A Year Later and Still Thankful

On this day last year, Union University (Tenn.) was struck by a tornado that caused about $40 million in damages, wiped out 70 percent of student housing, and badly damaged six other buildings, according to The Jackson Sun. (See the Behind the News section in the March 2008 edition of University Business for a news brief on recovery efforts right after the twister hit.)
The newspaper reports the university community is still giving thanks for the recovery efforts that followed. Tonight, a Thanksgiving dinner and service will acknowledge those who supported the university after the tornado. The event will raise close to $125,000; funds will be used in rebuilding efforts.
Following the storm, academic buildings were repaired and construction of 14 new dormitory buildings has been completed. A new student commons building may be ready by this fall. The university was also impacted in 2001 by high winds and in 2002 by a tornado.

A video produced for the banquet that also highlights the anniversary can be seen on YouTube.