by Lindsay Woodward

Attending Oregon State University (OSU) has become a tradition in my family. The spirit of the Memorial Union (MU) has been passed down to me in memories from my parents and grandparents. When I walk around campus with my family I enjoy the stories about which buildings have had name changes and what they used to be. Many of the colleges have changed location on campus as things have grown. However, despite all of these changes, the Memorial Union has remained an icon and the heart of Oregon State’s campus. A place for people to study, meet people, eat lunch, attend events, get involved on campus, and the list goes on. As my academic at OSU comes to an end, I too now have my own experiences and memories relating to the Memorial Union to pass down to the next generation.

My first personal experience with the Memorial Union that stands out as a high point in my life was at my all night party after graduation from Crescent Valley High School. That night marked the end of one chapter of my life and the beginning of the next – College. In July of 2002 I began my most meaningful relationship with the Memorial Union and what it has to offer. I became one of the student intern designers for the Memorial Union Program Council. I have spent a countless number of days inside the design studio (MU204) working on my design projects. I feel a strong connection to the building every time I walk inside—I know that I have contributed to the vibrant energy that radiates from within.

I have had the opportunity to be a part of many of the events that have taken place in the past two years. I have worked with the program council designing promotional and collateral material for the Women’s Leadership Conference in 2003 and 2004, Mom’s Weekend 2003, and various other events. In addition to events I have worked with Don Johnson and Michael Henthorne on substantial brochure pieces for the MU. Not only have I been involved through design, but I have also attended many of the events capitalizing on what the Memorial Union and the people that propel it everyday have to offer.
The multitude of projects that I have had the opportunity to work on here in the MU have provided me with the opportunity to research and learn about the MU both in historical and contemporary contexts. My understanding and appreciation for all that the Memorial Union has to offer has expanded from my personal experiences here. Whether I have been eating with a friend, putting in long hours in the studio, or studying for an exam, the Memorial Union has provided the foundation that has held me up. As I prepare for the next step in my life, my unaccountable Memorial Union experiences and memories as well as the wonderful people involved here have an indelible mark on me—and inevitably will give me strength to reach my goals and make my dreams come true.