In an age of global unrest and national challenge, Union’s faculty, staff and students have responded appropriately in ways evidenced throughout the pages of this Unionite. In a time in which there has never been a greater need for clear-headed thinking I believe this University is prepared for the challenges we will face in days to come. The Winter 2001 issue of the Unionite tells the exciting story of Union’s full commitment to a Christian worldview as the foundation for all that takes place on this campus. The feature stories paint a picture of an institution with a full-orbed understanding of the role of truth and the place of faith in the educational process. Across the campus from division to division, department to department, the integration of faith and learning and faith and living is carved out on a daily basis. This distinctive approach to education, which is faithful to the classical understanding of education in the Christian tradition, is built on a strong liberal-arts base. It is in this context that issues can be explored, that questions can flourish, that intellectual curiosity can be encouraged, and that truth can be pursued. Union’s dynamic and gifted faculty of teaching scholars, with their wholehearted commitment to the mission of this institution, carries out this high and noble calling with excellence. This year, like the last five, such classroom excellence, along with Union’s outstanding student body (consistently increasing in both quality and quantity), has been recognized by such groups as U. S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, Peterson’s College Guide, America’s Best College Buys, and the Templeton Foundation’s recognition of institutions that encourage character development. The U. S. News and World Report rankings moved Union into the top tier of Best Universities in the South (Masters category). For these recognitions of excellence we rejoice and invite you to celebrate with us. In this issue of the Unionite you will also see a roll call of over 2500 friends who gave almost $7 million to Union last year. These gifts provided student scholarships and expanded opportunities for student services. These gifts made it possible for faculty to carry out their work of teaching, scholarship, and service. These gifts made it possible for students to be involved in LifeGroups and numerous ministry opportunities on this campus, across this country, and literally around the world. These gifts made it possible to expand the library holdings, to grow the endowment, and to construct beautiful additions to this campus. Union has become one of the premier Christian universities in the country and one of the top private schools in the South. The commitment to excellence across this campus carries on the very best of Union’s heritage and deserves the support of Union alumni and friends everywhere. For every gift, large or small, we are deeply grateful. In the rankings mentioned above Union ranked exceptionally high in all academic, faculty, and student categories. Yet, the percentage of Union alumni support was lower than most schools. This year the Alumni leadership of Union University is asking graduates from every era to give at least $25.00. The overarching goal is for at least 25% of all living alumni to give $25.00 or more in the 25/25 campaign. I believe more than 25% of you will respond. I cannot think of a more worthy place to invest your gifts than in the distinctive work of Union University. I want to urge friends and alumni right now as you read this issue to respond to this request. I want you to know of our deep gratitude in advance for your support for educating the next generation of students at Union University and our prayer for God’s blessings for you. Soli Deo Gloria
David S. Dockery |
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