Union Adventist University: A Legacy of Faith, Learning, and Service
Union Adventist University, formerly known as Union College, stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to education. Founded in 1891, the institution has evolved into a comprehensive university that encourages students from all faith backgrounds to pursue their potential in leadership, scholarship, and service. Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, Union Adventist University has a rich history intertwined with the development of the surrounding community and a dedication to providing a vibrant Christian atmosphere for active learning.
Founding and Early Years
The story of Union Adventist University began with the vision of L. A. Hoopes, W. W. Prescott, and other Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders who sought to establish a college in the Midwestern United States. After considering several locations, they chose an area south of Lincoln, Nebraska, and established the municipality of College View. Construction of the campus commenced in 1891, and Union College officially opened its doors to students in September of the same year.
An early challenge occurred in 1907 when a fire of unknown origin destroyed the boiler house. However, the college persevered, continuing to serve its mission of providing quality education.
Growth and Expansion
In the 1970s, Union College embarked on a period of significant expansion. A new 100-foot (30 m) tall steel clock tower replaced the original one in 1971, becoming a prominent landmark. The Everett Dick Administration Building was constructed in 1975, leading to the demolition of the original administration building. The college also expanded its reach through the acquisition of radio station KUCV in 1976, housing it in the College View Public Library.
A University Emerges
Reflecting its growth and expanded academic offerings, Union College officially changed its name to Union Adventist University on May 5, 2024. This transition signifies the institution's broader scope, encompassing graduate programs and workforce development certificates, further preparing students for success in high-demand careers. The name change also serves to differentiate Union Adventist University from other institutions with similar names, creating a unique identity that accurately reflects its educational offerings. Research suggests that schools adopting the "university" designation often experience enrollment growth, attracting both undergraduate and graduate students.
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Campus and Location
Union Adventist University's main campus is situated in the College View neighborhood of Lincoln, Nebraska. Spanning 50-acre (20 ha), the campus features several key buildings and structures, including the iconic 100-foot (30 m) steel clock tower and the Everett Dick Administration Building. A historic landmark, the College View Public Library, built in 1916 as a Carnegie library, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The campus is also home to the Joshua C. Union Adventist University. The community of College View, which grew up around Union Adventist University, runs roughly from 40th to 58th streets, bordered by Van Dorn to the north and Pioneers Boulevard to the south.
Union Adventist University has become a site of the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum with more than 100 species of trees.
Academics and Programs
Union Adventist University is an accredited, comprehensive university. As of 2025, the college has 439 undergraduate students. The college comprises eight schools: Business and Computer Science, Emergency Management and Exercise Science, Fine Arts, Human Development, Humanities, Nursing, Religion, Science & Math. Union Adventist University offers bachelor’s degrees in more than 50 majors, a Master of Physician Assistants Studies and an honors program. The college is known for high medical school acceptance rates for pre-med graduates; high passing rates on nursing board exams; a specialized Teaching Learning Center offering support to students with learning differences; and a unique one-room school teaching lab for education majors.
Athletics
In athletics, Union plays as the Warriors and fields a limited number of sports, but is not a member of a major college sports association but rather the Association of Christian College Athletics (ACCA). As such, their teams tend to play against bible colleges, community colleges, and JV teams.
Community Engagement and Service
Union Adventist University has a long-standing tradition of community engagement and service. Each fall, the university cancels classes for Project Impact, a student-run community service day where approximately 80 percent of the student body volunteers at more than 50 social service agencies in Lincoln. This initiative evolved from Project BRUSH, a successful 10-year effort where students painted over 100 homes for elderly and disabled Lincoln residents.
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Students regularly volunteer in hospitals and nursing homes, run programs for children, and assist in local soup kitchens. Nursing and physician assistant students also provide a free foot clinic for community members.
Union Adventist University welcomes community members to utilize campus facilities. The Ortner Center includes guest rooms, conference facilities, an art gallery and the Union Market dining area. Larson Lifestyle Center health and fitness club provides a 25-meter swimming pool, year-round swimming lessons, water aerobic classes, a weight room and more.
Preserving the Past: The Oral History Project
Union Adventist University is partnering with PCI (Publishing Concepts) to create an oral history of its 133 years as Union College. Alumni are invited to share their stories, memories, and experiences, preserving the institution's legacy for future generations. This project aims to capture the personal impact of Union College on its students and how the school shaped their lives, while also updating alumni contact information.
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