Union to dedicate new EDGE facility Jan. 30

Union University will hold a dedication ceremony for the newly renovated home of its EDGE program on Jan. 30 at 3 p.m.

The Union EDGE program provides a holistic, post-secondary education for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, encouraging increased independent skills that lead to a better quality of life and aligning with Union’s mission of providing Christ-centered education. EDGE is an acronym for employment training, daily living skills, godly focus and educational enrichment.

Located in the Penick Academic Complex in the area formerly occupied by the engineering department before its move to The Ethos Forum, the new multi-functional space was designed specifically to serve the needs of EDGE students.

The space includes a cooking lab, which features two distinct cooking pods and a teaching station; a student lounge equipped with couches, a television and games to foster community; and a classroom space with tables and a monitor for presentations.

The space connects to offices of EDGE staff members.

Andrew Courtner, associate dean of Union’s College of Education who served as manager of the project, said the centrally located facility will help foster a greater sense of community and belonging for the 28 students currently enrolled in the EDGE program.

“While other institutions have similar programs, we believe Union is unique in providing this level of dedicated square footage solely for our students,” Courtner said. “It’s a place that belongs entirely to them and gives them a true sense of ownership.”

The new EDGE hub was funded through a generous state grant and private donations.

The dedication will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, refreshments and tours of the new facility. Guests can enter the building near the chapel, where students will guide them to the EDGE location.