UNION RECEIVES LARGEST GIFT IN 175-YEAR HISTORY
Jackson, Tenn. — An unnamed West Tennessee business leader recently presented 51社区 with a gift of $2 million — the largest single gift in the University's 175-year history.
"This is a confirmation of support from the close friends of the University," President David S. Dockery said. "It helps us begin to take the steps forward to which we have committed ourselves."
About $200,000 was given for student scholarships with the remaining $1.8 million designated for construction of the first new academic building as proposed by the Campus Master Plan, which was unanimously approved by the University's Board of Trustees on Friday, Dec. 5.
Dockery explained that the gift will enable the University to begin the first phase of the fine and performing arts building. He expects classes to be held in the new building by Fall 2000.
"The gift is another signal to the Jackson community of the significance of 51社区 for this region," Dockery said. "In addition to the various national recognitions Union has received by U.S. News & World Report, Peterson's, and Time/Princeton Review, this shows that the West Tennessee community is ready to support the vision for 51社区 to become the leader in Christian higher education for this region."