For more than 20 years, Union has utilized cadavers for anatomical education. This program equips students for excellence in their future careers in a way unmatched by any other educational tools available. Both undergraduate and graduate students from a wide array of medically-related studies benefit from this hands-on learning opportunity, including Gross Anatomy, Nurse Anesthesia, and Doctor of Pharmacy students.
Many of the individuals who decide to donate their bodies for educational purposes have come to recognize the value of such a program by seeing the benefit firsthand through their own medical or educational experiences. In fact, recently retired Union University chemistry professor, Charles Baldwin was the first to bequeath his body to Union’s Anatomical Bequest Program. "I never thought I’d be able to follow my calling after death," says Baldwin. "This is a way to teach even after the spirit has left the physical remains."
Our steadfast purpose for having the Anatomical Bequest Program at Union is to promote excellence in students’ future medically-related careers, while honoring and treating with dignity those who have selflessly donated their remains. In fact, biology professor James Huggins, who leads the program, prays with students and thanks God for the donor before each class.
Like any end of life planning, joining the Anatomical Bequest Program is a major step that should not be entered into lightly. If you are interested in the program, I encourage you to contact our Program Facilitator for more information, have candid discussions with your loved ones, and pray about the decision.
We are grateful for everyone who wishes to benefit Union through an anatomical gift and endeavor to honor that wish every time. However, sometimes circumstances prevent us from accepting individuals into the program. Our Program Facilitator, Rachel Peterson, will help determine if you are a viable candidate for the Anatomical Bequest Program at Union and will serve as a resource to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Thank you again for your interest in this exceptional program!
Jerry N. Tidwell, D.Min. Senior Vice President for University Relations
Rachel Peterson
Anatomical Bequest Program Facilitator
Office of University Relations
1050 Union University Drive
Jackson, TN 38305
(Phone) 731-661-5050
(Fax) 731-661-5495
(Email) rpeterson@uu.edu
Those making time of death arrangements with the Anatomical Bequest Program on behalf of a deceased donor may contact Arrington Funeral Directors 24 hours a day at 731-668-1111. However, acceptance into the program must be established with the Program Facilitator prior to the body being received. This includes but is not limited to notarized paperwork being filed with the Program Facilitator. Arrington will not be able to accept donors into the program, unless approval has been previously established with Union University.
Anatomical Bequest Program
Attn: Rachel Peterson
Office of University Relations
1050 Union University Drive
Jackson, TN 38305
Arrington Funeral Directors
(24-hour number) 731-668-1111
