Beginning in January 2026, new leadership brought renewed energy and a focus on how every employee contributes to the University of Maryland’s mission. Cross-training within units expanded employee skills, increased operational flexibility and strengthened our ability to deliver high-quality service to students.
The department’s resilience was also tested. Major equipment failures and facility emergencies required immediate action and coordination. From temporary heating and cooling systems that kept residence halls operational to rapid responses that restored building services, we responded around the clock to ensure students safety.
The accomplishments highlighted below reflect the dedication, professionalism and commitment of the people who make Residential Facilities successful.
Major Milestones
- Chestertown Hall Renovation: We added air conditioning to 120 previously non-air-conditioned beds, modernized community bathrooms, refreshed student lounge and study spaces and replaced aging plumbing infrastructure. The project also upgraded the building’s electrical system to support the new air conditioning units and improved housekeeping work areas.
- Elevator Modernization: During FY26, we advanced the modernization of elevators in Centreville, Ellicott and Cumberland Halls by replacing aging machinery, motors, controls and cab interiors.
- Building a Culture of Recognition: Our DRF Housekeeping staff earned national recognition for their exceptional work at Eppley Recreation Center, reaching the Final Five in ISSA’s nationwide Spotless Spaces Competition.
celebration We achieved a 100% Certified Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) Cleaning Technician certification rate. Every Housekeeping employee is now certified through the industry’s leading professional credential, reinforcing DRF’s commitment to providing students with healthy, safe and exceptionally maintained living environments.
Rapid Emergency Response
We responded to several infrastructure emergencies that had the potential to significantly disrupt student life. Quick action by our staff prevented situations that could have resulted in student relocations or prolonged loss of air conditioning and hot water. Beyond securing temporary equipment, staff coordinated installation and kept students informed, minimizing disruption and allowing residential life to continue uninterrupted.
Temporary Chiller
We installed a temporary chiller in La Plata Hall after an unexpected system failure, restoring air conditioning to students within a matter of days while long-term replacement planning continued.
Cooling & Hot Water Systems
We supported installation of temporary cooling and domestic hot water systems in the South Hill Community following failures at District Thermal Plant (DTP) 1.
Winter Storm
We coordinated a department-wide response to severe winter weather, keeping pathways safe, maintaining residence hall operations, prioritizing critical heating and hot water repairs and ensuring students continued to receive essential services.
Creating Inclusive & Sustainable Spaces
We continued advancing capital and operational improvements that enhanced accessibility and sustainability throughout residence halls.
Accessibility Improvements
We completed improvements in the Chestertown Hall lounge and restrooms and on the Caroline Hall ground floor, including:
- Expanded the main entrance and selected interior door openings to meet ADA accessibility requirements.
- Converted restroom stalls into ADA-compliant stalls.
- Constructed an ADA-compliant break room.
- Built an ADA-compliant reception counter to better serve students.
Sustainability Improvements
We continued advancing sustainability through operational improvements and long-term planning, including:
- High-efficiency HVAC system and equipment upgrades in Annapolis Hall
- Water conservation measures through low-flow plumbing fixtures in Chestertown Hall.
- Sustainable material selection in Cumberland, Chestertown, Caroline and Frederick Hall.
- Energy-efficient appliances in Chestertown and Caroline Hall.
Looking Ahead
Upgrades Underway in the Ellicott Community
Two University of Maryland residence halls are receiving significant improvements that will enhance the residential experience for current and future Terps.
Planned upgrades to Ellicott Hall and Hagerstown Hall include:
- New windows throughout the building
- Installation of window heat pump units that provide heating and air conditioning
- Renovated bathrooms
- Electrical system upgrades