Adjusting to the elements

With an increase in student enrollment, there has been a need to recondition and prepare some of the on campus dormitories that have been unoccupied for an extensive period of time. Bethune Hall, one of the few being renovated, was not up to par as of the original expected deadline. As a result 57 Southern University students were temporarily housed at the Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndam located at 3444 Harding Blvd.
“Two years ago we had to do the same thing with the White and Reed halls that had been closed for a while, so contractors were hired to go in and recondition the buildings to ensure that they were suitable for our students to live in,” said Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Dr. Brandon Dumas. “Initially they were to move in on the 15, but we were not satisfied with the dorms as of that date, so we secured off campus dominations at the Wyndam Microtel for a week with anticipation of the building being completed.”
Students were provided transportation to and from the hotel and campus via campus shuttle, which began picking up students at 7 a.m. and ending at 8:30 p.m. in 15 minute increments.
“I do believe that if a student is worried about their living it’s a distraction. We did not want them to go back into that building until things were done properly,” explained Dumas. “We have been trying to keep our facilities back on track as our enrollment is growing. We were able to meet that deadline and all students were moved from the hotel to Bethune on or before this Saturday. We have clearly demonstrated our commitment to the overall quality of student life, and recognize the importance of having state of the art facilities and living environment that are both conducive to living and learning.”
When asked of student feedback, Dumas mentioned that the students are happy, and that other students are requesting to move into the newly reconditioned Bethune Hall.
“Ironically students have been approaching me about requesting to move from the back of campus to the front, especially freshman that are not as familiar with the campus, and not so fond of the walking.”
Bethune currently houses all 57 students on the first floor, while the second floor is still undergoing final phases of renovations.
“As spaces become available the housing department will continue to fill Bethune,” said Dumas.
To assist with the temporary housing Lisa Hammond, Assistant Director of Housing and three Residential Assistants resided on-site at the local hotel.
“We explained that it was simply an extension of our campus faculties and that they were to abide by the same guidelines, rules and conditions as if they were on campus,” said Dumas.
General Manager Ann Foster shared her experience as being part of the extended home for the Jaguar Nation.
“We were very pleased with the students and their behavior. I also feel that the students were able to gain the actual hotel experience. It is not often that the students stay alone, but with family or parents.”
Foster went on to explain the process in which the student learned about room keys.
“The students had to realize that they had to be responsible and keep up with their key, because if they lost it and they had to get their roommate’s key was reset as well,” said Foster.
Familiar with Southern University the Microtel Inn and Suites has been a sponsor of the Southern University Athletic Department, and Foster describes the appreciation.
“ I was really ecstatic to receive and see the recuperation back from Southern,” finished Foster.
“I can not express how excited I am of what this means to see the results of this campus and its collective effort to recruit students. It shows that the interest in Southern University still exists and the future is bright, despite the challenges we have encountered and have overcome.“ concluded Dumas.