Student Housing Team Wins Big

NC State’s Inter-Residence Council won six awards, including the prestigious School of the Year award, at the North Carolina Association of Residence Halls’ annual conference this month at Appalachian State University. More than 14 colleges and universities from across the state were represented at the conference.

“It is really exciting to have the work that NC State and University Housing do recognized by the rest of the state,” said Shreye Saxena, conference delegate and IRC vice president of national communication coordination. “These awards represent the amazing commitment and leadership that NC State’s Inter-Residence Council provides to the on-campus community.”

NC State’s IRC won the following awards:

Program of the Year (two awards)
“Ugh, Get a Clue!” — presented by Jesse Simmons, vice president of programming

This program discussed how technology and social media changed the college dating and relationship landscape.

“What’s on America’s Playlist?” — presented by Jared Bouchard, Owen Hall representative

This program examined how classic songs throughout the decades impacted American society.

School of the Year
NC State’s IRC was recognized for outstanding programming initiatives, conference involvement, engagement with residents and superior leadership.

President of the Year
IRC President Kurt Saenger-Heyl was selected as North Carolina’s President of the Year. Saenger-Heyl was commended for his servant leadership, IRC’s rebranding initiatives and his vision for IRC to become a true residential resource.

Student of the Year
Aaron Sugar, IRC’s vice president of hall council affairs, was named North Carolina’s Student of the Year. Sugar was recognized for his exceptional academic achievements, extensive leadership within University Housing, commitment to personal development and engagement with the NC State community.

Best Banner
As a team-building activity, conference delegates created a banner representative of the conference theme. NC State’s 10 delegates took home the award for most creative banner.

Susan Grant, director of University Housing, said, “I am very excited that IRC received this recognition at NCARH. IRC works diligently to represent all campus residents in policy review and I rely on them for their insights and input on the quality of the residential experience. With hall and apartment complex support, they sponsor great educational and social programs to unite campus residents. I am very proud of all that they have accomplished for residents of NC State.”