Kansas Wesleyan to introduce first new student housing in 60 years. Here's what to know
For over five decades, housing students of Kansas Wesleyan University have commonly shared the same dorm rooms in the four halls called their home away from home.
Starting next semester, they will have the opportunity to be housed in a new more familiar setting that feels more 'homey' than a dormitory. KWU will host an open house for Coyote Village from 10 a.m. to noon on Dec. 9.
The idea of new student housing had been on KWU staff’s radar for a number of years since construction of their last building, Wesley Hall, back in 1969. It was the more than 30% growth in 2019 that led the board of directors to the realization of the need to provide a tremendous housing experience to match students' educational needs.
Ken Oliver, KWU’s executive vice president of advancement and university operations, spoke about the lengthy but fast-moving process for the new housing facility that began around homecoming last year.
“The homes are two-story structures that contain kitchens, laundry and other accommodations to help students create a home away from home,” Oliver said. “This is by design, as it’s not only what students want but it allows them to go from a traditional residence hall to this semi-independent structure, then to living on their own after graduating. It’s a pathway to independence.”
Oliver credits the growth of campus facilities in conjunction with the city of Salina’s ongoing growth.
“Whether it’s arts, athletics, community engagement, we want to help this community – and this region – reach new heights,” said Oliver.
The significance of the housing community’s name, Coyote Village, reflects not only the school’s mascot, but is a representation of the sense of togetherness the new student housing provides students. It highlights a gathering space in the middle of the housing area to help students better experience community outside of the conventional campus setting, he said. It will also be located conveniently across from the campus’ popular Shriwise Dining Hall.
Oliver is most proud of how the housing fits into the surrounding neighborhood at the corner of Claflin and Highland Avenues.
“It doesn’t appear as though we went through this process and simply expanded our university,” Oliver added. “It allows for green space and movement around and between the houses, and the size of the structures is in line with housing in the area.”
KWU also made it a priority to utilize local and regional contractors and subcontractors throughout the construction, keeping money in Salina’s local economy.
“To help foster that goal and connection, we want community members to feel welcome, to be invited in and to see the work that’s ongoing right here in their neighborhood,” he said.
This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: Kansas Wesleyan to celebrate first new student housing in 60 years
