President Smith statement regarding student housing
Statement from Eastern Michigan University President James Smith
The University has never considered privatizing student housing. Specifically, EMU is exploring working with an experienced partner who would provide the financing for new and renovated housing facilities on campus that would be owned and managed by EMU.
We are aware that some members of the Faculty Senate are concerned about our plans that will result in a transformative modernization of University housing. Discussions about improving student housing have been underway with our campus community for three years, and we plan to continue to work with the faculty members who are concerned about these efforts to clear up misinformation and to share the benefits of our housing plans. The planned transformation of University housing is consistent with the revitalization of academic facilities and technology on campus in recent years, including the complete modernization and expansion of our science complex and our engineering and technology center.
This three-year planning process has been methodical and engaged students, staff, and faculty. Our goal is to consider whether a partnership could meet the University's goals of ensuring quality housing that is affordable to our students and provides modern technology to allow them to prosper. Any partnership is subject to the final approval of the Board of Regents, but under any model:
o EMU would retain ownership over all of our student housing facilities
o EMU would set housing rate increases
o Residence life staff, such as RAs, would remain employed by EMU
o EMU would continue to manage many key aspects of the student housing experience
We are seeking a win-win for our students and our campus community that would provide significant upgrades to on campus housing that students have been seeking.
Our student housing planning website has additional information that has been shared with our campus community, including the May 2021 housing report that details the University's extensive process in considering such a partnership.
We will provide additional information about next steps as they are finalized.
December 07, 2021
Written by:
Official Statements
Media Contact:
Melissa Thrasher
mthrashe@emich.edu
734-487-4401
More Stories
Eastern Michigan University’s “Enlighten U” mental health podcast to host its first live taping on self-care – March 20.
Eastern Michigan University celebrates Transgender Day of Visibility with gender- inclusive Career Closet – March 31.
Eastern Michigan University’s Upshur Institute for Civic Education celebrates Civic Learning Week to raise student awareness.
GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology to host TechTalk featuring Dave Konye, director of Business Development–Mobility, Schneider Electric.
Kroger Co. renews commitment to fighting food insecurity with $10,000 ‘Zero Hunger | Zero Waste’ contribution to Eastern Michigan University’s Swoop’s Food Pantry.