Resident Directors in Europe: A Phenomenological Study

Authors

  • Stephen Robinson Champlain College, Dublin Campus
  • Jeremy Doughty University Studies Abroad Consortium
  • Kirk Duclaux University of Oklahoma in Arezzo - Italy
  • MaryAnn Letellier Center for University Programs Abroad - (CUPA) Paris

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36366/frontiers.v37i1.997

Keywords:

Europe, on-site, phenomenology, resident directors, study abroad

Abstract

Resident directors (RDs) in Europe manage a university in a microcosm–overseeing academic affairs, student affairs, finances, facilities, human resources, legal issues, and health and safety. Literature on the RD role remains scarce, and we sought to fill this gap by examining the lived experiences of 22 RDs in Europe. Our phenomenological study uncovered a distinct phenomenon: the evolving voice and role of RDs amidst a changing landscape. Although many RDs feel overburdened and undervalued, our research reveals a shift towards recognition and empowerment. Country-based and regional international education associations have emerged as vital platforms that amplify the RD voice, foster community, and contribute to knowledge and skill development. We detail the intricacies of the RD role and offer practical recommendations for continuing to amplify the RD voice and support on-site staff.

Abstract in French

Les directeur·rice·s résident·e·s (RDs) en Europe doivent gérer une véritable micro-université, au sein de laquelle il·elle·s sont chargé·e·s non seulement du bon déroulement des composantes pédagogiques et culturelles, mais aussi responsables des finances, des ressources humaines et des questions de législation, de santé et de sécurité. Constatant le peu de littérature scientifique publiée sur ce rôle, nous avons cherché à combler ce vide en examinant les expériences vécues de 22 directeur-ices de programme en Europe. Notre étude phénoménologique a révélé un phénomène bien tangible : la voix et le rôle des RD sont en pleine évolution, dans un contexte qui lui-même se transforme. Bien que beaucoup de RD se disent surchargé·es et sous-valorisé·es, nos recherches permettent de mettre au jour un mouvement vers davantage de reconnaissance et d'affirmation de leur rôle essentiel. Les associations nationales et régionales qui ont émergé ces dernières décennies offrent des espaces fondamentaux pour amplifier la voix des RD, favoriser leur appartenance à une communauté soudée et développer leurs connaissances et leurs compétences. Dans cet article, nous mettrons en lumière les spécificités du rôle des RD et proposerons un certain nombre de mesures concrètes visant à soutenir les équipes sur place.

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Author Biographies

Stephen Robinson, Champlain College, Dublin Campus

Stephen Robinson, PhD, is Director and Professor with Champlain College’s campus in Dublin, Ireland. Stephen is an environmental geoscientist with a PhD from McGill University in Montréal, Canada, and he previously held the Chapin Chair in Geology at St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY. He advocates for the perspectives of on-site study abroad staff in Europe, and for climate action in international education. He is the Chair of EUASA and board member of ASAPI.

Jeremy Doughty, University Studies Abroad Consortium

Jeremy Doughty, PhD, is an academic innovation and research specialist with the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC). In this role, he focuses on curriculum integration, program development, and trends analysis. Jeremy received his PhD in higher education administration from Bowling Green State University and his M.A. in international education from the SIT Graduate Institute.

Kirk Duclaux, University of Oklahoma in Arezzo - Italy

Kirk Duclaux, MA, is the founding Director of the University of Oklahoma in Arezzo (OUA), Italy, leading the Study Center since its inception. With over 15 years of European experience, he specializes in international education, Renaissance Art History, Art and Activism, and Cultural Heritage Trafficking. Kirk holds an M.A. in Italian Renaissance Art History from Syracuse University in Florence, Italy, combining academic expertise with a deep understanding of cross-cultural and administrative challenges

MaryAnn Letellier, Center for University Programs Abroad - (CUPA) Paris

MaryAnn Letellier, PhD, is the Director of CUPA, a French immersion program in Paris. Since her arrival as Academic Director in 1999, she has provided support on all levels for students, while also developing the program curriculum and existing partnerships. Mary Ann has an MA in French Literature from New York University and a Doctorat from Université Paris 3-Sorbonne Nouvelle and has held teaching positions at the Sorbonne Nouvelle and Université de Lille.

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Published

2025-01-30

How to Cite

Robinson, S., Doughty, J., Duclaux, K., & Letellier, M. (2025). Resident Directors in Europe: A Phenomenological Study. Frontiers: The Interdisciplinary Journal of Study Abroad, 37(1), 210–241. https://doi.org/10.36366/frontiers.v37i1.997

Issue

Vol. 37 No. 1 (2025): Special Issue on U.S. Education Abroad: The View from Europe

Section

Special Issue on U.S. Education Abroad: The View from Europe

License

Copyright (c) 2025 Stephen Robinson, Jeremy Doughty, Kirk Duclaux, MaryAnn Letellier

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