College Station, TX – Feb. 21, 2025 – Texas A&M University's Residence Life department proudly announces the outstanding achievements of its delegation at the 2025 Southwest Association of College and University Housing Officers (SWACUHO) conference. The event, held earlier this month, brought together housing professionals from across the region to share knowledge, network, and celebrate excellence in the field of university housing.
SWACUHO is a prestigious organization dedicated to the advancement of housing and residence life professionals in the southwestern United States. The annual conference is a highlight for members, featuring workshops, presentations, and awards that recognize exceptional contributions to the field.
This year, Texas A&M's Residence Life delegation made a significant impact, earning multiple awards for their innovative programs and dedicated service. The following individuals and programs were honored:
- Jim Gibson Award: Maggie Guzman, Associate Director, Risk Management & Human Resources, was recognized with this award for her service to the SWACUHO organization. It is the highest honor SWACUHO bestows and is not always given out each year.
- Top Program Award: Candice Olson, Program Manager for Community Success Initiatives, for her program, "Icebreakers for Introverts." Candice's program was recognized for its creative approach to helping introverts engage and connect within their residence communities.
- Top 5 Program Award: Konner Carnahan, Program Manager for Community Success Initiatives, received two of these awards for programs, "Work-Life Synergy: Moving Past Balance and Embracing What Works," and "Supervising With Empathy: The Intersections of Accountability and Compassion."
- Bob Cook Distinguished Service Award: Carly Smith, Program Manager for Training and Development, was honored for her exceptional service and dedication to Texas A&M University Residence Life. Carly's contributions have made a lasting impact on the Texas A&M community.
- Dan Mizer Facilities Maintenance Professional of Distinction Award: Rob Webber, Associate Director, Operations & Events, received this award for his outstanding work creating programs and initiatives that positively impact the university's housing facilities. Rob's commitment to excellence ensures a safe and comfortable living environment for all students
- Frank Cloud Award of Excellence: Awarded to Texas A&M University for excellence in the department's professional staff and wellbeing programs. The award was accepted by Sara McCoy, Assistant Director for Community Success Initiatives and Konner Carnahan, Program Manager for Community Success Initiatives.
- Gene Ward Outstanding Student Award: Eric Nguyen received this award for his exemplary involvement and leadership as a student within the residence life community.
Residence Life also had extensive Leadership Representation at the conference:
- Maggie Guzman recognized as Past President
- Carly Smith will continue to serve as a Co-Chair for the Programming Committee
- Fred Dillard, Assistant Director of Residence Education, will continue to serve as the Conferences Coordinator for the Executive Board
- Sara McCoy was elected to serve as the Secretary for the Executive Board
- Texas A&M was selected to be the host sight for SWACUHO's Fall Student Staff Leadership Conference in October 2025. Madi Evans and Steven Smith are serving as the conference co-chairs.
The Texas A&M Residence Life department continues to strive for excellence in providing a welcoming and enriching living experience for all students. The recognition at the SWACUHO conference underscores the department's leadership and commitment to fostering a positive campus environment.