Housing officials announce no increase in room rates University Residence Services will seek no increase in room rates for the next academic year, 2007-08. Returning students as well as incoming residents to both residence halls and apartments will see no increase in rental rates. “We understand the pressure that students have been facing the past few years with increased fees for tuition and housing,” said Bob Gallager, vice president for finance and operations. “At this time, holding housing rates steady is the right thing to do for students and families.” Judy Sargent, director of residence services, says that living on campus is an important part of a student’s overall academic experience. “Research, both nationally and here at UND, shows that students who live on campus have higher GPAs (grade point average). Students are closer to class and resources that help make them successful students. Keeping room rates constant will allow students to remain on campus and increase the affordability of a UND education,” said Sargent. No cutbacks in service are planned and improvements to campus housing continue to be on track, including plans to open new apartment-style housing this fall. This building offers students a new living option not currently available on campus and addresses ongoing student calls for greater comfort, privacy, and cooking capabilities. Additional renovations include a dining center update, plus air conditioning and new siding on three UND apartment buildings. Residence Services provides high-quality living and learning environments to more than 4,000 on-campus residents in 15 residence halls and 800 apartment units. Nationally recognized residence services programs bring the most innovative and affordable services to UND students in the areas of housing, dining services, U Card identification, and child care.