Otterbein University > Theme Houses

Theme Houses

Theme Houses are an on-campus living option for students with a common goal. Residents of each house are expected to create and take part in programming events to benefit the residents, the special interest group they represent, and the campus community. Any full-time sophomore, junior or senior Otterbein student in good standing with the University is eligible to live in a University-operated house. Residents of each house must be the same sex and must apply as a group in the spring of each year.

Two houses are permanent features of the Residence Life Program because of the connection with their academic department. The other houses may alternate each year, depending on the applications submitted for selection.

The Theme House handbooks may be reviewed by visiting the Student Affairs Office during regular business hours.

For questions about the Theme Houses, please contact Tracy Benner via email or call the Student Affairs Office at 614-823-1250.

Current Theme Houses

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The Education House - 162 W. Home Street

Residents living in the Education House are education majors. These students support one another through the Education Program and plan programs for the Columbus City Schools, leadership development and student teaching. Residents serve as role models to freshmen education majors and those going through the student teaching process. In addition, they host a variety of meetings, programs, and socials sponsored by the Education Department. For more information about the Education House, contact Professor Diane Ross at (614) 823-1856.
The Spiritual Growth House - 155 W. Home Street

The Spiritual Growth House is a unique living environment for students interested in learning more about themselves on a spiritual and personal level. Students can engage and interact in conversations with members of the Otterbein Christian Fellowship and learn more about Religious Life. This year, the house will plan numerous events regarding prayer and religion and host a variety of socials open to the campus community. For more information, contact Chaplain Monty Bradley at (614) 823-1409
The House of Black Culture - 154 W. Home Street

The House of Black Culture (HBC) is named after Otterbein's first African American graduate, William Henry Fouse. The HBC was established in 1994 and serves as a meeting and social space for African American students. The house offers living space to individuals who are involved in the African American Student Union and/or other diversity organizations on campus. The HBC promotes cultural exchange for the Otterbein community through programming and discussions. The HBC also assists the Office of Diversity by hosting receptions for visiting guests. Signature programs include a Welcome Back Cookout and End of the Year Cookout. For more information about the House of Black Culture, contact Lisa Phillips at (614) 823-1250.
The OUT House (Otterbein University Theatre) - 46 W. Home Street

Residents in the Otterbein University Theatre House are the best supporters of Otterbein University's Theatre Program. Located at the corner of W. Home Street and Center Street, 46 W. Home Street offers these residents the opportunity to create a supportive, fun and invigorating atmosphere for the theatre and music program at Otterbein University. For more information, contact Professor Melissa Lusher at (614) 823-1657.
The TAP House (Theatre and Performance) - 146 W. Home Street

The TAP House(Theatre and Performance) is named as such because it houses Theatre and Performance majors. The house's main purpose is to provide an atmosphere for performance majors to gather outside of a normal rehearsal space. They host talk-back sessions after performances by the Otterbein University Theatre Department. They also host potential theatre department students. For more information, contact Professor Melissa Lusher at (614) 823-1657.