Jenna Leigh Sammons Receives Bachelor of Science from Union University
Jenna Leigh Sammons, a resident of Bolivar, Tennessee, received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Union University. She was one of 203 students that graduated in the 201st graduating class from Union in a ceremony, which was held on Saturday, December 13, 2025. Jenna was also named to the fall 2025 Union University Dean’s List. She has plans to further her education in occupational therapy in 2026.
Choosing to attend Union University was a good decision for Jenna, who graduated from the University School of Jackson in spring 2021. At Union, Jenna thrived taking faith-driven courses, which she gives credit to as well as the “incredible professors” for continuing to inspire her love of learning.
“The courses at Union University are rigorous, inspirational, informative, and well organized for students to learn. I have enjoyed having the opportunity to apply this knowledge at a Christian standpoint as well,” said Jenna. “I have made numerous life-long connections and friendships even while pursuing my education.”
Jenna’s faith as a Christan also grew while she was a student at Union University. She joined the sorority Zeta Tau Alpha in the fall of 2021 where she found even more opportunities to serve and make meaningful connections.
“I found more opportunities to serve in the community, spread the light of Jesus, and grow within my own walk with Christ,” said Jenna. “A few of my favorite events at Union include participating in the 5K Run for a Cure for our ZTA philanthropy (Breast Cancer Education and Awareness) as well as performing in the variety show in the spring (a community organization organized by the Union SAC team) where I was able to utilize my talents by helping with stage-makeup and learning new choreography.”
As her faith grew, Jenna realized the spiritual quality of her life must include a healthy physical to round out her wellbeing. Along with pursuing her degree, Jenna found time to participate in ZTA intramural sports like softball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, basketball, corn hole tournaments, as well as the Greek Olympics.
“Throughout my college process, I found that exercise pushes you to become a better version of yourself and helps maintain a stronger work ethic. I found this to be evident in my life because when we push ourselves to get active, we push ourselves to work on ourselves in all aspects of our life,” said Jenna. “For me, this resulted in a stronger work ethic and to maintain discipline for God, myself, my education, family, friendships, and my job. From my experience, staying physically active overall positively impacts one’s cardiovascular, academic, mental, spiritual health, and more.”
Jenna has gained a greater passion to help those with injuries or disabilities grow stronger. She currently works as a physical therapy tech at Sports Plus in Medina, Tennessee. Jenna is excited about the wonderful experience as a new employee for West Tennessee Healthcare. She enjoys working with patients to help them achieve their goals and dreams to fulfill a better quality of life in the midst of challenges or struggles.
“People with disabilities have an incredible range of hobbies and talents that caregivers or guardians can encourage as well as visualize a powerful future beyond limitations. People with chronic pain, injury, or disability hold stories, experiences, and memories that can impact and inspire us all as a community,” said Jenna. “Choosing the path of occupational therapy and physical therapy can help individuals bring those goals to life as well as support their hopes and dreams to living a life that best fits them to their own individuality.”
A Bible verse, which Jenna holds close to her heart is Isaiah 40:31, “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
That verse inspires how she lives her life every day and how she serves her patients through the work she does as a physical therapy tech.
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