East Lansing, Michigan, October 14, 2025
News Summary
Michigan State University has reopened its nearly 100-year-old Campbell Hall after a $37.1 million renovation. The updated facility includes modern features like community bathrooms that are not separated by gender, creating a co-ed environment. Student feedback has been mixed, with some welcoming the changes while others express concerns. The university is considering adding gender-designated bathrooms to address these concerns. The renovations reflect broader trends in college housing aimed at enhancing inclusivity and modernizing living arrangements for students.
East Lansing, Michigan — Michigan State University’s (MSU) Campbell Hall, a nearly 100-year-old honor student dormitory, has reopened after extensive renovations costing $37.1 million. The renovation, which aimed to modernize the facility, includes new windows, common areas, mechanical upgrades, and the notable introduction of community bathrooms that are not separated by gender. This marks the first instance of co-ed community bathrooms being implemented in MSU’s dorms.
The new community bathrooms feature single-stall showers, sinks, and toilets shared by both men and women, prompting mixed reactions from students, parents, and residents. While many students report feeling at ease with the co-ed bathroom setup, some parents have voiced concerns. One parent expressed worries regarding the privacy of towel-clad students of opposite genders sharing the same bathroom space in a letter addressed to MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz.
In response to the feedback received, the university is contemplating the addition of gender-designated bathrooms in Campbell Hall following a survey conducted among residents. Some female students have reported feelings of discomfort with the current layout, which Assistant Vice President Ray Gasser acknowledged in communications with concerned parents.
MSU spokesman Kat Cooper noted that the university made the transition to unisex bathrooms to align with the evolving demographics of the student body. In terms of design, the bathrooms prioritize privacy; they feature doors that eliminate gaps between showers and toilets, although students must interact with one another at the communal sink areas after bathing.
Student responses to the new bathroom arrangement vary. First-year student Tyler Nguyen mentioned that the setup did not feel awkward, while fellow student Adeline Loftis commented that she hardly pays attention to the arrangement when using the facilities. Furthermore, the MSU Board of Trustees has mixed opinions on the matter, with some members expressing a desire for options that maintain privacy for same-sex students.
The implementation of co-ed community bathrooms is part of a broader trend in college dorm renovations across the country. According to Kathy Hobgood, president of the Association of College and University Housing Officers International, this trend is gaining traction among institutions aiming to modernize their accommodations. Traditional community bathrooms often provide less privacy, but newer designs are incorporating individual pods with locking doors aimed at enhancing comfort and security.
Hobgood emphasized that co-ed living arrangements might not suit everyone but many students have adapted positively to these changes. The ongoing discussions about bathroom configurations at MSU reflect larger cultural conversations about gender and privacy on campuses nationwide, often focusing on issues surrounding transgender rights and inclusivity.
Background Information
Campbell Hall has been an integral part of Michigan State University’s residential student life for nearly a century. The recent renovations not only modernize the facilities but also aim to enhance the overall living experience for students. The decision to introduce co-ed community bathrooms is indicative of shifting norms regarding gender and shared spaces in college environments.
Additional Considerations
As MSU navigates these changes, the university is committed to listening to student feedback and considering adjustments that reflect the preferences and concerns of the student body while continuing to promote inclusivity and flexibility.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the renovations at Campbell Hall?
The renovations, which cost $37.1 million, aimed to modernize the facility, including new windows, common areas, mechanical upgrades, and introducing community bathrooms not separated by gender.
How do the new co-ed community bathrooms work?
The community bathrooms feature single-stall showers, sinks, and toilets that are shared by both men and women, marking MSU’s first implementation of co-ed community bathrooms in its dorms.
What feedback has been received regarding the new bathroom arrangements?
While many students feel comfortable with the new arrangements, some parents and residents have expressed concerns. There is also a consideration of adding gender-designated bathrooms due to feedback from some female residents.
Are similar co-ed community bathrooms common in other colleges?
Yes, the trend of co-ed community bathrooms is gaining traction in college dorm renovations across the country, with many newer designs including individual pods with locking doors to provide better privacy.
Key Features of Renovation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost of Renovation | $37.1 million |
| Community Bathrooms | Not separated by gender, featuring single-stall showers, sinks, and toilets |
| Privacy Design | Doors with no gaps between showers and toilets |
| Student Feedback | Mixed reactions; some discomfort reported among female residents |
| Future Plans | Consideration for adding gender-designated bathrooms |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Detroit’s Home Repair Funding Amid Political Turmoil
Additional Resources
- Bridge Michigan: Bathroom Wars Hit MSU
- Wikipedia: Co-ed bathroom
- Detroit Free Press: Michigan House Passes Anti-Trans Bill
- Google Search: Michigan State University bathroom renovation
- Manchester Mirror: Michigan GOP Budget and Unisex Bathrooms
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Transgender
- MLive: Michigan Republicans Propose Bathroom Restrictions
- Google Scholar: Unisex bathrooms in universities
- WOWO: Recent Dormitory Renovation at Michigan State
- Google News: Michigan State University bathroom controversy
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
