Trine adding more residence hall space

The Trine University Board of Trustees has approved a more-than-170-bed residence hall to be located next to the Larry and Judy Reiners Residence Hall. The decision was made in order to meet increased housing needs on campus brought about by Trine’s significant growth.

At a special meeting Friday, Aug. 11, trustees approved the new building along with an expansion of the food service kitchen area as well as the construction of a new bookstore. The residence hall will cost $6.5 million and is expected to open in August 2018.

The move is part of an overall strategy to support the growing student population on Trine University’s main campus, which is experiencing its fourth straight year of record enrollment. University officials attribute the growth to new athletic and academic programs as well as Trine’s more than 99 percent job placement rate for its graduates, small class sizes and expert faculty.

“Our number one priority is to continuously improve the student experience at Trine University, and this addition will help us more comfortably house our growing residential student body,” said Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., Trine president. “We also have brought more faculty on board, restructured and expanded parking on campus, expanded our health center, and are looking to expand our dining options, among other initiatives.”

Reiners Residence Hall opened in 2015. The $7.1 million, 170-bed facility overlooking the Fred Zollner Athletic Stadium features rooms for two to three with a private bath and air conditioning. Students are also able to share an open space and kitchen located on the main level of the building.