Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver NAMED UNION’S 16TH PRESIDENT

SUMMER 2014

A Half-Century of Nursing Excellence

Ministry to the Deaf CONTENTS FEATURES The Union University Magazine Summer 2014 | Volume 65 | Number 2 ON THE COVER: Samuel W. “Dub” President Oliver, president-elect of the Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver university, opens chapel on March 14 by thanking the Union students Senior Vice President for From the President for embracing him as the new University Relations and Athletics Jerry N. Tidwell president. Photo by Matt McDaniel ’15 Associate Vice President for University Communications am honored and humbled by the call to serve as the 16th president Mark D. Kahler of Union University. On behalf of my wife Susie, let me express how Assistant Vice President for University excited we are to be serving alongside the outstanding faculty, staff, Communications and Director of Media Relations Istudents, alumni and friends of this great university. Tim Ellsworth 12 As Christian educators, we work Director of University Marketing TRUSTEES ELECT Mary Watson from the premise that all truth is SAMUEL W. “DUB” OLIVER Director of Creative Services God’s truth, and there is no reason to Scott Heit The former president of East separate our faith from our academic Texas Baptist University Graphic Design Specialist pursuits. With that in mind, it is Sarah Belcher becomes Union’s 16th hard to imagine a place of service president following a University Photographer that could offer more rewarding Morris Abernathy unanimous vote. opportunities than what is found Web Development Agent Cam Tracy at Union University, where we are preparing tomorrow’s leaders in more Web Design Specialist 14 22 Kristi Woody than 100 fields of study with rigorous THE LIGHT ON THE HILL THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION Multimedia Producer academic training and an integrated Scott Lancaster Dub Oliver draws much praise for his FOR THE DEAF focus on the Lordship of Jesus Christ leadership of ETBU. Union will partner with the International Office Coordinator in our lives. Deb Rhodes Mission Board and Brentwood Baptist Union is known as a place where excellence-driven, Christ-centered, Church to enable a new approach to Editorial Office theological education for the deaf. Unionite people-focused and future-directed core values shape the ways we 16 1050 Union University Drive Jackson, Tenn. 38305-3697 learn and live. From the excellent teaching that takes place in our WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING 24 phone: (731) 661-5543 classrooms and laboratories to the lifelong friendships that result from fax: (731) 661-5706 our life in community, there is much here for which we are grateful. From those with longstanding email: [email protected] REMEMBERING LOST STUDENTS relationships to his newest friends, find out uu.edu/unionite We are invigorated by the challenges ahead as we focus on continuing what people are saying about Dr. Dub Oliver In a period of just five months, the Numbers to Know and strengthening this tremendous work. Union community has mourned Admissions 731-661-5100 Prayer was an important part of the presidential selection process. Advancement 731-661-5050 three tragic deaths. Alumni Relations 731-661-5208 Many of you interceded on behalf of the committee with commitments 18 Athletics 731-661-5130 to prayer and fasting. In God’s providence, many prayed for us before Church Relations 731-661-5281 A TRANSITION TIMELINE 26 Financial Aid 731-661-5015 you ever heard our names or knew anything about us. Thank you! I ask LifeWay Bookstore 731-668-9492 that you please continue to pray for all of us at Union as we take the next The transfer of leadership between former CALLED TO SERVE Switchboard 731-668-1818 President David S. Dockery and President steps in an institutional journey that began nearly two centuries ago. Leaders with strong Union connections Unionite is published by Union University, 1050 Dub Oliver was the result of much labor Union University Drive, Jackson, TN 38305-3697. May we be faithful stewards of all that Union has become, and may are being called on to serve throughout and much prayer. Union University is an academic community, it always be a place where thousands of students are in the process of Christian higher education. affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention, discovering God’s purposes for their lives. equipping persons to think Christianly and serve faithfully in ways consistent with its core values 20 of being excellence-driven, Christ-centered, With unfailing hope, 28 people-focused, and future-directed. ©2014 A HALF-CENTURY OF EXCELLENCE HOMECOMING 2014 University-based nursing education was From class honors to a unique rare 50 years ago, but Union’s pioneering flag-raising, Homecoming 2014 efforts blossomed into something no one Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver, Ph.D. proved memorable. could have imagined in 1964. Psalm 90:17

DEPARTMENTS FSC FPO

4 | 1050 U.U. Drive: campus news 31 | Old School: alumni news 40 | Final Frame: photo essay 1050 U.U. DRIVE CAMPUS NEWS

Anderson addresses “In redefining marriage, the state Union filed suit to block the use of these abortion-causing The Carla D. Sanderson Faculty marriage equality will teach a lie about what marriage abortifacient mandate drugs and devices.” of the Year Award went to Hal Poe, The heart of the marriage is,” Anderson said. “We each have Union University has joined other The lawsuit also says the the Charles Colson Professor of Thornburys equality debate lies in the definition to bear witness to the truth in faith-based institutions in filing a “mandate forces Union University Faith and Culture. Steven Aldridge, of marriage, said Ryan T. Anderson whatever way our vocation requires federal lawsuit that challenges an to choose between its sincerely Union’s sports information director, depart for during the “True Marriage Equality: of us. Live out the truth of marriage order to provide abortion-causing held religious beliefs and the was awarded with the Gary L. Carter Man and Woman” lecture at Union in your own life, and then advocate drugs as part of employee health government-imposed adverse Staff of the Year Award. in February. for it and teach it in whatever setting care plans. consequences” of non-compliance. The Fred DeLay Memorial Award, The King’s College your life takes you.” The suit was filed in early April Union University provides for a senior who is an outstanding in the U.S. District Court for the employee health insurance through athlete, a person of high academic Union arboretum Western District of Tennessee. the Tennessee Independent standing, unquestionable loyalty reg and Kimberly Thornbury returned to Union guard LaTesa McLaughlin, enhances learning The University seeks a judgment Colleges and Universities and good character, was presented a senior from Millington, Tenn., was Union University’s campus early in the fall opportunities declaring that the abortifacient Association, a consortium of 34 to Dionna Linn. named Most Outstanding Player semester for a final farewell to the Union Union has launched an mandate of the new Affordable Care public and private institutions. The John C. Moore Award for in the championship tournament. arboretum project as a service to excellence in academics and Gcommunity as the couple launched a new chapter in Act violates Union’s rights under Amy Philamlee, a junior guard from the community and as a way to the Religious Freedom Restoration Poe, Aldridge honored athletics was presented to Allison Jonesboro, Ark., scored a game- their lives in New York. continue beautifying the campus. Act, the First and Fifth Amendments at Awards Day Martin and Derek Roof. high 24 points in the championship Greg, the former dean of the School of Theology and Mark Bolyard, professor of of the U.S. Constitution and the Union University presented There were 46 recognitions win over Lee and was named an Missions, became president of The King’s College in biology, described an arboretum Administrative Procedures Act. more than 70 awards to students, connected to the outstanding student all-tournament player along with as “kind of a fancy name for a faculty and staff May 9 at the in each major area of study. For a New York City July 9. Kimberly transitioned from being A grandfather clause had allowed McLaughlin. collection of labeled trees,” but Union to offer its plan without annual Awards Day chapel service, complete list of the winners, visit Head Coach Mark Campbell was Union’s senior vice president for student services and said the labels on the Union trees providing abortifacients. That clause chronologically the first event uu.edu/news/release.cfm?ID=2275 named NCCAA National Coach of dean of students to The King’s College’s first lady and have been intentionally developed was rescinded because of unrelated associated with spring graduation. the Year. Campbell has a career to showcase Scripture verses special assistant to the president for strategic planning. Anderson is a writer and changes in the cost and the terms Lady Bulldogs win record of 481-66 (.879) in his 15 researcher for The Heritage and significant quotes from great The Thornburys served at Union for 15 years. of the plan. NCCAA national seasons at Union and has led his Foundation who has become a thinkers and writers in the Christian “Causing the death of the embryo championship Lady Bulldogs to at least a third- national voice in the public debate intellectual tradition. conflicts with Union University’s The Union Lady Bulldogs added place finish in national tournaments about marriage equality. “Not only is this a good way to beliefs based on Scripture,” the another national championship 11 times—including each of the last “If we want to draw a line that’s identify the trees that we have, but Union lawsuit states. “Therefore, trophy to their collection this spring, 10 seasons. based on principle – a line that also a platform for adding more,” Union University has religious- beating Lee (Tenn.) University 73- The Lady Bulldogs won NAIA reflects the truth – we have to know Bolyard said. “This is our attempt to based objection to drugs and 64 to take the National Christian national championships in 1998, what marriage is,” Anderson said. continue making the campus more devices that kill the embryo and to College Athletic Association national 2005, 2006, 2009 and 2010. Speaking to about 200 lecture attractive.” education and counseling related to title in Winona Lake, Ind. CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 attendees, Anderson noted that The arboretum will provide Union the U.S. government does not ban students with a collection of trees any consenting adult relationship – to identify, and it will also be a local including homosexual relationships. draw for students in the community Businesses can offer marriage-like who have leaf projects of their own. benefits to same-sex couples if The Union arboretum becomes Union looks to possible employers choose to provide these the fifth certified arboretum in the options, and houses of worship area. Union is also in the process active NCAA membership are allowed to conduct same-sex of developing a “virtual meta- arboretum,” which will catalog all “At the very end of it union ceremonies if religious bodies choose to host these events. the local arboreta’s trees is one nion University could “Our coaches have worked all, I have nothing better searchable online database. If the government redefines become an active member diligently to make this a positive to say to you than look to marriage to include homosexual Christ,” Greg Thornbury unions, Anderson said all U.S. of the NCAA at the Division transition,” said Jerry Tidwell, senior citizens would be coerced to treat IIU level in July, when it will mark three vice president for university relations said at a dinner gathering same-sex relationships as marital years since beginning its membership and athletics. “They have embraced to honor the couple. relationships, regardless of religious candidacy. all the added requirements with the The Thornburys beliefs or moral convictions. received several gifts, including a drawing of Union’s “There (would) be no institution NCAA rules dictate a provisional idea that the transition increases our Miller Tower and a rare, framed copy of a 1960 left in public life that would uphold period during which schools must potential influence for Christ.” even as an ideal the fact that every demonstrate compliance with the Union was one of nine schools in Christianity Today article by theologian Carl F.H. Henry, child deserves a mother and a There are two ways to support organization’s regulations and 2013 to move from candidacy year entitled “Do We Need a Christian University?” The father,” Anderson added. “It would the arboretum: adopt a campus tree, and make a pledge to the piece made a case for Christian higher education in change the marriage institution compete during the regular season two into provisional status. Pending away from the needs of children “Friends of the Union University with other Division II programs. NCAA approval, Union could obtain New York City. Arboretum” program. More and much more toward the desires During that time, candidates for active status in time for the 2014–15 Greg Thornbury spoke in chapel, and then the couple of adults.” information is available from the greeted well-wishers during a reception in their honor Anderson encouraged Christians Office of University Relations at (731) active membership are not permitted to academic year. 661-5050. at the Carl Grant Events Center. to proclaim the truth about marriage participate in NCAA postseason play. in the political, intellectual and For more information about the cultural realms. arboretum, visit uu.edu/arboretum.

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Fully online M.Ed. program underway The School of Education now Hendersonville campus offers a Master of Education degree Spring fully online. marks graduation milestone The degree program will also continue in a traditional classroom format. commencement Coursework in the online program nion University Hendersonville is designed for the classroom celebrated the graduation of its teacher and focuses on enhancing includes 630 first two Doctor of Education a teacher’s professional knowledge, studentsU at the fall commencement practical abilities and skills as classroom relater, according to ceremony in December. graduates Eric Marvin, director of online Carla Cushman and Jan Baldwin, who instructional innovations for the both started the program in February School of Education and director of 2010, were outstanding the Thomas R. Rosebrough Center et conditions and cool for Educational Practice. temperatures forced students and leaders in “The online M.Ed. is truly a 21st their field, said Charles Lea, century degree, as it is intentional in Union’s 189th annual spring situating iPads as learning tools, not Wcommencement indoors to Jackson’s executive director of Union University Hendersonville. as the focus of study,” Marvin said. Oman Arena, where David S. Dockery The degree program includes an conferred his final degrees as president. “The professors had high Her goal for achieving this iPad with enrollment, meaning that expectations for us as learners, degree, she noted, is to all students will be able to use He has presided at 50 graduation events and I know that I have walked serve students and lead mobile technology in their during the spring, summer and fall of his coursework. One of the key methods away with a sound education faculty more effectively. 18-year tenure. At some point during the Jan Baldwin (left) and Carla Cushman for iPad use in the program calls for that will continue to support “I pray what I’ve learned students to use the mobile May ceremony, Dockery handed out his me in what I do,” Cushman said. “Union will come down to benefit each individual technology to capture video of 15,000th degree, a figure that represents professors are truly dedicated to the child that I work with—that my education themselves using specific practices about 70 percent of all living Union alumni. in their classroom. students who attend this university.” won’t be self-absorbed but will be given away “We are grateful for the difference that Baldwin said she also plans to remain to children,” Baldwin said. “I didn’t go to each one will make for the cause of Christ in her current leadership position at a school to change positions. I got my degree and his kingdom in the days to come,” private Christian academy in Nashville. to become a better leader for students.” Dockery said. Greg Thornbury, president of The King’s College in New York City, delivered the

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 commencement address, encouraging the Following the NCCAA title, a very opposite,” Brady said. “Union commitment to churches now, graduates to stand in solidarity with their campus wide celebration was wants to strengthen its connections but it emphasizes to students “This is not an iPad degree,” Tigrett Medal winner Grace Morriss staged in DeLay Gymnasium. with the churches.” the importance of them being Marvin said. “It is a degree to help Brady said that ministry to the committed and faithful church teachers become more effective at See an churches includes providing students members while they attend Union teaching and learning.” fellow believers in Christ—a theme he Web exclusive: Union strengthens expanded photo gallery at church connections and faculty members to preach in and after they leave. The students can then share We are emphasized during his years as Union’s Union University is refocusing its churches. In addition, Union offers Richard Bray, pastor of First the video with their professor and uu.edu/unionite dean of the School of Theology and strong traditional efforts to serve experts to speak at conferences or Baptist Church in Waverly, Tenn., classmates to obtain constructive grateful for pastors and congregations. special events that churches host on cited the R.C. Ryan Center for Biblical feedback, based on what was Missions. class rose in unison as each woman’s Todd Brady, a variety of topics, including religious Studies as a valuable resource to taught in the course. the difference “This campus been through an awful name was read. Union’s vice liberty, faith and science, pastoral help area pastors and churches. More information about how to lot this year,” Thornbury said. “There have Union also presented the Elizabeth president for ministry, marriage and family, church He also expressed appreciation apply is available at uu.edu/med. that each one university leadership, evangelism, Christian for Union’s efforts in providing been harrowing moments of deep sorrow, Tigrett Medal to Grace Morriss, an ministries, leads apologetics, biblical interpretation opportunities for fellowship through GO Trips include will make for confusion and uncertainty. But this engineering major from Flower Mound, the new Office and many others. the West Tennessee Ministers mission to Nicaragua campus, anchored by this senior class, Texas. The award honors the mother The Office of University Ministries Conference, which he serves as vice Union students, faculty and staff of University rallied together.” of Isaac B. Tigrett, a former interim Ministries, also has resumed publication of president this year. travel around the world as part of the cause of which combines The Union Pulpit, a printed booklet “The thing I’ve always liked about the annual Global Opportunities As part of the ceremony, Union president at Union, as well as a benefactor ministry to the campus and ministry that presents sermons preached in Union is they’ve worked to maintain trips. At spring break alone, they Christ and his presented degrees posthumously to and trustee. The medal has been awarded on behalf of the campus. Union’s chapel services and other contact and maintain relationships traveled to nine international Leighton Williams and Olivia Greenlee, since 1912 by vote of the entire Union “In a day where we see more and Union-related events. with pastors,” Bray said. “Union locations, including a medical kingdom in the two Union students who died during the faculty to an outstanding member of the more institutions disconnecting from Brady said the change is firmly committed to supporting mission trip to Nicaragua. churches, Union wants to do the communicates not only Union’s churches in the area.” Senior nursing major Hannah days to come. 2013–2014 academic year. The graduating senior class. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 McKnight saw the work at Las Germantown student Conchitas in a MedFest medical is family physician and clinic as much more than an MCS candidate opportunity to practice her nursing Buffy Cook works as a board- Dockery accepts skills. It produced opportunities to certified family physician. But share the gospel message with he says he’s felt God’s call to go presidency hundreds of Nicaraguans. another direction. Union achieves key “Free Cook is enrolled in the Master medical of Christian Studies program on at Trinity care the Union University Germantown business accreditation draws in campus, balancing his practice with International huge the pursuit of theological training to crowds of prepare for the pastorate. University people, Ken Easley, professor of biblical nion University’s McAfee School providing studies, said Cook flourished in of Business Administration an his classes, as he exhibited a avid S. Dockery was unanimously elected exciting has earned accreditation from passion for Christ and God’s Word. Feb. 28 as the 15th president of Trinity chance to Although Cook never imagined theU Association to Advance Collegiate share International University in Deerfield, Ill. God would lead him to shepherd why we DThe announcement, on the suburban Chicago Schools of Business. a church, he began to sense a are really AACSB International, founded in 1916, need to preach in January 2013. By campus, came less than three weeks after Samuel there, which is to share the love of November, he had accepted a call W. “Dub” Oliver was elected to succeed Dockery is an association of more than 1,350 God with the Nicaraguan people,” as a full-time pastor at Crossway as president of Union University. Both men were educational institutions, businesses McKnight said. Baptist Church in Brighton, Tenn. and other organizations in 83 countries MedFest began in 1996 when Currently balancing work as both scheduled to assume their new offices on June 1. a group of dentists, pharmacists a physician and pastor with MCS Robert and territories. It is the longest serving and physicians joined with Way classes, Cook hopes to graduate Kleinschmidt, global accrediting body for business of the Cross Ministries in Texas to from Union in 2015. chairman of the TIU schools that offer undergraduate, provide free health evaluations and “Becoming a pastor excites master’s and doctorate degrees in treatments in Mexico, said David me and terrifies me at the same Board of Regents, said McKnight, Hannah’s father. moment,” Cook said. “While it is he was excited for business and accounting. A doctor in Murfreesboro, Tenn., a great privilege, it is also a huge Dockery and his wife “Achieving the AACSB accreditation David McKnight had participated responsibility, as I know I will be places us in the top 5 percent of business in a mission trip with Way of the held to a stricter accountability Lanese to join the Cross earlier that year to distribute schools in the world,” said Keith Absher, than other people. But it excites TIU family. food and spread the gospel across me to lead a group of people to be “Dr. Dockery dean of the McAfee School of Business Also required by the AACSB standards, the border. After learning about more mature in their faith, to grow a brings a great wealth Administration. “It is definitely the all accredited schools must go through the need for medical care among church and to lead people to God’s ‘gold standard’ of business school a peer review process every five years in the villages, he gathered a group kingdom.” of experience and of mission-minded doctors that accreditations.” order to maintain their accreditation. knowledge about summer to help launch MedFest. Renewing interest in higher education from his years at Union University,” Absher said the AACSB accreditation “It takes a great deal of self- The team continued to return to the Psalms Kleinschmidt said. “I know he will be a great leader for is evidence that Union has achieved evaluation and determination to earn Mexico each year, treating as many In the first centuries of the excellence in multiple areas, including AACSB accreditation, and I commend patients as they could see in church, the Psalms played a key Trinity and look forward to the tasks ahead.” seven days. role in worship. TIU consists of Trinity Evangelical Divinity learning outcomes for students and Union University for its dedication The medical team treats a variety Achieving School, one of the most highly respected evangelical students’ ability to compete against any to management education, as well of health problems each year, business graduate in the country. as its leadership in the community,” the AACSB including hypertension, parasites institutions in the country; Trinity College, a liberal- Achieving accreditation is a process said Robert D. Reid, executive vice and skin infections, Hannah said. arts based institution; Trinity Graduate School, accreditation Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes with programs in such fields as biomedical ethics, of rigorous internal review, evaluation president and chief accreditation officer when she was age 10, Hannah and adjustment that takes several of AACSB International. “Through places us in the acts as a consultant for the clinic’s leadership and education; and Trinity Law School. years to complete. During these years, accreditation, Union has not only diabetic patients as well. Total enrollment for the university is about 2,800. “Going on trips like this gives the school develops and implements a met specific standards of excellence, top 5 percent “We are overwhelmingly grateful to God for the me a great opportunity to apply “Today, the Psalms typically play invitation from the Trinity Board to serve the students, plan to meet the AACSB accreditation but has also made a commitment to what I have learned in school and a very small role,” said Ray Van staff, faculty and various institutional constituencies in standards, which require a high quality ongoing improvement to ensure that the of business practice my nursing skills in real-life Neste, professor of biblical studies teaching environment, a commitment to institution will continue to deliver high settings,” Hannah said. “Medical and director of the R.C. Ryan Center the days ahead,” Dockery said. “We are humbled by the missions are very important to me, continuous improvement and curricula quality education to its students.” schools in for Biblical Studies. “It’s my interest confidence that the Board has communicated to us in and it is absolutely something that I and desire to try to address this responsive to the needs of businesses. this call to guide Trinity forward in the days and years the world. hope to continue after graduation.” issue and stir up renewed interest.” to come.” For more information about In April, Van Neste teamed with all of Union’s GO trips, visit Union’s Department of Music to uu.edu/events/go. stage Psalmfest II: An Evening CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

8 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 9 1050 U.U. DRIVE Keep up with the latest news CAMPUS NEWS from Union at uu.edu/news Highest-ever rankings for Town and Gown series focuses on Union based on quality, value racial reconciliation U.S.News & World Report and nion’s Town and Gown and Career, acted as the course through (a) Christian worldview,” series celebrated Black convener and discussion leader. Taylor said. Kiplinger’s Personal Finance have ranked History Month with a “I wanted to ensure that the open Taylor structured the discussions seriesU of lectures focusing on Great dialogue continued as a part of our within legal, social, theological and Union University among the top private, Commandment thinking and action. efforts over the past several years to ethical contexts. Frank Anderson, regional universities in the country. The series, entitled “Christian address issues of racial reconciliation associate professor of ministry Perspectives on Education, Race and missions at the Olford The U.S.News ranking places Union at The Kiplinger lists evaluate quality and value. and Justice,” presented speakers Center campus, led a summary 13th among regional universities in the Because size isn’t a primary such as Roland Porter, a retired discussion of the previous South, up one spot from the previous year consideration, Union is ranked on the same faculty member and pastor presentations on the final night. and the fourth consecutive top 15 ranking. list with such schools such as Syracuse, of Jackson’s Agape Christian The Town and Gown series Kiplinger’s Personal Finance ranks Union Vanderbilt, Duke, Wake Forest and Emory. Fellowship Church, and Sephira is an ongoing opportunity 77th among the top 100 private universities U.S.News continues to identify Union Shuttlesworth, a Union alumna for community members in the nation and 10th among the top private as an “up and coming school” and an and wife of the late civil rights interested in various topics to universities in the Southeast and Mid-South. “A+ choice for B students.” leader Fred Shuttlesworth. attend lectures and participate Jacqueline S. Taylor, assistant in discussions in a classroom dean of students and director of setting. The sessions are free and the Vocatio Center for Life Calling open to the public. Sephira Shuttlesworth

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 George examines Christian witness of Worship with the Psalms. The Scholarship weight of a camera and yet provide His faculty adviser was Professor of event featured a mixture of singing, Symposium highlights for enough range to capture usable History David Thomas. in Nazi Germany photographs. Their goal was to chanting and reading of the undergraduate research Christine Ryan compared the More than 280 students and make aerial photography at Union Greco-Roman and New Testament Psalms, engaging both choir and visiting lecturer this spring Timothy George, founding dean George is writing a book about more than 50 faculty members more efficient and more affordable. views of childhood. She examined congregation. presented research findings as part Their faculty advisers were Professor the Pauline household codes asked the Union community of the Beeson Divinity School at the Barmen Declaration and the of Engineering Don Van and Van Neste said the Apostle Paul of Union University’s 11th annual found in Colossians and Ephesians to consider the plight of Samford University, referenced the Christian witness in Nazi Germany. Associate Professor of Engineering encouraged Christians in the New Scholarship Symposium on April 29. alongside the Greco-Roman AChristians who lived in Nazi Germany, Barmen Declaration, which was a The declaration came after Hitler’s Randal Schwindt. Testament to sing the Psalms, “The Scholarship Symposium Tyler Jones presented research cultures and suggested how the noting that Christians today face theological declaration consisting regime attempted to blend Nazi has become an important part making this part of worship an designed to apply green chemistry study could be applied to 21st of life at Union University for our challenges in the battle for life and of six articles stating the believers’ ideology with Christian theology in important element of Christianity. principles to standard laboratory century living. Her faculty adviser students,” said Hunter Baker, religious freedoms. allegiance to God alone. state-run churches. “My hope is that this Psalmfest textbooks. The aim is to reduce was Graves Professor of Moral Union’s dean of instruction who hazardous waste disposal within Philosophy C. Ben Mitchell. “Our situation “A lot of people who stood strong gives people a good opportunity to oversees the program. “Students the process of chemistry education. The Union University Research is not the same in 1934 wilted at the end of the day experience the singing and reading benefit tremendously by carrying His faculty adviser was Professor of Program sponsors the Scholarship as it was in 1930’s when the test really came,” George of the Psalms in worship, because out research projects. Whether they Chemistry Sally Henrie. Symposium each year. become professional researchers Germany, but there said. “What would you have done? many of us have never seen this Colby Benefield or not, knowledge of investigative done before,” Van Neste said. “We traced Madison County’s is continuity,” And what will we do today, tomorrow methods will serve them well for the Civil War history, from George said. “We or five years from now when these want a chance to not just say things rest of their lives.” about the Psalms, but to say the the initial capture of have to be aware of questions are knocking at our Students each year prepare a Jackson by Union forces what happened in front door?” Psalms; to not just sing about the wide variety of presentations for a in 1862 to the 1863 Psalms, but to sing the Psalms; to critical audience based on original evacuation of the town. Germany and ask George was the speaker for the 16th not just listen to something about research. A few examples from 2014: ourselves what we annual Scholar-in-Residence Lecture Engineering students Alex the Psalms, but to actually listen to Kenneth Mayo, senior would do if we lived Series, sponsored by Union’s Honors Charles, Zac Baker and Kenneth engineering major, stands the Psalms themselves.” Mayo built and tested a drone to behind the GoPro drone back then.” Community. be used for aerial photography. that his group made for the Their design had to incorporate the Scholarship Symposium.

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I BELIEVE THAT CHRISTIAN HIGHER EDUCATION IS WHERE WE CAN MOST INFLUENCE AND SHAPE YOUNG PEOPLE SO THAT THE KINGDOM OF GOD MAY BE ENLARGED. SAMUEL W.

DUBUNION UNIVERSITY’S OLIVER 16TH PRESIDENT

he Union University Board of this call to serve at Union University. I am School of Business, an adjunct professor the position included the presidency of a native of Trustees voted unanimously hopeful and enthusiastic about working in the School of Education and interim David S. Dockery. Hazard, Ky., and in favor of making Samuel W. with the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, university chaplain. He served in the U.S. “David has been a great leader for Union a graduate of T“Dub” Oliver the 16th president of students, alumni and friends of the Air Force in the late 1980s at Carswell Air and for Christian higher education,” Oliver Eastern Kentucky Union University. university to extend, enhance and enlarge Force Base, Texas. said. “His encouraging spirit has meant a University. They The vote Feb. 10 followed consideration all that Union is—for the glory of God and Oliver earned a Bachelor of Science lot to me over the last few years.” have a daughter, of about 130 presidential candidates and for the good of humankind.” degree in education from Baylor Oliver also cited his appreciation of Callie, who is a nearly a year of work from the board’s Oliver, 48, is a native of San Antonio. and a Master of Science degree in Union’s mission and core values. senior at Baylor. search committee, chaired by Norman Hill, He was elected president of East Texas educational psychology, as well as a “The integration of faith, learning and “I have had who is also chairman of the full board. Baptist University in 2009. He has also Doctor of Philosophy in educational living has had a transformative effect on my the privilege “Dr. Oliver is a man of strong Christian served his alma mater, Baylor University, administration, from Texas A&M. life, and as I seek to live out my calling as of knowing Oliver assumed office on June 1 but spent conviction,” Hill said. “His skills as an in several roles, including director of Oliver told trustees he was happy an educator I believe that Christian higher Dub Oliver for several years, both in his periods of time on campus throughout the administrator and educator build on student activities (1992–99), associate serving as president of ETBU and initially education is where we can most influence role at Baylor and at East Texas Baptist spring semester. He attended Homecoming Union’s already established reputation for dean for campus life (1999–2001), dean for was inclined to pass up a possible move and shape young people so that the University,” Dockery said. “During this activities, conducted individual meetings academic excellence, and we are honored student development (2001–05) and vice to Union. But as the search committee kingdom of God may be enlarged,” he said. time I have come to recognize Dr. Oliver’s with campus leaders and participated and thrilled by this appointment.” president for student life (2005–09). pursued him, he said he felt God’s calling Oliver and his wife Susie Combs genuine commitment to students and his in the annual spring Board of Trustees Speaking for himself and his wife Susie, While at Baylor, Oliver also served as to lead Union. Oliver will celebrate their 25th wedding approachable, kind and caring manner meeting in April. Oliver said, “We are deeply humbled by a visiting professor in the Hankamer The list of factors that attracted him to anniversary later this year. Susie is as a leader.”

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IN DEFENSE OF RELIGIOUS LIBERTY LEFT: Dub Oliver stands with ETBU 2013 graduate ETBU draws the vast majority of its Brad Mashburn under the students from Texas and Louisiana; only new archway marking the about 4 percent come from other states. entrance to the University. PHOTO COURTESY OF RYAN PERRY, ETBU The athletics teams, known as the Tigers, compete in non-scholarship NCAA Division RIGHT: Dub Oliver testifies in front of Congress on Feb. 16, 2012. III and play mostly nearby competition. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE COMMITTEE ON But this campus made national news OVERSIGHT AND GOVERNMENT REFORM in 2012 during the debate about religious liberty and the Affordable Care Act. DIFFICULT GOOD-BYES a senior sociology major from Houston. Under Oliver’s leadership, ETBU Oliver began as president in 2009. Since Womack notes that Susie Oliver manages joined Houston Baptist University in a then, ETBU has completed a 32,000— the student center, and students know lawsuit against the federal government square-foot student center, completely they are welcome to drop in and start in connection with a mandate to provide remodeled the former student center for conversations with her. abortion services in employee health use as a commons and added four new Womack says during one of those care plans. Oliver went to Capitol Hill graduate programs. talks about his need for a certain color of to testify before Congress, as did C. Ben Centennial Hall, a 362-bed, 124,000— tie, she offered to let him borrow one of Mitchell, Graves Professor of Moral square-foot living and learning center, the president’s ties—something he Philosophy at Union. is scheduled to open in time for fall hadn’t expected. Oliver fielded questions from national semester 2014. “She’s an amazing woman,” media about the decision to fight the “I’m thrilled with the things that have Womack said. DUBAND OLIVER mandate. In an interview with National happened here,” said Paula Nichols, an Tyler Martin, a junior religion major “the Light on the Hill” Review, he was quoted as saying, “We are ETBU alumna who also attends Sunday from Crowley, Texas, remembers the united with Catholics and people of all faiths School with the Olivers. “The institution reaction on Facebook the day Oliver n a hill just outside the center move from East Jackson to its current Pole banners on campus offer the message in the conviction that a religious group has grown with buildings and programs, notified the ETBU community of his of town stands a university that campus, was a graduate of this school “May the Light on the Hill never die.” should not be forced to provide services to and it has been exciting to see.” decision to come to Union. has been a part of Marshall, (then known as East Texas Baptist Faculty members say they’re confident which they have deep moral objections.” Nichols and many of the ETBU students “I saw post after post after post saying Texas,O for more than a century. College) and later returned to serve as ETBU will build upon the advances made In December, a federal court in Houston are also quick to mention the impact of that this school would never be the same,” Put Texas geographic stereotypes aside. president from 1986–92. The building on during the Oliver administration. ruled in favor of ETBU and HBU. The First Lady Susie Oliver. Martin said. “There were many people Harrison County is neither a treeless plain campus that houses the department of “We’re on an upward trend,” said court issued an injunction against the “I always just walk in her office. We saying it was a really sad day for them.” nor a rocky desert. In fact, Texans refer to nursing is named in his honor. Kathleen Mays, associate professor of abortifacient requirement, ruling that talk all the time,” said Skyler Womack, Why would college students have this easternmost part of their state as the Howard C. Bennett, a 1936 graduate of management. “The whole atmosphere on such a mandate violates federal civil such a strong reaction to the loss of an “piney woods.” Union, was president of ETBU from 1960– campus is much more optimistic, much rights laws. “The religious organization administrative leader? East Texas Baptist University spreads 1976. Union gave him its Distinguished more positive, looking towards the future plaintiffs have shown a sincerely held “As soon as you shake his hand and across acreage that once was known as Service Award for alumni in 1973. Bennett in more optimistic ways than before he religious belief that the court cannot introduce yourself, he’ll say, ‘It’s a pleasure the Van Zandt Plantation. The nearest married into the family of John Jeter Hurt, came. I wish he could be here longer.” second-guess,” the ruling stated. ETBU AT A GLANCE to know you,’” said Zach Jones, a junior major city is Shreveport, La., about 40 Union’s president from 1932–1945. Other faculty members praised Oliver ETBU Trustee David Rice remembers criminal justice major from Arlington, miles from the ETBU campus. But the connection that has drawn far for the work he did with the faculty that there were concerns about the Texas. “He will not forget your name.” Founded in 1912 as ETBU and Union University have more attention in recent weeks is the fact senate and with a push for better funding possible ramifications of suing the College of Marshall Jones says Oliver even remembered his longstanding Baptist affiliations, and that President Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver of faculty development opportunities. federal government. parents’ names after meeting them only 1,250 students each is a member of the Council for left ETBU at the end of May to become Assistant Professor of Missions Elijah “I think it said a lot about his leadership Enrollment: one time. They returned a year later for Christian Colleges and Universities. Union University’s 16th president. Brown notes that the faculty senate made in the university community,” Rice said. School Colors: Navy and Gold homecoming. A closer look shows deeper connections. The title “president” is a formality direct reports to trustees during annual “It has been the decisive, courageous Nickname: Tigers “I said, ‘Mom and Dad, you remember ETBU originally was known as College reserved for official communication. At board meetings, and that Oliver funded nature of Dub’s leadership that has led the the president?’ He greeted them as Sam Programs of Study: 40 of Marshall. Henry Eugene Watters served ETBU, most refer to him as “Doctor Dub,” campus wide book studies about the university community through this.” and Amy. I was speechless,” Jones said. as the president of the College of Marshall or simply “Dub.” integration of faith and learning. Rice, who is also Oliver’s pastor, said Graduate programs: “He wants to know you,” said Natalie Business Administration, from 1916–1918. He left COM to become “Dub has really raised the profile of the legal issues now largely have moved Davis, a sophomore biology major from Education, Counseling, Religion the president of Union. ON AN UPWARD TREND East Texas Baptist University while he’s beyond schools such as ETBU, but he Houston. “He always loves to laugh and The late Robert E. Craig, the university Because of its hilltop location, ETBU been here,” Brown said. “I think you’ll find added, “It’s not over. It won’t be over until Acceptance rate: 58% hear what you have to say. It’s just great to president who presided over Union’s has been called the “Light on the Hill.” a partner in Dub Oliver.” we get to the Supreme Court.” Minority enrollment: 35% have a president like that.”

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(Dub) is a person of great integrity, make promises he can’t keep, and he took us up on it! It was fun watching their faith, strong theological commitments builds trust in people because he does faces just light up as we told them about grounded in Scripture and a love for what he says he’s going to do. all of the things we love about Union. students. He has served in Christian TOM WEBSTER TRENT ROGAN higher education for many years, and his Dean, School of Fine Arts, Union University sophomore, public relations major, East Texas Baptist University Gallatin, Tenn. proven experience will be a strong factor in his ongoing success and leadership at Dr. Dub auditioned for Pride and Prejudice I met him one time, and the next time Union University. in the fall, and it was just cool to see that I saw him, he knew my name. He’d ROBERT SLOAN remembered where I was from, my President, Houston Baptist University and a former our president was involved. He always Oliver colleague at Baylor University shows up to the fine arts events, but it parents’ names; he’d remembered to ask was the first time that we really got to be me about my sister. I had a niece who decided to attend college in close contact. He was in the show and RACHEL FRANK ETBU sophomore secondary education and (at ETBU), and my sister was just so involved with us. We got to see into his life. mathematics major impressed when he met with parents and It was really cool to be able to get to see told them, “If ever you have a concern, a who the president is on a personal level. I met him during the cookout we had problem or a question, do not hesitate to call ZACH BEARDEN during Homecoming weekend. He met me,” and gave out his cell phone number. My ETBU sophomore music and worship major and five or six girls all at once and a short time sister and her husband were so excited that cast member for the fall 2013 production of Pride and Prejudice later, he remembered all of our names. I there was someone in charge who took such thought that was very impressive. a personal interest in students. He did excellently well. For someone HOPE LEWIS PAULA NICHOLS WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT who wasn’t brought up in the arts, he fit Union University senior, elementary education Member, Crossroads Baptist Church, major, Memphis Marshall, Texas right in and had great energy and great presence. We all had a great time. Whenever you engage him in deep Through periodic encouragement, TRACI LEDFORD individuals and groups prayed and God Director of the campus production of Pride and conversation, he tells you a lot of things answered those prayers in many ways Prejudice, in which Dub Oliver portrayed the character that you wouldn’t have known that Edward Gardiner as the committee worked on. His most he knew. He’s so humble about his important answer to prayer is evidenced intelligence, and he’s extremely wise. Two of us offered to give him and his wife by the unanimous and enthusiastic HADEN HOLLIS DUB OLIVER a tour of campus after we heard him say ETBU senior business major, Kingsport, Tenn. recommendation we bring to you today. he doesn’t know his way around yet. He Dub Oliver is an amazingly gifted leader. Dub Oliver is a man who, every time you He agreed that the executive of the faculty NORMAN O. HILL Because he is an educator by calling, he is see him, you feel propped up. He’s an senate should give a report every time Chairman of Union University’s Presidential Search committed to excellence in teaching and encourager. Dub is always the same. that the board of trustees met. What that Committee, describing how the group arrived at recommending Oliver as the next president. learning. Because he is highly relational, BOB SMITH helped do was create a climate here on he is a student magnet. Because he is a The Olivers’ Sunday School teacher at Crossroads campus of openness, transparency and of (DUB) IS Baptist Church, Marshall, Texas Prior to his coming to ETBU, the post- convictional Christian, he leads with his shared governance. Every step along the graduate schools here were not really A PERSON theological foot forward. Because he has way, Dr. Oliver has worked to raise those His beliefs are clear and he is decisive in excellent. He was instrumental in creating, been a bivocational pastor, he is a faithful qualities within our community. OF GREAT communicating what he believes. He’s with the help of the board of trustees, churchman. ELIJAH BROWN taught Sunday School and he’s preached four post-graduate schools. Another one INTEGRITY, C. BEN MITCHELL Assistant professor of missions, for us. (Dub and Susie) have been faithful Graves Professor of Moral Philosophy and East Texas Baptist University is under consideration. He has grown the FAITH, STRONG Search Committee member, Union University supporters and have become part of the university. I think that’s an important part family in our community of faith. He’s got so much on his plate, and yet he of the job of a college president. THEOLOGICAL He came and got some buildings built and DAVID RICE still takes the time to speak to students RICHARD ANDERSON COMMITMENTS some projects completed that had kind of Senior pastor, Crossroads, Baptist Church, by name and ask them how they’re doing. Former county judge and ETBU donor, Marshall, Texas Marshall, Texas stalled here at ETBU’s campus. His energy We’ve all talked about how he and Susie GROUNDED IN and his enthusiasm were really a breath are so personable and how they want to He handles difficult situations with grace. SCRIPTURE of fresh air for this institution and, quite get to know us. Web exclusive: See the He cares about how difficult decisions honestly, our city. JENAYE WHITE AND A LOVE video “Who is Dub Oliver?” impact people. He handles it with a CHASE PALMER at uu.edu/unionite Union University senior, public relations major and Attorney, Marshall, Texas SGA president, Paducah, Ky. measure of sympathy and care. He doesn’t FOR STUDENTS.

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2013 2014 JANUARY 15 FEBRUARY 10

President David S. Dockery JUNE 28 The presidential search committee MARCH 9–16 announces his intention to transition Union’s presidential recommends East Texas Baptist The Olivers spend to the role of University Chancellor search committee University President Samuel W. “Dub” the ETBU spring no later than July 2014. reviews more than 1,600 Oliver as the 16th president of Union break week on presidential surveys University. Oliver meets with the full Union’s campus, Board of Trustees, MARCH 29 from friends of Union. conducting who approve his Trustee Within the surveys were meetings with appointment with chairman about 130 presidential campus leaders and house-hunting. a unanimous vote. Norman nominations. They also visit with students during Oliver’s wife Susie Hill calls on SEPTEMBER 27 the annual “Be Our Guest” event. and daughter Callie the Union Physics students honor the Oliver spends time with Randy Davis are present for the MAY 7–9 community Dockery presidency with a launch and other leaders of the Tennessee announcement. The The Olivers to commit to of his bobblehead likeness into Baptist Convention and visits the Olivers then meet return to days of prayer “near space”. The statue reached an Hendersonville campus. with faculty, staff and campus for more and fasting to estimated altitude of about 90,000 students in Savage meetings and support the search. An online calendar at feet before parachuting to the Chapel. APRIL 24–25 participate in the ground at an unknown location. uu.edu allows for anonymous sign-up, but Oliver participates in his annual Awards shows the numbers of people committed first trustee meeting as Day service. for each day of the month. Students are the president-elect. The Olivers first group to make commitments. also close on their new home in Jackson.

APRIL 13–16 TRANSITION TIMELINE Oliver preaches at FBC Jackson on Palm Sunday and then FEBRUARY 1 DECEMBER 2 speaks to the Union Auxiliary Union trustees appoint a Chairman Norman Hill FEBRUARY 28 on April 14. The Olivers also presidential search committee indicates the list of potential David S. Dockery is introduced visit the Germantown campus of nine people who represent candidates for president has as the 15th president of Trinity and the Olford Center. faculty, staff, trustees, been narrowed from about 130 FEBRUARY 21–22 International University in church leadership, alumni to 10 or less. He asks the Union The Olivers return to campus for Deerfield, Ill. TIU consists of and community leadership. community to pray for wisdom as Homecoming activities. AUGUST 23 the Trinity Evangelical Divinity the final selection is made. In his final fall School, Trinity College (a liberal convocation arts college), Trinity Graduate address as School and Trinity Law School. APRIL DECEMBER 5 president, Additional pages are created at David and Lanese Dockery are David S. Dockery urges the Union uu.edu that included links to honored for 18 years of service to community to move forward with a survey for the committee to the University during a banquet confidence “because of the hope God consider, a video about the search that was supposed to coincide has given to us” in the address, entitled MARCH 25–26 and a position statement for with Dockery’s final trustee “From Faith to Faith: Revisiting the Oliver is present for site team visit prospective candidates. meeting the following day. The Great Cloud of Witnesses.” from the Accreditation Council meeting was canceled due to for Pharmacy Education as Union inclement weather. Web exclusive: Hear completes the reaffirmation Dr. Dockery’s convocation process. He also meets with address at uu.edu/unionite faculty and staff.

18 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 19 UNION CELEBRATES A HALF-CENTURY OF IT BEGAN WITH A CALL FROM THE COMMUNITY TO PROVIDE A NURSING EDUCATIONNURSING SCHOOL. SOON, THEY WOULD BEGIN TO SUPPORT THE HOSPITALS AND THE COMMUNITY. EBRATIN EL G C “It was a very bold move for our leaders later and became a nursing administrator. that could make in the late 1950s and early 60s. It was Prior to her retirement in 1991, she also a life-or-death innovative,” said Carla Sanderson, former served as chairwoman of the Board of difference in a executive vice president for strategic Nursing of the State of Tennessee. clinical setting. 50 YEARS initiatives and provost, as well as the “In (the 1960s), it was the norm that “We’ve had former dean of the School of Nursing. wives followed their husbands,” Moore alums, after SCHOOL of N G “It began with a call from the said, adding that the overwhelming experiencing URSIN community to provide a nursing school,” majority of nurses at the time were simulation education, added Tim Smith, former nursing dean. women. “The bigger cities paid more, and call back and say, two “Soon, they would begin to support the it was very difficult to entice people from months out of school, ‘I just experienced hospitals and the community.” Memphis or Nashville where you could my first code, and I was the most Those first classes, leading to an find experienced nurses.” prepared person in that code,’” Sanderson associate’s degree in nursing, began in With those historic challenges in mind, said. “That is a profound difference from 1964. The idea was so new that some the current leadership of West Tennessee what those of us who did not have such were skeptical about whether it could Healthcare puts great emphasis on the (simulation) opportunities experienced.” be sustained—even a few of the enrolled role Union has played in the hospital’s “Students are typically visual learners,” students had doubts. growth in the past 50 years. Smith said. “Students do make mistakes, “You had somewhat of a feeling that it “Union has absolutely been a but the opportunity to discuss those might not work,” said Dolores Moore, who foundational block for health care mistakes and not repeat those mistakes was among the first students that year. “It delivery, particularly in the nursing makes a big difference.” was like the new animal came into town. program,” said West Tennessee Haley Bell, a senior nursing student Nobody knew what to expect, including Healthcare Chief Operating Officer J. R. from Memphis, agrees that her those of us who decided to go.” Ross, who graduated from Union in 1987. preparation for practice gives her Moore personifies the significance of “The education Union provides to its confidence. But she admits that at n the early 1960s, students who wanted to become nurses that venture—a significance that no one students is absolutely remarkable and her age, it’s difficult to comprehend didn’t study on college campuses. They learned the could have understood in 1964. After unparalleled by any other educational the significance of 50 years of nursing profession in hospitals. completing her associate’s degree, she institution locally.” education at Union. ISo when a few colleges and universities on the west coast went on to earn a B.S. from the University Union nursing programs combine “It’s incredible to think about how began looking into establishing their own nursing education of Illinois and a master’s degree in quality faculty members with state- many patients have been affected because programs, it was a pioneering idea that caught the attention of administration from Illinois State. of-the-art simulation labs. Sanderson of the education provided by Union,” administrators at Union University. She started her career as a nurse at credits Smith with having the vision to Bell said. “These professors care with At the same time, health care leaders in Jackson were calling Jackson General Hospital, moved away incorporate simulation, in which students all of their hearts about each and every for larger numbers of trained nurses. from Jackson and then returned 13 years are faced with the same critical decisions student.”

20 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 UU.EDU/UNIONITEUU.EDU/UNIONITE | | 21 t should have been a moment of unbridled joy and celebration. Vesta Sauter remembers the day Iher deaf father went forward during the invitation at church. He wanted to make a public profession of his desire to enter full-time ministry. But the family’s joy quickly turned to disappointment when the pastor let her father know that there was no way for deaf people to receive theological training, and therefore they couldn’t be formally certified for ministry work. That disappointment, nearly half a century ago, led to a firm resolve in Vesta’s life. She decided then that she would stand in the gap between the hearing ABOVE: Union Provost Emeritus Carla Sanderson (right) speaks at an April 13 service at Brentwood Baptist Deaf Church and the deaf and work toward solving that celebrated a partnership to provide theological education to deaf missionaries and church planters. the problem. Union University is now a LEFT: Aric Randolph, pastor of Brentwood Baptist Deaf Church, speaks to the congregation at Brentwood Baptist Church. partner in that resolve. “This is an opportunity, I believe, to Union is launching a program to prepare personnel for effective, practical provide theological education for deaf Giving deaf church planting, evangelism and the missionaries and church planters. reproduction of indigenous leaders,” Through a partnership with the missionaries the Mark Sauter said. “I really don’t know Southern Baptist Convention’s how much better it gets than where we International Mission Board, the tools they need are today, and I’m very excited about the Southern Baptist Conference for the to share the opportunity to help launch this.” Deaf, Brentwood Baptist Church and Grant Lovejoy, IMB’s director of Brentwood Baptist Deaf Church, deaf gospel through storying strategies, said the Sauters believers can receive customized helped IMB staff “realize that deaf people theological training for missions and story-telling are part of a deaf culture that is unique ministry and earn a Certificate in techniques so that and distinctive.” Theology Education. “You really need teachers who “A significant number of the world’s deaf people can understand deaf culture well [and] unreached people are deaf,” said Carla teach in the way that deaf people learn Sanderson, Union’s provost emeritus. know the good news. best, through stories and through lots “The CTE is giving deaf missionaries of interaction and dialogue, through the tools they need to share the gospel Six students are enrolled in five role-play and through active learning — BY ERIN ROACH through story-telling techniques so that classes taught in American Sign Language learning by doing,” Lovejoy said. Breaking deaf people can know the good news.” by fluent ASL signers: Old Testament, Aric Randolph, pastor of Brentwood An estimated 35 million people in New Testament, biblical doctrine, Baptist Deaf Church, said through an the world are deaf, and each day 750 of biblical hermeneutics and missions/ interpreter, “To be totally honest, we’re them die without knowing Jesus. With church planting. starting with five classes, but my vision is the Silence no deaf-centric theological education For years, Brentwood Baptist’s vision that we could become a four-year college.” UNION LAUNCHES THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION FOR THE DEAF available, some deaf Southern Baptists has been to become a global equipping “That’s my goal, my dream, my passion, called to reach those who share their heart hub for deaf missionaries, church planters, for deaf people to have the opportunity to language have been unable to meet IMB pastors and other men and women who receive the training they need, that they requirements for career missionary status. want to receive deaf-centric theological could be church planters, they could be Sanderson said she believes God will training for missions and ministry. pastors, leaders,” Randolph said. use the center “to reach those millions of Vesta and her husband Mark Sauter people that we’ve heard about today who serve with IMB in creating global strategies need to hear the gospel story.” to reach deaf people with the gospel.

22 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 23 BEVERLY DELK LEIGHTON WILLIAMS Delk transferred following an active For those who knew her best, Leighton freshman year (2012–13) at Union. She Williams will be remembered for the served on freshman council, joined the joyful way she lived. Kappa Delta sorority and had applied “Leighton was one of those, she walked to be a Life Group leader. But relatively in a room and you knew she was there, few pictures of her can be found. because she brought joy to everyone “That’s because she was always she was around,” said Savannah Hari, Olivia Greenlee (right), with fellow student Hannah Strickland taking pictures of everyone else,” said president of Union’s Chi Omega chapter, Elizabeth Oakes, former president of of which Williams was a member. “She Union’s Kappa Delta chapter. “She was was such a perfect, perfect picture of a OLIVIA GREENLEE enthusiastic from day one. Beverly friend and a sister.” Union University students, faculty and brought spunk and sincerity to our staff gathered for a special prayer service chapter and had a beautiful laugh that Feb. 14 in G.M. Savage Memorial Chapel as I will never forget.” they mourned the loss of Union student Her death followed by only one day Olivia Greenlee. a diagnosis of acute leukemia. “Reeling, staggering, speechless, “From the first day I met Beverly, I grieving: These are words that describe knew Christ was the most important us this week,” said Todd Brady, vice person in her life,” said Emily Russell, president for university ministries, during the current Kappa Delta president. the service. “We have not known what to “She loved life, loved people and most pray for as we ought, and we have trusted importantly loved God. Everything that the Spirit has interceded for us with she did, she did with all of her heart, Leighton Williams (right), with her sister Ashton. groanings that are too deep for words.” mind, body and spirit. Her laugh was “Many of us are baffled, in disbelief, sad contagious, her smile lit up a room and About 300 students, faculty and staff and grieving, yet grieving not without everything gathered in front of White Hall Sept. 23 hope because of our faith and our about her for a prayer service. confidence in the resurrection of the Lord demonstrated LeeAnne Wilhite, assistant professor of Jesus Christ,” former president David S. joy that nursing, said from the moment she met Dockery said. “The Bible tells us to weep can only Williams during orientation, she noticed with those who weep. And across campus be known how “she was just joyous all the time.” this week, there have been plenty of tears.” through “You can teach people the skill of Union’s Zeta Tau Alpha chapter, of a deep nursing,” Wilhite said. “And you can try to which Greenlee was a member, gathered relationship instill a passion and a love for what you’re to read Scripture, while the music with Jesus doing. Leighton would just absorb that— ach academic year at Union complications associated with acute department met to sing and share a meal. Christ.” every ounce of it. She was a nurse from the Beverly Delk University presents a unique set leukemia. Delk had transferred to “As we move into this weekend together, beginning. She had a true passion for it.” of challenges. But no one could Middle Tennessee State University a few as we move into this semester together Hillarie Henderson, a junior from Ehave anticipated the painful and life- months earlier, but still had many active and as we move into the rest of our days, Jonesboro, Ark., and a close friend of changing hardships that have come in friendships on the Union campus. let us continue our turning to God and our Williams, described her as “my calm 2013-14 following the deaths of two Union In the early hours of Sept. 21, senior turning to one another,” Brady said. “God during my storms.” students and a third former student with nursing major Leighton Williams has given us himself, and he has given us “She never had a bad strong ties to the Jackson campus. died from injuries sustained in a one another. In the midst of our grief, let thing to say Olivia Greenlee, a senior music education weather-related car accident as she us turn to these gifts from God.” about anybody,” major, was found dead in her vehicle on the traveled from Jackson to her family home Friends remember Greenlee as a The Union community Henderson said. “She Luther Hall parking lot Feb. 12. Three days near Nashville. cheerful, carefree person who loved continues to offer prayer support to all never picked sides. You later, her fiancée Charles Pittman, a senior The Union community continues to to sing and laugh. know, girl drama—she Christian ministries major, was arrested offer prayer support to all the friends and The department of music and Zeta the friends and families connected never wanted to pick and charged with her murder. families connected to these tragedies. Tau Alpha hosted a benefit concert and to these tragedies. sides. She was everyone’s On Jan. 29, former Union art student What follows is a closer look at each silent auction May 10 to raise money for friend. She never met Beverly Delk died following brief well-lived life, as seen by fellow Unionites. a scholarship that would honor a stranger.” Greenlee’s memory.

24 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 25 hristian service involves both calling and sending. For years, President David CARLA SANDERSON S. Dockery challenged his administrators to be open to God’s call, even if it Union’s provost and executive vice faculty member, and administrator. came when David Dockery appointed meant leaving Union for another place of service. president for strategic initiatives “It is nearly impossible to calculate me to the position of university provost,” CIn recent years, former Dean of Instruction Barbara McMillin has become the has announced her retirement from the significant influence of Carla D. Sanderson said. “Year after year, plan president of Blue Mountain College in Mississippi and former Dean of the School of the University and has been named Sanderson on the life and work of Union after plan, with new convocation Theology and Missions Gregory Thornbury has assumed the presidency of The King’s vice president for accreditation and University over the past three decades,” challenges, new programs, new College in New York. professional regulation for Chamberlain Dockery said. “Through her roles as campuses, new faculty and staff, new Additional opportunities have opened in recent months. Here are a few of the College of Nursing. faculty member, dean, provost and buildings and new initiatives, I have leaders who are assuming new positions in higher education. Each has had a key role Headquartered in Chicago, Chamberlain executive vice president, Dr. Sanderson grown in the honor that has been mine in the growth and development of Union University’s Christ-centered excellence. offers a three-year Bachelor of Science in has made a remarkable contribution to as an academic and operational leader at Nursing degree program at 13 campuses almost all aspects of this institution.” Union University.” and online post-licensure nursing education Sanderson and her family will remain in Sanderson and her husband Larry undergraduate and graduate programs. Jackson, where she will work from home are members of First Baptist Church Sanderson has been associated with and travel occasionally in her new role. in Jackson and have three sons, two of Union University for 32 years as a student, “The greatest privilege of my career whom are Union graduates.

UNION ADMINISTRATORS Called DEPART FOR NEW CHALLENGES to Serve GENE FANT RICH GRIMM Union’s executive vice president for Union’s senior vice president for Sanderson academic administration, who also serves enrollment services has resigned in as professor of English, announced his order to accept a position at Trinity resignation in order to assume the role of International University in Deerfield, Ill. I leave behind provost at Palm Beach Atlantic University Grimm will join Dockery, who assumes Fant in West Palm Beach, Fla. the Trinity presidency in June, as the wonderful Palm Beach Atlantic offers about 50 institution’s senior vice president in the friends and undergraduate majors and graduate areas of enrollment, university services programs in business, leadership, and strategic initiatives. colleagues, but psychology and pharmacy. “Rich Grimm is a talented and multi- “Gene Fant has become one of the gifted leader, who has invested himself for I am excited finest ambassadors of Christian higher a decade in the life of Union University,” about joining education to be found anywhere Dockery said. “He is recognized across the in the country,” Dockery said. “His world of Christian higher education as a vibrant sister commitments to authentic, Christ- one of the truly outstanding enrollment centered higher education, his officers because of the quality of his work institution... Grimm dedication to the liberal arts, his faithful at Union, Palm Beach Atlantic University GENE FANT churchmanship and his loyalty to the core and Criswell College.” Smith values of Union University have made Grimm said that he is “profoundly him a very special leader on the Union grateful for the opportunity that was ours TIM SMITH campus for more than a decade.” to serve” at Union and that he is hopeful The dean of the School of Nursing in this region,” Dockery said. “His amazing faculty and staff of the School Fant came to Union in 2002 from for the future of the university under the at Union University since 2005 has visionary and entrepreneurial skills have of Nursing and many others of this Mississippi College in Clinton, Miss. leadership of incoming president Samuel resigned in order to accept a position energized and advanced the outstanding institution in serving the Lord through the “I leave behind wonderful friends and W. “Dub” Oliver. “May the Lord continue as vice president of strategic initiatives nursing program at Union University over lives of the students,” Smith said. “My wife colleagues,” Fant said, “But I am excited to bless the work of this great university and special associate to the provost at the past decade.” and I will always cherish the memories about joining a vibrant sister institution for his glory,” Grimm said. Anderson University in Anderson, S.C. “It has been an honor and blessing to and relationships from our time of serving that is on the doorstep of one of the “Tim Smith is recognized as one of the serve in Dr. Dockery’s administration, at Union University and in the community world’s great cities, Miami.” premier leaders in health care education partnering with leaders of the university, as God sends us on a new journey.”

26 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 27 Homecoming 2014 A celebration of community

community picnic, a 50 Germantown Baptist Church in year reunion and a flag Germantown, Tenn. raising highlighted Union’s Kevin Ezell (’85) received the Aobservance of Homecoming 2014 in Distinguished Alumnus Award. Ezell late February. served as a pastor for churches in The picnic was a large pregame Kentucky, Illinois, Tennessee and Texas, tailgate party in which students were and he currently is the president of the served by faculty and staff. The event, North American Mission Board. named “Union Strong: A Celebration of Will Gray (’02) received the Community,” attracted a large crowd Outstanding Young Alumnus Award and featured fellowship with president- posthumously. Gray died in 2013 from elect Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver and his cancer. He began his music career at wife Susie. Union, and his songs were licensed One day earlier, several Union alumni for companies such as Playstation were honored alongside students from the and Motorola. In addition to serving class of 1964, who were recognized during as a songwriting instructor for the a chapel service for their contributions in Contemporary Music Center at Martha’s a variety of fields and occupations. Vineyard, Mass., he also was an award- Charles Fowler (’86), received winning film director. the Distinguished Service Award. Bob Pavelonis, a former member of Fowler served as a Union University the class of 1963, received the Honorary administrator and faculty member Alumnus Award. He transferred before he became senior pastor at to Southern Illinois University at Carbondale but remained involved Web exclusive: Additional with his Union class through the photo galleries and video from years. Pavelonis has served as an the Homecoming chapel are English teacher and coached baseball, available at uu.edu/unionite basketball, football and golf. Union also dedicated a new flag display at the main (western) entrance to campus, along Pleasant Plains Road. The Class of 1963 raised money for the project and for an endowed scholarship fund at Union. It’s the second major campus improvement funded by contributions from the class of ’63. The fountain in front of the Barefoot Student Union Building was a class gift to the University in 1988.

28 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 29 OLD SCHOOL OLD SCHOOL Do you knowALUMNI a NEWS ALUMNI NEWS Lynn is a former Union University author to the book You and Your SIXTIES EIGHTIES 60’s 80’s staff member from 1987-1996. Nonprofit and a conference speaker on topics related to volunteer Bo O’Brien (’69) recently received Lynn Gibson (’83) recently UNIONITE? Tammy Thompson Holland administration. awards from USTA Kentucky, became vice president of enrollment (’88) works at the Texas Juvenile Future a tennis services at Blue Mountain College Justice Natalie Wade (’88) is publishing association. Bo in Blue Mountain, Miss. He and Department as her first was named his wife, Paula, live in Selmer, the agency’s children’s volunteer of the Tenn. and have two sons, Eric manager of book, Lily’s year and is and Mark. Lynn and Paula also family, Feather Kite, chairman of the have two grandchildren, Elijah and community and which is Elizabethtown Sophie. Paula teaches fifth grade chaplaincy scheduled to Tennis Commission that received the at Toone Elementary School and is programs. She is a contributing be released this fall. Community Tennis Association of completing her 30th year of teaching. the Year Award.

Marvin and Katharine Dickerson (’69) returned home to Tennessee following their retirement David and Diane Black aid from civil service with the U.S. Department of Defense with duty Hendersonville campus stations in Germany, South Carolina and Alaska. aboratory technology on the Hendersonville campus got a boost late last year from a three-year 70’s SEVENTIES partnershipL between Union University and Sarah Lee Moore (’73) retired in Aegis Sciences Corp. June 2013 after 34 years as a coach Aegis is a forensic toxicology and health and administrator in the athletic care sciences laboratory headquartered in department at Missouri University Nashville. The funding from Aegis that’s of Science and Technology. She part of the agreement will improve the is currently working part time science laboratory, which is now named in admissions as the California in honor of the company. Regional Admissions Counselor. Union’s commitment to faith and excellence in education sparked an Hendersonville. The donation will provide (’77) Ruth Page Woodall interest from founder and CEO David high school students an opportunity received the American Chemical Black, along with his wife Diane Black, to use the laboratory for scientific Society’s “Helen Free Award for who serves in the U.S. Congress as a demonstrations and experiments. Local Public Outreach,” which is the society’s highest public service representative from Tennessee’s Sixth nurses also will have access to the award. Woodall spent most of Congressional District. laboratory for additional training. her career teaching high school “The value of Union is in not only “Both Congressman Black and Dr. chemistry, and currently serves the education quality of their students Black are active community leaders and s alumni and friends of You play an essential role as associate vice president but also the emphasis on character and generous supporters for the development A Union University, you in helping us meet these of education and workforce Christian values,” David Black said. “The of science education in our area,” Lea know better than anyone the prospective Bulldogs. We development for the Tennessee Aegis culture is the foundation of our said. “They are keenly supportive of and type of students who belong invite you to take a few Chamber of Commerce and success. And our business culture is based interested in anything that advances the at Union. We’re looking for moments to send us contact Industry. on traditional Christian values.” study of the sciences.” the next generation who will information for a high school Call 800.33.UNION Union University Hendersonville’s Union representatives are hopeful that thrive in an atmosphere of student you know would be a or visit science laboratory will be used by more the relationship with Aegis can continue Christ-centered academic great fit for Union. We’ll take uu.edu/DawgCatchers than Union students, according to Charles long after the three-year agreement is excellence and a close-knit the next step. Lea, executive director of Union University completed. learning community.

30 | UNIONITEEXCELLENCE-DRIVEN • SUMMER 2014EXCELLENCE-DRIVEN | CHRIST-CENTERED | CHRIST-CENTERED || PEOPLE-FOCUSED PEOPLE-FOCUSED | FUTURE-DIRECTED | FUTURE-DIRECTED UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 31 OLD SCHOOL ALUMNI NEWS

associate with BlueShield of Joshua H. Drake (’01) is NINETIES 90’s the Philadelphia Tennessee associate professor of music and law firm Community humanities at Grove City College in Bert Montgomery (’90) has Obermayer Trust and Pennsylvania. Along with colleague David Clark wins poetry prize written his third book, Going Back Rebmann Tennessee Paul Munson, a to New Orleans: Maxwell & Health former Union Post-Katrina nion University alumnus residence. In addition to serving on outstanding Hippel LLP. She Foundation. She faculty member, Re-connections David Clark (’05) recently the staff of The Torch, Union’s literary preparation specializes in family law. received her MPA in 2007 from the Drake has and Recollections, won the Miller Williams magazine, Clark received the Helen students City University of New York’s Baruch written a book which is now UArkansas Poetry Prize for his poems. Blythe Creative Writing Award, given receive, Ashley Tucker (’97) and her College of Public Affairs. entitled Art and available from Clark, a Lilly Postdoctoral Fellow at each year to a graduating senior positioning husband, Jimmy, recently moved Music: a Nurturing Faith Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, deemed to be the best creative writer. them for their from Buford, Ga., to Waianae, Hawaii, Stefanie Edwards (’00) serves Student’s Guide. Publishing. The book is part oral to work at the Pu’u Kahea Conference as the marketing director of The The book, Ind., received the prize for a collection “David was a voracious reader and calling as history and part memoir. All author Center of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Heart Gallery of Middle Tennessee, published by Crossway, is part of the of poems titled Interview Conducted thinker, and his writing reflected writers.” royalties go directly to the United Convention. helping foster children find series Reclaiming the Christian through the Man-Eater’s Throat. The that he was keen in his observations Clark’s poems have been featured Way of Southeast Louisiana. permanent homes. For additional Intellectual Tradition edited by former poems are scheduled to be published but also careful in his thinking,” said in a variety of publications, including For more information, visit Mandy White (’98) was recently information about the organization, president David S. Dockery. in the spring of 2015. Gene Fant, professor of English and Alaska Quarterly Review, Antioch bertmontgomery.com. promoted to senior vice president at visit heartgalleryoftn.com or email At Union, Clark excelled in both chairman of the English department Review and Yale Review. For more The Jackson Chamber of Commerce Edwards at [email protected]. Chris Haak (’02) of Milan, Tenn. Timothy Hooker (’93) recently poetry and fiction writing as an when Clark was a student at Union. information about Clark’s writings, in Jackson, Tenn. White joined the was promoted to lead events moved from Incheon, South Korea, undergraduate, said Bobby Rogers, “Awards like (David’s poetry prize) are visit georgedavidclark.com. chamber staff in 1999. Kelli White Deere (’00, ’02 specialist in May 2013 after passing to begin working professor of English and writer in a kind of external affirmation of the and ’10) has served as the director the Food Safety Certification exam. as the ESL of the University He has worked with Crossmark for program 00’s TWO THOUSANDS of Tennessee at more than a year. director at Martin Parsons Campbellsville (’07) has accepted a Conn. Both will practice corporate Mary Alisa works as a teacher in Justin Phillips (’00) graduated Center since Jeremy Stephan (’03) graduated Joe Carlen (Ky.) University. position as a compliance officer in Marriages law in Boston. Boulder and Matthew is an from Fuller Theological Seminary in May 2012. She from St. Louis University School of He and his wife, Pasadena, Texas. He is in charge aerospace engineer in Denver. A Pasadena, Calif., in June 2013 with a graduated with Law with a Juris Doctorate on May Carol (Morris) Weaver (’85) and Gana, reside in Campbellsville. of identifying and overseeing the Laurie Kay Henry (’08) and summer wedding is anticipated. Ph.D. in Christian Ethics. her Doctorate in 16, 2013. His degree focuses were in John R. Weaver II were married on compliance of federal regulations David Franklin Montgomery were Educational Leadership from Union business transactions and taxation. August 31, Maris J. Weiner (’95) was and accounting on various grants married Nov. 3, Brittany Kathy O. Lofton (’00) is the new in 2010. He and his wife, Melissa, live in St. 2013, in included in the 2013 Pennsylvania awarded to the city. He also will 2012, in Johnson program coordinator for the Healthy Charles, Mo. West Rising Stars —the top up-and- be responsible for the accounting Nashville at Campbell (’12) Shelby project at Healthy Memphis Melody Maxwell (’01) has Lafayette, coming lawyers in the and reporting of financial resources Cross Point married Wayne Common Table, a non-profit. Lofton accepted a new position as an Shawn Allred (’05) is currently Ind. commonwealth. Weiner is an that are restricted, committed or Church. Their previously worked for the BlueCross assistant professor of Christian serving as the pastor of First Baptist Campbell assigned to expenditures for capital reception was at (’05) on March Studies at Howard Payne University Church in Bruceton, Tenn. Since Todd DeLaney (’99) married improvement projects. the historic 16, 2013. in Brownwood, Texas. graduating from Union, he has Heather Melendez DeLaney on Union Station. They met at work, earned his Masters of Theology October 12, 2013. (’08) has written Palm International, Inc., where David Brandi Stewart Callery (’13) and The UNIONITE welcomes news from alumni. Please Bethany Clark (’01) and her at Midwestern Baptist Theological Renee Emerson her first book of poems, Keeping is the shipping coordinator and Robert Callery (’12) were include contact information with your submission. husband, Shawn, live in Andrews, Seminary. Bethany Me Still, which was published in Laurie is the graphic designer. Laurie married July There are three ways to send information: N.C., and Thrower March 2014. also is the owner and designer of 27, 2013, at work for Shannon Kish (’05) received her Williams (’99) Fanciful Ink, an event and stationary Englewood Snowbird MSW from Alabama A&M married Daniel P. Alex Scarbrough (’09) has joined design company. Baptist Standard mail: Outfitters, a University on Williams March the law firm of Thompson Burton, Church in Unionite youth camp. May 3, 2013. She 2, 2013. They PLLC in Franklin, Mary Alisa Techentin (’11) is to Jackson, 1050 Union University Drive They have began working met at Moody Tenn. to lead be married to Matthew Duchek Tenn. They reside in Jackson, where Jackson, TN 38305 four boys: Ty (7), Gabe (5), Luke (2) as a therapist Memorial Church in Chicago where the firm’s of Crystal they both work as nurses at and Levi (2). Bethany said camp life and forensic they are both active in the music administrative Lake, Ill. Jackson-Madison County General is year-round these days, but her interviewer for ministry. law practice. Matthew is Hospital. Robert is continuing his Email: [email protected] family is blessed to be a part of the the Morgan She also will be a graduate education at Union University. He is gospel-centered camp. County Child Advocacy Center on Robert Clifford (’05) and Jennifer assisting in the of the pursuing a Master of Science in swoutfitters.com May 1, 2013. Clifford, Esqs. were married Nov. firm’s existing litigation and University of Nursing in the Family Nurse Online: uu.edu/unionite 11, 2012, at The Riverhouse at employment law practice groups. Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Practitioner track that he will Goodspeed Station in Haddam, Alex lives in Nashville. the University of Colorado at Boulder. complete in December 2014.

32 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 33 OLD SCHOOL ALUMNI NEWS

David Leisey (’13) and Holly AJ Union in the Department of Amy Hammons Strawn (’98) so thankful to God for the baby boy Leisey (’13) were married June Sociology and Family Studies. Births and her husband, Dudley, are He has entrusted to them. Amy, 22, 2013, in pleased to Dudley and Turner reside in Ashley Parker Tucker (’97) and Denver, Colo. Beth Byrd announce Grapevine, Texas. Jimmy Tucker welcomed George Support the They now Knoll (’13) and the birth of Preston reside in Nicholas Knoll their son, Jeff Shands (’99) and his wife, Bulldogs Tucker on Jackson, were married Dudley Sarah, proudly welcomed their third April 30, Tenn. David Oct. 12, 2013, at Turner child, Callie in Style! 2013, at 6:22 is teaching first grade in the Salem A.R. Strawn, IV (Turner), born Aug. 9, 2012. Grace, born p.m. He The online Bulldog Shoppe Jackson-Madison County School Presbyterian Turner weighed 7 lb., 6 oz. and was on March 5, weighed 7 System, and Holly is working at Church in Atoka, Tenn. 19 1/2 in. long. Amy and Dudley are 2013. Callie is expanding. Expect a greater lb., 6 oz. and was 21 1/4 in. long. has two selection of Union gifts and older merchandise from LifeWay siblings: Preston (8) and Emily (5). Christian Resources at Jeff is a teacher and coach at DeSoto uu.edu/bulldogshoppe. Central High School in Southaven, Plans are also underway to Miss., and Sarah is employed by remodel the campus bookstore on AICOMP Consulting in Memphis. the first floor of Hammons Hall. They reside in Southaven. Look for an expanded Union section of the store when the construction Beth (Hill) Marks (’01) and is finished in late summer. Logan Marks are proud to announce the arrival of Go Bulldogs! their first child, Sarah Elizabeth Marks, on May 13, 2013. Jonathon and Lindsay She weighed 8 lb., 4 oz. and was McDonald (’05) announce the 20 in. long. birth of their second child, Stay connected Stephen Wilson (’03 and ’11) Marleigh and Megan Fuller Wilson (’04 Elisabeth, born to Union and ’10) on Aug. 29, 2013. announced They currently the birth of reside in twitter.com/UnionUniversity Olivia Joy southern Illinois, where Jon serves Wilson, born as a pastor. June 27, facebook.com/UnionUniversity 2012. She weighed 7 lb., 5 oz. and Katelin Warren Lasater (’07) was 21 in. long. and her husband, youtube.com/user/UUOUC Andrea Smith (’04), Harold Michael, ONLINE Smith and their two sons William welcome the Unionite (6) and John (3) welcomed twins birth of their first instagram.com/unionuniversity into their family, Thomas and child, Henry Peter, on Aug. 24, 2012. Harold is a Eugene Lasater, systems engineer in Nashville for born Nov. 2, 2013. He weighed 8 lb., pinterest.com/unionuniversity Education Networks of America, 2 oz. and was 20 inches long. and Andrea is a homemaker. New, online-only editions of the Unionite make it easier than ever to They live in Dickson, Tenn. google.com/+unionuniversity keep up with Union. The latest news is now at your fingertips throughout [email protected] the year. Don’t miss a single issue. Get notifications about the latest Unionite delivered right to your email inbox. Sign up at uu.edu/unionite.

| | | 34 | UNIONITEEXCELLENCE-DRIVEN • SUMMER 2014 CHRIST-CENTERED PEOPLE-FOCUSED FUTURE-DIRECTED UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 35 OLD SCHOOL ALUMNI NEWS Memoriam Memoriam John G. Dickinson (’48) passed subsequent years active member Marvin Fitts (’53) passed away away Dec. 9, 2013, in Jackson. He as a student at of Woodland Dec. 20, 2013, in Cordova. He was 87 was 87 years old. Mr. Dickinson Union when money Baptist Church years old. He William (Will) Lee Gray (’02) served as a Union University was scarce. He in Brownsville, and his wife trustee and funded a scholarship expressed gratitude Tenn., where she Jean (’49) served William (Will) Lee Gray passed away recorded and performed at the University in honor of his for help from had key roles for many years on July 26, 2013 in Mesa, Ariz. He was by top artists such as Blake late parents. He is preceded in donors whom he in the Women’s as Southern 33 years old. Mr. Gray was recruited Shelton. Mr. Gray released death by Virginia (’49), his wife of 64 had never met: “We Missionary Union Baptist years. They met as Union freshmen feel like somebody and the choir. missionaries in to play basketball at Union, and an EP entitled The Renegade and went on to serve churches in was responsible Mrs. Dickinson Costa Rica, Peru he attended the University on an with Reva Williams in Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia and for [Virginia and me] being at Union. was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha and Mexico. The couple retired to athletic scholarship. He was also a 2012. He had returned to Louisiana through the ministries I want to be a little bit a part of sorority while a student at Union and Bartlett in 1990 but continued to talented musician and vocalist, and Union a number of times for of education and music. In a 2004 somebody else’s experience.” went on to a teaching career in which minister at both Ellendale Baptist founded the band Scratch Track while performances, most recently Unionite story, Mr. Dickinson was she specialized in helping students Church and La Buena Esperanza a Union student. The band toured a concert in Barefoots Joe in quoted recalling his childhood Virginia Dickinson (’49) passed with learning disabilities. She was (The Good Hope) Hispanic Baptist nationwide for two years. In 2007, 2011. He received a cancer diagnosis grace and mercy.” He is survived by away Oct. 27, 2013. She was 86 also active as a volunteer worker at during the Great Depression in Church. The couple donated about he released his initial solo album in October 2012 and underwent his wife Angie (’03), whom he met years old. Mrs. Dickinson was an Union, alongside her husband John. rural Madison County and the 100 pre-Columbian pottery artifacts entitled Introducing Will Gray. He surgery the following month. Mr. while a student at Union, his parents, also directed a documentary entitled Gray wrote this on his blog shortly Johnny and Barbara Gray of Paris, Broke* that received the Special Jury after the surgery: “My exact recovery Tenn., two brothers and a sister. The (’42) Prize for Most Original Vision at the time after surgery is unknown, but family asks that contributions be W. David Cooper Heather Olford Nashville Film Festival. Gray signed expected to be a gradual process. Yet, sent to help defray medical expenses. with Warner-Chappell Music in 2011, each day, I will fight. I will LIVE and Online contributions can be made at W. David Cooper passed away on May 31, 2013, in Heather Olford passed away and his original songs have been pray in thankfulness for continued goteamgray.com/gifts. Bolivar, Tenn. He was 91 years old. The longtime Dec. 21, 2013, in Memphis. Bolivar minister She was 89 years old. She also was a retired and her late husband captain from the U.S. Stephen founded the to Union University’s Summar Don Holifield (’60) passed away complicated by prostate cancer. Nashville. She was 88 years old. Library in 2010. They had collected While at Union, Mr. Enoch was editor Mrs. Byrd was kindergarten director at Navy, where served Olford Center for Biblical on August 2, 2012, in Knoxville. He the pieces during their time in Peru. was 75 years of the Cardinal & Cream and a West Jackson Baptist Church, where for 29 years. Union Preaching in 1988, and the The display features archeological old. Originally member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon her late husband Daniel Q. Byrd, Jr. conferred a bachelor’s center became part of Union finds from about 300 BC to 1534 AD. from Three Way, fraternity. He is survived by Joan, his was pastor. Mr. Byrd was an emeritus degree to Rev. University in 2007. Mrs. Mr. Fitts is survived by his wife Jean, Mr. Holifield wife of 46 years, and other family trustee at Union. The David Q. and Cooper in 1942, the Olford served on the Union two sons, a daughter and five majored in members. Enoch had an extensive Floriene W. Byrd Memorial Scholarship university’s education University Foundation grandchildren. mathematics at career with the Commercial Appeal was established to help students David Cooper in 2008, with his son service award in 2000 Board and continued the Union and was and as executive director of the planning to enter the ministry. Family Tom and his wife Margaret and an honorary legacy of her husband, who Bert “Junior” Daugherty (’55) a member of Arkansas One-Call System. members ask that gifts in Mrs. Byrd’s doctorate in 2001. “David Cooper is one of the most had a profound influence on Billy Graham and other passed away on July 26, 2013, in Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He memory be directed to that fund in kind, caring, gentle and good men that I have ever evangelical preachers of his time. David S. Dockery Lewisville, N.C. served as director of economic Carey Maurice “Johnny” care of Union University. had the privilege of knowing,” said David S. Dockery, said, “Heather Olford was a faithful and winsome He was 78. Mr. development and general manager Johnson (’81) passed away Nov. who helped officiate at Rev. Cooper’s funeral service. ambassador for Christ around the globe. In recent Daugherty of the Knoxville Chamber of 16, 2013. He was 54. Mr. Johnson Pete Wilson passed away Jan. 24, came to Union graduated from Bolivar High School, 2014, in Jackson. He was 94 years old. Rev. Cooper is survived by a son, Thomas Cooper, a years, she similarly became a loyal supporter of the Commerce. In 2000, he retired after University to 20 years as secretary-manager of Union University and Mid-America Mr. Wilson was a Union University granddaughter, two brothers and two sisters. The work of Union University. While she will be greatly play basketball the Tennessee Valley Fair. He is Baptist Theological Seminary. trustee and founded Machine Tool Cooper family contributed to the building of Bowld missed by many, we give thanks to God for her life and was named survived by his wife Janis, two Johnson was serving as interim and Supply Corp. in Jackson. He was Commons on the Jackson campus, where a room and ministry.” Mrs. Olford was a member of Bellevue Most Valuable children and three grandchildren. pastor at Beech Bluff Baptist Church an active member of West Jackson is named in their honor. The family has requested Baptist Church in Cordova. Family members request Player during his time on the team. in Beech Bluff, Tenn. Johnson is Baptist Church for more than 70 that gifts to Union in memory of David Cooper that gifts in her memory be directed to the Stephen He was active in church life, serving John Dale survived by his wife, Tina Graves years. He is survived by two sons, be designated for the David Cooper Legacy Fund, Olford Center, 4000 Riverdale Road, Memphis, TN, at various times as a Sunday school Enoch (’64) died Johnson (’82), as well as two a daughter, five grandchildren and established in 2008 by Thomas Cooper to 38115, where they will be used to train preachers and teacher, trustee and deacon. He is March 23, 2013, in daughters, Hillary and Brittney. four great-grandchildren. Family honor his father. teachers of the Word of God. survived by his wife of 58 years, Conway, Ark., of members ask that memorial gifts be Sylvia, and two daughters. congestive heart Johnnie Floriene Williams sent to West Jackson Baptist Church failure that was Byrd passed away Dec. 22, 2013, in building fund or Union University.

36 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 UU.EDU/UNIONITE | 37 OLD SCHOOL ALUMNI NEWS Bullpups 1. Brighton Daniel Edwards, born May 24, 2012, to 4. Caleb Timothy Hutto, born Dec. 22, 2012, is the son Stefanie Morris Edwards (’00). of Janelle Musser Hutto (’07) and Justin Hutto (’07).

2. Asher Matthew Winkleman, born Nov. 11, 2011, 5. Olivia Joy Wilson, born June 27, 2012, to Stephen is the child of Laura (Crabb) Winkleman (’01) and Wilson (’03, ’11) and Megan Fuller Wilson (’04 and Chris Winkleman (’01). ’10). She weighed 7 lb., 5 oz. and was 21 in. long.

3. Turner Strawn, born Aug. 9, 2012, to Amy Hammons Strawn (’98) and Dudley Strawn.

2 3

The Union experience impacts students’ lives in so Lively conversations with their fellow students often many meaningful ways. turn into life-long friendships. 1 Faculty members inspire them and often help chart An education at Union changes the lives of the their life course in a new direction. students who come here. It also changes the lives of the people they influence for years to come. Staff members know them by name; Life Group Leaders and RAs share encouragement in Christ. THE UNION FUND helps provide for the day-to- Union’s courses stretch them, and labs and facilities day things that make Union so special. Please give. enable them. Maintain the excellence for the next generation.

THE UNION FUND is supported by one-time, monthly or annual gifts. You may give to THE UNION FUND online at uu.edu/giving or by contacting the Office of University Relations at 731.661.5050.

EXCELLENCE-DRIVEN | CHRIST-CENTERED | PEOPLE-FOCUSED | FUTURE-DIRECTED 4 5

38 | UNIONITE • SUMMER 2014 OFFICE of ALUMNI RELATIONS 1050 Union University Drive Jackson, TN 38305

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Final Frame Storm clouds roll in while the sun sets on Miller Tower at the end of the spring semester. photo by Kathleen Murray ’05