Regarding relationships, has anyone ever considered the University of Washington Club? It is more than just a building. The University of Washington Club is a place with history and a sense of community. Many still call it the Faculty Club. Its name changed a few years ago. Paul Hayden Kirk and Victor Steinbrueck designed the building. Construction finished in 1960. The University of Washington Club joined the National Register of Historic Places in November of last year.
Colleen Rohrbaugh helped the club get a liquor license in 1979. She lobbied the state Legislature. In 1980, the club got the only liquor license on a college campus in the state. One legislator feared his family’s disapproval. He sponsored the bill but did not vote for it. He drank prune juice at the reception.
George Aaagaard wanted the club to serve its own food. He did not want catering. Rohrbaugh was worried. She had no restaurant experience. But they made it work. The University of Washington Club became a place for regulars in the 1980s. People smoked and drank with their meals. Jacob Lawrence, Charles Odegaard, and John McDermott met there. Henry Ladd Smith would sneak a cigarette. He always said do not tell my wife. Henry would save his tuna sandwich in his pocket. His wife would later find it.
Fendall Yerxa was a regular. He claimed a spot at the bar. Colleagues left him notes in the brass railing. Lucy the Latte Lady worked at the coffee bar for 18 years. She retired at 86. Jimmy Carter once visited. Rohrbaugh got his autograph. Herschel Roman drove his Cadillac through a police barricade. He wanted to see the King of Sweden. He was annoyed when he could not see anything.
The University of Washington Club used to be very social. Things are different now. Department cultures have changed. People focus more on family. The club now builds relationships. It is not just about bringing your kids. It is about connecting with people.
Jill Brazier knows the numbers. The University of Washington Club has about 1,860 members. Most are faculty. But staff numbers are growing. About 350 retirees still enjoy the club. The club added a lift for older members. But members want a real elevator. It would cost a lot of money.
The University of Washington Club has a private dining room. It is called the Colleen Rohrbaugh Room. People take prospective donors there. Deans hold meetings there. It is a very private place. The University of Washington Club is aiming for the future. It is still a meeting place for faculty and staff. Departments still hold events there. Staff from the Accounting Department socialize there on Fridays.
Hansen Hosein compares the club to Rick’s Cafe in Casablanca. It is his connecting place. He uses it for business. Bringing people there impresses them with the UW. The University of Washington Club is self-supporting. It relies on member fees. The staff are not UW employees. The club is doing okay.
The University of Washington Club is ready for its next century. There may be a recession out there, but not in here. The UW Club is a historic building with good food. It offers one of the best views in town.