SVSU board approves expansion of student housing and research initiatives

SAGINAW, MI — Saginaw Valley State University is responding to increasing demand for on-campus living by approving the construction of additional student housing.

During its regular meeting on Monday, Feb. 10, the SVSU Board of Control authorized an additional $6 million to expand housing capacity, bringing the total investment to $12.3 million for apartment-style accommodations for 96 students.

The decision builds on the Board’s previous approval in October for 48 new residential spaces, doubling the project’s scope. Construction is set to begin this summer and is expected to be completed by August 2026.

“We are seeing unprecedented demand from students who want to live on campus,” said Noel Hornbacher, SVSU vice president for Administration and Business Affairs. “We provide exceptional safety, amenities, and a rich on-campus experience. That’s why we’ve earned our national ‘best dorms’ ranking, and that’s a big part of why students are eager to live on campus. The expansion is intended to respond to the growing student demand.

“By moving forward with these new additional units now, rather than waiting, we will see some cost savings, due to overall efficiency, and that too is good news for our students.”

In addition to expanding student housing, the Board approved an increase in funding for SVSU’s Lake Huron Environmental Research Station. Originally budgeted at $10 million, the project has now been expanded to $13 million to enhance the scope and outfitting of the facility. This initiative marks the first university research station on Lake Huron, strengthening SVSU’s role in environmental research and conservation efforts.

The funding includes $7.5 million in capital outlay from the State of Michigan, initially approved in December 2023. The expansion will allow for greater research capabilities and ensure that the facility is fully equipped to support students, faculty, and collaborative scientific endeavors.

The Board also granted tenure to Amy Guenther, assistant professor of teacher education, and Melvin McDowell, assistant professor of social work; reappointed Andrews Hooper Pavlik PLC as SVSU’s auditors for fiscal year 2025; appointed John Cherry, JoAnn Crary, Heather Gallegos, and Lindsay Eggers to serve as the Board’s nominating committee; approved an update to SVSU’s mission statement; and established the Board’s meeting schedule for the 2025-26 academic year.