SACUBO 2026: HPM & The University of Alabama Explore the Strategic Power of Student Housing
As higher education institutions navigate enrollment pressures, shifting demographics, and rising operational costs, student housing has emerged as a critical lever for institutional success. At the 2026 SACUBO Annual Convention, attendees will gain timely insights into how housing strategy directly impacts enrollment, retention, and the overall student experience.
On April 21, 2026, HPM Program Executive Trent Hall will be joined by Dr. Matt Kerch, Executive Director of Housing and Residential Communities at The University of Alabama, to present “Beyond Beds: Student Housing’s Crucial Role in Enrollment, Retention, and Institutional Success.” This session will examine how institutions can rethink housing as more than just a residential necessity—positioning it instead as a strategic asset aligned with both mission and financial priorities.
The Evolving Role of Student Housing
In today’s higher-education environment, institutions are grappling with a tightening housing supply, evolving student and parent expectations, and escalating costs that strain both campus and off-campus options. Student housing is no longer a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a dynamic ecosystem that must respond to academic goals, market conditions, and student success outcomes.
This SACUBO session will explore emerging trends in student housing, including:
- New leasing and operational models
- Technology-enabled living environments
- Sustainability-focused design and operations
- Amenity-rich spaces that support wellness, community, and academic success
Together, these elements are reshaping how colleges and universities meet growing demand while remaining competitive.
What We’ll Cover
Drawing on real-world experience and current market data, Hall and Kerch will discuss how institutions can strategically approach housing development and operations. Attendees will gain insight into:
- Demand & Demographic Shifts: Understanding how changing student populations influence housing needs
- Housing Styles: From traditional residence halls to apartment-style living
- Upper-Class and Graduate Student Needs: Addressing privacy, independence, and lifestyle expectations
- Parent Expectations: Safety, quality, and value considerations that increasingly influence enrollment decisions
Amenity & Technology Expectations
Today’s students expect housing that mirrors the convenience and connectivity of modern living. The session will explore how features such as:
- Private bedrooms and bathrooms
- Apartment-style layouts
- High-speed Wi-Fi and streaming services
- Mobile access control
- Automated building systems
have become essential—not optional—in attracting and retaining students.
Housing as a Strategic Advantage
Student housing plays a vital role far beyond move-in day. This presentation will highlight how housing can be leveraged as both:
- An Enrollment Strategy: Differentiating the institution in a competitive recruitment landscape
- A Retention Strategy: Supporting student satisfaction, belonging, and academic persistence
By aligning housing decisions with institutional goals, campuses can enhance student success while strengthening long-term financial sustainability.
Join the Conversation
Don’t miss this forward-looking session at the 2026 SACUBO Annual Meeting on April 21. Learn how institutions like The University of Alabama are redefining student housing—and discover actionable strategies to help your campus move beyond beds toward a more integrated, impactful housing model.
