Evangel opening residence hall to grad students

Last edited 2:31 p.m., Feb. 20, 2024 [Additional details from Evangel's housing director have been added.]

Evangel University is expanding on-campus housing options by opening one of its residence halls to graduate students.

Spence Hall will be designated for grad students starting in the fall semester, according to a news release. The residence hall also will be available by application to incoming undergrads who are older than traditional freshman students.

"This hall will accommodate the stage of life these students are in and allow for a cost-effective and convenient option for living in Springfield, while pursuing their degree at EU," Evangel President Mike Rakes said in the release. "They will also be able to take part in the vibrant community life that is a hallmark of the EU student experience.”

As part of the move, Evangel intends to renovate Spence Hall's residence director apartment into a community kitchen for residents. The project is expected to cost less than $10,000, said Evangel Housing Director Jared Chatfield.

Students who stay in Spence Hall will be able to rent single rooms or suites, and the residence hall will have designated wings for male and female students, according to the release. Spence Hall rooms will be rented for $475 per month, with suites at $675 monthly, Chatfield said, noting expenses generally would be less expensive than for traditional undergrads.

Traditional undergrad students who currently live in Spence Hall are slated to relocate to neighboring Scott Hall next semester. Evangel’s website lists five residence halls.

Spence Hall is expected to be capped at 64 tenants, Chatfield said.