Opened in 1973, the Kehr Union was renovated and expanded in 1992 and rededicated in January 1993. The building is named for Marguerite W. Kehr, Dean of Women from 1928 to 1953, whom was noted for her keen interest in students and their activities.
After the construction of Centennial Gymnasium (now Centennial Hall), the former athletic facility was converted into a recreation area following World War II, and finally in 1956, into the Husky Lounge, which included a snack bar, the bookstore, and a television lounge. The Husky Lounge was demolished in 1971 to construct the Kehr Union.