David L. Boren Student Union: A Hub of Community and Support

The David L. Boren Student Union stands as a testament to the importance of community and student support within a university setting. This article explores the history and significance of student unions, using the David L. Boren Student Union at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and the David Student Union at Christopher Newport University as prime examples.

The Genesis of a Student Union

Student unions have long been vital components of university life, serving as hubs for student activity, support services, and community building. The concept dates back over a century, with early examples focusing on providing spaces for recreation, dining, and social interaction. These unions evolved over time to meet the changing needs of students.

In the early days, student unions were often driven by student-led initiatives. For instance, at one university, an association proposed fundraising efforts for a new student union, gaining the support of the college president. These early efforts highlight the importance of student involvement in creating spaces that cater to their needs.

David L. Boren Student Union: A Case Study

The David L. Boren Student Union at the University of Oklahoma (OU) Health Sciences Center exemplifies the commitment to fostering a sense of community on campus.

The Vision and Funding

Senator David L. Boren, recognizing the need for a central gathering place, championed the creation of the student union. He believed that such a facility was "essential to building the spirit of family and community" on the Oklahoma City campus. The OU Health Sciences Center Student Association played a crucial role by approving an increase in student fees to support the project. Boren's efforts secured Section 13 revenue bonds for the first time in the University's history. These funds, combined with student fees, financed the construction of the million-dollar structure.

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Features and Expansion

Completed in August 1, 1995, the David L. Boren Student Union included offices for student government, a fitness facility, a food court, meeting and study rooms, and computer stations. These amenities provided students with spaces for recreation, collaboration, and academic pursuits.

In 2000, recognizing the growing need for student support services, the OU Board of Regents approved plans to add a third floor to the building. This addition housed Financial Aid and Student Support Services, further centralizing resources for students. Funding for the expansion primarily came from student fees earmarked for that purpose, with Robert J. Herman, the HSC Student Association president at the time, leading the student support for the addition.

Recognition and Legacy

In 2004, the OU Board of Regents honored David L. Boren's tenth anniversary as president and his strong support for students by naming the building the David L. Boren Student Union. This recognition solidified the union's place as a symbol of the university's commitment to student success and well-being.

Location and Accessibility

The David L. Boren Student Union is located in Central Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, at the intersection of North Stonewall Avenue and NE Park Place, on the campus of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

David Student Union at Christopher Newport University

Similarly, the David Student Union at Christopher Newport University (CNU) serves as a key element in the university's master plan. This 120,000-square-foot facility provides a wide range of services and amenities for students.

Design and Features

The David Student Union features a bookstore and a food court with a cafe-like atmosphere on the first floor. A grand stair leads to a reception area for the 7,500-square-foot ballroom and 3,600 square feet of meeting rooms on the second floor. The third floor houses meeting rooms and offices for student clubs and organizations. Barrel-vaulted skylights flood the interior spaces with natural light, creating a welcoming and vibrant environment.

The Evolution of Student Unions

The history of student unions is marked by continuous adaptation to meet the evolving needs of students.

Early Development

In 1909, an association proposed fundraising efforts for a new student union, which then-college president Bradford Knapp supported.

Post-War Expansion

Major changes to the scale and scope of campus facilities occurred after World War II, including the development of student centers. Following an editorial article titled “Utopian Institution” from the preceding year, construction of additional residence halls, an infirmary, and a power plant was prioritized alongside the student center.

Financial Considerations

The initial million-dollar budget doubled to $3.4 million when construction began in 1948. Funding was dependent upon the sale of revenue bonds, with various sources pooled to pay off the bonds and interest. Student services covered half of the projected income from the facility.

Construction and Design

Excavation began at the Student Union site during the summer of 1948, reflecting the campus planning under Bennett and college architect Phil Wilber. The building featured extensive flooring and almost 3 million cubic feet of area, incorporating various amenities such as a games room and meeting rooms. Adjacent to these were private dining rooms, a main kitchen, and a coffee shop. An expanded bookstore was housed in the ground floor section.

Unique Architectural Elements

The hotel lobby, with its high ceilings, eliminated a section of the floor above. The north end of the ballroom offered views of Old Central. A covered walkway led to the main entrance on the west side, featuring wood décor and a fireplace just south of the council room.

Hotel and Accommodation

The Student Union offered 81 guest rooms. A mezzanine, overlooking the ballroom, allowed guests to view the activities below. The fourth floor included a balcony, a card room, small meeting spaces, and the Union Club in the south wing. The Starlight Terrace, open to the sky above the Ballroom, hosted evening dances.

Usage and Events

The Student Union served as a gathering place for various events, including a conference in 1950 that attracted attendees from across the country and central Europe. The facility was temporarily used for AIC purposes and hosted dances with live music.

Ongoing Development

Although open, many areas were still under construction during the initial period, with offices opening throughout the fall semester. The Union included a library with books and magazines, as well as various shops.

Management and Staff

The Student Union’s first director oversaw a staff of over 400 student employees, who worked in various roles throughout the building.

The Role of Student Unions in Campus Life

Student unions provide a wide range of services and amenities that contribute to the overall student experience.

Academic Support

Student unions often house computer labs, study rooms, and libraries, providing students with the resources they need to succeed academically. They may also offer tutoring services and academic advising.

Student Organizations

Student unions serve as a home base for student clubs and organizations, providing meeting spaces, office space, and resources for events and activities. These organizations play a vital role in fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for students to connect with others who share their interests.

Examples of student organizations include:

Arab Culture Club: Offers language lessons, cooking classes, dance workshops, and cultural celebrations.
AIAS Chapter: Empowers architecture students through leadership, design, and service.
Asian Pacific Islander (API) Club: Promotes awareness, appreciation, and celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander cultures.
Car Club: Designed for auto technicians, auto machinists, and auto body students, sponsors car rallies, performs emissions testing, and holds an annual auto show.
CPR Club: Promotes leadership, health education, and community service through ongoing activities.
Engineering Club: A hands-on, cross-disciplinary group open to all students interested in engineering, technology, and manufacturing.
Environmental Sciences Club: Invites all students to explore and engage with the natural world.
Dental Health Club: Promotes teamwork while having fun and furthering the dental assisting profession.
International Club: Brings together representatives from various ethnic and racial groups on campus including international, refugee, and immigrant students.
NOMA Chapter: Empowers students in architecture and design to advance equity, inclusion, and excellence within the built environment.
Natural Resources Association: Open to all individuals who are interested in natural resources and forest management.
Nursing Club: Open to all students who are interested in a career in nursing.
Orthodox Christian Club: Open to anyone with an interest in Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
Communication Club: Enhance your communication skills while connecting with like-minded peers in a fun, supportive environment.
Student Awareness League: Fights ignorance through education about human rights issues as well as issues dealing with our Earth.
Water Science Club: Open to any individual interested in water and environmental issues that affect water quality or water management.
X-Ray Vision Club: Committed to promoting health education, community service, and professionalism in health care.

Social and Recreational Activities

Student unions offer a variety of social and recreational activities, such as movie nights, concerts, dances, and sporting events. They may also house game rooms, bowling alleys, and other recreational facilities. These activities provide students with opportunities to relax, socialize, and have fun.

Dining and Retail Services

Student unions typically include food courts, restaurants, and coffee shops, providing students with a variety of dining options. They may also house bookstores, convenience stores, and other retail outlets, making it easy for students to purchase essential items.

Student Support Services

Many student unions house student support services, such as financial aid offices, career centers, and counseling services. These services provide students with the resources they need to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Acknowledging Past Injustices

It's important to acknowledge that student unions, like other institutions, have sometimes been sites of discrimination and exclusion. The story of David Rosell at Union College in 1859 serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by minority students in the past.

The Case of David Rosell

When David Rosell, a black student, transferred to Union College in 1859, some Southern students reportedly expressed anger. Union's president, Eliphalet Nott, initially ordered that Rosell's enrollment be decided by a student vote. Although the vote favored allowing Rosell to stay, Nott then claimed that the consent of the class must be unanimous, leading to Rosell being asked to leave.

This incident highlights the complicity of the school in allowing for Rosell’s dismissal. Despite the unfortunate experience, Rosell went on to become a successful doctor.

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