Giving Clubs and Societies

Townsend Circle

Union College is honored to introduce the Townsend Circle in the 2012-13 fiscal year. This giving club exists to recognize our most loyal supporters whose financial supports in the foundation for achieving our mission. This club is names for Milton Townsend, who served the College in many capacities from his graduation until the time of his passing in 1992. Like Milt Townsend, who was instrumental in the advancement of the College, this club seeks to honor those who believe in Union College and have made great sacrifice towards our growth and achievement.

Membership can be earned by one of the following:

• An annual gift to the College on or after July 1, 2012 of $1,000 or more
• Lifetime support to the College at $100,000 and above

Exclusive benefits include:

• Subscription to President's Newsletter
• Members Only Townsend Event invitations
• Invitation to private inaugural event in April 2013
• Special mention in the annual Honor Roll of Donors

Additionally, membership is offered to young alumni who support the College at a level equal to $100 for each year post graduation up to ten years.

*A monthly gift of $83.34 will also earn membership into the Townsend Circle.

Leadership Annual Giving Clubs

Union College celebrates donors who give annually at the leadership level.  This special commitment to the college has tremendous impact on present day student life as well as long term success.

Annual Giving Clubs

These clubs recognize those who help sustain Union College by making annual gifts.

Bulldog Club

Gifts supporting Union College Athletics

Vision Maker Societies

(Reflects Lifetime Giving)

In 1879, Union College arose out of a need – a need for education. For the citizens of Barbourville, then a town of 450 citizens and three brick buildings, establishing an institution of higher learning for children was imperative. They believed education was the path to leadership and a brighter future. With that same visionary spirit, Union continues to be a springboard for great minds, for young leaders, and for all those with a commitment to education—thanks to many who continue to invest in the mission.

Daniel Stevenson Society: $1,000,000 or more

Credited with rescuing Union from almost certain closing, Daniel Stevenson of Versailles, Kentucky served as Union’s president from 1888 to 1897. He fulfilled his dream of establishing a Methodist college in the area he considered in the greatest need of service. He was the first president after the College became affiliated with The Methodist Episcopal Church.

Fanny Speed Society: $500,000 - $999,999

Mrs. Fanny Speed of Louisville was Union’s first great benefactress. Her interest in Dr. Stevenson’s purchase of Union’s property is evident through her gifts totaling over $60,000 during his administration. Following her death in 1902, Union received half of her estate, approximately $266,000. These funds helped to complete Speed Hall, and rebuild both Stevenson Hall and the Administration building (renamed Classroom building and later Centennial Hall).

Abigail E. Weeks Society: $100,000 - $499,999

Miss Abigail Weeks a beloved head of the English department and librarian served the College for thirty two years. In the June 2, 1937 issue of the Orange and Black, the school paper commented regarding her service to Union by writing, “She gave to Union College her sacrificial loyalty, and fulfilled the sentiment of her own lines, written as a fitting close to the college Alma Mater, “We will live for thee”.

Legacy Society

The Union College Legacy Society honors and recognizes the individuals who have chosen to benefit the College through charitable gift plans.  Anyone who names Union College as a beneficiary of their will, living trust, life insurance, retirement plan or other estate plan, is invited to become a member of the Legacy Society. Go to our planned giving pages to learn more.