Morehead State University Announces 3rd New Residence Hall and Ongoing Infrastructure Updates
Continued investment in student success and campus vitality took a major step forward this month as the Morehead State University Board of Regents approved a series of infrastructure initiatives at its June meeting. These initiatives include the construction of a third new residence hall and the planned decommissioning of two aging campus buildings.
The centerpiece of the board’s action was the approval of a new residence hall, marking the third such facility to be constructed in recent years. This project, made possible through funding from the Kentucky General Assembly, reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the University’s residential experience and improving environments where students live, learn and connect.
“This investment underscores the state’s strong partnership with our university and its confidence in the transformative power of higher education,” said MSU President Dr. Jay President. “We are deeply grateful to the General Assembly and state leaders for prioritizing modern, student-centered facilities that enhance both academic success and campus life.”
The new residence hall will complement two other new residential living facilities, Prefontaine Hall and Martin Hall, currently under construction.
In addition to new construction, the Board of Regents also approved the decommissioning and eventual removal of Cartmell Hall and Lloyd-Cassity Hall. These two long-standing campus buildings have served generations of students but are aging and no longer meet the University’s evolving infrastructure needs.
Cartmell Hall has played a meaningful role in residential life since 1969. Similarly, the Lloyd-Cassity Building has served as a hub for industrial arts and engineering sciences since 1962.
“While these buildings have been integral to our campus story, their removal represents a necessary step toward ensuring safe, efficient, and forward-looking facilities,” said Kim Oatman, associate vice president for capital construction & chief facilities officer. “This decision allows us to align our physical campus with the needs of today’s students and future generations.”
The legacies of the buildings’ namesakes will continue to be honored. Plans are underway to create permanent monuments and recognition spaces that celebrate the contributions of Cartmell and Lloyd-Cassity, preserving their impact on the institution’s history.
“Our University is deeply rooted in tradition, and we remain committed to honoring the individuals whose names and contributions shaped our campus,” said Allison Caudill (Class of 2005, 2009), vice president for University Advancement. “Through thoughtfully designed recognition markers, we will ensure their stories remain visible and meaningful for years to come.”
Together, these initiatives reflect a broader, strategic approach to campus development, balancing respect for institutional history with a clear vision for the future. The combination of new construction and thoughtful decommissioning will enable the University to optimize space usage, enhance safety, and better support its academic mission.
Construction timelines and additional project details for the residence hall and other campus building projects are available online at www.moreheadstate.edu/forward.
