The task of the Inter-Residence Hall Association, to unite the three residence hall systems, can be daunting and confusing, but IRHA President David Sims boiled it down to one encompassing concept.

“The IRHA is there to provide a medium between students and the residence hall administration,” said Sims, junior in mechanical engineering.

Not only does IRHA unite the associations and act as a liaison to residence administration, it also sets up activities in the residence halls and acts as the voice of the students housed there.

“IRHA sponsors the student radio station KURE 88.5 FM, Free Friday Flicks and other programs for hall residents,” said IRHA Finance Director Kyle Jacobsen.

So far this year, IRHA already has assisted residents by organizing loft rental pick-up, selling and delivering dorm room carpets and distributing welcome kits to students in the halls, Sims said.

The IRHA will continue sponsoring activities throughout the year, including Residence Hall Week in the spring.

“Last year’s [Residence Hall Week] was the best in a long time,” said Jacobsen, junior in horticulture.

Both Sims and Jacobsen said they plan to make this year even better than the last. But despite lofty goals, IRHA is facing problems as it begins the school year.

Vice President Brant Ausenhus had to step down for academic reasons, leaving the position open.

“Unfortunately, his grades fell a tad bit below par to remain a member of the cabinet,” Sims said.

The position of director of information technology is also still open.

Sims said applications will be out soon for the open IRHA cabinet slots, and he urged residents to keep their eyes open for flyers or table tents in the residence dining halls for more information.

IRHA’s first meeting will be held tonight at 7 at Chessman Lounge in Helser Hall. All meetings are open to hall residents.