Student Union Building

Whose laughter echoes through the Student Union Building (HUB) today? It’s a question that whispers through the decades, connecting generations of Huskies who have made this place their own. The Student Union Building has been the heart of the University of Washington campus since its grand opening in 1949. It’s not just a building. It’s a living, breathing testament to student life, a place where memories are made, friendships forged, and futures dreamed. The original vision for a student union, a “gathering place for students,” began in 1919, a testament to the enduring desire for connection and community on campus. But like many dreams, it faced delays, first by the construction of Husky Stadium, then by the upheaval of World War II. Yet, the dream persisted. In the early 1940s, the vision was revived, fueled by the hope of a postwar world. The Student Union Building finally opened its doors in 1949. Imagine the excitement on that crisp October day. Student president Phil Palmer cutting the purple-and-gold ribbon, ushering in a new era for the UW. The early Student Union Building offered a cafeteria, a dining room, and lounges, simple spaces that became bustling hubs of activity. Over the years, the Student Union Building expanded and evolved. A south wing was added in 1952, bringing with it a barber shop and, believe it or not, a bowling alley. Imagine students in their saddle shoes and poodle skirts, hitting the lanes after a long day of classes. The University Book Store joined the Student Union Building family in 1962, solidifying its role as a central hub for academic life. The Student Union Building wasn’t just a place for leisure and study. It also became a stage for student activism, a platform for voices to be heard. In the 1980s, it became home to several ASUW groups, including the Black Student Commission, American Indian Student Commission, the Asian Student Commission, and La Raza. These groups found a home in the Student Union Building, a place to organize and advocate for their communities. Today, the Student Union Building stands as a testament to its rich history. It’s a place where students can grab a burger at DUB Street Burgers, catch a concert, or simply relax in the bustling atmosphere. It continues to be the “living room” of campus, a home away from home for generations of Huskies.