Throughout our more than century-long history, Eastern Illinois University’s Housing
and Dining Services has remained deeply committed to serving our residents by not
just providing them with a comfortable bed and a good meal but delivering an environment
and opportunities where they can grow as a person. Incredible people, residents and
staff alike, have created many memories and life-changing experiences.
As we document our history it is important to honor these experiences as well as the
people who made them happen. It is impossible to do it all justice. In 2025 we launched
a partnership with Booth Library, and more specifically The Keep, EIU’s institutional
repository, creating a structured digital collection that documents the evolution
of housing and dining from 1908 to the present day. This project combines the content
that already exists in The Keep, things that have been contributed over the years,
some original content generated by the curators of this effort and importantly an
opportunity for others to add their stories to the collection.
This collaboration enables photographs, publications, leadership records, and program
materials are not only preserved but also discoverable by students, alumni, researchers,
and community members who wish to explore the richness of the department’s history.
As a living archive, The Keep continues to grow alongside the department, with annual
updates as well as giving those who have experience to share an opportunity to add
to the collection. It is a work in progress to be sure, and it will never tell every
story, but we hope that by inviting others to contribute it can grow and reflect the
evolution and impact Housing and Dining has had on our campus.
In the dropdowns below, click “Learn More” to explore the sections of The Keep related
to Housing and Dining.
This is an on-going process, and more content will be coming soon!
Historical Overview
The history of Eastern Illinois University’s Housing and Dining Services begins with
the vision of our first seated President, Livingston Lord, who convinced the State
Legislature that the on-campus residential experience was an important part of a student’s
education. His success made EIU the first residential campus among all State Universities.
This section reflects a legacy shaped through evolving departmental structures, locations,
and historical publications that document the growth and coordination of the department
over time.
Learn More
Building History
The history of Eastern Illinois University’s living environments is preserved through
records of their naming, dedication ceremonies, and related documentation that reflect
each building’s foundation and unique community culture. You are encouraged to explore
the link provided to learn more about the individuals whose impact on EIU students
is recognized through the naming of a building in their honor.
LEARN MORE
Staffing History
Staff lists and leadership records document the individuals who supported generations
of residents and helped shape Housing & Dining’s long-standing traditions of student
engagement and residential education. These materials highlight both professional
leadership and student staff contributions across decades.
LEARN MORE
Residence Hall Scrapbooks
Student perspectives on residence hall life at Eastern Illinois University are preserved
through a rich collection of scrapbooks spanning from the early 1960s through the
early 2000s, capturing everyday moments, traditions, programs, and community experiences
as they were lived by residents themselves. These materials offer a unique and personal
reflection of the culture and spirit within the halls across several decades of campus
history. Visitors are encouraged to scroll through the residence hall bookcases using
the link provided to explore these student-created snapshots of residential life over
time.
LEARN MORE
Warbler Yearbooks
he tradition of preserving Eastern Illinois University’s student experience is also
reflected through the legacy of the Warbler, the university’s long-established yearbook,
which has been fully digitized by Booth Library. The Warbler maintained this tradition
from 1919 through its final edition in 2023. To learn more and view the complete collection
of digital editions, visitors are encouraged to explore The Keep’s Warbler yearbook
archive through the link provided. We have compiled a reference document that highlights
items featuring the department and its residents.
LEARN MORE
Housing Student Governance
The history of student leadership within Eastern Illinois University’s Housing and
Dining Services is reflected through the lasting impact of Hall Councils, the Residence
Hall Association (RHA), and the National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH), which have
provided meaningful opportunities for students to shape the residential experience
at the campus, regional, and national levels. Through involvement in these governance
organizations, students have contributed to programming initiatives, advocacy efforts,
and leadership development that strengthen community across residence halls. Visitors
are encouraged to explore the link provided to see a reflection of those who were
a part of these organizations and the legacy of student leadership that continues
to influence residential life today.
LEARN MORE
Historical Documentation
Over the decades thousands of documents have been generated that reflect the campus
experience. We have taken what we have of these documents as well as items alums have
sent us from their on-campus experience. Significant moments in campus history have
played an important role in shaping the residential experience at Eastern Illinois
University, influencing both the physical communities' students lived in and the ways
Housing and Dining Services supported them over time. From major facility events to
broader challenges and turning points that affected campus life, these moments reflect
how the department continually adapted to meet the needs of its residents.
LEARN MORE
Oral History & Written Testimonials
The history of Eastern Illinois University’s Housing and Dining Services is ultimately
defined by the people who shaped its communities through their experiences, leadership,
and everyday moments of connection. Through audio and video interviews, written reflections,
and personal letters, these testimonials preserve the voices of those who lived and
worked within the residence halls, offering perspectives that bring the department’s
story to life. Visitors are encouraged to explore the link provided to discover how
these shared memories remain just as vital to the history of Housing and Dining Services
as any official record, and if you have a story you wish to share, please consider
submitting it through the link provided to help continue building this living history.
LEARN MORE
Image Collections
Photographs document the visual history of Housing & Dining communities and preserve
moments of connection across generations of residents and staff.
LEARN MORE
