iowa memorial union centennial celebration

A letter from Bill Nelson, Executive Director

The 2025–2026 academic year brings exciting changes to the Iowa Memorial Union (IMU). Renowned for its rich history and role as the campus hub for student involvement, the IMU is evolving to better serve both current and future students.

An $81.4 million renovation, backed by robust student support, is underway to create a centrally located well-being center offering mental and physical health services, wellness programs, and student care supports and resources. The project also includes new interior and exterior lounge areas, improved building wayfinding and circulation, renovated dining spaces, and national retail food options.

As we celebrate the IMU’s 100th anniversary, we invite you to share your memories and join us at our celebratory events throughout the year. Stay updated on the renovation and centennial activities by visiting our website or following us on Instagram and Facebook. Whether you’re a student, alum, or friend, we welcome you to stay connected and be part of the IMU’s next chapter.

bill nelson

Bill Nelson

Associate Dean and Executive Director, Iowa Memorial Union

Featured centennial events

students at event in the IMU

Open House

Join us before the Homecoming parade for an Open House on Friday, Sept. 26! Building tours, student org updates, food, and family fun!

University of Iowa Executive Chef Barry Greenberg at work prior to a Lunch with the Chefs event at the IMU.

Lunch with the Chefs

A community favorite, we’ll have a special Lunch with the Chefs for the IMU centennial on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026. More information coming soon.

student involvement fair in the imu main lounge

IMU Centennial Gala

Our celebration culminates with the IMU Centennial Gala on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, where we’ll pay tribute to the history of the IMU while commemorating the next chapter. More information coming soon.

Share your IMU story

What’s your favorite IMU memory? We’re collecting stories from the past 100 years—add yours today.

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100 years of the IMU

  • 1924 construction begins

    Construction Starts on IMU

    1924

    Unit 1 construction begins on the IMU and building plans arise from a three-acre barn plot. The first phase of the IMU includes the Main Lounge offices, and a snack bar.

  • students near fireplace

    A Campus Union with Purpose

    1925

    The IMU was one of 16 college union buildings in the U.S. in 1925 and assumed the role as a service center on campus, offering Union Dining Service, housing and employment services and the Union Browsing Library.

  • orchestra concert in the iowa memorial union

    IMU Expands with Unit II

    1927

    Unit II construction is completed and dedicated. Union activities involve games, dances, UI Band concerts, and homecoming. Additions include a radio broadcast room, soda fountain, and roof deck.

  • man speaking into microphone while people watch

    IMU Shifts to Arts and Entertainment

    1936

    During the 1930s, the IMU transitions its focus to entertainment and the arts. The Silver Shadow, a non-alcoholic nightclub, opens within the Union Cafeteria and the Class of 1935 establishes a fund for the Mark Twain room.

  • view of the iowa memorial union

    IMU Gifted to the University

    1942

    IMU Corporation Board of Trustees gifts the IMU to the University of Iowa. The facility is used by the U.S. Army, during WWII to feed and train cadets.

  • students bowling at the IMU

    IMU Expands Student Amenities

    1955

    Unit III construction is completed featuring billiards, bowling, snack bar, student lounges, and music rooms.

  • four people standing together after concert

    A Stage for Student Voices

    1964

    During the 1960s, the IMU serves as a platform for student activism, demonstration, and entertainment. In 1964, the Soapbox Soundoff begins as a stage for political commentary and the Thieves Market holds its first student art exhibition.

  • south entrance of the IMU

    A Creative Campus Hub

    1970

    In the 1970s, students and faculty from the art and music departments use the IMU as a creative, collaborative space.

  • information center booth

    IMU Expansion Adds Key Amenities

    1988

    The 1988 renovation links the 1920s and 1955 additions of the building; adding the Terrace Lobby entrance on Madison street, Student Activities Center, and the University Bookstore.

  • students stacking sandbags outside the IMU

    IMU Closed After 2008 Flood

    2008

    The Iowa Flood of 2008 devastated the UI campus and closed the IMU from June through November. The building required an extensive flood mitigation process.

  • two students sitting outside the IMU

    IMU Recovery Project Complete

    2015

    The IMU Flood Recovery and mitigation project is completed. The ground floor and new IMU River Terrace open to the public.

  • group of students playing outside the IMU

    IMU Empowers Student Programs

    2018

    The IMU remains an incubator for student ideas, programs, and initiatives for all students. In 2018 it became home to the Food Pantry, Clothing Closet, and Collegiate Recovery Program.