James Calechman Joins Seton Hall University as Director of Residence Life

Calechman, who received his Masters in Higher Education Counseling from fellow Big East school, Providence, began working at Seton Hall University in October 2024. The newly appointed Seton Hall director came with six years of experience working at Siena College, in which he split time as both the Assistant Director and the Director of Community Living. 

Even prior to his experience at Siena, Calechman was a Resident Assistant himself for three years. He mentioned how the years in which he was an RA were “some of the best years of [his] life…” It was then when “[he] really got to develop who [he] was.” He also went on to add that it was the time he spent as an RA when he realized he wanted to start giving back to students professionally in the future. 

When asked why Calechman chose to apply and accept the position at Seton Hall, he explained how he has “worked at Catholic institutions… and the missions and the values of a Catholic institution and private school really speak to [him].” Seton Hall also is going to provide the new director the opportunity to “still grow as a professional.” This is important to Calechman, as he wants to foster an environment where the students and staff that he oversees have the room to constantly grow and improve as well. “I believe that successful leaders want to challenge their teams but support them at the same time and make sure they are growing just as much as we are. By helping our teams we are also growing as leaders,” he stated. 

Nicole Giglia, associate dean of students, and Calechman’s supervisor stated, “We are so fortunate to have James leading the Residence Life department. He brings a wealth of knowledge in not only residence life but also Catholic higher education. James approaches his work with strategic vision focused on creating an unparalleled student experience.”

Residence Life’s mission statement is to be every resident’s “Home at the Hall.” Calechman said that, to him, this means that his group is providing “that experience… [Making sure] everyone feels safe, feels secure, and that [students] can grow in the way that [they] want to grow on this campus.” He also had a message for parents and families of students as well, noting that “Residence Life is here to support your students. We will do anything we have to make sure we go above and beyond for a student.” 

As the new year and new semester begins, James Calechman has goals, aspirations and ideas for both the near future and long term during his tenure at Seton Hall University. Residence Life, resident assistants and professional staff alike have welcomed James and are excited to see what he has in store for the future of the department. 

Categories: Campus Life