Summer Training Camp 2023

In recent years, the importance of sustainability has gained widespread recognition across various industries. One sector that plays a vital role in promoting sustainability is property management. As student housing providers, it is our responsibility to adopt sustainable practices that not only benefit the environment but also contribute to social sustainability and good governance.

This summer, we proudly welcomed our enthusiastic “rising stars” to the city of Atlanta for an enriching three-day experience. During this time, participants delved into various facets of property management, including Operations, Leasing & Marketing, and learned from corporate leaders in areas such as Acquisitions, Asset Management, and Accounting. Beyond technical knowledge, the Summer Training Camp also emphasized the importance of soft skills, with sessions on time management, team support, authentic leadership, and self-discovery through the Clifton Strengths Finder assessment.

The Summer Training Camp was not only a valuable learning experience, but also an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Participants thrived in a collaborative environment where they could exchange ideas, forge meaningful connections, and expand their networks. The presence of corporate and company leaders added a layer of inspiration and mentorship, enabling participants to gain insights from experienced professionals in the industry.

The atmosphere of the Summer Training Camp fostered team spirit and camaraderie. Participants bonded during team-building activities, social events, and even an escape room, creating lasting memories and friendships. These connections will undoubtedly contribute to a strong support system as they navigate their future careers at Student Quarters.

At Student Quarters, we firmly believe in nurturing talent and investing in our employees’ growth. The Summer Training Camp is not just a summer program; it’s a commitment to nurturing and empowering future leaders. By recognizing these rising stars, we aim to provide them with an immersive experience that illuminates their path towards a successful career at Student Quarters.

Since our founding, Student Quarters has been dedicated to the environment in which we live, play, and work. What we do as a company is just as important as how we do it. Our SQuad continues to weave sustainability into our operational DNA by digesting and leveraging data provided to us by our residents and utility partners nationwide. By better understanding data at a property level, we can provide even more benefits and value to our stakeholders and investors.

Environmentally Friendly Initiatives:

The environmental impact of buildings cannot be ignored. Property managers have a unique opportunity to reduce energy consumption, minimize waste, and lower carbon emissions. As a leading provider of student housing, our team at Student Quarters prioritizes the significance of such initiatives. Key to our success is that as a nationwide owner/operator we can make decisions quickly, especially when it comes to environmental impact. In the last year, Student Quarters completed whole property retrofits to:

• Improve water consumption and energy efficiency.
• Implement new preventative maintenance procedures to fine-tune and extend the lifespan of existing HVACs, appliances, and other high utility usage products.
• Introduce technology to our units that will help track, gauge, and control everyday energy consumption so we can erase loss usage.

By continuously improving, implementing, and introducing environmentally friendly initiatives, we significantly reduce our ecological footprint. We plan to continue our partnerships with third-party firms and utility management companies that specialize in identifying, assessing, and reducing utility usage on our sites. These efforts not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also foster a sense of responsibility among tenants.

Social Sustainability:

Sustainability in property management goes beyond environmental concerns; it also encompasses social sustainability. Owners and operators in the student housing space have the power to create inclusive and diverse communities, promote social well-being, and enhance the quality of life for residents and employees. 

At Student Quarters, we apply external and internal philanthropic programs that aim to support the people and communities that support us. Whether it’s our paid volunteer PTO, our best-in-class health benefits package, our scholarship program, or the dozens of ways we celebrate personal and professional milestones, SQ is trailblazing a unique social path for student housing.

We understand our responsibility at Student Quarters and work to incorporate social sustainability into our core values. We prioritize safety, provide amenities that promote health and well-being, and encourage community engagement through various activities and initiatives. By fostering a sense of belonging and social cohesion, Student Quarters ensures that our properties are not just buildings but thriving communities.

Good Governance:

Our organization strives to find the right balance between the human experience and exceptional results. To achieve our goals, we require board engagement, diversity in leadership at all levels, and policies that keep us compliant with local, national, and international regulations.

Effective governance is essential for the long-term success of any property management operation. It involves transparency, ethical practices, and responsible decision-making. Student Quarters recognizes the importance of good governance and integrates it into our sustainability framework. We maintain open lines of communication with tenants and employees, address concerns promptly, and ensure fair and equitable policies. By adhering to high standards of governance, Student Quarters establishes trust, builds strong relationships, and upholds our commitment to sustainability.

In 2023, SQ will continue to Question the Status Quo and optimize how we measure and share environmental data and achieve our impact goals. Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of property management, encompassing environmental, social, and governance dimensions. At Student Quarters, we committed to demonstrating the significance of sustainable practices in creating a better future. By adopting environmentally friendly initiatives, promoting social sustainability, and adhering to good governance principles, our team can play a pivotal role in shaping sustainable communities. As we move forward, it is crucial for property management professionals to prioritize sustainability and embrace their role as stewards of the environment and advocates for a better tomorrow.

Congratulations to:

William Brewer – Assistant Manager at The Hangout

Raseem Reedy – Leasing Manager at SQ Johnson City

Ashley Williams – Assistant Manager at SQ Johnson City

Sasha Vengarick – Leasing Consultant at The Crossings