Volunteers to Renovate Lamson Hall This Summer

From May 17 through June 5, 2026

The three-week renovation project will focus on updates to living spaces and bathrooms within the residence hall. (Photo by Jackson John)

Andrews University is inviting volunteers to be part of a meaningful summer initiative that continues renovations at Lamson Hall, one of the University’s historic residence halls. From May 17 through June 5, 2026, volunteers will work together to restore and upgrade living spaces, improving the residential experience for current and future students.

Lamson Hall, home to generations of Andrews women, reflects decades of campus life. Parts of the building date back to the 1940s, and the west side—constructed in the 1960s—has never undergone a full renovation. This summer’s project focuses on addressing long-standing infrastructure needs while enhancing comfort and functionality.

“This renovation project is to do room and bathroom renovations,” says Jennifer Burrill, assistant vice president for Campus & Student Life and Residence Life. “The bathrooms on the west side have never been updated, and the plumbing system is interconnected, so we have to renovate in vertical sections, or ‘towers,’ from the basement to the third floor.”

The work will include fully remodeling bathrooms, replacing plumbing, installing new carpet, repainting rooms, updating blinds, and removing built-in desks in favor of movable furniture to provide greater flexibility for residents. Organizers aim to complete two of these vertical sections during the summer, continuing progress that began in previous years.

The need for renovation is both practical and urgent. Aging infrastructure has created ongoing challenges for residents and maintenance teams alike. By addressing these issues, the project is expected to significantly improve the holistic well-being of Lamson residents.

“It improves their quality of life,” Burrill says. “Students don’t have to worry about something breaking. It allows them to experience a more stress-free living environment and focus on why they’re here.”

Previous renovation efforts have already made a positive impact. Students living in updated spaces have responded enthusiastically, noting the difference in both comfort and overall experience. As work continues, University leaders hope to extend these benefits across the remaining sections of the building.

Volunteers will play a central role in making this progress possible. Both skilled and unskilled individuals are welcome to participate. While those with experience in areas such as plumbing, carpentry, painting or tile work are especially valuable, no prior experience is required.

Burrill shares, “If someone is willing to help, there’s always something they can do—whether that’s demolition, painting or assisting in other areas.”

The project is open to a wide range of participants, including students, church groups and individuals interested in serving. Work will progress continuously throughout each week, with tasks being adapted based on the stage of the renovation rather than following a fixed schedule.

To support volunteers, Andrews University will provide housing and meals. The project is designed not only as a work opportunity but also as a chance to build community and contribute to a shared mission.

For those considering participation, Burrill emphasizes the long-term significance of the effort. “Come make a difference for the future of Adventist education,” she says. “You’re impacting students for many years to come. Every student who lives in those rooms will experience the gift of your time.”

As Andrews University continues to invest in its student experience, the Lamson Hall renovation project stands as a tangible opportunity for individuals and communities to be part of that mission—one room, one floor and one act of service at a time.

Volunteers can sign up to participate in one, two or all three weeks of the project. Registration is currently open, and interested individuals are encouraged to reserve their spot and join the renovation team this summer.