Residence Life - Overview

Welcome to the University of Richmond!

As residential communities, we aim to provide a comfortable, clean and safe place to live, a solid foundation for academic involvement, a link to the University and world communities; as well as a setting for personal growth, relaxation, and fun. The professional and student staff of Richmond College and Westhampton College are dedicated to making the residential experience the best it can be. Each building or apartment block serves as a community social unit for the residents who live there.  The Residence Life Team (Head Residents and Resident Assistants) work to provide social, recreational, and educational events to bring the community together.  Input is also provided from residents so that programs of interest can be presented.

In past years a wide variety of activities have been offered with considerable success: from cookouts to debates on the presidential election; from alcohol-free socials to programs on what to look for in a benefits package; from intramural competitions to sister/ brother programs, residents have found new ways to get involved, learn more about themselves and make friends.

Beyond structured events, we realize that college may be a time of great transition for many. The Head Residents and Resident Assistants are trained to serve as resources for their residents should they need any assistance. Whether a student is homesick, experiencing relationship problems, experimenting with alcohol or other drugs, or simply needing someone to talk to, a student staff member is always available.

As is true within any community, certain rules and regulations must be set for the welfare and general good of the community.  Each resident is responsible for knowing and abiding by these regulations.

The best advice given to community members is to respect the needs of others and consider the impact  a behavior might have on others.  Residents are asked to take responsibility for themselves and take the initiative to challenge fellow residents who are not demonstrating mutual respect.  While the student staff will enforce policy, mediate disputes, and provide assistance where needed, the atmosphere of a hall or apartment area will primarily be set by each resident’s actions.