UNIVERSITY UNION

Preliminary planning for the new student union began in 1980 with the concept of centralizing all student services into a single facility. Actual construction on the facility was initiated in 1982, beginning with the demolition of Cottage City, a collection of some fifty-odd stone structures dating from the 1920s that accommodated summer and married students. The first phase of construction was completed in March of 1987 at a cost of $8 million. By 1989 a two-story addition on the west end of the initial structure and a new main entrance were finished at a cost of $3 million. Upon its opening, the University Union housed the offices for Student Services, Student Union and Activities, Student Life, Residence Life, International Studies, Associated Students of Northern Arizona University, Associated Women Students, the Association of University Residence Halls, eating establishments (the Deli, the Eatery, Mountain Jacks, Pizzano's, and the Atrium), as well as shops offering move rentals, photo developing, and sporting goods. A travel agency and a hair salon also catered to the needs of NAU students. As part of the construction process, the Field House was incorporated into the Union. Today the Field House houses recreational facilities, including a bowling alley and game room, and Academic Support Services which offers advising, tutoring, and the services of the Multi-Cultural Center.