JACKSON, Tenn. — July 31, 2010 — Two hundred fifty-six students graduated from Union University July 31 during the summer commencement service of the 185th graduating class on the university’s Great Lawn.
The day was the culmination of what Union University President David S. Dockery called a “record-setting year in every way” on the Union campus.
The 256 graduates brought the total number of Union graduates for the 2009-2010 academic year to more than 1,100 – the largest graduating class in Union’s history. The year also featured record enrollment of more than 4,000, top recognitions for the university in various publications and dedications of the Bowld Student Commons and the Smith Soccer Complex.
“It’s been a terrific year,” Dockery said. “Truly we can say, ‘O give thanks to the Lord,’ for his blessings and favor have rested upon Union University.”
The July 31 ceremony featured the graduation of the first education students from Union University Hendersonville, and also marked the departure of Charles Fowler, Union’s senior vice president for church relations, who has been called as senior pastor of Germantown Baptist Church.
Fowler delivered the commencement address and challenged students to be faithful stewards of what God has given them, and to please their master in the management of their resources.
“Don’t spend your life simply chasing returns,” Fowler said. “Spend it pursuing God and trusting him to provide opportunities for service.”
Prior to his address, Dockery recognized Fowler, who was inducted as a fellow into the R.G. Lee Society at Union. R.G. Lee was the longtime pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis.
“We pray that your ministry would be characterized by the same biblical faithful and doctrinal fidelity as that of Dr. R.G. Lee,” Dockery told Fowler.
