GSU unveils design for new student housing complex

If all goes as planned, GSU will be breaking ground on a new state-of-the-art housing complex in March of 2013.

The 77-unit structure will feature apartment and suite style units complete with public and private kitchens, study rooms, and laundry facilities.

Designed by FGM Architects, the complex will offer its residents all the creature comforts of home with residential services including wireless access, cable television, mail service, electronic access control, vending machines, and a convenience store.

"The first building is designed with various types of units that will attract the first year students coming in and we'll also offer apartment style housing that would be attractive to upper-class, graduate, and doctoral students as well," said GSU's new Director of Auxiliary Services and Residence Life, Betsy Joseph.

Joseph added, "It is a really cool facility. The design we have with both public and private areas will give residents the best of both worlds."

Prior to coming to GSU, Joseph was the director of student housing at Kent State University where she was in charge of 6,400 students living on campus in 25 different buildings.

Having been in her current position a little over a month, Joseph is quickly adjusting to life on campus.

"I have historically worked at institutions where the busiest class schedules were between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. I am now at a campus where the busiest times are from 4-8p.m.," said Joseph.

There will be lots of things happening over the next 18 months in preparation for the July 2014 opening.

Among other things, GSU is looking to start a website for student housing and do some assessments to gauge the needs and preferences of the universities students.

The university will be reaching out to various student groups and doing surveys to ensure a successful opening in 2014.

"We will be working on planning in terms of transportation, whether or not students will have to drive. We will be looking at new ideas for ID cards and assessing the universities food service needs," said Joseph.

GSU will continue its major emphasis on upper division and the dual degree program as they are an essential parts of the university's culture.

Student housing will serve as a compliment that will expand the opportunity to students who would like to live on campus.

"Everyone is excited about this next stage in the history of Governors State University and it is going to take all of us, faculty, staff, and students, to really transition the university into a 24 hour campus," said Joseph.