Union University hosted the 25th Scholarship Banquet on October 24th at the Carl Perkins Civic Center.
As one of the most prestigious annual events of the year, the silver jubilee anniversary celebrated the families, businesses and sponsors around Jackson that make it possible for students to acquire scholarships and awards. With such generosity being poured out from the Jackson community, it was time to give back a little with a night of food and worship, led by 15-Grammy-Award-winner CeCe Winans.
“The scholarship Banquet is the largest event the university holds that is specifically designed for both fundraising and to celebrate the generosity of donors,” Tim Ellsworth, associate vice president for university communications, said. “A Union education is not inexpensive, so many students depend upon scholarships to make it possible for them to attend.”
CeCe Winans, one of the most awarded female gospel singers of all time, was given the floor and led the room in an electric, joyful time of praise and worship. Winans has had a heavy spotlight in the gospel world for over twenty years, and her experience was evident on stage. Many in the room rose to their feet and worshiped to familiar tracks such as “The Goodness of God” and “Worthy of it All.”
The night opened with a warm welcome from Union president, Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver, greeting the hundreds of donors, faculty and students with a word on the history and tradition of the banquet. He emphasized the importance of community, not just in the school but in the city of Jackson as well.
“For twenty-five years, Union alumni, faculty and staff have given up their time, their treasure and their talents so that we can enjoy these nights.” Oliver said. He proceeded to name notable donors who have shown their immense generosity and energy to make it easier for incoming students to attend Union.
The feelings of generosity did not just settle with the faculty but with some students present at the event as well.
“I’m very thankful,” Michel Tankersley, junior biblical studies major said. “Part of what it means is that I can go to Union. Without these scholarships that so many people have donated, there’s no shot I’d be able to.”
With the significance of the banquet’s twenty-five years, Tankersley expressed his gratitude to be part of such a rich history of like-minded people who value higher education.
“Another thing that struck me is just the broad Union community,” Tankersley said. “There’s so much history here and so many people. That’s impactful too because that means we get to be a part of a big community and long history of learning and growth.”
Photo courtesy of Union University