By: Matt Bertram, Assistant Director of Marketing for Carolina Housing
The latest episode of the Campus Connection podcast features Amber Wing, Assistant Director of Student Staff Development and Multicultural Competency for Carolina Housing. Amber’s role is as multifaceted as her title suggests, involving mentorship, training, and a steadfast commitment to inclusivity. During our conversation, Amber shared her experiences, philosophies, and aspirations, offering a deep dive into the work she does to shape the student residential experience at UNC Chapel Hill.
“At the end of the day, I want our student staff to just be good human beings.”
Amber’s perspective on student staff development centers on empathy, respect, and connection. Her role involves mentoring resident advisors (RAs), community directors (CDs), and others, helping them navigate the challenges of supporting their peers. Amber approaches training as an opportunity to instill fundamental skills that go beyond campus life.
She explained how she emphasizes the importance of communication across diverse perspectives, saying, “I want our student staff to just be good human beings who know how to respectfully talk to their residents, no matter their background, upbringing, or opinions.” By teaching RAs to engage with empathy and mutual respect, Amber ensures they create environments where residents feel valued and supported.
For Amber, the ultimate goal is to prepare her staff not just for their time at Carolina Housing but for their future careers and relationships. Whether in higher education, business, or any other field, these skills are universally valuable.
“Training isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.”
A central part of Amber’s role is designing and refining training programs to meet the ever-changing needs of her staff. Since starting at Carolina Housing nearly two years ago, she has spearheaded initiatives like the “returner track,” which offers specialized training for experienced RAs. This track allows seasoned staff members to deepen their expertise while giving new staff the opportunity to learn in smaller, more focused groups.
Amber’s philosophy revolves around adaptability. She explained, “Each year is different. What one group of RAs or community managers needs can change drastically year to year. I pay attention to those gaps and adjust accordingly.” Her attention to feedback from previous trainings and direct input from student staff ensures that each cohort receives tailored guidance and support.
Beyond logistical planning, Amber empowers her team to take ownership of their roles in training. She actively encourages creativity and innovation, allowing staff members to propose and lead new initiatives. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the training process but also gives her team valuable leadership experience.
“Service is at the heart of what we do.”
Amber’s commitment to service is another hallmark of her leadership. She believes strongly in giving back, not only within Carolina Housing but also to the surrounding community. This past fall, she and her team implemented a large-scale service initiative involving more than 270 student staff members. These efforts brought students into the local community to engage in meaningful volunteer work.
Amber shared how this initiative aligns with her broader vision: “It’s our responsibility to give back—not just to each other but to the larger community. These experiences build connections and instill a sense of purpose in our staff.” She hopes these service opportunities leave a lasting impression, reinforcing the importance of civic engagement and community building.
This dedication to service reflects Carolina Housing’s mission of fostering inclusive, connected communities, both on and off campus.
“Living on campus is about more than just a room—it’s about connection.”
Amber also highlighted the unique role that student staff play in enhancing the residential experience. From helping first-year students feel at home to supporting upperclassmen as they navigate their academic and personal growth, RAs and other staff members act as vital bridges between students and the resources available to them.
She encouraged students to engage with their RAs and office assistants proactively: “The benefit of having an RA or office assistant is that students get exposed to a whole other way of connecting to campus. These staff members are often the first touchpoint for new residents, helping them feel at home.” Amber’s advice to students is simple but impactful: participate, communicate, and take advantage of opportunities to connect with their community.
Amber’s insights from this interview underscore her passion and dedication to shaping a positive, inclusive residential experience at Carolina Housing. Whether she’s mentoring staff, refining training programs, or fostering community connections, Amber’s work leaves a lasting impact on everyone she interacts with.
To hear more about Amber’s inspiring work and her vision for the future, listen to the full episode of the Campus Connection podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other streaming platforms.