Ohio University's Housing Office is working to make room for male freshmen in the fall of 2008. Starting Fall Quarter, Treudley Hall, one of two female-only residence halls on campus, will allow male residents for the first time since its construction. The move is designed to make space for the growing male student population while keeping costs down.
While it is true that a few Treudley residents are angered by this decision, the choice to make Treudley co-ed is a sound one. The building itself is ready to receive male residents, as it was constructed with men's restrooms ' the only cost that would be incurred in converting the dorm would be $50 for replacing the signs on the bathroom doors. When compared to more drastic methods of making space, such as converting the co-ed Ryors Hall to a male-only dorm, the choice to convert Treudley is far more reasonable. In addition, this decision is designed to serve the needs of the greater student population instead of the small minority of residents who desire all-female housing. Only 33 of the 1,057 incoming freshman who returned housing contracts specified single-sex housing as their top priority. There is no reason that a small group of malcontented residents should take precedence over the growing student population.
It seems ridiculous that some residents have reacted so strongly to this decision, especially when Voigt Hall on East Green will remain female-only next year. Those female students who live in Treudley and wish to stay in female-only housing will receive priority housing registration when rooms in Voigt are assigned. It is true that Voigt is located closer to Uptown and greek organizations' houses, but these are not likely to have a significant effect on the quality of residents' lives.
Some residents also have expressed concerns about sexual assault. Certainly, this is nothing to take lightly. But it is foolish to think that making Treudley co-ed will increase the incidence of rape or sexual assault. Simply having men living nearby will not make female residents any less safe.
Housing has done a commendable job of making sure that Treudley's transition occurs smoothly. Even though some students have expressed grievances on the subject, it is clear that Treudley's transition is needed. The male student population is growing. Converting Treudley is the most economical way to make room for the growing male population while being fair and respectful to current residents.
17 Archives
Treudley HallG
