This fall, Lakeland welcomed over 200 new freshmen to campus; one of the largest classes seen in a while. With that, Lakeland encountered some issues regarding housing and its ability to accommodate all students living on campus. 

Before this year, Grosshuesch Hall was already empty, and left 100 beds unused. This year, one of the places in the suites was deemed uninhabitable, and left another 8 beds unavailable. 

Mark Edmond, the director of residence life, said that throughout this process there was a lot of communication with students to inform them of the changes being made. “We didn’t know that this influx was going to happen until close to school starting.” With students applying and making decisions late this created issues so close to the beginning of the semester. 

The apartments and suites saw minimal changes compared to Muehlmeier and Brotz Halls. 

With an increase in the number of male students, Muehlmeier Hall reached full capacity. It remained a freshmen hall but resident assistants there had to have roommates. Mark explained the reasoning behind this choice. “We did not want to do triples in the freshmen hall.” He also stated, “We did have to open Brotz up for freshmen. We did have to create six different beds. So, three different rooms had to be created. There were study halls converted into rooms.” They were also prepared to triple rooms, if necessary, in Brotz because they have the space and amenities to room three people. 

Jennifer Daly, hall director of Brotz, shared that she worked with three female students who agreed to have their female pod turned into another male pod. 

Jenn found the most challenging part to be, “trying to meet everyone’s expectations.” However, she was happy to share that within the first few weeks of school, every student was housed on campus. 

“Our admissions team did a great job in bringing more students in… we want students to be here,” said Mark.  

In addition to the recruitment by admissions, our athletic teams, new majors, and Co-Op attracted many students. 

Jenn also agreed with Mark that she is glad to see so many students coming to Lakeland. Overall, “It improves campus life.” 

When asked if this could be an issue again next fall, Mark replied, “It could possibly be one.” He hopes to have “another issue” because it shows how our school is growing and improving. He insists, “It is a good problem to have.” 

Before the next school year, it can be expected that more changes will be made for spring semester.