The Lynda and Stewart Resnick Student Union: A Hub of Innovation and Community at Fresno State
The Lynda and Stewart Resnick Student Union at California State University, Fresno, represents a significant investment in the student experience. Born from a student-led initiative and fueled by both philanthropic contributions and student fees, the union stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of providing a central space for campus life. This article delves into the history of the Resnick Student Union, exploring the figures behind its creation, the services it offers, and the impact it has on the Fresno State community.
The Visionaries: Lynda and Stewart Resnick
The Resnick Student Union is named in honor of Lynda and Stewart Resnick, philanthropists with a deep commitment to education and the Central Valley. Lynda Resnick, in particular, is a remarkable figure whose entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to giving back have left an indelible mark. By the age of 19, Lynda Resnick had already established a full-service advertising agency, creating campaigns that garnered national attention. Her career, spanning over 50 years, continues with her role as co-owner and vice chair of The Wonderful Company, alongside her husband, Stewart Resnick.
Resnick is celebrated for her creative vision behind innovative marketing campaigns, including Teleflora’s “Flowers in a Gift,” transforming POM Wonderful pomegranate juice into a national sensation, and producing the iconic Wonderful Pistachios commercials.
The Resnicks have a longstanding history of philanthropy, particularly in the Central Valley and the island of Fiji, where many of their employees live and work. Lynda Resnick's philanthropic interests extend beyond the company; she is a major donor and life trustee of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and a lifetime trustee of The Aspen Institute.
The Resnicks' commitment to California State University, Fresno, includes scholarships through the Wonderful Education initiative and a $10 million gift for the Lynda and Stewart Resnick Student Union. In recognition of her accomplishments and support of students, the Board of Trustees of the California State University and California State University, Fresno, conferred upon Lynda Resnick the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.
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A Student-Driven Initiative
The Resnick Student Union's creation was driven by a 2018 student-led referendum, which passed with 67% of student support. This demonstrates a clear desire from the student body for a modern, centralized space to enhance their university experience. Students also approved a $149 fee per semester, starting upon the facility's opening, to help fund the $65 million project. The 2022 fee was prorated based on the soft opening and included with the Spring 2023 tuition payment for a total of $263. The fee referendum also included a 3% annual fee increase.
A Modern and Multifunctional Space
The Resnick Student Union officially opened its doors on Tuesday, marking the culmination of years of planning and construction. The three-story building spans 84,000 square feet and offers a variety of spaces designed to meet the diverse needs of Fresno State students.
First Floor: Gathering and Events
The first floor features a lounge area and The Ruiz, a multipurpose room that can accommodate up to 1,200 people. This large, flexible space is ideal for hosting events, performances, and large gatherings.
Second Floor: Collaboration and Connection
The second floor offers sprawling views, an outdoor terrace, and conference rooms. These spaces are designed to foster collaboration, provide a relaxing environment, and offer opportunities for students to connect with one another.
Third Floor: Leadership and Involvement
The third floor houses space for student leadership, the associated students office, and student involvement. This centralizes student government and organizations, making it easier for students to get involved in campus life.
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Student Perspectives
The initial reactions from students have been largely positive. Junior Dominique Hernandez expressed excitement about the modernized space, stating, "I like how it's modernized and something for like our generation to be excited about to look out to." Mayra Sahagun, also a junior, hoped the new space would alleviate crowding at the other student union. While sophomore Audrey Pichurko, a commuter student, felt she might not use the space as much, she acknowledged its value for other students, saying, "It's nice to look at and I appreciate it for other students, so it's good for them."
A Place of Belonging
Fresno State President Saul Jimenez-Sandoval emphasized the importance of the new union as "a place of gathering, a place of exploring and collaboration, a place of belonging, a place of ownership for Fresno State students for now and for the future as well." The Resnick Student Union is designed to be more than just a building; it is intended to be a central hub that fosters community, encourages collaboration, and enhances the overall student experience at Fresno State.
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