The MSU Union is turning 100, and all are invited to celebrate a century of connection, community and campus tradition. The MSU Union Centennial celebration kicks off Thursday, June 12, on the main floor of the union building. From 4 to 6 p.m., this family-friendly event will feature commemorative Dairy Store ice cream, building tours, kids’ activities including an inflatable obstacle course, photos with Bronze Sparty, caricature artist, giveaways and more! Additional events throughout fall 2025 and spring 2026 will be announced as we honor the MSU Union’s rich history and vibrant future. Event updates and centennial information will be shared at msuunion.com.

History of the MSU Union

The MSU Union traces its roots back to 1905, when MSU was known as Michigan Agricultural College, or M.A.C. Although the vision for a student union building was conceived early on, funding obstacles stalled construction. It wasn’t until 1915 that the concept of the M.A.C. Union was revived. However, the onset of World War I brought construction to a halt as the nation’s attention shifted to the war effort.

In the aftermath of the Great War, a renewed sense of purpose emerged. In 1919,  the president of the M.A.C. Association, inspired by the sacrifice of the Spartan soldiers 
who had served, called upon students and alums to contribute to the completion of  the M.A.C. Memorial Union.

The vision was no longer just for a building — it became a memorial to those who had given so much for their country. Their donations would assist in funding the creation of a gathering space for all students and alums, a hub for camaraderie, connection and community. Through their generosity, the MSU Union would become a living testament to Spartan strength, unity and resilience.

Designed by Chicago architects Irving and Allen Pond, the MSU Union began taking shape, and the building’s cornerstone was laid June 14, 1924, during Alumni Day.

In 1936, an east annex was added to house classrooms and art studios. A major post-war renovation began in 1946, which transformed the union into a full-service student center, adding bowling lanes, billiards, lounges, dining spaces and more.

Over the decades, ongoing renovations have modernized the MSU Union while preserving its role as a central hub for student affairs, academics and Spartan community spirit.

MSU Union Centennial Committee 

Special thanks to the planning committee, which has been working on the celebration since November 2023.

• Erika Austin, University Trademarks and Licensing
• Emily Blue, University Trademarks and Licensing
• Dana Buckhave, Residence Education and Housing Services – Outreach/Tours
• Molly Chrome, Spartan Spirit Shop
• Dan DiMaggio, MSU Alumni Office
• Jeffery Elsworth, School of Hospitality Business
• Thomas Enterline, Military Science Department
• Cathy Fitzpatrick, MSU Union and Alumni Memorial Chapel
• Craig Gunn, College of Engineering
• Jonglim Han, Undergraduate Education, Pathways Persistence Programs and Coalition of Racial and Ethnic MinorityPaige Higley, University Trademarks and Licensing
• Brittanie Johnson, 3M, MSU and University Activities Board Alumni
• Linda Keilman, College of Nursing
• Danielle Matlick, University Advancement, Student Affairs and University Health and Wellbeing
• Katie Nye, Residence Education and Housing Services – Communications
• Delaney Rogers, Impact 89FM
• Megan Spedoske, University Health and Wellbeing, Center for Survivors
• Rochelle Spencer, University Activities Board
• Meg Vandermark, University Activities Board
• Francisco Velazquez, Student Affairs - Communications