New RDs for Gallup and Eagle

Elizabeth Hager

Elizabeth Hager is very optimistic about her job as the new resident director of Gallup Hall. “I have a great RA staff – the best staff and the best-looking staff,” Hager said. “They made it easy on me as a newcomer.”

Hager has lots of experience working with people, which will come in handy for her new position. She has previously worked as a social worker for three years and as a university chaplain. She has also earned a master’s in counseling.

Hager loves traveling and has been to Japan, Korea, Thailand and much of Europe. On weekends, she can be found out on the water. “I’m in crew so I row on the weekends,” Hager said.

Hager is glad to have the opportunity to work with resident students and student development. “I am looking forward to building stronger relationships with the RAs and understanding more about the community at Eastern,” she said.

Travis Yoder

As students settle into their housing assignments for the year, returning students will notice a new face in the housing office. Travis Yoder has joined the Eastern community as the new coordinator of housing and the resident director of Eagle Hall.

Yoder, who is originally from Warsaw, Ind., found out about Eastern because the wife of one of his college friends went here.

Yoder’s first impression was that Eastern had a very unique atmosphere. “(I liked) Eastern’s approach to Christianity in the context of the culture we live in,” Yoder said.

Yoder has a lot of experience that has prepared him for the job. While attending Taylor University in Indiana, Yoder was a resident assistant for three years and then went on to get a master’s in higher education with a focus on student development. He was also an assistant RD at Taylor University for three years.

Yoder has been very busy preparing for students to return for the year. “It is a lot to be a first time RD and the first time in the housing office,” Yoder said. “It is quite a challenge.”

When Yoder is not busy working, he can be found enjoying baseball or a good cup of coffee.

Yoder, who played baseball in high school, likes all forms of baseball whether he is watching it on TV or seeing a live game.

His time spent as a coffee shop manager did not damper his love for a good cup of joe. “A few settings are enhanced by having coffee in hand,” he said.

Yoder is excited about the opportunity to work at Eastern and loves spending time with students. “What a privilege it is to work with 18 to 20-year-olds when they are finding themselves,” Yoder said.