“*It is an extremely proactive solution that is moving University Housing in the right direction,*”
said Tommy Hughes.

The Student Housing Administrative Council (SHAC) passed the Floor Gender Act on February 24. This bill will integrate male and female suites on each floor in all towers, similar to the set-up of East Tower.

The mixing of genders on the floors of North, South and West Tower will take effect in the 2009-2010 school year. For students who are uncomfortable with this change, there will be two single gender houses. North 25/26 will remain an all female house and West 7/8 will be an all male house.

Tommy Hughes, vice president of SHAC and author of the Floor Gender Act, has high hopes for the plan. “It is an extremely proactive solution that is moving University Housing in the right direction,” Hughes said. He added that “we are fortunate to have a housing system where everything is very fair. Housing saw eye to eye with us.”

He also explained that there was debate in SHAC about the act, but when it came time to vote the decision was nearly unanimous.

A sampling of Sandburg residents were asked about their opinions on the Floor Gender Act, and the response was mixed.

“I think it’s a good idea. It’s just an easier way for guys and girls to mingle,” Chrissy Zick said.

“I'm still pretty skeptical right now, but integrated suites give everyone an opportunity to meet more people,” Mark Zikeli said. “I know I couldn't stand being around three or four other chatty girls every night, and I’m sure girls wouldn't appreciate some of the comments made by guys at 2:00 a.m. College is a learning experience and a time for everyone to grow up, so maybe integrated suites is the best way to promote that.”

“Honestly to me it doesn’t make a difference. Either way I don’t really care,” Crissy Brunner said.

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