Menstrual product dispensers to be reinstalled after unexplained removal from SUB bathrooms

Students recently discovered that the menstrual product dispensers in the Strand Union Building (SUB)’s bathrooms were missing.

The issue came to light in December when a student visited the Women’s Center seeking menstrual products after noticing that the dispenser in the third-floor restroom was missing.

Betsy Danforth, director of the Women’s Center, later confirmed that the dispenser in the third-floor restroom had been intentionally removed. According to her, there were spackled holes where it had been mounted previously. Further investigation showed that dispensers were missing from all other SUB bathrooms.

The dispensers started as an Associated Students of MSU (ASMSU)-funded project in 2018, according to Interim Vice President of University Communications Michael Becker. Danforth said she contacted multiple campus offices, including ASMSU, to better understand how and why the dispensers were removed.

She also contacted SUB Manager Brice O’Keefe about the dispensers. “[He] did not seem aware of the fact that dispensers had been removed and was very willing to reinstate them,” Danforth said.

Becker echoed this claim. “[O’Keefe] said he’s willing to talk with ASMSU about restarting the program if that’s something the student government wants to pursue,” he said.

On Jan. 27, ASMSU President Triem explained that he also discussed the matter with O’Keefe. “[He] has confirmed with me that the dispensers will be reinstalled, maintained and stocked by the SUB team going forward.”

Triem added that he was not aware of their removal until Danforth reached out on behalf of the Women’s Center noting that a student was in search of products.

“My understanding is that the dispensers hadn't been consistently stocked for several years and some weren't working, which led to the decision to remove them,” he said.

Senior political science student Isabelle Lewis said she was not aware of the dispensers’ disappearance, but that nobody should have to miss class because they got their period.

“That’s why menstrual products on campus aren’t a luxury, they’re a necessity,” she said.

Campus administrators have not provided a public explanation for the initial removal, but the dispensers are expected to be reinstalled and stocked within approximately a month, according to Triem.