On Nov. 4, Union University hosted its 27th annual scholarship banquet at the Carl Perkins Civic Center in Jackson, Tennessee. The evening celebrated the university’s mission of Christ-centered excellence and and the generosity of donors who make scholarships possible, featuring a performance by Steven Curtis Chapman — the most awarded artist in Christian music history.
Doors opened at 5:45 p.m. for dinner guests and sponsors, followed by dinner at 6:00 p.m. Businesses leaders, community members, board members, students and faculty gathered around sponsored tables to enjoy a meal served by Union Dining Services and served by the university’s baseball team.
After dinner, Student Government Association President, Lili Pettigrew, opened the evening in prayer.
“As a student, I have benefited generously from the work of others,” Pettigrew said.
Like Pettigrew, many students rely on the generous scholarhsips funded through this annual event.
Union University President, Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver, then addressed the audience.
“We have a lot of traditions at Union, but this one is my favorite,” Oliver said.
Oliver spoke about the progress of Union, expressed graditude to donors and highlighted the 10th anniversary of the EDGE program — a two year program for students with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
“I have made many decisions, but this decision was clearest and easiest decision I have made,” Oliver said.
Current EDGE student Hope Hixon and her parents then joined Oliver on stage to share their story. Many laughs were shared and many tears were shed during this time. Hixon’s smile spoke volumes as she beamed about how confident she has become and how many friends she has made at Union.
“Now Hope doesn’t even want to come home to see us,” her parents said, laughing.
Following the testimonies, Steven Curtis Chapman took the stage, performing hits including “The Great Adventure,” “Speechless” and “Cinderella.” With 60 Dove Awards, five Grammy Awards, and more than 50 No. 1 singles and as the first Christian artist to be inducted in the Grand Ole Opry, Chapman shared songs and stories from his life and faith journey.
His story involved his childhood and living in Paducah, Kentucky, and the gift of adoption that shaped his family and ministry.
“Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your story,” Chapman said.
