As with any institution that has been around for over 200 years, there have bound to be changes and transformations that shape the landscape of that institution. Union University is no different.
One of its most formative changes occurred in the mid-1970s when it moved to its current campus in north Jackson from its landlocked campus in downtown Jackson. Robert Craig, president at the time, knew the decision was risky as there was nothing in north Jackson except farmlands and woods.
However, he also knew Union needed this move if it was to grow. During Craig’s 18-year tenure as president, Union grew not only in enrollment but in academic programs thanks to the move and to his leadership. By 1980, enrollment was well over 1200 students; had new majors/programs such as Computer Science (major), Communication Arts (major); expanded the Nursing department; and offered new majors in the Business Administration Program. He also established many offices, such as the Office of Religious Affairs, that helped Union maintain its close denominational and church base with the Tennessee Baptist Convention.
These changes, led by President Craig, was one that shaped Union into what it is today and breathed fresh air into the life of the university. — Baggett, J.A. (2000). So great a cloud of witnesses: Union University 1823-2000. Union University Press.
— Savannah Patterson
Union University, Jackson
Public services librarian
