcomed more than 400 local children into Theophilus Tower for a night of student-hosted festivities, and RHA Days, a five-day celebration that engaged hundreds of residents. Creative additions like Decorate a Duck reflect RHA’s hands-on approach, delivering fun and approachable programming directly to students where they live.

U of I’s delegation further distinguished itself by hosting the 2025 Intermountain Affiliate of College and University Residence Halls Regional Business Conference, taking on leadership roles and helping shape policy. The organization deepened its campus influence through partnerships with Associated Students University of Idaho (ASUI) and Housing and Residence Life, supporting events focused on sustainability, community engagement and student safety.

“Being named School of the Year is a testament to the hard work and passion of our RHA members,” RHA President Isabelle Higgins said. “We’ve worked hard to build a supportive and welcoming community, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”

Several individual members of U of I’s RHA and professional staff also earned national recognition at the NACURH conference. Claire Gorham, resident director for north campus communities and apartments, was named National Professional Staff Member of the Year for her mentorship and innovation in residence life. Higgins was honored as a top 10 presenter for her presentation on the importance of recognition within student leadership roles. Claire Westby, who served as RHA director of leadership and now works for the NACURH corporate office, received national recognition for her outstanding contributions to student leadership across the country.

“This group defines what it means to live and lead on campus,” said Charity Wight, RHA advisor and associate director of Housing and Residence Life. “Their creativity, drive and commitment show the value of the residential life experience at University of Idaho.”

The NACURH annual conference gathers student leaders from hundreds of institutions across North America to celebrate excellence in residential life and student leadership.

For more information about the University of Idaho’s Residence Hall Association and opportunities in on-campus living, visit www.uidaho.edu/housing.