Q&A with UM Assistant Professor of Biology Dr. Cynthia Littlejohn

Dr. Cynthia Littlejohn never expected to spend her career in the classroom.

“I had every intention of spending my life in the field and not the classroom! But as they say, ‘God had other plans,’” said the assistant professor of biology.

Today, she combines decades of teaching experience with a passion for mentoring future healthcare professionals, scientists and educators in a Christ-centered learning community at the University of Mobile.

Q. What is your professional background?

A. I earned a bachelor’s degree in ecology from Jacksonville State University. I went on to obtain my master’s degree from Jacksonville State while working as the laboratory coordinator for its biology department. My first teaching jobs were part-time at a small Baptist high school where I was the only science teacher and also taught night classes at a local community college.

Eventually, I accepted a full-time position at The University of Southern Mississippi where I taught in the Biological Sciences Department for 19 years. During my time there, I was able to earn a doctorate from the university’s Center for Science and Math Education. I was ultimately promoted from instructor to the rank of teaching professor and served as the cellular and molecular biology program coordinator for several years.

Q. Why should a prospective student choose to study in your program at UM?

A. The small class sizes ensure that students get a lot of individualized instruction. I have many students in multiple classes during their time at UM and this allows for the development of meaningful connections. They also spend most of their time with the same group of students creating beneficial peer support groups.

Through the various degree offerings and collaboration of faculty, our students are able to customize their educational path to support their long-term professional goals. Finally, classes are taught by faculty who are really invested in the success of their students and most are considered experts in their fields.

Q. What do you think are the most important skills or attributes for students to develop during their college years? How do you see UM helping to develop these in students?

A. I frequently make the statement that I teach students biology and also how to succeed in the next stages of their lives. It is vital that students do not leave college with only a new or expanded knowledge base, but also career-ready, transferable skills.

I think some of the most valuable lessons students learn in college are critical thinking, communication skills and self-efficacy. This is an opportunity to learn how to both rely on themselves and recognize when to ask for help. It is rare that individuals proceed through life alone, and most careers require constant collaboration. College is a time for learning how to work with and communicate effectively with one’s peers. At the same time, students must develop the intrinsic motivation and self-reliance required to effectively manage their time and complete tasks.

Q. What is a tradition or practice at UM that you particularly enjoy and why?

A. The ASOTA program is so impressive, and I love any opportunity to watch our students perform. I was raised in a house full of music where my mother sang, my sister played the piano and my father played guitar. My family even owned a music store when I was young. I raised my children to have the same appreciation for music and was blessed to watch my daughter perform in show choir and marching band for many years.

Opportunities to see my students perform, such as at Christmas Spectacular, fill my heart with joy, and I have an unending appreciation for their hard work and God-given talents.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For the Kingdom. To the World.” With a vision to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world, the university equips students through Christ-centered learning and community to pursue God’s calling with courage, purpose and Kingdom impact.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Caroline Bowers

Caroline Bowers is the social media and content manager at the University of Mobile. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in media studies from Auburn University in 2023 and her Master of Business Administration from Troy University in 2025. With experience in digital marketing and social media management, she is passionate about creating meaningful content. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking with her dog, listening to music and spending time with family and friends.