As of today, Fanshawe College will be the new owner of the property at 900 Fanshawe College Blvd, also known as College Gate Walk. The purchase, which began earlier this month, will see 68 new six-bed units added to the College's current Residence offerings. That means as of September, as many as 400 additional students may have the chance to live in a College-owned Residence, just steps from the London campus.
"The College is continually looking at ways to enhance our Residence community and the Residence experience," Cal Littlejohn, General Manager of Fanshawe's Residences. "This acquisition not only offers more space for students, it offers them more options."
As for current tenants, the College has sent letters informing them of the change, and Residence staff will be going door-to-door to welcome them to the Fanshawe Residence community. In addition, they are being invited to an information session.
Fanshawe plans to make some noticeable improvements to the way things are done, starting right away with snow removal and 24/7 on-site security. Other new benefits will include light housekeeping, access to quiet study spaces, and support with day-to-day issues. More services will be offered to those who choose to sign a Residence agreement, and renovations will take place during the summer to upgrade the townhouse complex, including fully furnished suites, in time for the new school year.
"This is an opportunity for some students to exercise more freedom than they might in our traditional units, while enjoying all the same benefits as our current residents," Littlejohn noted. "We will offer a full program of activities and services, just as we do with our on-campus accommodations."
The College also plans to employ a number of students on location as Resident Advisors and other part-time staff.
"One of the best ways to cultivate an environment based on respect is to get the students involved in building it themselves," said Littlejohn. "It's an opportunity for them to gain valuable work experience, demonstrate responsibility, and become part of a great social network."
For prospective students interested in a room at one of Fanshawe's Residences, including the new location, applications will be available over the next two months, beginning today.
For more information or to set up interviews, please contact:
Cal Littlejohn
General Manager
Fanshawe College Residence
Tel: 519.452.4440 ext. 5001
Email: clittlejohn@fanshawec.ca
