Southeast MO State University renovates lactation rooms for mothers

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Southeast Missouri State University upgraded lactation rooms across campus.

They are located in Academic Hall room 211, Kent Library room 419, Dempster Hall room 119, and at Houck Stadium.

“The existing spaces needed improvement to better serve our community,” said Dr. Nora Bouzihay, the assistant to the president for equity initiatives and Title IX coordinator, “and we were fortunate to fund with additional support from a micro-grant provided by the Cape Girardeau Zonta Club and funds from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund.”

Bouzihay says providing convenient access for nursing mothers, ensures students, faculty and staff can balance their academic commitments with their needs for comfort and privacy.

She says the decision to enhance the facilities with lactation rooms stemmed from a commitment to improve campus resources for not only students, but also for faculty and staff.

All existing lactation rooms have undergone updates and refurbishment to ensure they are comfortable and functional.

SEMO will also introduce two state-of-the-art lactation pods on campus this fall. These pods will be installed on the third floor of the University Center and at the Dobbins Center.

Students who are parents or currently pregnant and need additional accomdations can fill out the Title IX Accommodation Request Form.