The Subcommittee on Lactation Counseling, in conjunction with the University Committee on the Status of Women and the Division of Gender, Race and Identity (GRI), has established a new breastfeeding/rest room in the Thompson Building near the Quad. The room features a comfortable couch, phone charging station and other necessary amenities to meet the needs of staff, faculty and students on campus who require a private space to breastfeed, pump or feed their child. The room is also available to those who require a private space for religious or medical reasons. It is the eleventh breastfeeding/rest room established since 2011.
Not only are nursing/quiet rooms beneficial for university students, but they also accommodate a diverse student population that includes more parents and caregivers. For students who must juggle the demands of work, school, and family, these dedicated spaces are essential to their success and support in pursuing their college education and attending campus events.
Alana Walls, a PhD student in anthropology, said, “This is an important step toward a more inclusive environment. GRI’s lactation room not only provides a comfortable, quiet, and private space for breastfeeding mothers like me, but it also allows me to spend more time on campus and complete my degree.”
Emily Hobson, associate professor of gender, race, identity and history, adds, “GRI is excited to support this new LQR and the mission of the Lactation Advocacy Committee. Parents and caregivers are an important part of our community of students, faculty and staff, and we welcome all to use the new space.”
The GRI Suite includes a kitchenette with microwave, fridge and sink for the use of the nursing/quiet room, as well as information boards with up-to-date information on community and university resources, groups and events. While the privacy of the nursing/quiet room is maintained at the rear of the suite, it is not uncommon to meet university and community members chatting over a cup of tea in the common area.
The Nursing/Quiet Room is located in the GRI Suite, TB 106, Room 111. To reserve the room, please email [email protected], call (775) 682-6480, or stop by the office during regular hours to access.
For more information about breastfeeding rest rooms and the subcommittee, visit the Breastfeeding/Rest Rooms webpage.
You can find this and other breastfeeding/resting areas on campus using the university’s new campus map.
