The University strives to provide opportunities for students to prepare themselves for constructive and responsible living in an environment which recognizes and values the needs of both the individual and the larger community. Life in a residence hall can help students become responsible community members through the process of intellectual, social, spiritual and emotional maturation. The community-centered life in each hall is guided by the hall's rector. Rectors include priests and brothers of the Congregation of Holy Cross, as well as men and women of other religious orders and lay men and women.
Rectors have a special interest in the growth and development of college students.
Each rector is responsible for coordinating and supervising four to nine staff members and for developing and implementing religious, community-service, and educational programs that support the total mission of the University. The assistant rector is also a member of the head staff of each residence hall. Generally, assistant rectors are members of the Congregation of Holy Cross or Notre Dame graduate students. The assistant rector aids the rector in the general administration of the residence hall and its programs. RAs are involved in helping students live together productively in the residence halls.