Clarion Profile: ResLife's new director, George Bostanic
George Bostanic took the helm of Lee's Residential Life this past June.
Courtesy of Lee University
As the fall semester took off, the Office of Residential Life and Housing's brand-new director, George Bostanic, settled into his position at Lee University.
In June, George Bostanic officially transitioned into the role, making his way from California's Pacific College where he'd also served as Director of Residential Life.
Bostanic told Lee Clarion he finds his passion in aligning his mission with that of his staff, adding that it's “inspiring” working alongside a group of people who are eager to serve others before themselves.
“What I love about Residential Life and Housing at Lee is the love, care, and intentionality we provide to students. It is very evident that Lee cares deeply about the learning that happens both in and outside of the classroom, and we make it a goal to help every student know that they matter,” Bostanic said.
Bostanic has earned a bachelor’s degree in theology and Bible, along with a master’s degree in higher education.
The search for a new director began in Spring 2016 after Tracey Carlson, who served for 15 years, announced the end of her tenure. Dr. Mike Hayes stepped in as interim director after Carlson left last fall.
So far, Bostanic says he has found joy in training student leaders who desire to create community and push one another to grow.
Former Residential Assistant Hannah Gilstrap said she is thrilled to see how Bostanic's leadership style plays into her new role as Residential Director. Gilstrap has been a part of Res Life for three years and is now starting her fourth.
“I am mostly excited about getting to know my students and seeing them grow this year! I am so pumped to see the change occur in them, in our dorm, and even in our department as a whole. I know this year is going to be one of so many exciting things,” Gilstrap said.
In just the first few weeks of the semester, Bostanic has been able to experience the rewarding feeling of leading and working alongside his full-time staff as they serve one another.
“There are a few things that stick out as the most rewarding aspect of my job," said Bostanic. "First, being able to work alongside talented professionals in my field has been inspiring. You will not find one staff member in our department who does not have a passion for wanting students to thrive and succeed during their time at Lee. Second, getting to know the student staff has been a tremendous blessing. It's evident that Lee has a lot of phenomenal student leaders on this campus who are willing to serve others before themselves.”
Bostanic and his well-equipped staff are looking forward to the year of work that's cut out for them.
“We will continue to strive to be faithful in the big and small things in our department. The mission of Residential Life and Housing is to help students know that they matter by fostering a purposeful community, promoting responsible living, and encouraging life-long learning in a Christ-centered environment,” Bostanic said.
Gilstrap said she, too, is excited to see her students grow in who they are in Christ.
"The most rewarding part of my job is to see the community built, memories made and the growth that happens within each of my students' hearts,” Gilstrap said. “I want them to be okay with who the Lord has created them to be yet constantly challenged to be better and love people more.”
