Every residence hall at Holy Cross has its own unique culture, atmosphere, and distinctive features. Explore all of your options and decide which one is the best fit for you.
Every residence hall at Holy Cross has its own unique culture, atmosphere, and distinctive features. Explore all of your options and decide which one is the best fit for you.
Motto: Smile, Pray, Be Kind
Patron Saint: St. Joan of Arc
Color: Lavender
Crest: Against a lavender background, the James Hall Crest centrally features the Sword and
Crown from St. Joan of Arc’s Coat of Arms. The hilt of the sword is festooned with
three sunflowers representing the three floors of James Hall and the Holy Trinity, also
signifying the continual turning towards Light. On either side are lavender hanging
banners, another nod to St. Joan: the left banner is adorned with the fleur-di-Lis
(linking James Hall to Holy Cross’s French roots and to its Brother Hall, Basil, whose
crest contains the same symbol) and the right banner featured the Cross & Anchor,
symbol of the Congregation of Holy Cross and of Holy Cross College. The Crest is
emblazoned with the Hall Motto: “Smile, Pray, Be Kind.”
Mascot: The James Jaguar
Perfect for residents who wish to be part of a close-knit community while maintaining their own space for sleep, James Hall features:
Most singles are 10’ x 12’ and feature a:
Most rooms also have sinks. Large lounges on the second and third floors provide space for studying, relaxing, and hall events.
Level 1 Floor Plan
Level 2 Floor Plan
Level 3 Floor Plan
How big are the rooms?
Most singles in James are small and cozy, with very little room for extra furniture. The rooms vary in size, but the standard measurement is 12’ X 6’9”. From the bottom of the sink to the floor is 25 in (keep in mind there are some pipes underneath).
What furniture is included in my room?
Each room comes with a bed, a large desk with a bookshelf, a desk chair, a wardrobe with drawers, and most rooms include a sink.
Can we loft furniture?
No, we do not allow furniture to be lofted.
How much space is there under the bed?
From the bottom of the bed to the floor there are 15 inches of space, but bed risers are welcomed and encouraged to create extra storage space underneath.
How do I hang things on the wall?
We discourage the use of 3M and command strips/hooks, but you can use small push pins to hang things on the walls.
LED strip lights are prohibited.
What appliances are allowed?
You are welcome to bring a standard coffee maker or Keurig, tea kettle, or a mini-fridge.
Can I bring a microwave or a toaster?
Unfortunately, you cannot, but there is one available in the lounge for you to use.
Motto: Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.
Patron Saint: St. Catherine of Sienna
Color: Blue Spruce
Crest: The North Hall Crest features a Blue Spruce shield on a clean mint background.
Emblazoned on the shield is the North Hall mascot, the Griffin, holding three lilies in
its mouth. Flanking the shield are two larger lilies. Together, the Griffin and five lilies
are a nod towards the Griffin family, who demonstrate an abiding love for and firm
commitment to the mission of Holy Cross College. The choice of lily is symbolic of St.
Joseph, because of the roots of the Brothers of Holy Cross as the Brothers of Saint
Joseph and the particular devotion St. Andre Bessette had towards St. Joseph, The
shield is topped with a Crown of Thorns representing the sacrificial love of Christ. The
whole shield rests atop the Cross & Anchor, symbol of the Congregation of Holy Cross
and of Holy Cross College. The Crest is emblazoned with the Hall Motto: “Be who God
meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.”
Mascot: Griffin
With multiple lounges and televisions, a fireplace, laundry facilities, study space, a kitchen on the first floor for use by residents, air-conditioning, and a prayer and reflection room, North Hall is a welcoming environment that features:
68 women (including 2 RAs). Double-occupancy rooms that include:
Space for extra furniture is limited, so wait to purchase additional furniture until after you’ve moved in.
How big is the room?
North rooms vary in size. The smallest rooms are 10’7” x 11’10”, but we recommend waiting to purchase rugs and other furniture until you arrive for move-in.
How much space is there under the bed?
At the tallest setting, there are 30.75 inches of space under the North bed. You can use bed risers to add extra space. The Target bed risers add about another 5.5 inches of space.
What furniture is included?
Each room comes with a bed, a desk with a bookshelf, a desk chair, a sink, and a wardrobe. There is little room for additional furniture, and we recommend waiting until you are moved in to purchase anything additional.
Can we loft furniture?
No, we do not allow furniture to be lofted.
What appliances are allowed?
You are welcome to bring a standard coffee maker or Keurig, a tea kettle, and a mini-fridge.
Can I bring a microwave or a toaster?
Unfortunately, you cannot, but there is one available in the lounge for you to use.
How do I hang things on the wall?
We discourage the use of 3M and command strips/hooks, but you can use small push pins to hang things on the walls.
Motto: “Do whatever he tells you.” John 2:5
Patron Saint: Our Lady of Sorrows
Color: Light Blue
Crest: coming soon!
Mascot: Pelican
Our newest space for women on campus, this unique space offers diverse rooms ranging from 6-person suites (arranged into double occupancy rooms) and five-person suites, along with a large common living area and kitchen. Each suite is air-conditioned and has private-style bathrooms and is shared among other members of the suite. This hall features 27 women (including 1 RA).
Each resident will have:
Motto: Brothers in Arms are Brothers for Life
Patron Saint: St. Peter
Colors: Black, Maroon, and Silver
Crest: (Images) The Crown resting on top of the crest is indicative of royalty and strength, authority, and prestige. The ‘A’ on the top right section of the Crest naturally represents the first letter of Anselm Hall Cross and Anchors—The cross and anchors are a symbol used for the Congregation throughout the world. ‘Ave Crux, Spes Unica’ Hail the Cross, Our Only Hope. It has been a motto of the congregation since its founding by Basil Moreau. It is through the Cross of Christ that we find our Hope. All Residence Halls of Holy Cross College incorporate this symbol into their crest. The two dogs flanking the crest represents the mascot of Anselm. They are known as the Slum Dogs and in heraldry, dogs represent courage, vigilance, and loyalty. Qualities that the Men of Anselm hold dear. The two remaining symbols: the Keys and Rock Formation remind Anselm Men of their patron Saint, St. Peter. Keys are an ancient symbol of St. Peter from the Gospel of Matthew 16:19, “I will give you the Keys of the kingdom of heaven…” The Rocks symbolize the Greek translation of ‘Peter’ Petros from a verse before, “Upon this Rock, I will build my church.” The Crest of Anselm contains symbols rooted in the Catholic and ecclesial traditions of Holy Cross College. (Layout) The three sections of the Anselm crest coincide with the number of residents in most rooms of the hall—Three. Three is also indicative of the Holy Trinity.
Mascot: Anselm Hall Slumdogs
31 men and two Resident Assistants (RAs) call Anselm Hall home! There is a wide range of different room configurations in Anselm hall including single, doubles, and triple occupancy rooms. Each room in Anselm provides the following for each resident:
Most rooms have sinks. We recommend waiting until moving in to determine whether or not you’ll have the space to purchase additional furniture.
The Men of Anselm have a strong fraternity and community and were the winners of the first-ever Holy Hall Tournament in Spring 2021!
How big are the rooms?
Dorm rooms in Anselm Hall vary in size. All triples in Anselm are 11’10” x 20’4”. Singles and doubles are smaller. It is recommended to wait until you arrive to move in to determine if you will need extra furniture or an area rug for your dorm room. A standard size rug of about 10ft x 12ft will work in most rooms.
Can we loft furniture?
No, unfortunately, no dorm room furniture is able to be lofted on campus.
What about bunking and using bed risers?
Students may bunk their beds using bed pins. Ask your RA or Hall Director for more information and to help with this. Bed frames are ‘flipable’ to allow more or less space between the two beds and under the bed.
Bed risers are also a common dorm addition! Bed risers can be purchased at a local store and should be removed at move-out time. Raising your bed allows for more storage space underneath.
What if I like to cook my own meals?
In the Student Union between Basil and Anselm Halls, there is a renovated kitchen that many students use to cook their own meals. If you would like to do so, it is recommended students purchase their own cooking and baking equipment for use. If you cook baked goods, be prepared to share them! YUMMM!
How best should we configure our rooms?
Let your collaborative creativity shine! Each triple in Anselm takes on its own unique configuration based on the people that live there. Some Anselm residents decide to bunk their beds to make more space, create a ‘sleeping area’ and an ‘entertaining area,’ or line up their furniture in rows. Talk to your RA’s for ideas and suggestions. If you decide you don’t like it, try something new!
How do I hang things on the wall?
We discourage the use of 3M and command strips/hooks, but you can use small push pins to hang things on the walls.
LED strip lights are prohibited.
What appliances are allowed?
You are welcome to bring a standard coffee maker or Keurig, tea kettle, or a mini-fridge.
Can I bring a microwave or a toaster?
Unfortunately, you cannot, but there is one available in the lounge for you to use.
Motto: There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship. ~ St. Thomas Aquinas
Patron Saint: Blessed Basil Moreau
Colors: Blue and Silver
Crest: (Images) The three images contained in the Basil Hall Crest are the Fleur-de-lis in the top left, a wreath of laurel encircling the word ‘Vitus’ on the top right, and the Holy Cross College logo at its foundation. The Fleur-di-Lis (or lily) is a common image found in ancient heraldry and in this crest represents the French roots of the Congregation of Holy Cross. In Christianity, the lily often represents the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, and the virtue of purity. The Laurel Wreath is also a common image in heraldry representing peace and quiet; triumph and fame. In the Olympic Games, it was awarded to athletes who were victorious in their competition. The word ’Virtus’ derives its roots from the Latin word ’Vir’ meaning ‘Man’. It has a connotation of valor, manliness, excellence, courage, character, and masculine strength. The word ‘virtue’ comes from this Latin root word. Cross and Anchors—The cross and anchors are a symbol used for the Congregation throughout the world. ‘Ave Crux, Spes Unica’ Hail the Cross, Our Only Hope. It has been a motto of the congregation since its founding by Basil Moreau. It is through the Cross of Christ that we find our Hope. All Residence Halls of Holy Cross College incorporate this symbol into their crests. (Layout) The images of the Basil Crest are separated into three sections representing the three floors of Basil Hall. Three is also indicative of the Holy Trinity.
Mascot: Basil Hall Gladiators
58 men and three Resident Assistants (RAs) call Basil Hall home. Basil Hall has single and double-occupancy rooms. On the second and third floors, there are spacious lounges for studying, hall events, and hanging out with friends!
In a Basil Hall room each resident is provided with:
Basil Hall Residents are known as the Basil Hall Gladiators and live by the motto, “There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship.” -St. Thomas Aquinas.
Level 1 Floor Plan
Level 2 Floor Plan
Level 3 Floor Plan
How big are the rooms?
Dorm rooms in Basil Hall vary greatly in size. It is recommended to wait until you arrive to move in to determine if you will need extra furniture or an area rug for your dorm room. A standard size rug of about 10ft x 12ft will work in most rooms.
Can we loft furniture?
No, unfortunately, no dorm room furniture is able to be lofted on campus.
What about bunking and using bed risers?
Students may bunk their beds using bed pins. Ask your RA or Hall Director for more information and to help with this. Bed frames are ‘flippable’ to allow more or less space between the two beds and under the bed.
Bed Risers are also a common dorm addition! Bed risers can be purchased at a local store and should be removed at move-out time. Raising your bed allows for more storage space underneath.
What if I like to cook my own meals?
In the Student Union between Basil and Anselm Halls, there is a renovated kitchen that many students use to cook their own meals. If you would like to do so, it is recommended students purchase their own cooking and baking equipment for use. If you cook baked goods, be prepared to share them! YUMMM!
How do I hang things on the wall?
We discourage the use of 3M and command strips/hooks, but you can use small push pins to hang things on the walls.
LED strip lights are prohibited.
What appliances are allowed?
You are welcome to bring a standard coffee maker or Keurig, tea kettle, or a mini-fridge.
Can I bring a microwave or a toaster?
Unfortunately, you cannot, but there is one available in the lounge for you to use.
Motto: “Observe what is right, do what is just!” ~ Isaiah 56:1
Patron Saint: St. Joseph
Colors: Kelly Green and Maroon
Crest: (Images) The four images contained in the Pulte Hall Crest are the anchor with a draped rope in the center of the crest; a pendant of symbols of St. Joseph at the top right; an ink bottle, feather pen, and parchment at the top left; and a version of the Catherine Wheel on the bottom of the crest. Anchor with rope—The anchor is a symbol of Hope. The draped rope represents security and sometimes mortality. It is a rendition of the Cross and Anchor logo of the Congregation of Holy Cross. All Residence Halls of Holy Cross College incorporate this symbol into their crests in some way. The St. Joseph Pendant—containing three symbols associated with St. Joseph—the lily, carpentry square, and chisel. St. Joseph is the patron saint of Pulte Hall and the second floor of the hall is often referred to as the St. Joseph House. Scroll, ink bottle, and Feather Pen—The pen represents the art of writing. These three images combined represent educated employment, academic scholarship, and achievement. The Men of Pulte pride themselves on academic and scholarly achievement. The cross and anchors image is shown on the ink bottle and the motto of Holy Cross, ‘Ave Crux, Spes Unica’ is written on the parchment. A version of the Catherine Wheel—This image of a boat’s navigation wheel represents one prepared to undergo great trials for the Christian Faith. This image is more profoundly present in the logo of Pulte Hall. Residents of Pulte Hall are known as the Pulte Hall Pilots.
Mascot: Pulte Hall Pilots
19 men and 1 Resident Assistant (RA) call Pulte Hall home! Pulte offers apartment-style living with up to 6 men in each apartment. Each apartment offers:
Each resident will have:
The Pulte Hall Lounge provides a projector screen for watching games and movies and a large patio for cookouts.
Residents of Pulte are encouraged to bring some kitchen and cooking supplies; bathroom supplies such as a plunger and toilet brush; and other cleaning supplies. Residents of Pulte may also bring a microwave for their apartment.
Pulte Hall Residents are known as the Pilots and their Hall color is Kelly Green!
How big is the apartment?
South Hall and Pulte Hall apartments are quite spacious. Each apartment consists of two-bedroom/ bathroom areas and a middle room with a kitchen and common space. Many South and Pulte residents purchase additional furniture for the common space, like a futon or couch and some end tables and lamps. Look at local thrift shops for these items. Any purchased item must be removed from the apartment at move-out time. (Unless discussed with Hall Director for storage approval over breaks)
What should I bring for the kitchen?
It’s up to you! Do you like to cook and bake? Do you anticipate having people over for dinner or late-night snacks? If so, having a small supply of kitchen utensils and cooking supplies is a good idea. A good suggestion is to check out local thrift stores or discount stores for these supplies. A set of fine china or place settings for 8 people, probably not a necessity. A set of cheap plates, silverware, pots and pans, plastic plates and plasticware is a great idea!
What about appliances?
Each South and Pulte apartment has a full-size fridge/ freezer. (they are not side by side). And an electric stove/ oven. The room does not come with a microwave. Many residents purchase microwaves and a toaster to share within the apartment during the first week or so of move-in.
Should I bring some cleaning supplies?
Yes, absolutely! It’s always good to have a supply of paper towels, disinfecting wipes, all-purpose cleaner spray, and a small broom or vacuum available for your apartment.
It is highly recommended to bring some cleaning supplies specifically for the bathrooms, including a toilet bowl cleaner brush and plunger.
It is the responsibility of the students to keep their bathrooms and apartments clean. Occasional room inspections are done by hall staff to ensure this happens.
How do I get to know other residents of their dorms?
South and Pulte residents are encouraged to keep their main door open whenever they are ‘hanging out’ in their common room. Each door is held open by a magnet system to make it very easy for community building. Resident Assistants and the Hall Director will help encourage this practice, especially the first few weeks of the semester. South and Pulte have great lounges for hall programming and informal gatherings as well. Residents are encouraged to use these spaces whenever they are in their dorm buildings.
Motto: “The Truth is like a Lion, you don’t have to defend it. Let it loose. It will defend itself.” ~ St. Augustine of Hippo
Patron Saint: St. Augustine
Colors: Maroon and Gold
Crest: (Images) The five images contained in the South Hall Crest are the crown of thorns at its top left; The Constantine Cross (or Chi Rho) at its top-right, the Cross and Anchor at the bottom left, and the Polish Falcon at the bottom right. The crest is placed on two sprigs of laurel leaves. The Crown of Thorns—Represents peace and success, glory and victory. It is indicative of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ. The Constantine Cross (Chi Rho) —This symbol is common in Christian heraldry and in many Coat of Arms. It is one of the earliest forms of the Christogram. It was part of Emperor Constantine’s military standard used in shields and banners in battle. Cross and Anchors—The cross and anchors are a symbol used for the Congregation throughout the world. ‘Ave Crux, Spes Unica’ Hail the Cross, Our Only Hope. It has been a motto of the congregation since its founding by Basil Moreau. It is through the Cross of Christ that we find our Hope. All Residence Halls of Holy Cross College incorporate this symbol into their crest. The Polish Falcon—The Falcon in heraldry represents a person who does not rest until an objective is achieved; a purpose-driven and goal-oriented person. This symbol specifically is common in Polish culture and is a recognition of the Polish immigrants near the Holy Cross College campus and surrounding South Bend area. The Sprigs of Laurel—Laurel in heraldry represents Peace, Triumph, and Victory. The two sprigs represent the two floors of South Hall striving together for peace and victory in the many facets of life.
Mascot: South Hall Lions
44 men and 2 Resident Assistants (RA’s) call South Hall home! South Hall offers apartment-style living with up to 6 men in each apartment. Each apartment offers:
Each resident will have:
The South Hall Lounge provides a pool table; TV and game consoles and plenty of seating.
Residents of South are encouraged to bring some kitchen and cooking supplies; bathroom supplies such as a plunger and toilet brush; and other cleaning supplies. They may also bring a microwave for their apartment.
South Hall’s mascot is a Lion the Hall’s motto is, “The truth is like a lion. You don’t have to defend it. Let it loose. It will defend itself.”- St. Augustine
Level 1 Floor Plan
Level 2 Floor Plan
How big is the apartment?
South Hall and Pulte Hall apartments are quite spacious. Each apartment consists of two-bedroom/ bathroom areas and a middle room with a kitchen and common space. Many South and Pulte residents purchase additional furniture for the common space, like a futon or couch and some end tables and lamps. Look at local thrift shops for these items. Any purchased item must be removed from the apartment at move-out time. (Unless discussed with Hall Director for storage approval over breaks)
What should I bring for the kitchen?
It’s up to you! Do you like to cook and bake? Do you anticipate having people over for dinner or late-night snacks? If so, having a small supply of kitchen utensils and cooking supplies is a good idea. A good suggestion is to check out local thrift stores or discount stores for these supplies. A set of fine china or place settings for 8 people, probably not a necessity. A set of cheap plates, silverware, pots and pans, plastic plates and plasticware is a great idea!
What about appliances?
Each South and Pulte apartment has a full-size fridge/ freezer. (they are not side by side). And an electric stove/ oven. The room does not come with a microwave. Many residents purchase microwaves and a toaster to share within the apartment during the first week or so of move-in.
Should I bring some cleaning supplies?
Yes, absolutely! It’s always good to have a supply of paper towels, disinfecting wipes, all-purpose cleaner spray, and a small broom or vacuum available for your apartment.
It is highly recommended to bring some cleaning supplies specifically for the bathrooms, including a toilet bowl cleaner brush and plunger.
It is the responsibility of the students to keep their bathrooms and apartments clean. Occasional room inspections are done by hall staff to ensure this happens.
How do I get to know other residents of their dorms?
South and Pulte residents are encouraged to keep their main door open whenever they are ‘hanging out’ in their common room. Each door is held open by a magnet system to make it very easy for community building. Resident Assistants and the Hall Director will help encourage this practice, especially the first few weeks of the semester. South and Pulte have great lounges for hall programming and informal gatherings as well. Residents are encouraged to use these spaces whenever they are in their dorm buildings.
University Edge
Apartment Floorplans
Apartment Locations
University Edge is an off-campus, co-ed, apartment complex located one mile from Holy Cross College. We lease one building from University Edge, and sublease the apartment units directly to students. This opportunity is available to only upper-classmen with a certain number of credits.
The apartments are four-bedroom units, and all Holy Cross apartments are located together to build a community off-campus. One RA and one coordinator are available on the premises.
More information about the fully-furnished apartments can be found on University Edge’s website.
Can I request a roommate before I move on campus?
Yes, as long as space allows, and all roommates mutually request one another. The Director of Resident Life and Housing has the final say in room placements.
What if I don’t get along with my roommate? Can I move?
If there are disagreements among roommates, hall staff will help resolve any issues. There are no room changes for the first 2 weeks of each semester. The Director of Resident Life and Housing does have the final say regarding room changes. In addition, there is a processing fee if a student moves rooms.
How big are the rooms?
Each room on campus is unique and varies in size. Most standard-size dorm rugs (a popular purchase for Saints) will fit in the rooms. We suggest waiting to purchase a rug until you settle in and take measurements.
What if something is wrong with my room?
Some rooms on campus are older than others and normal wear and tear are expected. If there is a concern with the quality or condition of a room, discuss with Hall Staff and mark on your Room Condition Report at move-in time. If an issue arises while you are living there, inform your Resident Assistant or Hall Director.
May I move furniture out of my room? May I purchase new furniture?
Any furniture in your room at move-in must stay in your room for the remainder of the year unless it is or becomes damaged. You may purchase new furniture for your room, but please consider space limitations. This purchased furniture must be removed from your room upon move out. You may donate it to the hall at move out, but you must discuss it with hall staff first.
I would like to showcase what dorm I live in. Is there apparel for each dorm?
Absolutely! Hall Directors have t-shirts and other merchandise for purchase for each dorm. Other products may, and often are, ordered throughout the year. Holy Cross loves to promote and embrace Hall Spirit and Identity!
What if I have an emergency on campus?
Hall Staff are trained to respond and take action if an emergency arises. They have been trained in CPR and basic First Aid. A security officer is available 24/7, and College Staff will ensure medical attention if necessary. The local hospital is only a few minutes away.
What is the alcohol policy on campus?
Holy Cross College is a dry campus and alcohol is not allowed to be consumed or possessed. Even if a student living on campus is 21 or older, they are prohibited from having alcohol in their rooms. Occasionally, there are campus events where alcohol is served. Consumption is monitored and limited at these events and is available only for students 21 or older.
May I have visitors in my room?
Of course! This is encouraged to foster community among our student population. Visitation hours/parietals are as follows:
You may not have visitors of the opposite sex in your room within these hours. However, there are lounges available throughout campus to socialize during these hours.
*Visitation Protocols are adjusted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please see additional information here.
What is the best dorm to live in?
Each dorm has its own identity and comradery. It becomes your home while you are living there, and hall staff and other residents become like a second family. Living in a residence hall at Holy Cross is a unique experience, and we encourage all students to fully enter into that experience and make it their own.
The dorms of Holy Cross all take on unique character and qualities. You will fit right in as a Basil Gladiator, Anselm Slumdog, James Jaguar, North Griffin, Pulte Pilot, or South Lion!
Is there a good place to work out or go for a walk?
Absolutely! Right on campus, the Pfeil Athletic Center is a great place to work out, with various weight machines, treadmills, ellipticals, etc. The Pfeil Center is open most hours of the day to accommodate early-morning or late-night workouts.
Holy Cross students also have access to facilities at Notre Dame, and the Ladies of Holy Cross can work out at St. Mary’s College. The tri-campus community has many great outdoor trails and paths, outdoor sports facilities, and places to walk and run.
Holy Cross campus is conveniently located near the East Bank and LaSalle Trails in South Bend and Mishawaka. Students can walk close to 15 miles of paved path to downtown South Bend and the city of Mishawaka along the river, or up to St. Patrick’s park near the Michigan/Indiana state line.
What is there to do in South Bend and the surrounding area?
South Bend has a lot to offer as a midsized midwestern city:
Use this address when having mail/ packages sent to you:
[Student’s name- first and last]
Holy Cross College
54515 State Road 933 North
PO BOX 782
Notre Dame, Indiana 46556
*Amazon: Often this is too many lines for Amazon, omit the line ‘Holy Cross College’