In the pages of this Unionite you will read stories of many recent developments at the University. What an exciting time to be at Union. This past year, a record 3,670 people invested in the work of this place. Many others volunteered their time. Still others prayed and served in advisory roles. Many of their names can be found in the enclosed report.

The return on investment can be measured in various ways. This past year 3325 total students were enrolled in some program at Union. We saw 785 of these graduate. Our graduation rate—as well our retention rate—is now one of the highest in the state. Student satisfaction indicators have never been higher. For the sixth straight year Union University was listed in the top tier of Universities in the South by U.S. News and World Report. Academics at Union—viewed from the vantage point of effective teaching or significant scholarship by Union’s outstanding faculty or from the perspective of high quality students—is characterized by excellence.

In fact, marks of excellence can be seen across the university. The ongoing development of the campus is an encouragement to all. Union graduates have been accepted in the finest graduate schools, law schools, medical schools, and seminaries across the south in particular, but literally across the nation. Union graduates are serving in Washington, D.C., as interns in Parliament, and are being hired by great companies in the region and beyond. Young business leaders, teachers, nurses, social workers, all grounded in a Christian worldview are beginning to make a difference in the world.

This fall a collection of essays penned by the members of the Union faculty and administration was released with the title Shaping a Christian Worldview: Foundations of Christian Higher Education (Broadman & Holman, 2002). The book evidences the minds and hearts represented across the campus among faculty, staff, and students who are dedicated to rigorous academics, unapologetic Christian commitment, and serious cultural engagement. It is certainly an important book for Union University, but for all of Christian higher education.

Union University’s Board of Trustees along with the Board of Directors of Prison Fellowship are pleased to announce the establishment of the Charles Colson Professor of Faith and Culture at Union University. Dr. Hal Poe will be the first person to fill this most important position. How grateful we are for this opportunity in the life of this university to carry forth the Christian worldview legacy of Chuck Colson (2001 Doctor of Humanities recipient from Union University).

What an outstanding return on your investment. We are deeply grateful for your gifts, your service, your prayers, and your encouragement in your partnership with us in carrying out the lofty mission of Union University in the days and years to come.

Soli Deo Gloria,