In no way does this downplay our commitment to academic excellence. Nor does it take away from our commitment to professional preparation. It does mean that all teaching and learning is to be grounded in a Christian world and life view, which involves learning to think and live Christianly.

Learning within this shared purpose helps open our eyes to the astonishing pattern of creation when we study science. Our study of music moves us to the depths of our being. Our understanding of art opens our eyes to appreciate the awesome work of the creator God. We recognize that art and literature and music are all gifts of God for humanity. This perspective helps us learn to engage culture from a particular vantage point.

We acknowledge that it is not customary in today’s academy to think along these lines. It would be so easy for us to follow the path where knowledge is divided and fragmented along disciplinary lines, which leads to a situation where facts and values are separated.

The other path to be avoided is a pietistic form of Christianity that de-emphasizes the Christian intellectual tradition. Observing the pietistic emphasis among many Christians, C. S. Lewis said God would have to first educate people and then convert them before they could have a “Christian mind.” But both the fragmented academic model and the pietistic model seem to me to be shortsighted. What is needed across the campus and among our various constituencies is a shared purpose and vision for the distinctive approach to education coupled with a renewed commitment to excellence, for we believe that excellence honors God in all things.

I am pleased to communicate with you that at the meeting this spring of the Union University Board of Trustees such a commitment to this shared purpose was enthusiastically and overwhelmingly present. It was evidenced by the unanimous approval of a record $38 million budget for 2003-04 and supportive encouragement for other key initiatives.

Union University is a great place made up of great people. I believe there are wonderful things in store for Union University as we continue to move forward and grow together. We invite you to join us with your prayers, your support, and your gifts as we move forward together with a shared purpose.

Soli Deo Gloria,

David S. Dockery, President