JJ Brice Jr., M.Ed., CEFP

For more than two decades, I have dedicated my career to creating residential and campus environments where students can thrive, professionals can do their best work, and institutions can achieve meaningful, lasting impact. I believe that higher education is fundamentally about people, and that the way we make students and colleagues feel often matters just as much as the programs and policies we create.

As the Director of Residential Life at the University at Albany, I provide strategic leadership for one of the largest residential programs in the SUNY system, partnering across the institution to cultivate safe, inclusive, and engaging communities that promote student success, belonging, and personal growth.

Throughout my career, I have led complex organizational initiatives spanning residential operations, crisis and emergency response, facilities planning, student conduct, organizational change, strategic planning, and staff development. I enjoy building systems that improve both the student experience and organizational effectiveness while fostering cultures grounded in trust, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.

My leadership philosophy centers on psychological safety, servant leadership, and empowering talented teams to do their best work. I am energized by mentoring emerging professionals, developing future leaders, and finding creative solutions to complex challenges.

My professional interests include:
-Student success and residential education
-Organizational culture and leadership development
-Crisis management and emergency preparedness
-Strategic planning and change management
-Facilities planning and operational excellence
-Assessment, process improvement, and innovation
-Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in higher education

I am always interested in connecting with colleagues who are passionate about advancing student success and strengthening the communities we serve.