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The Student Union Building (SUB) has had a long, rich history on Boise State’s campus. Serving as the hub of the university, the building has provided a space for students to socialize, eat, study and present their art.

In 1942, the first student union was created on campus, residing in what is now the Communications Building. For years, it functioned as a spot to host dances and club meetings. After a record-breaking year for enrollment in 1965, the demand for an expansion of the Student Union only grew. Just two years later, the current student union location opened in 1967, featuring office spaces, a bowling alley, meeting rooms and previously, a barbershop. 

With smaller-scale changes like new food options being added and a huge $30,000,000 remodel in 2009, the SUB has undergone many changes, but a recent one has garnered a lot of attention from students.

The changing of the building’s name.

✍️ Olivia Brandon
📸 Omar Saucedo

When Ivy Hunter first tried tattooing, it wasn’t part of a long-term plan. It started casually in a Boise State dorm room with a curiosity sparked by a hand-poked tattoo she received from a friend.

Now, the Boise-based tattoo artist and alumna has built a growing business rooted in custom design, collaboration and a style that blends softness with intention. Known for her creative, nature-inspired work and hand-poked designs, Hunter has become a recognizable name in Boise’s ever-evolving tattoo and art community.

“At a certain point, I had to ask myself what I was going to do with my degree,” Hunter said. “Tattooing just made so much sense.”

✍️ Isabella Williams
📸 Keara Antonelli