Purpose & Staff
Our Vision
With compassion, we meet students where they are and encourage them to do their best.
Our Mission
The Office of Residence Life brings students and housing together in a safe and comfortable living environment. Our staff provide services and learning experiences beyond the classroom to promote educational, social, and personal growth, as well as manage the judicial affairs for residential and commuter students.
Our Core Values
- Direct Communication: We encourage everyone to respectfully dial-direct.
- Emotional Intelligence: Increasing self-efficacy through learning opportunities based on empathy, self-awareness, motivation, social skills, and self-regulation.
- Resource Referral: We’re generalists who refer students to appropriate experts to fulfill their purpose.
- Personal Relationships: We get to know each other, and we care.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Celebrating the wide-range of differences in the human experience, such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, abilities, religion, and thought. We emphasize civil discourse in a community where all must be able to feel they belong.
- Leadership: Robust opportunities to strengthen skills, get involved, and be in service to others.
Our Staff
In addition to the professional staff listed below, 26 current undergraduate students serve as resident assistants to carry out the office's purpose.
Email: matos@hood.edu
Phone: 301-696-3577
Office:
Whitaker Campus Center
Student Life Suite
Room 229
Biography
Michael Matos brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his role as Director of Residence Life at Hood College.
With a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from Georgia Southern University and a Bachelor of Science in Community Health from Delaware State University, Michael's professional journey has been marked by a commitment to student success and community building. Prior to joining Hood College, Michael served in various leadership capacities at Fort Valley State University, where he excelled as Associate Director of Housing and Residential Life and Coordinator of Intramural Sports and Campus Recreation. His achievements include spearheading COVID-19 contingency plans, increasing student engagement, and fostering inclusive environments. With a proven track record of strategic planning, staff development, and student advocacy, Michael is dedicated to creating vibrant and supportive residential communities where students can thrive academically and personally.
As Director of Residence Life at Hood College, he continues to uphold his passion for enhancing the collegiate experience and empowering students to reach their full potential.
Email: taylor@hood.edu
Phone: 301-696-3577
Office:
Whitaker Campus Center
Student Life Suite, Room
Biography
LaShawn Taylor was heavily involved as a student leader during his undergraduate years at Shepherd University. After completing his bachelor’s degree in English with a creative writing concentration and a minor in communications and new media, LaShawn entered the College Student Development and Administration master’s program at Shepherd University. He served there as a hall director, mentoring and being a resource for residents and student leaders. During LaShawn’s time at Hood, he works to help students reach their full potential so that they can be successful in reaching their goals. Some of LaShawn’s hobbies include playing with his dog Tinker, writing, painting, and pretending to sing. He is also a huge fan of the Washington Football Team and enjoys acting.
Education
- M.A., Shepherd University
- B.A., Shepherd University
Email: cano@hood.edu
Phone: 301-696-3639
Office:
Smith Hall
Ground Floor
Biography
Juliana is a skilled professional with a strong background in business administration. As the Senior Graduate Assistant for Student Life, she leverages her expertise to contribute to Residence Life and Student Engagement. Juliana's passion for branding and web design, combined with her studies in Management Information Systems, allows her to bring a unique perspective to her role. When she's not working, Juliana enjoys spending quality time with her dog, Soda Pop, and pursuing her creative interests.
Are you ready to say Hello?
Choose a Pathway
Information will vary based on program level. Select a path to find the information you're looking for!