ASI Alumni
In 1921, when the Normal Junior College was united into a State College, two student organizations merged to form the official student government association with Warren Moody as the first student president. From then on, student government has become an integral part of the campus life. Whether it is raising money for a memorial fountain to honor World War II students, lobbying to build a College Union, meeting with state, national and international dignitaries, or voting on key issues concerning students, the student government has been instrumental in leading Fresno and the community into the future.
To celebrate the Centennial and the history of student government at Fresno State, ASI will be hosting a display showcasing the past 100 years of leadership in photos, quotes, and memorabilia. The exhibit will be displayed until September 17 in the Pete P. Peters Ellipse Balcony Gallery on the 3rd floor of the Henry Madden Library. Be sure and explore the history of student government for a chance to witness a legacy of leadership.
A glimpse into ASI’s history:
1921: The students organized themselves and founded their first student government entitled the Student Association with Warren G. Moody as the first student President.
1941: Student President Glenn Gooder instituted “Hello Week” to help new students become acquainted with Fresno State College. Today this week is known as “Fresno State Welcome!”
1948: The student government raised $5000 to put towards a memorial honoring the deceased Fresno State students who served in World War II.
1961: Fresno State College hosted the Mercy Bowl, a benefit football game played against Bowling Green to benefit the survivors and families of the Cal Poly team killed/injured in an airplane crash. Student Body President Marvin Baxter received a telegram from President John F. Kennedy thanking Fresno State College for their support to the Cal Poly team.
1962: Athletics Commissioner Peter Mehas, Student Body President Jerry Tahajian, Athletic Director Hall Beatty, and Fresno State students fought and won for the funding of the FSU Baseball Park.
1964: Associated Women’s President Heather Cairris was involved in a vote allowing women to wear pants to class.
1968: Senator Robert Kennedy and Vice President Hubert Humphrey attended an on campus event. Both were introduced by Student Body President Michael Case.
1980: Associated Students initiated and implemented the University Lecture Series.
1985: ASI developed a program to escort female students at night to their car or other places on campus.
1994: ASI assisted with the funding for the Cesar Chavez statue and Martin Luther King bust in the Peace Garden.
2002: In conjunction with outside sponsors, ASI funded the Speakers Platform to promote free speech around the Fresno State campus.
2010: ASI made the first contribution to the Centennial Scholars Fund in the amount of $25,000. This first contribution was the start to what will hopefully grow into a million dollar endowment.
