Background
Since its first classes were held on campus in 1957, UNLV has transformed itself from a small branch college into a thriving urban research institution. Along the way, the urban university has become an indispensable resource in one of the country’s fastest-growing cities. In 2013, about 28,000 students were enrolled, including nearly 23,000 undergraduates and almost 5,000 students from outside Nevada.
Analysis
Scion was part of a team selected to perform three distinct phases of student housing planning and implementation:
- Phase I: Assessment of campus housing
- Phase II: Housing Master Plan update
- Phase III: Development and/or management of student housing
While completing Phase I, Scion concluded that demand for campus housing far exceeded existing campus capacity. This was a somewhat remarkable conclusion given there were significant vacancies in campus housing at the time.
As part of Phase II, Scion developed and submitted recommendations encompassing the pricing, operations, occupancy management, capital projects and marketing of UNLV campus housing. Later, in completing Phase II, Scion led the review of the housing component of the University Campus Plan Update.
Results
Scion, in partnership with two local Las Vegas firms, assumed the asset management, assignments, leasing and marketing of all UNLV campus housing facilities. Working in collaboration with student affairs staff who continue to manage all residence life functions, occupancy has increased by 70%, expenses have decreased, and overall satisfaction by residents has been improved.