Mid Michigan College continues its commitment to providing an accessible, welcoming, engaging campus environment for students and community members. The 2023 Campus Master Plan reflects the College's focus on maintaining both campus locations, serving a diverse student population, and partnering with local organizations.
The Mid Michigan College Foundation is actively fundraising to support the 2023 Campus Master Plan.
"We encourage potential donors to help us bring this vision to life and support the future of the College within their communities," noted Alexa Carey, Executive Director of the Mid Foundation.
The 2023 Campus Master Plan was developed through a multi-step process that allowed for a thorough review of the College's facilities' current state, a comprehensive discovery phase, and then the development of the plan itself, which has resulted in a vision for the future of Mid's campus locations.
In March of 2023, Mid Michigan College contracted Hobbs+Black to lead stakeholders through this process. Feedback from students, faculty, staff, and community members was gathered through input sessions and surveys. This feedback was then analyzed, paired with demographic and enrollment data, and compiled into a document featuring a wide range of projects that the College could prioritize and pursue over time.
Additional feedback was then gathered to prioritize projects for the first phase of investment and projects were evaluated based on input from stakeholders, alignment with the current strategic plan, return on investment, and the impact projects would have on the College and the communities served by Mid. The projects selected are profiled below and have been approved by the Board of Trustees to move forward into the planning stage.
Building & Site Fund
Bonding
Repayment from the Building & Site Fund/Budget each year
The Student Gathering Space Project focuses on renovating existing space to create a dedicated area for students to gather on the Mt. Pleasant Campus.
In an era when technology connects us more than ever, loneliness persists as a major challenge, especially for college students. A dedicated student gathering space can foster connection, collaboration, and belonging, helping students thrive both socially and academically. Research shows that students who engage in activities outside the classroom experience higher rates of success. This space will also highlight opportunities for campus involvement and inspire students to participate in causes aligned with their purpose, contributing to a well-rounded and fulfilling college experience.
Investment
Timeline
*The Harrison Campus is not included in this priority because these spaces were created during the renovation that took place 2019-2020.
The Food Service Project focuses on adding food service to the Mt. Pleasant Campus.
Providing food service on the Mt. Pleasant Campus addresses a critical need identified through student surveys, which highlighted hunger and access to food as significant concerns. By offering a meal purchase option alongside the Campus Cupboard Food Pantry, students will have access to both no-cost food and affordable meals. This initiative will reduce the need for students to leave campus for food, helping them stay focused on their studies while fostering a more supportive and resourceful campus environment.
Investment
Timeline
*The Harrison Campus is not included in this priority as that location has an existing food service option, the Laker Cafe.
The Single Person Restrooms Project focuses on renovating existing space to create a single-person restroom on the second and third floors of the Mt. Pleasant Campus.
Offering single-person restrooms is important because they provide privacy, inclusivity, and accessibility for all individuals, including those with disabilities, parents with young children, and people who may feel uncomfortable in gender-specific restrooms. These facilities help create a welcoming and supportive environment, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and respected. Additionally, they align with best practices in modern design and compliance with accessibility standards.
Investment
Timeline
*The Harrison Campus is not included in this priority because single-person restrooms were created during the renovation that took place 2019-2020.
The Campus Beautification Project focuses on creating welcoming, energizing, collaborative spaces on campus that reflect Mid's brand, mission, and vision for the future. These efforts include the installation of artwork, displays, and improved outdoor spaces.
Campus beautification enhances the overall environment, creating an inviting and inspiring atmosphere for students, staff, and visitors. By branding spaces, adding wall displays, improving lighting, and other aesthetic upgrades, the College promotes school pride, fosters a sense of belonging, and reflects its commitment to providing a high-quality experience. A visually appealing campus can also boost morale, support recruitment efforts, and make a strong impression on prospective students and community members. These enhancements align with the goal of creating spaces that motivate and connect people.
Investment
Timeline
*The Harrison Campus investment is less because much of this work was completed during the renovation that took place 2019-2020.
The Exterior Signage Project focuses on updating existing exterior signage to accurately reflect Mid's brand and the possibility of new installations.
Updating exterior signage is crucial for ensuring the campus reflects a consistent brand identity. Clear and attractive signage enhances navigation for students, staff, and visitors, creating a welcoming first impression. Accurately branded signage also reinforces the College’s professionalism and commitment to its mission, fostering school pride and improving the overall campus experience. New installations can address gaps in visibility and accessibility, making the campus more inclusive and functional for all. Updating existing sign technology will also result in cost savings over time.
Investment
Timeline
*The Harrison Campus investment is less because much of this work was completed during the renovation that took place 2019-2020.
The Campus-Adjacent House Removal Project focuses on acquiring and removing a house located within the boundaries of the Mt. Pleasant Campus, and the Wetland Maintenance Project focuses on managing the boundaries of identified wetlands on the Mt. Pleasant Campus.
The Campus-Adjacent House Removal and Wetland Maintenance Projects are vital for enhancing campus safety, functionality, and environmental responsibility. Removing the house within the campus boundary allows for better land use and campus planning while reducing potential liabilities. Wetland maintenance ensures compliance with environmental regulations, preserves natural ecosystems, and defines clear boundaries to support sustainable campus development. Together, these projects improve the overall campus environment and align with long-term strategic goals.
Investment
Timeline
*The Harrison Campus is not included in this priority as this is a Mt. Pleasant Campus-specific project
The Event Center Project focuses on the addition of an event center on the Mt. Pleasant Campus.
The Event Center Project is important as it provides a versatile space for hosting a wide range of activities, including Laker Athletics, student events, community gatherings, and professional development opportunities. An event center enhances the College's ability to engage with the local community, foster partnerships, and support extracurricular activities that enrich the student experience. It also increases the functionality and value of the Mt. Pleasant Campus, positioning the College as a hub for education and community involvement in the region.
Investment
Timeline
*The Harrison Campus is not included in this priority as this is a Mt. Pleasant Campus-specific project.