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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Assistant Vice Chancellor for Assessment and Planning and Director of University Housing Mallory Sidarous has received the Robert P. Cooke Talking Stick of the Year Award from the Association of College and University Housing Officers – International (ACUHO-I), a leading organization for campus housing and residence life professionals.

Sidarous was honored for her Hand in Glove article published in a 2025 edition of ACUHO-I’s journal, "Talking Stick." Her interview examined the relationship between campus housing and admissions departments, making cross-disciplinary connections with leaders from other institutions influencing student recruitment, retention and success.

“I'm thankful for the opportunity to contribute,” said Sidarous. “In a fast-paced and complex field. ‘Talking Stick’ consistently delivers relevant and interesting content.”

Sidarous is especially pleased to highlight the value of campus communication, collaboration and partnership.
“I have seen the positive impact on these relationships to student success and retention,” said Sidarous. “On the campus side, shared data and clear priorities help prepare for incoming classes of students, and to successfully retain them to graduation.”

Sidarous also emphasized the importance of sharing strategies from contributors in the field at other institutions, diversifying ideas and comparing approaches.

“It highlights the good work and collaboration among housing colleagues. It was a privilege to partner with other colleagues and share their stories of success and learning, which I think can be relevant to many.”

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Miriam Roccia said the recognition reflects both Sidarous’ national leadership and the strategic importance of housing in student success.

“I could not be more pleased to have ACUHO-I recognize Mallory with this award,” said Roccia. “She is a strategic leader with a keen understanding of the critical role that the University Housing program plays in the recruitment, retention, persistence and graduation of our students. It is no surprise to me that her ability to partner with other housing professionals across the country has resulted in thoughtful content that others in the field can learn from. She shares her talents with others in her department, our division, the campus and her professional association work.”

The Talking Stick Article of the Year Award is selected by the journal’s advisory panel from articles published within the year. Recipients are also recognized on the ACUHO-I Wall of Honor, highlighting professionals whose scholarship has advanced campus housing and residence life practice.

“During a time when campuses are increasingly focused on managing their enrollment numbers, Mallory’s article, 'Hand in Glove,’ brought together a group of experienced professionals to discuss how housing departments can best support the admissions process,” said James Baumann, publications director of ACUHO-I. “Her insightful questions touched on factors such as affordability, housing amenities, operational processes, and the role of student ambassadors. The result was a valuable resource that will help readers improve their work and better serve their incoming students.”

PHOTO: Mallory Sidarous, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Assessment and Planning and Director of Housing at SIUE.