ASRA News
What's been happening at ASRA?
Since wrapping up Conference 2025 in April (doesn't time fly?!), the ASRA Management Team has been hard at work, ensuring the association continues to innovate, support members, and deliver high-quality events and resources
Here’s an update on what’s been happening...
Conference 2025 Feedback
We are thrilled to share that the feedback from Conference 2025 was overwhelmingly positive! Both delegates and suppliers provided valuable insights, helping us understand what worked well and where we can improve. Your input directly shapes the way ASRA operates, from refining conference programmes to enhancing member experiences. We are particularly excited to carry forward lessons learned as we prepare for Conference 2026 in Liverpool, aiming to make it even more engaging and impactful.
Planning for Conference 2026 – Liverpool Awaits!
Preparations for Conference 2026 are in full swing, and the programme is shaping up to be diverse, dynamic, and truly memorable. Our sincere thanks go to the many ASRA members who have volunteered to deliver training sessions - your contributions are helping to create a conference that will inspire and educate in equal measure!
One of our key priorities for 2026 based on delegate feedback is amplifying the student voice, with sessions designed to showcase student perspectives alongside insights from leading industry experts. This will ensure that Conference is a platform for fresh ideas and robust professional discussion.
Liverpool is set to be an exciting host city for 2026. Known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning waterfront, the city promises a conference experience that extends beyond the sessions. Members can look forward to a series of thoughtfully curated social events, providing opportunities to network and enjoy Liverpool’s unique character. From informal gatherings to themed receptions, the social programme will be designed to encourage connections across the ASRA community while celebrating the city’s culture, music, and hospitality.
In January, the ASRA Management Team will visit Spaces at The Spine, our conference venue, to finalise exhibition layouts, workshop arrangements, and networking areas. Every detail is being carefully planned, from sourcing engaging keynote speakers to creating interactive sessions and vibrant social experiences, to ensure Conference 2026 is unforgettable for all attendees. Some days, the behind-the-scenes work can feel like just another day at the office, but it’s all building toward something truly special!
Looking Ahead to Conference 2027
Planning never stops! The Management Team has already visited a secret location to scope potential venues for Conference 2027. While details remain under wraps, members can expect an exciting reveal at the close of Conference 2026. These early preparations ensure ASRA conferences continue to be premier events in our field, offering valuable learning, networking, and professional growth opportunities.
ASRA Hour – Learning from Anywhere
Our ASRA Hour sessions continue to prove popular, offering members engaging and accessible professional development online. We’re delighted to report that we have a fantastic lineup of speakers scheduled in the months ahead. These sessions spark discussion, share best practice, and provide insights into current trends and challenges, all from the comfort of your home or office. We encourage all members to join us online and continue the conversation!
What's more, as part of our commitment to continuous improvement, and to make these sessions even more valuable, we've created a brand new feedback form that will be rolled out at the end of each ASRA Hour session. This gives members the opportunity to let us know what’s working well, what could be improved, and the topics you'd like to see in the future.
Strengthening Our Foundations
Behind the scenes, we've been working hard to strengthen back-office processes in line with our responsibilities as a private company limited by guarantee. Updates to internal governing documents have clarified rules for the association’s management and ensure robust, sustainable structures to support ASRA’s growth and long-term goals.
Welcoming New Members and Representatives
We are delighted to welcome Orieta Ruda-Price as our new South East Regional Representative. Orieta will host her first regional meeting on 3rd December at Garden Halls, The University of London. We look forward to seeing many members there and encourage you to engage with your regional representatives in advance with any agenda items.
Orieta Ruda-Price
Head of Residential Operations, University of London
The next round of regional meetings is underway, with events taking place throughout November and December. Full details are available on the Events page and provide a perfect opportunity to network locally and stay involved in ASRA activities.
Finally, we extend a warm welcome to Dublin City University and Northeastern University London, who have recently joined ASRA. We look forward to connecting with representatives from these institutions and including them in our growing community!
Stay connected, stay inspired, and watch this space for more updates as we build toward an exciting year ahead at ASRA!
Joining ASRA
If you or your organisation are thinking of joining ASRA just go to our Membership Section for all the details on types of membership and how to connect with one of the biggest networks of student accommodation professionals in Europe.
