As the old University Student Union, built in 1968, approaches its 50 year mark, a student-led initiative seeks to replace this center for student life.

The New Student Union campaign is led by students from ASI, the USU Board of Directors, and the Champions Committee.

Unlike the previous Bold New U campaign, the plans for the New Student Union come from students. Through this project, students are being given a voice in deciding their future.

"The New USU is important because it is vital to the success of future Fresno State students," said Lauryn Flores, a student involved in the New Student Union campaign. "The current student union was built over 50 years ago for a population of only 10,000 students. Today Fresno State has over 25,000 students and that number is growing every year. The bottom line is, there is just not enough space for student clubs and organizations to grow."

"Building a new Student Union is critical to the future of Fresno State," said Nicholas Matoian, another student involved in the New Student Union campaign. "With over 270 clubs and organizations on campus (and only growing), the fact is is that there is simply not enough adequate space on campus for students to meet with their clubs and organizations."

Matoian said that as the President of the College Republicans, he tried to book a room in the Union the first day reservations were open, but all the dates and times were already filled.

"This shows just how important it is to build a new Union, with additional meeting spaces and room for clubs and organizations to hold speakers, outreach events, and fundraisers," he said.

The current plans for the new student union have been completed based on feedback that students have provided.

"As someone involved in the project, it is a great feeling to know that we have so much support from our peers," Flores said. "As a student leader, it brings me so much joy to see students making their voices heard."

Matoian said the support from Fresno State faculty and staff has been overwhelmingly positive.

"This project is solely for the students, by the students," he said. "We are the ones who want to build a better future for generations of Fresno State students."

"The support that we have gotten from Fresno State faculty and staff has been incredible," said Flores.

For future Fresno State students, a new student union means so much more than just a building on campus.

"This project is designed for students to have everything they need without ever having to leave the Fresno State Campus," Matoian said. "The New Student Union will be a place where all students can enjoy all that Fresno State has to offer and will serve as the hub of entertainment, and education, enrichment for many generations to come."

"A new student union represents the power of the student voice and will serve as a constant reminder that if you put your heart into something, and you're willing to put in hard work, you can accomplish anything," Flores said.