Unionite Magazine

From a barbecue entrepreneur’s journey of redemption to EDGE students delivering wheelchairs in Peru, the spring 2026 issue of the Unionite highlights how Union graduates and students are living out their faith in remarkable ways. It also marks a milestone moment for the university, covering the groundbreaking of a new $30 million chapel and Union’s expanding footprint with a new Memphis campus.

In this issue of the Unionite magazine, you’ll read about the opening and dedication of Union’s new Ethos Forum, a space designed to foster dialogue on faith, culture, and society. Other feature stories include a tribute to Robbie Graves and his 35 years of excellence in Admissions, and the inspiring journey of Josiah Enyart, who transitioned from pandemic-era education challenges to launching a micro school. You’ll also meet the Carbonell family, whose deep ties to Union reflect a lasting legacy of faith and commitment. As always, you’ll find a recap of campus highlights from the past year and stories that celebrate the heart of the Union community.

In this issue of the Unionite magazine, you’ll read about Union President Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver, who is marking a decade of leadership at Union University. Other feature stories include a look at Kristen Lowry and her work with international orphan care, and Tristan Kelly, a cross-country runner from Northern Ireland who came to Christ as a Union student. You’ll also find information about fundraising for a new chapel, features about our Meritorious Service Award winners, and a recap of campus news from the past year.

In this issue of the Unionite magazine, you’ll read stories about an alumna and Ukranian native who reflects on life during war, an alumna who found unexpected joy and fulfillment in serving as a stay-at-home mom, and recent graduates who are taking a step of faith towards serving domestically and internationally. You’ll also read a recap of all the ways we celebrated our bicentennial this past year. Join us as we look to the future with a renewed sense of purpose and hope.

In this issue of the Unionite magazine, you’ll read stories of Union’s rich 200 year history and those who shaped Union University forever. Be inspired by Union president emeritus, Hyran Barefoot, and his love for UU and his students, read the lives and stories of Union’s first African American SGA president and Union’s first female senior administrator, and learn how Union’s president from 1932–1947 helped save the university during the country’s two largest national crises. Join us in celebrating 200 years of the Lord’s guidance, faithfulness, and provision for Union University!

In this issue of the Unionite magazine, you’ll read stories of resilience, reliance and teamwork. Be inspired by professor Beth Madison’s dependence on Christ in hardships, read success stories from the past five years of Union’s strategic plan, learn more about our excellent interprofessional experience simulations and celebrate the upcoming new building for the McAfee School of Business and engineering and computer science departments. We have much to be thankful for and celebrate despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic! Read on to discover what God has done at and through Union University this past year.

In this issue of the Unionite magazine, you’ll see some of the transformative work taking place at Union. Our nursing, social work and pharmacy programs are addressing the opioid crisis with courage and compassion. We honor the longtime faithful service of our CFO, Gary Carter, and recognize the first five years of the Oliver administration. You’ll also hear the story of longtime donors like Aubrey Neal, who continues to invest in Union students and transform lives by his generosity.