My Student Union Story
by Glen Phibbs ’64 business grad

In 1955, nothing helped me visualize my future or inspired me quite like the grandeur and activity of the Student Union.  I remember thinking as I walked into the ballroom to enroll that my life was wide-open and anything was possible. 

At the Union I learned to jitterbug to music from the fourth floor jukebox. I saw Fats Domino perform live in the ballroom, and movie nights at the Aggie were always followed up by a return to the Union to see what was going on and who was around. Some of my deepest, lifelong friendships and experiences were forged around my love of music. As a member of the Blue Notes, I sang at numerous Student Union dances and events, before reuniting with Stillwater High buddies Robert Hill, Walter (Bryan) Duke and Bill Thompson to join the group the Four Hits. As entertainers we joined the Army and performed throughout the U.S., which is how I met my beautiful wife, Charlene, who gave me seven children and 26 grandchildren. 

So was the Union important in my life story?  You bet!  Because of the Union I was able to sing professionally. I met important people at the Union and those early interactions helped shape who I am today. The Union was where we wanted to be, where something was always happening and there was always someone to meet. As we always said, “meet me at the Union.”

Back to Student Union Stories

Top of page ^