Designed for students, parents, and educators who believe that character matters, 'The Templeton Guide' contains profiles of 405 exemplary college programs in ten categories. Union University recognized for character development
Union University has been recognized for leadership in the field of student character development in “The Templeton Guide: Colleges that Encourage Character Development,” a guidebook released nationwide in October.
Designed for students, parents, and educators who believe that character matters, 'The Templeton Guide' contains profiles of 405 exemplary college programs in ten categories.
It also includes 50 college presidents who have exercised leadership in character development; and 100 colleges and universities named to the Templeton Honor Roll for their record of commitment to inspiring students to lead ethical and civic-minded lives.
Union is profiled in the spiritual growth programs category for its Life Group program that offers a place for all new students to belong and feel accepted, regardless of where they stand in their spiritual journey. Life Groups foster character building while upperclassmen serve as leaders who guide their groups through a 10-week study based on the book “Who You Are When No One's Looking,” by Bill Hybels. Groups participate in biblically based conversations about character, courage, discipline, vision, endurance, love and the character of Christ and are challenged to integrate these characteristics into every aspect of their life.
“We are very proud of Union's work through the Life Group program to help students develop the strong values that will serve them well beyond their college years,” said Union President David S. Dockery. “Character development is a lifelong process, and we believe that colleges and universities have a very important and unique role to play. We are delighted to be among the institutions profiled in 'The Templeton Guide'.”
“Union's strong commitment to character development and the strength of its program make it a model for colleges and universities nationwide,” said Arthur J. Schwartz, Ed.D., Director of Character Development Programs at the John Templeton Foundation. “With 'The Templeton Guide', we hope to help prospective college students and their parents who want to know what colleges are doing to promote the core values of honesty, self-control, respect and service to those less fortunate. 'The Templeton Guide' identifies colleges that encourage students to understand the importance of personal and civic responsibility, which will help them succeed in college and beyond. Union's work in this area is most impressive.”