What does it look like when a corporation with a mission invests in a university? At Union Adventist University, you can see the answer everywhere. Union is thriving, and one important reason is our partnership with AdventHealth. Together we’re making a positive impact on the community. AdventHealth has done more than support a vision; they called Union into it.
AdventHealth has been a trusted partner of Union Adventist University for more than thirty years. They don’t just invest in buildings; they invest in the people of Union. This partnership shows a commitment to hard work, service, and personal growth.During the Union Adventist University commencement service on May 10, the 2026 President’s Award was presented to AdventHealth in recognition of their exceptional philanthropic generosity in support of enriching the student experience and enhancing academic facilities. Their exemplary service and unwavering commitment are instrumental in advancing the vision for Union Adventist University’s promising future.
AdventHealth believes healing addresses the whole person. They founded the organization in 1973, but their roots trace back to the 1866 Adventist health movement. They see each person as a creation of God. Everyone deserves dignity, compassion, and great care. This guiding principle remains central to their mission today.
AdventHealth is a top healthcare leader today. It has more than 100,000 caregivers and over 50 hospital campuses. This healing mission maintains a constant presence and influence at Union.
Debbie Eno, VP of Academic Administration, said the partnership benefits students. AdventHealth at Union gives meaningful opportunities. They provide real-world experience and career preparation for students.
“AdventHealth leaders regularly engage with students on campus. They serve as guest speakers in classes and take part in various events,” Eno said. “Their involvement enriches the educational experience and supports students’ professional growth.”
AdventHealth’s generosity has helped turn many dreams into reality here at Union. Our Warrior Athletes are one of the most visible examples of this success. In the past, all Warrior Athletes, students, and the community shared the Thunderdome. Now, with the addition of the AdventHealth Complex, that is no longer the case.
Drew Mekelburg, the Warrior Athletic Director, spoke about AdventHealth. He shared how it has changed Union’s campus. “Every time I see the athletic teams practicing in their own dedicated spaces, I’m reminded of how vital this partnership is,” Mekelburg said. “It’s remarkable to host an entire team for weight lifting and maintain open space for students and community members.”
The AdventHealth Complex provides additional space for Warrior Athletes. The expanded facilities allow them to train, compete, and grow year-round.
Junior elementary education major and Gymnaire women’s captain, Katie Carlson, reflected on what this partnership means to student athletes. “Partnering with AdventHealth has opened up so many opportunities for us to share what we do with others,” says Carlson. “For example, the Gymnaires started the Union Acrobatic Academy. Children in the community come and learn tumbling and acrobatics from our very own Gymnaires team. We’ve been able to perform our Homeshow in the AdventHealth Complex for two years. These are some of the most widely attended shows at Union in recent years.”
AdventHealth has invested in the academic and professional development of all Union students. They give clinical placements, offer mentorships, establish significant endowments and help with campus building needs. These efforts ensure that Union can continue to serve all who come to the campus in, and out of, the classroom.
Their contributions are evident in the physical transformation of the campus. Such places are the Ortner and Krueger Centers and Prescott Hall. These spaces play a vital role in student life. They provide modern environments for learning, collaboration, and community.
For many students, these improvements are deeply personal. The dormitories become a second home for students. AdventHealth helped renovate Prescott Hall, creating a welcoming and well-designed space. When one student saw his new room, gratitude overwhelmed him. This moment highlights the true impact of AdventHealth’s generosity.
Lisa Forbes, Union’s Business Program Director, talked about mentorships with AdventHealth professionals. “There are alumni of our program that come back as AdventHealth professionals. They’re developing general leadership, giving career advice, or interviewing students,” Forbes said. “Those connections benefit students. Students are able to see professionals in their journey. They can see and know that those professionals were once where they are now.”
AdventHealth invests in Union by hosting events and seminars each year. They host these events and gatherings designed to inspire both students and faculty. These events build leadership skills. They create strong connections. They challenge participants to think about their purpose and potential.
AdventHealth’s legacy at Union continues to grow. This year, that legacy was formally recognized through the presentation of the 2026 President’s Award. Dr. Yami Bazan talked about AdventHealth’s investment and why it matters for Union’s future.
“This award acknowledges not just what AdventHealth has done, but who they have been to us. They are a partner in challenges, a co-laborer in vision, and a reflection of the values we instill in our students,” said Bazan. “In honoring AdventHealth, we are also telling a larger story. We are speaking of the future of faith-based education. That education will be built through partnerships like this one. Partnerships where shared mission becomes shared movement. And for that, we are not only grateful—we are inspired.”