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Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6019-3973


Date Available

4-29-2026

Year of Publication

2026

Document Type

Doctoral Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

College

Education

Department/School/Program

Educational Leadership Studies

Faculty

Lars Bjork

Faculty

John Nash

Abstract

New professionals in student affairs, particularly those working in housing and residence life, face complex job responsibilities that demand a high level of confidence and preparation. The purpose of this study was to increase resident directors’ sense of self-efficacy as they transition into their new role. This study employs a mixed methods action research (MMAR) design to explore the development of an effective onboarding and training framework to support housing and residence life professionals in successfully transitioning new resident directors into their roles.

An intervention plan was developed in collaboration with key stakeholders to increase resident directors’ sense of self-efficacy through a three-part professional development series. Before and after the intervention, data were collected to assess changes in resident directors’ sense of self-efficacy and preparedness to perform their roles. Findings from this study suggested that an effective, well-planned onboarding and training framework may make resident directors more efficacious as they transition into their new role.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.13023/etd.2026.158

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