News Releases

JACKSON, Tenn. — Oct. 1, 2001 — In a brief dedication service Friday, Sept. 28, members of Union University’s administration, faculty, staff and students stood next to the newly completed Miller Tower and offered thanks to God for the blessings that have been bestowed on the campus.

The Union University family gathered to celebrate the completion of the Miller Tower as the Union University Singers led in song.

“This is a significant event in the life of our campus,” said Union President David S. Dockery, addressing the crowd that gathered on the Great Lawn. “This is, in many ways, comparable to the significance of a tower in the Old Testament, which was a picture of God’s presence and protection. In fact, the Psalmist referred to God as a tower (Ps. 61) and thus, the tower which illuminates this campus symbolizes the illuminating of minds through higher education and moreover points to Jesus Christ – who is the light of the world.”

Besides serving as an icon for the university for many years to come, the completion of the tower and great lawn provides the next step in the development of the West Side Campus, paving the way for a bright future for Union University, said Dockery.

The Miller Tower, as the bell tower is known, is named after former Union trustee Opha Miller, who established the Miller Foundation to support the work of Union University in 1998. Twenty Union students are currently recipients of the Miller Scholarship. Dockery offered his thanks to friends and family of Mrs. Miller who were present for the ceremony.

“Whether it was through official scholarships or simply putting a little money in their pockets, Mrs. Miller always looked out for the students,” said Dockery. “She was a great lady who loved Union University and believed wholeheartedly in the importance of Christian higher education."