Alumni News
Developing Character: New Campus Housing Options Benefit Students and University
Monday, July 26, 2010
As a university that deeply values diversity and community, some of the most valuable experiences for ODU students happen outside of the walls of classrooms. As the university has transformed, a vibrant community has emerged, allowing Monarchs to develop life skills, personal relationships and a sense of independence – a transformation that often happens within residence halls.
To support growth of a residential campus, the university's Real Estate Foundation has partnered with Residential Housing Development, LLC to build The District at University Village, a privately-owned and managed student housing facility. Coming online this fall, this state-of-the-art, fully-furnished and amenity-filled apartment complex will accommodate up to 900 students, meeting their unique needs while also providing an innovative solution to the university's growing demand for more housing.
The apartments, which are leased by bedroom, will provide quality housing at the doorstep of campus. As an extension of the University Village, this new residential presence will only increase the vitality of the area.
Student response to the new option has been overwhelmingly positive, many of whom leased space before leaving for summer vacation. Meanwhile, this privately owned development allows the university to have more students on campus without the expense and support required for the construction and maintenance of a university-run facility.
When tenants' leases begin in August, they'll most likely celebrate the independence and convenience they'll find from on-campus apartment life.
But even more lasting, ODU's Tara Saunders '85 & '92, Executive Director of the Real Estate Foundation, explains, "the arrangement will allow more students to experience the cultural diversity and energy of the campus while building ODU relationships" – a combination she hopes will pave the way for their success long after graduation.
Learn more about the District at University Village online.