Bowen Thompson Student Union: A Hub of History and Modernity at Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green State University (BGSU), a public research university in Bowling Green, Ohio, has a rich history dating back to its establishment as a normal school in 1910. Over the years, BGSU has evolved into a comprehensive university with a vibrant student life program. A key component of this evolution is the Bowen-Thompson Student Union, a central hub for student activities, dining, and community engagement.

Origins and Early Years of BGSU

Initially, Bowling Green State Normal School was chartered in 1910, specializing in teacher training and education. Classes began on September 15, 1914, held in temporary locations such as the Bowling Green Armory and a branch school in Toledo. The first honorary organization, Book and Motor, was established around this time. The institution started with 304 students and 21 faculty members, awarding its first teaching certificates to 35 graduates in 1915. The first permanent buildings, University Hall and Williams Hall, opened that same year.

Overcoming Challenges

The Great Depression posed a significant threat to the school's existence. In 1933, a proposal to convert the school into a mental health institution was met with strong opposition from students, faculty, and the Bowling Green community. A coordinated effort involving a campus rally, a march through downtown Bowling Green, and a letter-writing campaign successfully convinced the state legislature to defeat the measure. In May 1935, the college was granted university status and renamed Bowling Green State University.

Post-War Expansion

The 1940s brought significant changes, including the challenges of World War II and the subsequent post-war era. To accommodate the influx of veterans and their families, temporary housing structures were added, such as "Falcon Heights" with 40 trailers in 1945 and "Tin Pan Alley" with 15 steel buildings in 1946. The BGSU Army ROTC was established in 1948, and the university expanded its academic programs, including the establishment of the Graduate School in 1948.

The Need for a Modern Student Union

As BGSU continued to grow, the need for a modern student union became increasingly apparent. The existing facilities were outdated and inadequate to serve the needs of the growing student population. A new student union would provide a central gathering place for students, offering a variety of amenities and services to enhance their college experience.

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A Vision Takes Shape

In the late 1990s, a vision for a new student union began to take shape. University leaders recognized the importance of a modern, well-equipped facility to support student life and foster a sense of community. Plans were drawn up for a state-of-the-art student union that would meet the diverse needs of the BGSU student body.

The Bowen-Thompson Student Union: A Generous Gift

In 2000, Ellen and Bob Thompson generously donated $3 million for the construction of a new student union. This substantial gift was a testament to their commitment to BGSU and their desire to enhance the student experience. In recognition of their generosity, the new student union was named the Bowen-Thompson Student Union.

Ellen and Bob Thompson: BGSU Alumni and Philanthropists

Ellen and Bob Thompson are BGSU alumni who earned their degrees in education in 1954 and 1955, respectively. They married and began their careers as teachers before transitioning to entrepreneurship. Bob Thompson bought a small asphalt business, which grew significantly with the expansion of the interstate highway system and airports. Upon selling the business in 1999, the Thompsons shared their wealth with their employees, making some of them millionaires.

A Legacy of Giving

The Thompsons' contributions to BGSU extend beyond the student union. They have provided millions of dollars in scholarships, focusing on students from working families and those with military service. They also established the Thompson Scholarship in the Sidney A. Ribeau President’s Leadership Academy (PLA) for students from the Detroit area who demonstrate academic promise. Recipients of the Thompson Working Families Scholarship and PLA scholars are required to have employment and meet community service requirements, reinforcing work ethic and helping others.

Construction and Opening

Construction of the Bowen-Thompson Student Union began in the early 2000s and was completed in 2002. The new facility was a significant upgrade from the previous student union, offering a wide range of amenities and services.

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A State-of-the-Art Facility

The Bowen-Thompson Student Union is a modern, state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the diverse needs of the BGSU student body. It features a spacious food court, comfortable lounge areas, meeting rooms, and a bookstore. The union also houses offices for student organizations and university departments.

Amenities and Services

The Bowen-Thompson Student Union offers a variety of amenities and services, including:

The Falcon's Nest Food Court: A diverse selection of dining options to satisfy any craving.
Starbucks: A popular spot for coffee, tea, and snacks.
Pub 1910: A casual dining and social space (previously known as The Black Swamp Pub).
Meeting Rooms: Spaces for student organizations and university departments to hold meetings and events.
Bookstore: A convenient place to purchase textbooks, school supplies, and BGSU merchandise.
Lounge Areas: Comfortable spaces for students to relax, study, and socialize.

Impact on Student Life

The Bowen-Thompson Student Union has had a significant impact on student life at BGSU. It has become a central gathering place for students, fostering a sense of community and providing a wide range of amenities and services.

A Hub of Activity

The student union is a hub of activity, hosting events, meetings, and social gatherings throughout the year. It is a place where students can connect with one another, relax, and enjoy their college experience.

Enhancing the College Experience

The Bowen-Thompson Student Union enhances the college experience by providing students with a convenient and comfortable place to:

Eat: The Falcon's Nest Food Court and Starbucks offer a variety of dining options to suit any taste.
Study: The lounge areas and meeting rooms provide quiet spaces for students to study and work on group projects.
Socialize: The student union is a great place to meet friends, attend events, and participate in student organizations.
Relax: The comfortable lounge areas provide a place for students to unwind and take a break from their studies.

Continued Enhancements and Developments

The Bowen-Thompson Student Union has continued to evolve since its opening in 2002. The university has made ongoing investments to ensure that the facility remains modern and meets the changing needs of the student body.

Renovations and Upgrades

In recent years, the Bowen-Thompson Student Union has undergone several renovations and upgrades. These improvements have enhanced the facility's aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

Sustainability Initiatives

BGSU is committed to sustainability, and the Bowen-Thompson Student Union reflects this commitment. The facility incorporates sustainable design features, such as energy-efficient lighting and water conservation measures.

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