Ribbon-Cutting for A&M International Student Housing Set

An Open House and ribbon-cutting will signal the formal addition of apartment-style student housing to the growing Texas A&M International University campus.

The events is scheduled Nov. 12 at 10 a.m. at University Village, 4209 University Boulevard, and will include tours of the complex, refreshments and addresses by local dignitaries. An open house will follow until 3p.m

University president Dr. J. Charles Jennett said the addition of on-campus student housing was pivotal to the University's continued growth and development.

"This has allowed us to be able to offer a more complete student life dimension and, more importantly, provide the many out-of-town or commuting students with year-round affordable student housing options. The availability of such housing was crucial to the University's growth and to its establishing itself as a residential campus," said Dr. Jennett.

Joe Garcia, Vice President for Finance and Administration, said the new student housing facilities are part of a privatized partnership with American Campus Lifestyles, of Austin.

"American Campus is a leading provider of privatized student housing in the industry. This community offers students a comfortable, community setting with an impressive array of amenities including Internet access in their private bedrooms, on-site computer labs and a swimming pool and spa," Garcia said.

Tom Trubiana, president and Chief Executive Officer of American Campus Lifestyles, said his company is proud to bring on-campus student housing to Texas' newest four-year University.

"We are extremely excited to be a part of Texas A&M International University as it makes the transition into a residential campus," Trubiana said. "This University is fast coming of age as a premier Texas institution and we're proud to be partners in its growth," he added.

Four buildings and a commons building comprise University Village, a privatized initiative that can provide housing for 250-plus students. The complex is located on the west side of the campus in a private wooded area.

Three of the buildings feature four-bedroom/two bath units. One building includes two-bedroom/two bath units. Most units are fully furnished and all feature full kitchens, private bedrooms and a common living area for convenience and the student budget.

On-site management includes laundry and mail facilities, a commons building, large-screen TV viewing, a sand volleyball court and a spa and swimming pool.

All buildings have been pre-wired for computer utilization and on- campus Internet access. Beautifully landscaped grounds are featured as well as parking, perimeter fencing and card-gate access. All facilities meet ADA guidelines.

"These are impressive facilities. This is top-notch student housing for the 90s," said A&M International University Dean of Student Affairs Dr. M. Stephen Brown.

"We think current and future students will be delighted with the attention to student needs and expanded services that will accompany this addition to the campus. This will be the student life experience that students have come to expect at major four-year universities.," he noted.

Dr. Brown said parents are also happy with the new facilities and the peace of mind they will afford.

"Parents are gratified to know that their sons and daughters will be serviced by on-site management and community assistants. Of course,they'll be but steps away from the University's library and other student services including the new kinesiology facility," he explained.

For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at 326.2180.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu