When Dr. April Barnes, Executive Director of Housing at the University of South Carolina, attended the 2025 Southeastern Association of Housing Officers (SEAHO) conference in February, she didn’t expect it to be a particularly eventful one for her. However, it quickly became a milestone moment, as she was completely surprised to not only be elected as the next president of SEAHO but also to be honored with the prestigious title of SEAHO’s 2025 Outstanding Senior Housing Officer of the Year.
“I had no idea they were nominating me,” Barnes says. “When they started reading my nomination, I just sat there in awe, hearing all the incredible things my staff had to say. It was such a special moment, and it truly touched my heart.”
SEAHO, a professional association that serves as a hub for university housing professionals, supports over 100 institutions across the Southeastern United States. The Outstanding Senior Housing Officer of the Year Award is presented annually to an individual who demonstrates exceptional dedication to their campus, fosters student success and embodies leadership within the housing profession. The recipient is selected based on their contributions to their department, innovative strategies and impactful leadership both within their institution and the wider community.
USC has long had an integral presence at SEAHO, with several staff members, including Director of Operations Aubree Adams, Director of Residence Life Dan Colascione, Assistant Director Residence Life Janae McKinney and Residence Life Coordinator Michelle Unger, serving in key leadership roles this year. Adams chaired the conference committee, Unger was a key member, Colascione serves as the South Carolina State Representative for SEAHO and McKinney chairs the Engagement and Outreach Committee highlighting USC’s strong involvement and leadership within the association.
Barnes says her award was a strong reminder that her efforts and those of her team are recognized on a broader level.
“Dr. Barnes exemplifies the spirit of this award through her innovative leadership, commitment to student success, and profound impact on both our campus and the broader housing community,” one nominator wrote.
Since joining USC, Barnes has overseen significant improvements in housing, including major construction and renovation projects like the opening of Campus Village in 2023. This new development added four state-of-the-art buildings with over 1,800 beds, upgraded dining facilities and a beautiful green space to USC's urban campus.
Barnes’ leadership has reshaped how students and staff connect within USC Housing. She introduced a new engagement model called KCE – Know, Connect, and Empower – which focuses on fostering meaningful relationships between Resident Assistants (RAs) and students. The model encourages RAs to truly know their residents, connect them to their community and empower them to advocate for themselves.
“This model has been such an incredible experience for everyone involved,” Barnes says. “Our RAs now have a deeper connection with their residents, which makes such a difference in creating a sense of belonging and care on our campus.”
In addition to her work at USC, Barnes has made significant contributions to the broader housing community. She co-chaired the Regional Entry Level Institute (RELI) for SEAHO, where she mentored emerging housing professionals. Her leadership in SEAHO and national organizations, like the Association of College and University Housing Officers-International (ACUHO-I), reflects her commitment to advancing the housing profession.
While April Barnes’ professional achievements are significant, her warm, inclusive and supportive leadership style is what truly sets her apart. She has created an environment in USC Housing where both students and staff are encouraged to grow, connect and succeed.
“April ensures that her team has both the support and autonomy they need, while actively collaborating with them to enhance the student experience. Her mentorship has empowered me to lead, and under her guidance, I’ve been able to make a significant impact within our department,” another nominator wrote.
Looking ahead, Barnes remains focused on the future, with plans to continue fostering a sense of belonging for residents and leading USC Housing through upcoming projects and initiatives.
“We’re always thinking about what’s next—how we can continue to improve, how we can make an even greater impact on our students,” Barnes says. “It’s all about creating a space where students feel cared for, supported and empowered.”
As the academic year comes to a close, Barnes will be at USC’s Admitted Student Day on April 5 and will continue to be actively involved in New Student Orientation throughout the summer, ensuring that incoming students feel welcomed and ready to embark on their college journey. Meanwhile, the team is already turning its focus to next fall, preparing for a successful start to the new academic year with summer training sessions and initiatives that will continue to foster a sense that core sense of belonging and support.