Iona College does not have the capacity to hold the growing numbers of residential students. This year about 90 students have found themselves residing at either the Marriott Residence Inn or the Avalon East instead of along North Avenue with most of the other residents. This past fall at the Convocation, President Joseph E. Nyre stated that there is an expected 150 students to add to the demand for housing next year. One of the goals of the school’s undergoing Strategic Plan states, “Iona College will strengthen its infrastructure to meet increased residential demand.” In light of this effort Iona has been searching for any options to expand housing on campus.  There was a proposal for a new residence hall to be built on Mayflower Avenue, on the same “mega-block” that Conese, South and Loftus halls reside on. However, the New Rochelle city council had issues with the proposal, stating there are already too many students living on the block. Iona and the city then began to work collaboratively to come to a solution as to what the College’s next step should be. “It is not a question of should Iona College build but where should Iona College build,” said Assistant Vice Provost for Residential Life Derek Zuckerman. For the time being, Iona is doing what it can to make improvements on campus. A new wing has recently been completed in Rice Hall, which consists of two floors of mostly triples. The new addition will be in use next fall and will house just over 30 freshmen.  Although Rice has the nickname “Rice-olation” for being so far away from the other Residence Halls, it provides for a calmer atmosphere than Conese or South with how rowdy the Loftus courtyard can get at times. As for the Marriott, Residential Life has found that it is a positive option, and Iona will continue to use it as a possibility for housing. With free breakfast and a cleaning service, it makes sense why it may become a popular alternative. Even with these additions, Iona still faces a housing shortage as the committee searches for a better long-term solution. It is clear that Walsh has begun construction and the Psychology department has been moved  over to Doorley, however it has not been announced as to why Walsh is being renovated. An update will be made at the Spring Convocation with the president’s address so that the community will know where Iona stands with the housing situation.