After a highly competitive national search, David McNabb, J.D., has joined Metropolitan State University of Denver as the first executive director of Housing and Residence Life. McNabb will lead the University’s effort to expand its residential footprint as it prepares for the opening of Summit House, MSU Denver’s first residence hall, in fall 2027.
McNabb holds a Juris Doctorate from Mitchell Hamline School of Law and a Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership from Walden University. He previously served as director of Housing and Residential Life at New Mexico State University and brings deep experience in housing operations, residential education, crisis response and student-centered leadership.
“We’re so excited to have David on the team as we embark on a new era, providing the first on-campus housing,” said Taylor Tackett, associate vice president of Student Engagement and Well-being. “He’ll play a pivotal role in creating a more vibrant on-campus community while also addressing concerns about the availability of downtown housing for students.”
In this new role, McNabb will oversee the development of the University’s housing and residence life structure, staffing model, policies, and residential student engagement strategy. He will also serve as a key partner across Student Engagement and Well-being and the broader University to build a residential experience that reflects MSU Denver’s values and commitment to student belonging and well-being.
Located on the north side of campus across from Ball Arena, the 12-story Summit House is scheduled to open in 2027 and will provide 550 student beds, a new home for the University’s Classroom to Career Hub, and dining and retail space. The $117 million project, a partnership with Columbia Ventures, is being funded primarily by bonds and philanthropic support.
Learn more about Summit House here.
