Union College Hosts Knox County Friends & Alumni
Union College hosted over forty guests for its annual Knox County Appreciation Dinner on March 20. Alumni and friends were treated to dinner as President Edward D. de Rosset gave an update on the College, emphasizing the legacy of collaboration between Union and the community. “We’ve come to see that we need each other, and good things come from that,” he told those gathered.
Among those good things, according to President de Rosset, is a steadily increasing enrollment and the welcome challenges that brings. Undergraduate and graduate enrollments continue to exceed expectations, requiring more living, work, and recreational spaces to meet students’ needs. President de Rosset shared aspects of the College’s plan to accommodate its growing student body, including renovations to College Courts, Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Gymnasium, and Centennial Hall. He also relayed news of the new UC Honors Community and upcoming plans to strengthen the fine arts program and facilities.
Union College recognized several guests for their contributions to the College’s success. Dr. Mary Alice Lay and Mrs. Jane Blair were recognized for their years of consecutive giving: 43 years for Dr. Lay and 36 years for Mrs. Blair. Dr. and Mrs. Benny J. Wilson earned the 26 year award. Awards for 25 years of giving were presented to Mr. Vergil Goodin and Dr. Larry Inkster. Mr. Steve Rhodes accepted an award on behalf of Union National Bank, which was honored for 32 years of consecutive giving.
The inaugural Above and Beyond Award was given to the Barbourville Tourism and Recreation Commission. The award, accepted by Mrs. Betty Cole, was created to acknowledge groups and organizations that encourage innovative ideas and opportunities for the greater good of the community, College, and region. Barbourville Tourism earned the first Above and Beyond Award for bringing the Redbud Festival to Union College and for its role in the development of the Civil War Interpretive Park.
Near the end of the evening, Dr. Robert Dunaway introduced members of the 2007-08 Knox County Leadership Team. The team is chaired by Dr. Dunaway and includes Jerry Carey, Bob Duricko, Steve Evans, Sheila Halter, Don Lawson, Nancy Mitchell, Betty Rhodes, and Steve Rhodes. The Leadership Team helps carry out the Union College mission by building relationships and communicating information that enhances participation with the College, promotes good will, and increases financial support.
