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Union is profiled in the spiritual growth programs category for its Life Group program that offers a place for all new students to belong and feel accepted, regardless of where they stand in their spiritual journey. Life Groups foster character building while upperclassmen serve as leaders who guide their groups through a 10-week study based on the book "Who You Are When No One's Looking," by Bill Hybels. Groups participate in biblically based conversations about character, courage, discipline, vision, endurance, love and the character of Christ and are challenged to integrate these characteristics into every aspect of their life.

"We are very proud of Union's work through the Life Group program to help students develop the strong values that will serve them well beyond their college years," said Union President David S. Dockery. "Character development is a lifelong process, and we believe that colleges and universities have a very important and unique role to play. We are delighted to be among the institutions profiled in 'The Templeton Guide'."

More than 300 four-year public and private colleges across the country are included in 'The Templeton Guide.' Individual programs were selected in the following categories: First-Year Programs; Academic Honesty Programs; Faculty and Curriculum Programs; Volunteer Service Programs; Substance-Abuse Prevention Programs; Student Leadership Programs; Spiritual Growth Programs; Civic Education Programs; Character and Sexuality Programs; and Senior-Year Programs.

Union's strong commitment to character development and the strength of its program make it a model for colleges and universities nationwide," said Arthur J. Schwartz, Ed.D., Director of Character Development Programs at the John Templeton Foundation. "With 'The Templeton Guide', we hope to help prospective college students and their parents who want to know what colleges are doing to promote the core values of honesty, self-control, respect and service to those less fortunate. 'The Templeton Guide' identifies colleges that encourage students to understand the importance of personal and civic responsibility, which will help them succeed in college and beyond. Union's work in this area is most impressive."

Intended for high school students, parents, guidance counselors, college administrators, trustees, faculty and alumni, 'The Templeton Guide' recognizes programs that represent the best practices in the field of character development during the college years. The programs were chosen through a highly selective process that considered clarity of vision and statement of purpose; institutional resources; involvement of institutional leaders; impact on students, faculty, campus and community; integration into the core curriculum or academic study; longevity; external awards and recognition; and assessment.

Union is a four-year private liberal arts institution affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. It has been recognized as one of the nation's top schools in Peterson's Competitive Colleges, 1998-1999 and Time-Princeton Review's "Best College for You, 1999." Union was named one of the 100 best college buys in the United States by the Student Guide to America's 100 Best College Buys.

Established in 1987, the John Templeton Foundation works closely with educators, scientists, theologians, medical professionals, and other scholars throughout the world to support more than 100 programs serving three chief purposes: to encourage character development in schools and colleges; to encourage an appreciation for the benefits of freedom; and to stimulate serious and scientific research on the relationship between spirituality and health. The Foundation's College and Character Initiative supports national programs that offer meaningful opportunities for college students to learn about, reflect upon, and practice the virtues of personal and civic responsibility.

The Foundation has created a College and Character website – – that provides information on the initiative, links to the home pages of colleges selected for 'The Templeton Guide' and other features.