From the 1951/1952 Student Activity Calendar:

Sensing the need for a place on the University of Buffalo campus where students could rest, relax and enjoy themselves in recreational activities, former Chancellor of the University, Charles P. Norton, presented Norton Hall [today known as Harriman Hall on the South Campus] to the University as a gift. The building was completed in 1934 and from that day to this, Norton Hall has been the "living room" of the campus. Many deep and abiding friendships have been formed at the Union and certainly, many of the Alumni of the University look back with fond memories to the good times they had here.

Norton Union is operated by and for you, the student. It is the Norton Union Membership fee which you pay semi-annually that provides the facilities which the Union offers. Management and control of all extra-curricular activities and of Norton Hall are centered in the Board of Managers which is comprised primarily of students. Being elected to this Board is considered one of the highest honors a student can attain during his undergraduate days.

All recreational programs presented by the Union are under the direction of the Norton Union Program Committee, consisting entirely of students with the Social Director acting in an advisory capacity. This Committee, with a Program Chairman and six sub-chairmen, is responsible for all programs presented throughout the year. The Dance, Mixer, Movie, Music, Publicity and Tournament Committees provide a program, which is for the most part free, for all campus students. All students are eligible and encouraged to join these committees as well as to form new ones.