JACKSON, Tenn. — Union University welcomed hundreds of parents, siblings and alumni to campus Sept. 26-27 for its annual Family Weekend, a tradition that blends long-standing events, athletic competitions and worship gatherings to celebrate the Union community.
For senior worship leadership major Ashtyn Delk, the weekend carries personal significance as a Jackson native whose mother has worked at Union for more than a decade.
“I actually absolutely love Family Weekend,” Delk said. “Since my mom has worked at Union almost 11 years, I grew up coming before my brother and I were students. It can be just as special for Jackson folks because we get to share our own experiences of campus with the people we love the most.”
Friday’s schedule opened with Chi Omega’s annual Make-A-Wish barbecue on the BOWLD patio, drawing hundreds of families for dinner and fellowship. Later that evening, SAC hosted its annual Movie on the Lawn, where students and their families gathered with blankets and lawn chairs to watch Tangled. The night ended with the much-anticipated Sibling Sleepover, where younger brothers and sisters joined their siblings for a night on campus.
Saturday began early with the SATA Disc Golf Tournament at Union’s course, followed by the president’s brunch in the Grant Center. President Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver shared updates about the university and offered timely encouragement to students and families. Throughout the day, parents and siblings explored dorms, classrooms and favorite student hangouts.
Amanda Chenault, director of campus visits in undergraduate admissions, said the weekend also gives prospective students a unique glimpse of Union.
“As director for campus visits, I spend the day with prospective students who join in the festivities through Preview Day,” Chenault said. “It brings me so much joy to see these students and their families engage with current students and faculty and get a real picture of life at Union.”
Athletics filled the afternoon as families cheered on the Lady Bulldogs volleyball team in the Fred DeLay Gymnasium and caught games from Union’s ultimate frisbee club teams, the Jaxx and Jillz.
The weekend concluded with Union Night on the Great Lawn, featuring performances by Union’s Voices of Proclamation, carnival-style booths hosted by student organizations and a Ferris wheel. Families gathered underneath the glow of Miller Tower for a fireworks display that capped off the night.
“The Saturday night festivities of Family Weekend are a tradition we all look forward to every year,” Chenault said. “The evening is picturesque, from the Ferris wheel and food trucks to the Great Lawn covered with lights and tents. Add in the amazing fireworks and families, and it all creates the perfect picture moment.”
Family Weekend is one of Union’s most cherished traditions. As Delk reflected on her senior year, she said her perspective on the event has shifted.
“Now it’s not just about my parents visiting, but about bringing them alongside the people I do life with,” Delk said. “It’s a special time to invite them in and let them see what Union means to me.”
