EAST LANSING (WWJ) - Officials with the Michigan State University announced that Berkey Hall will not reopen for the remainder of the year, but the MSU Union building will following a deadly mass shooting that rocked the campus last month.
MSU made the announcement on Wednesday, specifying that Berkey Hall will not hold classes or events for the rest of the school year and through the fall of 2023.
The Union building will welcome students back on Monday, April 3, with the exception of the food court, which will remain closed.
Officials acknowledged the decision to reopen the Union was difficult to make, stating “MSU Union team looks forward to welcoming those who are ready to use the space once more, knowing that for some, more time may be needed and for others, feelings might shift once on site."
"It is ok to step away or delay returning if it doesn’t feel right to you," university officials added. "As we navigate this return, please remember a number of support resources for our community are available.”
Courses that were scheduled at Berkey Hall are in the process of being relocated by the Office of the Registrar to other rooms, officials added.
As the Union building reopens, therapy dogs will be present to help students and staff feel at ease. EAP will also be on site to support employees as well as CAPS to support students.
All memorials and tributes from alumni and others will be placed in the Lake Huron Room on the third floor.