History
Student-Led Decisions That Shaped Campus Life
The history of Student Union, Inc. reflects decades of student voices helping shape the spaces, services, and facilities that support campus life at San José State University. From the original Student Union building to the Event Center and Spartan Recreation and Aquatic Center, these milestones show how student representation has helped guide long-term decisions for the campus community.
| Date | Major Milestones |
|---|---|
| November 1963 |
The Student Union building became a reality after a general student body election. Students voted to collect an additional student fee to help fund the project. |
| 1967 |
Construction began on the original 144,000-square-foot Student Union building. The building was designed by the Palo Alto architectural firm Ernest J. Krump and Associates. |
| Fall 1969 |
The Student Union officially opened. The total cost was more than $5 million, including furnishings. |
| 1980s |
Students once again voted to support new campus facilities through additional student fees. This process helped fund the construction of a recreation center and an event center. |
| May 1988 |
The Aquatic Center opened, expanding recreational opportunities for students. |
| May 1989 |
The Event Center opened, creating a major campus venue for athletics, events, and student activities. |
| 2006 |
The Student Center Facilities Project was approved through alternative consultation. This project included the expansion and renovation of the Student Union building, as well as plans for a new recreation facility. |
| 2016 |
The expanded and renovated Diaz Compean Student Union was completed, providing updated spaces for student life, meetings, services, and campus engagement. |
| April 2019 |
The new Spartan Recreation and Aquatic Center officialy opened its doors on April18, 2019. The facility was designed to include an indoor track, rock wall and bouldering area, pools, basketball courts, fitness studios, cardio and fitness spaces, and social meeting areas. |
Recognizing Past Board Members
The Student Union Board of Directors has been shaped by the service of students, faculty, staff, campus leaders, and community representatives. The following list recognizes past Board members who contributed their time, perspective, and leadership to Student Union, Inc.
Meet the Former Board Members:
2025-2026
2024-2025
2023-2024
2022-2023
2021-2022
