Using Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems model (1979, 1993), we analyzed grounded theory data from 31 student affairs professionals about supporting students with and without disabilities in, and beyond, the university microsystem of housing. Participants described the challenge of simultaneously meeting the needs of students with and without…

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of ESA owners, examine how the ESA policy functions in the undergraduate college setting, and analyze how the disability services offices influenced the ESA policy and campus response to ESAs on two residential college campuses. The conceptual framework of the study was systems theory. A…

This case study is designed for use in graduate courses in student affairs and higher education administration. This case presents some of the challenges that higher education professionals face concerning policies and laws as they relate to student mental illness and emotional support animals. Requests for emotional support animals are becoming…

The results of recent cases indicate that residences and dormitories owned by higher education institutions should be considered "dwellings," and thus subject to the Fair Housing Act. The Fair Housing Act (1968) as amended requires that the providers of dwellings accommodate assistance animals, which includes not only service animals,…

The evolution of the resident assistant position and its history are important to understanding its increasing complexities. In this article we examine how court cases and federal legislation, along with changes in popular culture, have altered and shaped the role of the resident assistant. Our premise is that this role, originally relatively…

Understanding the law has become an integral part of the work of higher education professionals, especially residence life staff. For decades, courts have contributed an increasingly important role in shaping the litigious nature of society at large and within higher education (Greenleaf, 1982). Barr and Associates (1988) noted the increasingly…

Institutions of higher education, and more specifically residence halls within colleges and universities, pride themselves in offering and embracing a diverse community of students. A growing number of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are attending college and choosing to live on campus. While many are able to do so successfully, some…

Comprehension and application of law in campus housing settings can be a daunting task. Though challenging, a basic understanding of law and how it applies to residence life and housing environments within institutions of higher education is crucial. This article provides an historical evolution of three laws that have direct bearing on campus…

In the past, universities did not offer equal opportunities for students with disabilities. Therefore, the principle of transitioning to higher education for students with disabilities was inscribed in legislation. This paper analyzes some legal provisions governing students with disabilities. The present study is essential for recognizing the…

High functioning students with autism spectrum disorders are being admitted into institutions of higher education at an increasing rate. Although these students often have strong cognitive abilities, impairments in social behaviors and communication may negatively influence their ability to navigate a residential experience. Developing peer…

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UW-Whitewater) is committed to a mission that includes serving students with disabilities beyond the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities act (ADA). To that end, UW-Whitewater has tried to integrate universal Design (UD) principles into multiple facets of campus life. While the integration of UD…

Propelled by the reauthorization of the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (HEOA) and evidence that postsecondary education positively impacts employment and adult outcomes of individuals with intellectual disabilities (iD), inclusive living-learning opportunities for students with ID are emerging. accompanying the recent shift in…

This article explores two disabled people's "Seven Needs" to independent living, those of "housing" and "transport" issues, in relation to disabled international students in British universities. Firstly, students' living arrangements, including issues related to the suitability of university accommodation to their…

The "Talking Stick" is published bimonthly, six times a year in January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, and November/December by the Association of College and University Housing Officers-International. Each issue is divided into three sections, namely: Features, Columns, and Departments. These sections…

A group quarters is a place where people live or stay, in a group living arrangement, that is owned or managed by an entity or organization providing housing and/or services for the residents. This is not a typical household-type living arrangement. These services may include custodial or medical care as well as other types of assistance, and…