What’s going on with housing? Amid the various stressors of the college experience, UCSB students often find themselves burdened by a unique struggle: housing. These concerns are not new, stemming from the 2021 housing crisis that left UCSB’s student population without enough beds. As of 2025, students still have difficulty accessing these resources and remain rent-burdened. In collaboration with the Blum Center, University and Community Housing Services, Isla Vista Tenants Union (IVTU), and Isla Vista Community Service District (IVCSD), join us for an open conversation about the current state of housing and the gaps that need to be addressed. Learn about existing housing conditions, connect with helpful resources, and collaborate with us to explore solutions for making housing more affordable and accessible for the entire UCSB community. Dinner will be provided.
- Jenn Ja Birchim, UCHS, Manager of Community Housing Services: Jenn is the Assistant Director for University & Community Housing Services at UC Santa Barbara. She oversees community housing operations, with a focus on safety and security in Isla Vista, building strong relationships with local landlords, and educating students about their rental rights and responsibilities. A full-time working mom of four, she finds joy in balancing family life with her passion for the ocean and the vibrant community she serves.
- Blum Center: The Blum Center's Campus Housing Coalition brings together students, researchers, and community partners to address UCSB's housing crisis through advocacy, policy research, and student-led organizing. Over the past three years, the coalition has produced resources like the People's Guide to UCSB's Housing Crisis and guidetoucsbhousing.org website, built partnerships with more than 15 campus and community organizations, and supported initiatives such as Isla Vista's first Rental Inspection Program. By centering student voices and bridging research with action, the coalition works to ensure that housing policy serves the needs of the entire campus community.
- Amanda Hsieh, IVTU, International Relations Director: The Isla Vista Tenants Union (IVTU) is a student-led organization at UC Santa Barbara dedicated to educating and empowering tenants while advocating for fair and affordable housing in Isla Vista. IVTU provides resources, hosts community events, and collaborates with campus and local partners to address housing issues. The organization aims to amplify student voices and promote equity in housing access and policy.
- IVCSD: The Isla Vista Community Services District (IVCSD) is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors by providing essential services and fostering a vibrant, safe, and connected community. From managing public safety initiatives and promoting sustainability to facilitating community events and advocating for residents' needs, IVCSD is at the heart of making Isla Vista a welcoming and thriving place to live, work, and play.
Co-Sponsors: Blum Center, Isla Vista Tenants Union (IVTU), Isla Vista Community Services District (IVCSD), University and Community Housing Services (UCHS)
