FAQ: Avery Point's Resident Advisory Council - Purpose, Structure, and Operations

What is the purpose of the Resident Advisory Council at Avery Point?

The Resident Advisory Council acts as a conduit of communication between residents and management, listening to feedback from neighbors and committees to make suggestions to campus administration based on what they hear from residents.

When and where does the Resident Advisory Council meet?

The council meets on the first Friday of every month at Avery Point, an Erickson Senior Living community in Short Pump, Virginia, and also meets with administration on the third Friday of every month.

Who are the current members of the Resident Advisory Council?

Current members include Carroll Bruner (Chair), Tom Dunck (Vice Chair), Diane Prevary (Secretary), Elam Jarrells, Madonna Byrkeland, Charlie Anderson, Al Hockaday, and Judy Lissner, with plans to add another member next year.

How was the Resident Advisory Council established?

In late 2023, about a year after Avery Point opened, an election committee was formed with subcommittees for recruiting, promotion, and vote counting, initially electing five members from twelve candidates who ran for positions.

What committees report to the Resident Advisory Council?

Seven committees report to the council: Dining; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging; Finance; Philanthropy; General Services; Resident Life; and Health and Well-Being, with each RAC member serving as liaison to one committee.

How often do RAC members meet with their assigned committees?

Each RAC member meets with the committee they oversee on a monthly basis to gather feedback and discuss resident concerns and suggestions.

What was unique about the original RAC members’ commitment?

The five original members committed that their only job was to get the RAC established and they would not run for reelection, stepping aside to let other residents have leadership opportunities when their terms ended.

How has the RAC structure evolved since its creation?

The council started with five members who initially paired related committees together, then expanded to eight members in 2024 to allow each committee to have its own liaison, with plans to add another member next year for building representation.