Saint Xavier University announced several changes to its campus dining and housing policies for the upcoming 2025–2026 academic year, including a revised meal plan system and updated residence hall guidelines changes that will affect both returning and incoming students beginning this fall.
The Dining Services Department and the Office of Residence Life announced the new policy on April 15 with the goal of enhancing the future student experience while managing growing operating expenses and changing student demands. The SXU community has responded to the announcement in a variety of ways. While some students have praised the increased freedom, others have voiced concerns about affordability for those who do not live on campus.
Dining Plan Updates Reflect Student Feedback and Rising Costs
The reorganization of the student dining plans is among the most important changes. All resident students will have to select one of three standardized plans starting in August, each with a unique combination of flex dollars and swipes. Gilhooley’s and the SXU Diner will also offer new late-night food options, and meal swipe access hours will be extended.
“In response to student surveys and dining usage data, we’ve redesigned the meal plans to better match eating habits and improve service availability,” said Issac Torres, Director of Campus Dining Services. “We’re also introducing more grab-and-go options, which students have been requesting for years.”
However, there is a cost rise associated with the new structure. The cost of the food plan will now be $2,300 a semester, which varies depending on the type. The Scarlet, Gold, and Silver meal plans are all about $200 more expensive than the existing lowest-tier choice. Inflation, difficulties with the food supply, and increased personnel requirements for the extended hours are the reasons given by Dining Services for the increase in prices.
“I’m glad they’re expanding options, but the price jump is tough,” said Fruitful Obligeble, a sophomore nursing major. “A lot of us are already budgeting tightly, so even $200 makes a difference.”
Housing Policy Shifts Aim to Streamline Community Living
Changes to on-campus housing policy include new mandatory roommate agreement forms, revised quiet hours, and a policy requiring juniors and seniors to reapply for housing each spring instead of automatically given first come first serve.
“We’re working to make residence life more accountable and community-centered,” said Issac Torres, Assistant Director of Residence Life. “These updates came directly from feedback about roommate conflicts and noise complaints, and we want to help create a more respectful and safe living environment.”
The university also plans to renovate select rooms in Pacelli Hall over the summer, installing new flooring and upgraded furniture. While no additional housing costs have been announced yet, the administration has stated that prices may be reevaluated after renovations are complete.
Many students have mixed feelings about the changes. Some upperclassmen feel frustrated by the new reapplication process, which they say adds unnecessary stress.
“I’ve lived on campus for three years and always renewed without an issue,” said Bethany Baldwin, a senior grad psychology major. “Having to reapply now just feels like extra paperwork that could mess up people’s housing plans.”
Other students, especially freshmen, are hopeful the policy will help resolve common roommate issues early on.
“I think the roommate agreements are smart,” said Bethany Baldwin, a fourth-year psychology major. “If everyone signs one, maybe it’ll help prevent drama later in the semester.”
Balancing Student Needs with Institutional Sustainability
University officials emphasized that the updates are part of a broader effort to balance student expectations with the financial realities of running housing and dining services. They noted that student feedback played a key role in shaping the final decisions.
“This wasn’t just made behind closed doors,” Katy Thompson said. “We held forums, sent out surveys, and met with student representatives before making anything official. It’s about adapting to what students really want while keeping our programs financially viable.”
The Office of Student Affairs plans to host a town hall on May 10 in the McGuire Hall Lounge to further explain the changes and hear additional feedback. Students are encouraged to attend and share their questions and concerns directly with university staff.
Looking Ahead
As Saint Xavier prepares for the next academic year, students and administrators alike are watching closely to see how these new policies will play out. Although there is still considerable uncertainty, especially around implementation and expenses, many people think the modifications could result in a more adaptable and student-focused college environment.
“This is the first big shift we’ve seen in a while,” Issac said. “It’s not perfect, but if the university keeps listening to us, I think it could be a step in the right direction.”
Madison Wilcox