Area Council Responsibilities

If you're interseted in joining an RHA Council in your housing area, have a look at the brief position descriptions below before you apply.

All Council Members

1. Help plan and execute two needs-based programs each semester
2. Help plan and execute two large-scale area programs each semester
3. Help create publicity for all area programs
4. Attend and participate in StDev 358R Leadership Class (enrollment is optional for Hall Representatives, but all council members should be available on Mondays 4-5 pm
5. Write and submit one Of The Month Award (OTM) nomination each month
6. Attend and participate in all area council meetings
7. Submit completed Participation Forms to the appropriate Student Coordinator after each area program
8. Create a team environment on the area council

Area Council Presidents

1. Create agendas for each area council meeting
2. Conduct area council meetings
3. Meet with the Vice President, Secretary, and Student Coordinator each week

Area Council Vice Presidents

1. Coordinate with the BYU NRHH President or National Communication Coordinator to judge OTMs
2. Meet with the President, Secretary, and Student Coordinator each week
3. Complete any special assignments/initiatives assigned by the President

Area Council Secretaries

1. Take minutes at all area council meetings
2. Be prepared to report on previous meetings’ minutes at area council meetings
3. Meet with the President, Vice President, and Student Coordinator each week

Area Council Historians

1. Take pictures at all area programs
2. Organize and label pictures and save them in the designated format
3. Create & update monthly bulletin boards displaying OTM Award winners in the area
4. Post selected pictures from area programs to the RHA web site

Area Council Publicity Representatives

1. Head publicity plans for all area programs
2. Create a flyer for every area program
3. Post advertising to area council social media accounts and RHA web site

Area Council Program Coordinators

1. Break down and monitor the details of all area programs
2. Create supply lists for all area programs and submit them to the area Student Coordinators
3. Complete Program Proposal in ResLife database at least two weeks before each area program
4. Complete Program Evaluation in ResLife database within one week after each area program

Hall Representatives

1. Represent the interests of the building(s) they represent at area council meetings
2. Nominate a student from the building(s) they represent for the Student of the Month award each month
3. Identify student issues in the hall(s) to be researched by the RHA SAC Representative
4. Publicize area programs in the hall(s)

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some frequently asked questions about the BYU Residence Halls Association.

What is RHA?

The Residence Halls Association (RHA) is a student-run organization that serves students living in on-campus housing. RHA is composed of student councils from each floor, hall, and area. The councils are responsible for student activities in their respective areas. BYU RHA helps individuals live, learn, work, and grow in gospel-centered communities. Over 400 schools all over the world have an RHA organization. For more information visit the National Association of College and University Residence Halls, Inc.

What does RHA do?

The mission of BYU RHA is to offer students opportunities for growth and development in leadership roles and to provide or participate in programs in the residence halls. RHA is responsible for planning programs that will achieve this mission. Each week, councils meet and plan activities for their areas and halls to help the residents grow in their new communities.

What are some past activities RHA has done?

"Activities" are called programs because programs are planned with a purpose or need in mind. Each year a semi-formal Invitational dance is planned. Fancy food and decorations are traditions at Invitational. Invitational provides an opportunity for residents to socialize and enjoy a special night with friends. Dances, carnivals, and game nights, and talent shows are other examples of social programs. Other past programs include a “Boost Your Body” physical fitness program, health and safety tips, and stress management.

How can students be on the RHA councils?

You can apply online. Each qualified applicant will go through an interview process to determine if they will be placed on an area council. There are applications available at the beginning of fall and winter semester. Residents may also talk to their RAs about joining their floor or hall council.

What is the time commitment for students on the councils?

Area council officers are required to take a 2-credit class. Enrollment in the class is optional for Hall Representatives. One day is dedicated to planning the programs, and the other day is a leadership development class taught by professors. Planning and carrying out activities is the majority of the ‘homework,’ although there is some written work as well. Class meets Monday & Wednesday from 4:00pm-4:50pm in the Cannon Center at Helaman Halls.

How can I contact BYU RHA?

You can talk to your RA, Hall Advisor, or an area manager at the central building in your area.
You can also reach us by phone or email.
Phone: 801-422-6158
Email: rha@byu.edu