Through several FT Town Hall meetings as well as letters and memos, H&RS shared information with their current staff about the transition process. Extensive human resource duties were completed, such as reviewing the organizational structure and determining staffing levels for operation. After conducting numerous interviews, Dining Services staff, Residential Operations staff, and Residential Life staff were hired. Once the new staff were officially hired by the University, staff orientations were held, many of which were conducted in Spanish.

Before taking over management, it was important to conduct inventories and evaluate the existing space, equipment, and furniture at FT. In many cases, repairs were made, or equipment was moved from H&RS and reinstalled at FT. Computers were installed, along with new technological systems, such as connectivity for ResNet, ACCESS and CBORD. Administrative systems that were addressed were parking, keys, room numbers, mail, pool use, security, telephones, and vehicle needs.

Plans for renovations began immediately after the purchase of FT, as seismic corrections and hazardous material remediation were mandated as part of the purchase. Working with architect Rikki Binder and the Soltek construction firm, work on the North tower began in October. Seismic corrections brought FT from a “fair” to a “good” rating, and asbestos containing materials and mold problems were removed. Cosmetic renovations improved the carpet, paint and furniture, and ADA code and fire- and life-safety systems were addressed. Renovation of the North tower will be completed by March 2004, when the South tower renovations will begin.

All of this and more was accomplished under tight budget constraints and while maintaining a first class operation throughout the rest of H&RS. The transition required strong partnerships, with every unit within H&RS doing their part.