A new residence hall complex with a total of 350 new beds is being designed for the space east of Opus Hall on John McCormack Road. The facility will contain traditional-style double occupancy rooms for first-year students. Currently in the schematic design phase, the residence hall is scheduled to open in 2022.
“The first year of college is a critical time of transition into the college experience and helping students develop a sense of belonging. The new residence hall is designed with the best residence life practice to develop the whole student by providing a chapel, quiet space for study or contemplation, as well as community building space,” says Judi Biggs Garbuio, vice president for Student Affairs.
Indoors and out, there will be a significant amount of community space for residents, including a shared kitchen, gathering space, and chapel. Current plans include two courtyards: one will be open and encourage free play, such as games, and the other will be more suited for quiet study, prayer, and contemplation.
The current first-year class (graduating in 2023), is the first class at CatholicU to be required to live on campus for three years.
“The new residence hall will increase the number of suite-style and apartment units available for upperclassmen, who seek living environments that are different than traditional residence halls,” says Christopher Lydon, vice president of Enrollment Management and Marketing. “The opening of this facility creates additional opportunities for seniors to stay on campus for all four years if they choose.”