The Office of Residence Life
The Office of Residence Life plays a vital role in supporting the academic mission of McKendree University by creating an atmosphere that encourages holistic development. We are committed to providing a safe and well-maintained residential community while promoting student success. We value an environment that fosters mutual respect, responsible citizenship, and supportive educational opportunities to supplement our residents' overall experience.
Move-In Day Guide
The University requires all residential students to follow the instructions below for the Fall 2026 move-in process. Please read the guidelines provided in the Fall 2026 Move-In Guide in full before planning your trip to campus.
Have you signed up for New Student Orientation?
Housing Freeze
Although the Housing Freeze sounds like something related to cold months, it actually occurs during the month of August. During the Housing Freeze, no room changes can occur. The Freeze is designed to allow time for students to get settled into their rooms and get to know their roommate(s), to respect academic efforts at busy times of the term, and to give Residential Life staff members time to evaluate occupancy levels for the term.
Residents may request a room change after the room freeze ends on September 1. However, you may not move to another space without emailed authorization from the Office of Residence Life. If you do, you will incur charges and may face disciplinary action.
After housing assignments are announced students will be able to join a Waiting List if they did not receive the housing preference they desired most.
Important Dates
July 31: All MicroFridge Orders must be submitted to avoid a late fee.
August 1: FAST Forward 1 for Football and Residence Life staff.
August 8: FAST Forward 2 for Cheer team, Dance team, Women's Soccer team, Men's Soccer team, and Women's Volleyball team.
August 12: Residential Students on the Men's Water Polo Team will need to move into Housing at The Lair between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.
August 17: FAST Forward 3 for Bearcat Sound Machine, Women's Cross Country team, Men's Cross Country team, and Move-in Helpers.
August 18: Residential Students on the Orientation Leaders' team will need to move into Housing at The Lair between 12:00 p.m and 2:00 p.m.
August 20: FAST Forward 4 for New and Transfer Students.
New Student Orientation begins with Convocation on the front lawn. WEAR PURPLE!
August 21 - 23: Returning Student Housing arrival and Check-in occurs. Any student who needs to meet with a campus office before the first day of class should sign up for Friday, August 22, as soon as possible.
August 24: First day of class for Fall 2026.
September 7: Last day to get Meal Plan Changes to reslife@mckendree.edu. Due by 12 noon.
Looking for information about hosting a camp or conference on campus? Click Here
Office Information
Hours:
Monday - Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 Noon
Address: 701 College Road, Clark Hall, 111B, Lebanon, IL 62254
Telephone: (618) 537-6855
Fax: (618) 537-6538
Email: reslife@mckendree.edu
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