A new milestone for Montclair State University took place as students, visitors and faculty members gathered around room 3122 in University Hall for a ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring the newly designed lactation room.
The event was hosted by College of Education and Human Services Dean Tamara Lucas, assistant professor of nutrition science and food studies Dr. Lauren Dinour and the Program Assistant for College of Education and Human Services Tina Seaboch on Wednesday, April 25.
Dinour spoke briefly about the event and the significance the lactation room has for new mothers.
“Our goal was to provide a private, comfortable and welcoming environment intended for new mothers,” Dinour said. “It’s important for new mothers on campus stressed with balancing their educational pursuits to have a safe place provided by the university.”
A community of faculty, students and campus visitors entered the lactation room for the first time and saw the convenient amenities, including a comfortable recliner chair and a cabinet with drawers to store pump equipment.
Lactation room opening in University Hall for new mothers. Special thanks to Dean Lucas, Dr. Lauren Dinour and Tina Seaboch @Lucas20Tamara @eatrealfood #normalizebreastfeeding #breastfeedingmom Official ribbon cutting today at 2 pm https://t.co/zBMyWBAG1E pic.twitter.com/aOToYk1clE
— College of Education & Human Services | MSU (@MSUCEHS) April 25, 2018
Dinour explained that the system and procedures to use the lactation room only require that Montclair residents and Montclair State students request a room key by showing their university ID card and completing a key request form.
Montclair State follows the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics. This academy endorses new mothers to fully breastfeed their children for the duration of six months after giving birth, supporting new mothers and their journey during motherhood.
Graduate student and political science major Amber Komen expressed her overwhelming joy for the opening of the lactation room and the support of Montclair State.
“I am so happy that Montclair State understands that being a new mother like myself is an exhausting and overwhelming job,” Komen said. “For the university to help alleviate some of the stress we face is truly important. My heart is filled.”
