Gender Inclusive Housing

At the University of Evansville we consider diversity and equity as a fundamental component of academic excellence. The University is committed to providing realistic and supportive options for gender inclusive housing. This can be beneficial for students in the process of discovering and developing their identity with respect to sex, gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation. This also adds to the diversity of the University of Evansville residential experience.

The University initially assigns all roommates for students based on legal sex. Within approved Gender Inclusive Housing, students may choose roommates regardless of legal sex or gender upon mutual agreement and as part of this process.

Gender inclusive housing is defined as housing options that are supportive of the gender identity and sexual orientation of students. Depending on the specific needs of the student, this type of housing may take the form of private rooms, private or semi-private bathrooms, designated mixed gender suite or apartment configurations and/or a designated gender inclusive floor.

We are guided by the following values:

  • Respect for and affirmation of the student's gender identity and/or expression
  • Prioritized attention to the student's physical comfort and emotional health
  • Enhancing the student's opportunity for success at the University by finding an appropriate living situation based on the student's needs and the options available.
  • Respect for roommates of transgender students.

Gender inclusive housing is prioritized for students who have gender identities that are transgender, transitioning, or gender non-conforming. It is not intended for students who wish to live together with a significant other. These spaces are saved for those who need it to feel safe. 

Gender Inclusive Options

New and returning students with less than 60 credit hours are typically housed in Residence Hall space. Space to be considered as gender inclusive is limited in residence halls due to facility constraints. Possible options include:

Options table
Options New Hall* Moore Hale Schroeder Powell
Six-person pods with three double rooms
Two semi-private bathrooms
Two private bathrooms on each floor.
X
Four-person pods with four single rooms
Two semi-private bathrooms
Two private bathrooms on each floor.
X
Single or double rooms with choice of common area bathrooms on floor X X
Single or double rooms with choice of common area bathrooms on another floor X X
Single or double rooms with a private bathroom X
Two and four person suites with private or semi-private bathrooms X
Planning is underway for a Gender Inclusive Floor for Fall 2023. This may be available as early as Fall 2022. X

*Note: Placements in New Hall must follow New Hall Freshman and Sophomore placement processes.

Returning students with greater than 60 credit hours are eligible for apartment style housing in Jones Hall, Townhouses, and any other available Village Housing.

Process for Requesting Gender Inclusive Housing

To obtain Gender Inclusive Housing:

  • New students should contact the Office of Residence Life as soon as possible prior to the beginning of their entering semester.
  • Current students should contact Residence Life as part of the published Housing Selection Process Calendar.

Students interested in gender inclusive housing will meet with the Associate Director of Residence Life to discuss the request, review assignment options, and coordinate any pertinent documentation needs. Requests will be handled through a private process and staff will not ask for more information than is required to meet students' housing needs. Residence Life staff members are Safe Zone trained and stand ready to assist students to find appropriate accommodations. Disclosed information will be kept confidential. Residence life will review the request and determine the best option based on individual circumstances, need, and availability.

If the Gender Inclusive Floor is available, placements are made in partnership with the floor leadership.

In addition to the standard Housing and Food Service Contract, a Gender Inclusive Housing Application and Supplemental Agreement is required.

Because of limitations in available housing options and bathroom facilities, there is no guarantee that all of a student's preferences can be met or that a desired space will be available.

Communication with Parents/Guardians

Generally, the University does not directly communicate with families regarding housing placements. There is no identification of Gender Inclusive housing on housing documents or student bills.

To reduce potential misunderstandings, it is advised that students discuss their living situation with family members on their own.

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