Lisa Ortiz, Ferris State University’s assistant director of residential programs and
services, now officially serves as president of the Great Lakes Association of College
and University Housing Officers.
Ortiz was elected into the organization’s tri-presidency in November 2010, as president-elect. By the next year, she began her period as president. As president, Ortiz sees herself as “the voice of the organization.” Ortiz plans to work closely with the active board members to plan an annual conference, monthly professional seminars and general meetings to strengthen successful educational opportunities for organization members.
“For many people, it was the strength in my voice to continue to move our organization forward,” said Ortiz when asked why she believes she was elected. “Who knows what doors this will open? I will continue do to the best that I can and this is something that will definitely shape your leadership style.”
Ortiz looks forward to personal and professional leadership growth while helping the organization grow and prosper.
“It’s exciting; it’s exhausting and everything in between. I am very thankful for this opportunity. I also recognize that I am just one person,” she said. “I want to ensure that I’m listening to everyone involved and that I make the best decisions that I can for our organization.”
While overseeing more than 160 active committee members from Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, Ortiz hopes to make GLACUHO’s commitment to its mission stronger than ever. That mission is to provide the best opportunities for housing officers to learn, to lead and to serve. The organization provides educational opportunities for people who work in a housing and residential field, from graduate students to chief housing officers.
“We’ve discussed everything from bedbugs, to how to utilize Twitter and to how to buy furniture,” Ortiz said. “There’s a wide range of topics because of so many things that happen in residence halls. They are dynamic and we are always looking for the latest topic.”
After a full year as president, Ortiz will take the role as past president. In that position, she will act as an adviser for GLACUHO.