On Nov. 4, 2016, Union University celebrated the legacy of Union alumni through its annual homecoming chapel.
Once the prelude was over, the chapel began with a welcome and introduction from Catherine Kwasigroh, vice president for Institutional Advancement. She welcomed current students, faculty and alumni.
After the welcoming and introductions ended, Dan Musselman, acting chair of the department music, led the congregation in the hymn “How Firm a Foundation.”
Next, Jeff Richey and Carolyn Lott, Union University graduates of 1966, spoke on behalf of their class. Richey spoke on the value of Union University and reminisced on his days at the university.
Richey shared Matthew 6:1-4 with the congregation.
Once he finished reading the verse, Richey and Lott announced the Class of 1966’s gift to the University. The gift was a scholarship fund of $21,916 for students who need financial aid to attend Union University.
“Anyone can apply, there is no restriction,” Lott said
After the gift was presented, Todd Brady, vice president for University Ministries, led the congregation in a prayer of thanksgiving. Once the prayer was finished, Musselman came back on stage to lead the congregation in another hymn, “To God Be the Glory.”
Teresa Rosson, assistant director of alumni relations and annual fund, took the stage next to present the alumni a medal celebrating the 50-year reunion of the class of 1967.
Rosson read a brief biography of each individual as they received their medal. The biography told about the alumni’s family, job history and what they were involved with on campus when they were at Union University. Students were able to see previous members of the organizations that they participate in now.
“It was awesome to see some of the alumni be ATOs. It’s really inspiring to hear a little bit of their story and see all that they have done with their lives,” Caleb Bernui, senior cell and molecular biology major, said.
After they all received their medals, Samuel “Dub” Oliver, University President, congratulated everyone and thanked the class of 1966 for the scholarship.
“We are blessed at Union to have alum who endow scholarship to allow students to study here,” Oliver said.
The homecoming chapel commenced with the singing of the Union University “Alma Mater” led by Musselman, followed by a benediction by Ray Van Neste, director of the Ryan Center for Biblical Studies.