Dear Parents:

What an incredible thing it has been to observe the Union University campus over the last ten days. As you know, the campus experienced extensive damage (now estimated at $1.75 million) just a few minutes after midnight on Sunday morning, November 10.

We have so much for which to be grateful—primarily that no lives were lost nor was anyone hurt. I wish you could have seen the energy and determined effort that went forth as joyful service last week—students, staff, faculty, administrators, trustees, friends, volunteers—all working together to clean up the campus and beginning to rebuild it.

While we have a long way to go to completely restore the campus, I am pleased to tell you today that the campus is operational. We have only missed one day of class. Last Wednesday we enjoyed a time together to sing, pray, read scripture, and offer thanks to God for His providence, protection, and mercy toward us. So many of you have prayed for us and encouraged us through this time. Please know of our appreciation for your support.

Our first concern throughout has been the students. Provost Carla Sanderson, Dean Kimberly Thornbury, Vice Presidents Gary Carter and Bob Alsobrook have done a splendid job of giving direction and guidance—as well as many other faculty and staff members.

The students will have many memories of this time. It has not been without stress, challenges, or loss for many—but I believe it has been a time to see Union University at her best. The spirit of unity, the determined resolve, the sense of community, the joy in serving others—have been so readily evident for all to see.

It will always be our practice to try to get word out to you on the website (www.uu.edu) during these times. We were without power for nearly 18 hours (and full power/water/phones/technology, etc. was not restored for about 36 hours), so we had no quick way to communicate with you. Thanks for your understanding. I would encourage you to view the website to see some of the photos or read the stories if you have not done so.

We have only a few weeks remaining in what has been an absolutely outstanding semester. I trust you will have opportunity to visit with your student over the Thanksgiving break. If you know of special needs that we should address during this time, please let us know.

Again, please know of our deep appreciation for your support during these days. God is good indeed.

We wish for you a Happy Thanksgiving.