Throughout 2025, a series of state and federal developments have significantly influenced the operations of campus housing and residence life departments. ACUHO-I conducted a survey in September 2025 to better understand these impacts, particularly on staffing, professional development, training, and programming. This was a follow-up to the initial survey from May.

With responses from 194 institutions, this follow-up poll highlights how institutions are responding to sustained financial and staffing pressures while continuing to prioritize engagement and professional development opportunities.

Key Findings:

  • Budget Adjustments for FY26:
    • 79% of institutions and 61% of departments reported adjusting their budgets for the 2026 fiscal year.
    • Only 5% and 4%, respectively, indicated no changes.
  • Staffing Impacts:
    • 48% reported elimination of positions.
    • 65% have implemented hiring freezes.
    • 45% noted job consolidation, while 7% made salary adjustments.
    • Layoffs were reported by 15% of respondents.
  • Professional Development Funding:
    • Funding for professional association memberships remained relatively stable, with 68% reporting no change.
    • Training saw the most significant impact, with only 31% reporting no change.
    • Volunteering opportunities held steady for 60% of respondents.
  • Engagement Preferences:
    • Hybrid events continue to dominate, with 74% favoring this format in September, up from 60% in May.
    • Virtual-only engagement dropped from 38% to 30%, while in-person-only remained steady at 10%.
    • A new option for short drive-in events garnered 48% interest.

ACUHO-I is committed to supporting its members by providing resources and advocating for their needs as they meet the evolving needs of the campus housing profession.

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About ACUHO-I: The Association of College and University Housing Officers-International (ACUHO-I) is the leading organization for campus housing professionals. ACUHO-I provides innovative resources, professional development, and advocacy to support the success of its members and the students they serve.