Four hundred ninety-five students graduated from Union University May 6 during spring commencement services of the 198th graduating class on the university’s Great Lawn.

Union President Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver delivered the commencement address.

“Be not so ambitious to engrave your names high upon the walls of the temple of fame, as to write them on the tablets of human hearts,” Oliver said. “If you make it your object to improve the minds and hearts of others, you will leave memorials that shall defy the wasting of time, and will outlive the proudest earthly structures.

“Live to enlighten, bless and share the transforming power of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and you will be held in everlasting remembrance.”

Located in Jackson, Tenn., Union University is a liberal arts-based university affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention. Founded in 1823, Union is the oldest institution relating to the Southern Baptist Convention.

The local graduates included:

Beechgrove – Jessica Bogle, Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies Languages With Honors

Manchester – Benjamin Walker, Master of Accountancy

McMinnville – James Ramsey, Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership

Shelbyville – Taylor Overcast, Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

Tullahoma – Emily Quintanilla, Doctor of Pharmacy