BethanyHutira

DeChantal: Wiping Away Necessities?

Greensburg—Open house for Seton Hill’s newest residence hall was “just as DeChantal would’ve expected” and more, noted President JoAnne Boyle on Monday, September 12, 2005. Although the hall appears to provide upperclassman with every necessity, some argue that DeChantal isn’t flawless.
“[Room and board] costs more, but you get less,” said Senior Tim Blasko about un-provided toilet paper in DeChantal—a luxury other campus residents regularly receive. According to the Admission Department’s “Undergraduate Basic Costs for the Academic Year 2005-2006” pamphlet, room and board costs $3,410 -$4,395 per semester: DeChantal’s fees rest within the higher price range. With Wal-Mart charging $1.99-$2.59 for a 4-roll toilet paper package, the dollars add up.
Ex-Farrell resident Johanna Dreyfuss, who endured this experience while living in last year’s newest residence hall, said “[My roommates and I] spent more money on toilet paper than anything else…any spare money went towards purchasing more, limiting any extra groceries we wanted.”
Despite extra costs, the building intends to offer students apartment-style living. Assistant Director of Residence Life, Keisha Jimmerson commented that because DeChantal is like an apartment complex “no one will key into the room and clean or restock the bathrooms.” Seton Hill will, as Jimmerson informed, provide students with the toilet paper brand supplied throughout all campus restrooms upon request to Residence Life.
DeChantal’s six person air-conditioned suites feature a lounge, larger bath, and community kitchen. Yet, it’s “more than just a place to sleep” said Dr. Robin Anke, Associate Dean of Student Services and Director of Residence Life. DeChantal plans to entertain students through floor program activities and its common lounge, which will contain pool tables and an entertainment center.
During Monday’s open house, attendants could tour “Phase 1,” the building’s completed half which holds 85 students. Anke added that “Phase 2” of DeChantal will be completed in November 2005 housing the remaining 61 residents in January 2006.