INTRODUCTION TO THE RESIDENCE HALLS

Residence halls are a significant part of the Illinois Wesleyan University community. Our professional and student staff develop and organize programs and events to provide for meaningful social, cultural and educational experiences. Students are presented with an exciting realm of opportunity for new experiences, relationships, and, of course, adjustments in their new community.

Living and interacting with others who have different personal philosophies and who vary in nationality, race and religion are an important part of one's educational experience. A great deal of responsibility is placed upon each person as well as a need for human understanding and cooperation.

Whenever a large group of people live together, there is a need to develop expectations for behavior which promote an environment that enhances the achievement of community goals. These expectations provide for the protection of everyone's rights so that community members can pursue their educational objectives without interference. The Illinois Wesleyan community has identified expectations and is committed to the concept of shared responsibility for maintaining the quality of life in the community.

Community Expectations

Illinois Wesleyan University's Residential Life Program is dedicated to the integrity and personal growth of each individual. We encourage you to make a positive contribution to your residential community.

As a Member of This Community...

• I will respect the dignity of all persons. I will not demean individuals or groups by insulting, intimidating, harassing, or discriminating. I will strive to learn from and respect differences in people, ideas and opinions.
• I will strive for personal integrity and support the academic endeavor.
• I will demonstrate concern for others, for their feelings, and for their need to be supported in their academic and personal development.
• I will respect the rights and property of others.
• I will do all in my power to see that the residence hall is kept clean and attractive, knowing that such an environment is essential to both physical and mental health.
• I will respect the common areas of the building that are used by all residents. I will not damage university property, remove lounge furniture, or smoke in any common area.
• I expect all members to abide by these community guidelines and to strive for high moral and ethical standards. I have the right and the responsibility to voice my opinion and concerns to any individual who disregards these tenets for community living.

In addition to the policies and expectations outlined in this pamphlet, all students are expected to adhere to the published regulations and policies found in the Student Handbook and University Catalog. Since each residence hall has its own unique living environment, additional expectations may exist in each hall. These regulations have been formulated to assure the safety and welfare of all residence hall students.

Reflections and Perspectives

The history and tradition of residence halls are as long and distinctive as that of the University. Until the first residence hall for women was purchased in the last quarter of the nineteenth century, students were usually accommodated in the homes of faculty or Bloomington/Normal townspeople. In lieu of room and board, students often provided some type of service or work. With the advent of fraternities and sororities on campus, many students soon began residing within the houses that each organization maintained.

The University takes great pride in its record of providing convenient and comfortable residence hall facilities for over 100 years. In reflecting on IWU's outstanding and historical past, the rapid development of the residence hall system is evident. Increased enrollments and an institutional commitment to the concept of a residential college contributed to the University's decision to provide residence hall space for students. In 1878, Henrietta Hall for women was opened, and the only woman on the faculty served as matron. The DeMange Mansion was acquired, renamed in honor of President Kemp, and opened as a women's residence hall in 1912. Kemp Hall remains an integral part of the University's residential facilities. Although IWU was committed to provide quality housing facilities for students, it wasn't until the 1930's and 1940's that the character of the present residence hall program first began to take shape. The University undertook an active building program after the Second World War, resulting in what is today a diversified and progressive residence hall system. Current facilities include large residence halls which house 100-200 students as well as small halls which accommodate from 14-32 students.

Our mission is facilitating enjoyable, sustainable and inclusive communities that support and enhance students' academic achievement and personal development.