Gabriella Smith, a Senior Resident Assistant (RA) at University Partnerships Programme’s (UPP) partnership with the University of Reading, is one of seven student RAs to win a prestigious 2020 CUBO (College and University Business Officers) RA Award.
The CUBO RA Awards were established in 2018 to recognise and reward exceptional achievement in residence life, with RAs being classified as students who work or volunteer in residential accommodation to provide a personal and peer presence in university halls.
Gabby’s entry was judged as outstanding by the panel for her enthusiasm and competence in creating supportive and inviting communities on campus.
In particular, the judging panel was impressed by Gabby’s work in establishing the ‘Halls Book Club’ and creating a vibrant space for students to come together and share their literary interests. Gabby’s entry was strongly endorsed by fellow students at her halls of residence, with one commenting on her ‘reliability, positivity and creativity’.
Alexandra Slater, Partnerships Director (Student Experience and Satisfaction) at UPP, said: “Gabby’s award is testament to her work in enhancing the student experience and her role in our Residence Life Programme at our partnership with the University of Reading. We thank Gabby for enhancing the quality of university life for her fellow students through the events and initiatives that she has managed.
“As the UK’s leading provider of on-campus residential and academic accommodation infrastructure, we believe that great student experience is about welcoming students from day one, supporting them as they settle in and helping them make the most of university life. We build student communities and create a home-from-home where residents feel secure and supported with access to high-quality and reliable services tailored to their needs.”
Jan Capper, CEO of CUBO said: “A strong residence life programme improves the campus experience, contributing to student wellbeing, retention and academic results. The Covid-19 crisis only underlines the essential work of these exceptional young people whose best practice we are recognising with a 2020 RA Award.”
This year’s winners were selected by an international judging panel from the higher education sector. Judges included:
Grant Walters (Director of Educational Programs, Association of College & University Housing Officers), Colin Marshall (Director, Campus Life Student Support and Services, Federation University Australia & Director Business Practices and Enhancements for Acuho-i) and Jan Capper (Chief Executive Officer, CUBO).
