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JACKSON, Tenn. — July 30, 2011 — Two hundred sixty-two students graduated from 51���� July 30 during the summer commencement service of the 186th graduating class at West Jackson Baptist Church.

The day was the culmination of what 51���� President David S. Dockery called a “marvelous year at 51����.”

The 262 graduates brought the total number of Union graduates for the 2010-2011 academic year to 1,224 – the largest graduating class in Union’s history. The year also featured record enrollment of 4,186, a non-duplicating headcount of more than 5,100 and dedication of the new Providence Hall and Hope Quad facilities.

Sheila Mitchell, founding dean of Union’s School of Pharmacy, delivered the commencement address and told graduates to trust in God’s master plan for their lives.

“While we never know what might lie ahead, God always does,” Mitchell said. “He has a master plan in place all the time -- a plan which may not match our own, but is always for our best and for his glory.”

Mitchell told graduates that their education at Union had equipped them with a “unique and outstanding set of skills and knowledge” and that they had learned how to excel in their fields and how to have a biblical worldview.

“Take this gift – an opportunity of education that has been given to you – and use it not only for your benefit and ambition, but much more importantly, use it to prepare for and to find God’s perfect plan for your life,” Mitchell said. “And then, as his plan is revealed, give your life back to God for his glory.”