FAQ

Memorial Union Project Frequently Asked Questions

What happened after students approved the fee increase to build a new Memorial Union?

The timeline for the Memorial Union Project was:

• Spring 2019 - December 2019: Building design phase. 
• Fall 2019 - Summer 2021: Construction phase.
• Fall 2021: Memorial Union opened for student use.

Why did this project fall to students and not another group?

A number of campus facilities were identified as priorities. As the University explored funding sources for other renovation and construction projects, students were asked to invest in a new Memorial Union. The original Memorial Union and its additions were the result of past student initiatives. A majority of students who voted in a student referendum held on November 20th, 2018, supported funding a new Memorial Union.

What did UND do to contribute?

UND contributed over 20 percent of the cost of operating and supporting a new Memorial Union. At the same time, the University worked with alumni, private donors and other funding sources to build a new Nistler College of Business & Public Administration as well as update the Chester Fritz Library, High Performance Center and the J. Lloyd Stone Alumni Center.

Why was a new Memorial Union needed?

The original Memorial Union, built in 1951, with additions completed in 1964 and 1983, was outdated with building infrastructure that had either reached or was nearing the end of its useful life. Deteriorated infrastructure included mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. The lack of building accessibility throughout was also a major area of concern.