Storm damage forces partial closure of Union’s largest building

JACKSON, Tenn. — Severe storms impacted one local university’s campus Thursday.

High winds, heavy rain, and hail collapsed a portion of the Penick Academic Complex at Union University. As Union University students made their way around campus Friday morning, things looked different.

Union University President, Dr. Dub Oliver addressed the damage from the storms during worship friday morning.

“First and foremost I was thankful to God for no injuries. Praise God for that,” said Dr. Oliver.

You can see the damage to the roof and walls after they caved in.

According to Dr. Oliver, the area that collapsed was the old wellness center, roughly 3,200 square feet that had not been used for about 7 months.

However, several academic units in this building are used regularly.

“This effects areas–particularly art. Art has a number of studios, classrooms, gallery spaces; their offices are in this area as well as languages, literature, and writing, and our school of social work. As well as pews and athletic training and some of our athletic offices,” said Dr. Oliver.

Those classes are being rerouted to different rooms or other areas on campus. Oliver said there is a portion of about 7,500 feet that will have to be completely demolished.

The university expects other damaged areas and hallways to be restored by the start of the fall semester.

Parts of the PAC complex that were not damaged will resume classes on Monday. Union University administrators ask for prayers during this time.

Those who feel moved to donate can do so by contacting the university.

For more news in the Jackson area, click here.