In the heart of Texas A&M University’s campus stands a symbol of student fellowship and unity: the Memorial Student Center (MSC). From its humble beginnings in 1950 to its vibrant presence today, the MSC has undergone numerous transformations to meet the evolving needs of its student population. But no history of Aggies’ beloved “living room” of campus would be complete without mention of one monumental visionary: J. Wayne Stark ’39.
In his pivotal role as first director, Stark courageously shaped the MSC into the transformative, honorable and welcoming entity Aggies have known and loved through generations. As a result of his firm foundation, the highly regarded MSC still stands as a main attraction decades after groundbreaking.
Setting the Foundation
Aggies were thinking up the MSC as early as 1918, though it wasn’t officially dedicated until Muster Day in 1951. Following World War I, Texas A&M’s leadership desired to honor the 55 Aggies who had paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. As a result, the university’s president, William Bizzell, stated his vision for a “more dignified, elaborate and permanent memorial” that served a useful function while displaying the names of those who gave their lives for freedom. Following his statement, former students began submitting ideas, many of which centered around a student union building.
Before the iconic, 285,355-square-foot MSC existed as we know it today, an obvious social void stood in its place. In the late 1930s, the YMCA building, Guion Hall and the Aggieland Inn served as the only viable places for students to gather on campus. With a growing student population overcrowding these spaces, Aggies became increasingly inspired to find a new hangout hub.
In a collective effort, students from the classes of 1935 and 1936, along with partners across the university and beyond, contributed to the call for a student union. After World War II ended, the initiative gained more momentum following a population surge of more than 9,000 new students and returning veterans arriving in Aggieland. In response, The Association of Former Students stepped in to support as well, helping Texas A&M reach a $2 million goal to break ground for construction.
