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Union College: an oral history

Tell your Union story

º£½ÇÉçÇø is excited to team up with PCI (Publishing Concepts) to create an oral history of our 133 years as Union College. We are asking alumni to record their stories for us, for their friends, and for posterity. 

If you haven't been contacted by PCI to contribute to the Oral History Project, but you would like to share your story, you may do so by calling 1-877-461-0870. We'd love to hear your story!

What should I talk about? 

That is up to you. You can tell us whatever is on your heart. But here are some prompts if you get stuck: 

  • Tell us about the mentors and friends you met at Union
  • Which classes were the most challenging? Which did you enjoy the most? How did what you learn impact your life? 
  • Did you go on choir, band or gymnastics tours? Maybe you served as a student missionary. Tell us about times Union expanded your horizons. 
  • We'd love to hear about the pranks you pulled and your co-conspirators. We promise the Statute of Limitations applies. 
  • What were your favorite events and activities? Did you have more fun attending them or planning them?  
  • Did you have a favorite study room, tree or hallway? What was your special spot on campus? 
  • What experience did you have that you wish every student could have? 
  • How did Union surprise you? 
  • How did it feel to graduate? What have you done since? How have you shared the Union Spirit with others? 

Frequently asked questions

I received an email/postcard/phone call from a company asking for my personal information and a story
about Union College. Tell me more about the project.

We have partnered with PCI (also known as Publishing Concepts) to produce an Oral History Publication for Union College. PCI is a family-owned business based in Dallas, TX that has published directories for educational institutions, fraternities, sororities, and military organizations across the nation for over 100 years. This project allows us to hear about your personal experiences from your time at Union College and how the school helped to shape your life since then. And, while we have you on the phone, we want to make sure your contact information is up to date.

 

Does Union benefit from this at all?

Yes, in a few different ways:

  • Updated Information – allows us to effectively communicate with and engage alumni
  • Legacy – sharing and collecting stories preserves the history of our school
  • Pride – wearing apparel shows support and love for our school
 

How do I know my information will only be used for Oral History Project purposes?

PCI is committed to protecting your information. The names, addresses, and information provided to PCI for the publication of the Oral History Project will be held confidential by PCI, except to the extent that they are utilized in, or in the preparation of, the Oral History Project and except as required by court order or law.

 

I would like to verify or update my information and share a story. How can I do this?

  • If you have received a postcard or an email with a telephone number, you may call the number to speak with a dedicated representative for the Oral History Project. The representative will verify the information we have on file for you, make any updates where needed, and then ask you to share your story about your time at Union College. Your story will be recorded, and the sound clip provided to Union College at the conclusion of the project.
  • If you have received an email with an embedded link, you may go to the online site to review your information and submit a story.
  • If you did not receive a postcard or email, you may call the dedicated Union College update line at 877-461-0870. If you are living internationally or are unable to call the update line, please email customerservice@publishingconcepts.com . PCI will send you a personalized link for you to share your written story and photo.

How can I participate if I am Deaf/Hard of Hearing?

If you would like to participate and are Deaf/Hard of Hearing, please email customerservice@publishingconcepts.com. PCI will send you a personalized link for you to share your written story and photo.

 

Can I choose what information prints in the publication?

The only information that is included in the publication is your name, class year, and degree, along with your story and photo. No contact information is printed. When you call to update your contact information, it will only be used to update your alumni record for the school/alumni association. You may revoke consent for
your story and/or photo to appear any time before 10/11/24 by contacting PCI’s customer service helpdesk at 1-800-982-1590 / customerservice@publishingconcepts.com.

 

I updated my information but need some more time to think about what experience to share.

You can call back at any time before 10/11/2024 to share your story.

I shared a story and the representative said I could send a photo. How do I do this?

You will receive an email with a link to upload one photo (black and white or color) plus a caption. If you have also purchased a book but do not have an email address on file, you will be sent a photo mailer to send a physical photo in to be printed (note: the photo will be returned if you include a self-addressed, stamped envelope).

 

Can anyone purchase a book?

The Union College Oral History Publication is available for sale only to Union College alumni.

When will I receive my book?

The total duration of the Oral History Project is about 12 – 14 months. Since we began the project in April 2024, the books will be distributed in April - June 2025

 

I ordered a book / package over the phone and would like to cancel my order. How do I do this?

Contact PCI’s customer service helpdesk at 1-800-982-1590 and they will take care of this for you.

Am I obligated to purchase a book if I tell my Union College story?

No. While you will have the opportunity purchase the book and other Union College items, a purchase is NOT required or expected for the inclusion of your story.