Author: Baleigh Essary

Baleigh Essary is the Content Creator for the Office for Marketing and Public Relations at the University of Mobile. Baleigh earned a Bachelors of Science in Management along with a minor in Graphic Design from UM in December of 2023. Baleigh is an active member and volunteer at More Life Church in Grand Bay. She is an avid photographer, and you will always find her with her Owala in one hand and caffeine in the other. One thing about Baleigh is that when she travels, 99% of the time it will be to visit her home-away-from-home, DISNEY!

University of Mobile Announces Deans’ List for Spring 2025

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is proud to announce the Deans’ List for Spring Semester 2025. The Dean’s List consists of students who earned a 3.50 GPA or higher with at least 12 credit hours. The students who received this honor are listed below.

Alex Abernathy, Savanna Adams, Emily Adkinson, Karlie Alaniz, Isabelle Allred, Salman Almandeel, Miguel-Abdiel Alonzo, Keagan Anderson, Jacob Arnold, Mallory Atchinson

Mia Bailey, Shabnam Bano, Trinity Barden, Kylie Ann Barnes, Madison Barnes, Alexia Barnett, Hanna Barnett, Thomas Bell, Katie Benoit, Gianmarco Bertolini, Bailee Best, Brantley Betts, Ian Blair, Jesse Blow, Emma Bolden, Andrew Bosarge, Mallory Botos, Kathleen Bowden, Taylor Boyington, Amanda Bream, Olivia Brentlinger, Kelsey Brewer, Sharterica Bridget, Cameron Brock, Abby Brooks, Madison Bruner, Gabriel Bryars, Andrew Buck, Abbie Buford, Isabella Bullington, Shamar Burks, Natalie Burt, Jonathan Byrd

Shakobe Cameron, Brayen Canas, Jahi Cannon, Kathryn Cantey, Anna Carlock, Brianna Carmichael, Alana Carson, Camila Castro, Anaria Chandler, Jade Chastang, Autumn Chestang, Roman Chiosa, Alejandro Chumacero Navarro, Laiken Coaker, Ethan Colbert, Samuel Colbert, Ryan Cooke, Jennifer Cope, Molena Copeland, Matthew Cornelius, Maggie Cotten, India Craig, Eric Crocker

Bryline Dailey, MacKenzie Danzey, Taylor Davidson, Lindsey Dearing, Alison Dearmon, Kadence Dedeaux, Erin Degruise, Aniyah Dent, Wyatt Dickson, Samule Dippel, Connor Duckett

Abigail Eddins, Hannah Edge, Jermaine Edwards, Illyes El Yansli, Anna Elliot, Kayden Ellis, Linda Ethridge, Mattie Evans, Amy Fisher, Honor Fluker, Meagan Ford, Michael Ford, Tyra Fortner, Kendel Lee Frazer, Tionna Frieson, Fisher Fuller, Pilar Fuller

Luke Galey, Gage Galloway, Stephen Galvin, Lauren Garcia, Journee Garrett, Karsen Gates, Trashinda Gavin, Caleb Gay, Anna Geter, Isabella Gibbons, Hayleigh Gideons, Gracie Giles, Joshua Giles, Sidney Gipe, Thiago Giri Rodrigues Mello, Nolin Godwin, Kailee Graley, Jake Graves, John Griffin, Nicole Griswold, Khadimou Gueye, Surely Gutierrez

Abdullah Hamid, Ashleigh Hamilton, Noah Hamner, Brea Harris, Kasi Harris, Taylor Garris, Shelby Harvison, Emily Hatcher, Steven Hazewinkel, Noah Henderson, Brianna Hendricks, Jake Henley, Olivia Henley, Regan Hickman, Nathan Higginson, Rebeccca Hii, Makala Holland, Kaylea Holmes, Harrison Hood, Madison Hunt

Makenzie Ingram, Lyndsey Jackson, Jake Jaye, Jonathan Jesse, Landon Jessee, Jenna Jiles, Isidro Jimenez Rosario, Caroline Johnson, Jordan Johnson, Naomi Johnson, Haley Jones, Joseph Jones, Zoe Jones

Allie Kelley, Clarissa Kelly, Katelynn Kempton, Ninah Kerr, MacEy Kidder, Bethany Kilgore, Anna King, William King, Michael Kitchen, Kaden Kugler, Adele Kuhn, Sophia Kuhn

Samantha Landaiche, Zachary Landrum, Lillie Lanham, Lindsey Lantis, Alyssa Lavelle, Addison Lentz, Chamberlyn Lentz, Jessef Leslie, Claire Lewis, Meredith Lewis, Katelyn Lippold, Hadley Little, Shellie Littlefield, Alexandria Lopez, Michael-Christian Lopez, Porsha Lynch, Jada Lynd, Carson Lynn, Jennah Lyons

Mayar Maarouf, Jenna Manning, William Manwaring, Marc Marquis, Alyasia Martin, Gracyn Martin, Jocelyn Martin, Chloe Martinez, Lais Tammy Masuda, Katelyn Maten, Kristyn Maten, Gabriel May, Janae McCall, Megan McCartney, Miriam McCoy, Hannah McCrory, Sarah McGonegal, Ezra McKenna, Travis McKenzie, Lane McLaughlin, Josephn McMahon, Rachel McMullan, Bai-Lee McNair, Emma McPherson, Marina Mellado Baron, Henrique Mendes, Jacob Miller, James Miller, William Mims, Luisa Monsalve, Joshua Moore, Lacee Moore, Esmealda Morataya, Trenton Moye, Karolina Mrowiecova, Shelita Muriithi, Katie Murphree, Kelly Murphree

Joshua Naman, Campbell Newell, Yasmine Nichols, Blakeley Norris, Madison Northcutt, Christopher Odom, Caraline Olson, Johan Ong, Emily Osborne, Emily Otts, Kinsey Otzenberger

Erin Parker, Joe Patrick, Emma Kate Patterson, Haley Pauley, Jocelyn Phillips, Julia Pitts, Lilly Plautz, Bailey Polk, Ellie Powell, Eve Powell, McCory Powell, Kayla Prieto, Jhanya Quinones, Olivia Quiroz

Brooke Rachel, Allison Ramey, Joevonie Reid, Morgan Reynolds, Victoria Richardson, Zoe Richardson, Hannah Rigby, Jamie Roberts, Jordyn Roberts, Madalyn Roberts, Alexis Rodrí-guez Ruiz, Adrian Roman, Brooklyn Rowell, Joy Rowser, Keira Ruddock, Cassie Ryals

Adrian Salas, Allie Schachle, Savana Schmitz, Jenna Schuliger, Avery Seitz, Jada Shamburger, Lanie Shaw, Madilyn Sheffield, Conner Shepard, Emilee Shuler, Courtney Sides, Georgia Simmons, Benjamin Sims, Cameron Skipper, Kaitlyn Skrove, Angel Smith, Cohen Smith, Emma Smith, Isabella Smith, Jacylin Smith, Rodney Smith, Nicholas Spears, Addison Stagner, Bryna Stokes, Lyla Kae Stokes, Isabella Stacener, Brooklyn Strevel, Samuel Stronge

Guerrero Tablan, Madison Tarver, Kristy Tate, Austin Taylor, Faith Taylor, Georgia Taylor, Mateo Tempone, Megan Thomas, Grace Tilman, Elsy Torres-Lopez, Cierra Travis, Dallas Trehern, Eriana Turner, Ian Turner, Johnathan Turner, Marleigh Turner, Presleigh Turner, Sabrina Turner

Alex Valenzuela, Morgan Varnadore, Gabriella Vasko, Nicolai Vasko, Diana Vazquez, Samuel Vergara, Halle Verkerk, Angela Viator, Skylah Vinzant, Peyton Walker, Jordan Ward, Arthur Watson, Karlie Welch, Samuel Werry, Erika West, MacKenzie White, Kaylee Whitson, Alaina Whitten, Melody Whittington, Adalyn Wiggins, Macayla Wiggins, Kylie Wilkerson, John Willard, Christina Williams, Kaylee Williams, Marleigh Williams, Deanderick Wilson, Jamilya Windham, Trevor Wood, Henry Woodall, Jaylyn Woodruff, Hallie Wriley

About the University of Mobile

Since 1961, the University of Mobile has existed to train God-called men and women to leverage their gifts for the glory of God and the good of the world. The Great Commission Fund fuels that mission, helping equip students to know, love and serve the Lord for the rest of their lives.

For more information about the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/um-info.

University of Mobile Announces President’s List for Spring 2025

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is proud to announce the President’s List for Spring Semester 2025. The President’s List consists of students who earned a 4.0 GPA with at least 15 credit hours. The students who received this honor are listed below.

Rachel Allen, Mary Katherine Alums, Sebastian Arze, Claire Atkins, Skyler Barnes, Laura Belk, Skylar Bennett, Ella Blalock, MacKenzie Borders, Kennedy Bradford, Bailey Bronner, Ashlyn Broussard, Grace Bryant, Adam Byzdra

Claire Campbell, Grayson Cannon, Nina Carpenter, Savannah Catrett, Emma Champagne, Hunter Chapuis, Grace Chisholm, Christopher Conger, Madison Cooley, Anna Coon, Erin Cooper, Breyton Cornelius, Micah Coxwell, Jaxson Crisler, Jamie Criswell, Natalie Criswell, Ashton Cubitt

Allana Davis, Bethany Dean, Dazsha Dean, Brayden Deaton, Lilie Dickerson, Emily Dietz, Claire Dodson, Daniel Doherty, Alanna Donaldson, Camryn Dorilma, Sophie Dorris, Rachel Dunaway, Rebecca Duncan

Camille Edgar, Makenzie Ellison, Gracelon Fell, Leonardo Fiorotti Da Silva, Madelynn Fleming, Leah Foster, Caroline Frederick, Leonardo Fuentes, Peter Gardner, Alexis Gilette, Madison Gipe, William Givens, Luke Graham

Emma Hampton, Yonan Hanna, Andrew Henley, Madison Hill, Victoria Holewka, Goodwin Holley, Hayleigh Hopper, Andrea Hughes, Jaxson Hughes, Elizabeth Ivey, Erica Jackson, Haley Jones

Maggie Kenyon, Katarina Kern, Sierra Knight, Heather Knowles, Kylie Koster, Brooklyn Kyzar, Kensley Lambert, Elisabeth Langley, Amy Lankford, Lucca Leal, Rachel Leclerc, Reagan Lentz, Madalyn Lewis, Logan Lipke, Madison Lipke, Samuel Lockett, Kamirra Logan, Judah Lokey

Dalton Mathis, Lauren McLean, Braylee McMath, Elyssa Messick, Gracie Mitchell, Stephen Mixon, Robert Moulthrop, Annsley Myers, Lexi Myers

April Nicholson, Lydia Nicholson, Joshua Norris, Anna Olsen, Peter Olsen, Emma Owen, Latifha Pascall, Liam Patterson, Matthew Patterson, Meredith Peacock, Sarah Polk, Claire Powell, Lott Putnam, Elizabeth Ranew, Bethany Reed, Jacob Rehbine, Santiago Reina Mendivelso, Joaquin Rivera

Katlyn Sampson, Taylor Sasser, Jeb Scarbrough, Greta Schneider, Hayden Seale, Lorelei Seas, Davide Sedini, Gabrielle Sheffield, Merrin Simmons, Lucy Spisto, Ryleigh Stanford, Lillian Steiner, Kylee Stewart, Bryant Story, Claire Suter, Jailyn Swink

Sarah Taylor, Susan Terry, Kendall Thomas, Emily Thullesen, Joshua Trimble, Sarah Tyler, Melissa Umanzor, Layne Vidich, Hannah Victoria Walters, Truly Webb, Emma Wilkins, Zorey Williams, Kristen Wright, Carlee Wyatt, MacKenzie Yates

About the University of Mobile

Since 1961, the University of Mobile has existed to train God-called men and women to leverage their gifts for the glory of God and the good of the world. The Great Commission Fund fuels that mission, helping equip students to know, love and serve the Lord for the rest of their lives.

For more information about the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/um-info.

University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts to Host ‘Thinking Together’ Chamber Concert 

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA) at the University of Mobile will present its annual chamber concert titled “Thinking Together” on Tuesday, April 8, at 7 p.m. in Moorer Auditorium on the university campus. The event will mark the conclusion of the university’s Piano Festival VIII and will feature an evening of diverse musical performances.

The program will showcase original works by ASOTA students Logan Lipke, Trent McGuff and Benjamin Naman, alongside baroque, classical, romantic and contemporary music selections. The concert is a highlight for students and attendees alike, promising an inspiring experience.

Artistry in Collaboration

“The nature of composing itself is such a solitary act,” said Benjamin Naman, a junior studying music composition. “But the artistry in collaboration is one of the greatest delights in composing.”

Rebecca Reed, a master’s student in piano performance, emphasized the value of collaboration in chamber music. “It challenges me to be a better musician and has helped me form amazing bonds with other musicians that I wouldn’t have had otherwise,” Reed said.

Kenn Hughes, associate dean of ASOTA’s Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts, highlighted the unique qualities of chamber music. 

“Unlike symphonic music, chamber music demands a high level of interaction and collaboration. There’s a level of spontaneity and shared creativity that makes the experience so rewarding,” Hughes said.

Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, director of piano studies, professor of music and Steinway Artist, added that the experience teaches students to “listen, adapt and create together.”

Talented Students Featured

The concert will feature a talented lineup of 16 student performers, including:

  • Christopher Conger, violin
  • Ellie Powell, clarinet 
  • Rebecca Reed, violin
  • Zarina Akayeva, piano
  • Kaylee Whitson, flute
  • Samuel Werry, cello
  • Benjamin Naman, composer
  • Marc Marquis, piano
  • Alison Strunk, violin
  • Zhanel Saiyn-Turubayeva, piano
  • Logan Lipke, composer
  • Trent McGuff, composer
  • Andrew Sandlin, trombone
  • Britain Lord, voice
  • Marabella Wilmouth, piano
  • Nicholas Lewis, piano 

The evening’s program will include pieces such as George Handel’s “Sonata for Violin and Piano in D Major,” Benjamin Naman’s original composition “1934,” Trent McGuff’s original composition “Ellipsis,” Logan Lipke’s original composition “Seed of the Woman,” and Alfred Schnittke’s “Suite in the Old Style for Violin and Piano, Op. 80.”

For more information, visit umobile.edu/asotaseason. To learn about the University of Mobile and opportunities to be part of the Alabama School of the Arts, visit umobile.edu/um-info.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Miss University of Mobile 2025 Competition Set for Jan. 31

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is gearing up for its annual Miss UM competition. This highly anticipated event showcases the talent, poise and leadership of some of UM’s brightest female students as they compete for the title of Miss University of Mobile.

The competition will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 31, at 7 p.m. at the Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center. The public is invited to attend this exciting evening of performances and inspiration. Tickets will be available at the door: $15 for general admission and $10 for students. 

The winner crowned Miss UM will serve as an ambassador for the university throughout the year, participating in a variety of events, speaking engagements and service opportunities.

Meet the Contestants

Strunk

Alison Strunk, an English and Piano Performance double major from Panama City, FL, will champion her platform, Heroic Hearts Outreach, with a piano performance of “Paganini Etude no. 6 in A minor.”

Williams

Christina Williams, a Nursing major from Saraland, AL, is advocating for You Are Not Alone and will perform the vocal piece “Blue Skies.”

Brea Harris, an English Education major from Saraland, AL, represents her platform, Salt and Light, with a flag routine to “God Bless the USA.”

Caitlyn Ozee, a Worship Leadership major from Bourbonnais, IL, is focusing on her platform, Middle Ground, with a vocal performance of ““Praise You in this Storm.”

Natalie Criswell, an Accounting major from Saraland, AL, will perform a tap dance to “New Money” while championing her platform, Beyond the Books.

Teylor Odom, an Early Childhood & Elementary Education major from Evans, GA, is advocating for The Oakdale Project with her vocal performance of “Hopelessly Devoted to You.”

Kennedy Bradford, a Graphic Design major from Vernon, AL, is showcasing her platform, If You Have a Pulse, You Have a Purpose, through a speed painting demonstration.

Chesed Turner, a Musical Theater major from Niceville, FL, represents her platform, Created to Create, with a vocal performance of “Golden Slumber/Carry That Weight.”

Jaycie Tungett, a Communication major from Leakesville, MS, will perform a ballet en pointe to “Hooked on a Song” in support of her platform, Shining a Light on DIPG.

Allegra Fuller, a Commercial Voice major from Mobile, AL, advocates for her platform, This is Me, with a vocal performance of “Alfie.”

The evening will include a showcase of talent, interviews and other competitions that highlight the diverse skills and dedication of the participants. Audience members will have the opportunity to be part of an unforgettable night of inspiration.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the crowning of the next Miss University of Mobile — an event that celebrates the heart and soul of UM. For more details, visit umobile.edu/missum.

Learn more about the University of Mobile and what makes it an award-winning institution at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Visit the University of Mobile on UM Day and Earn a $2,000 Scholarship

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – Join us for UM Day on Friday, Feb. 7, and experience the Christ-centered education that sets the University of Mobile apart. As a bonus, visiting campus on UM Day could earn you a $2,000 scholarship!

UM Day offers prospective students and their families a firsthand look at life at UM. You’ll:

  • Tour our beautiful campus.
  • Meet professors and current students.
  • Explore financial aid opportunities.
  • Submit your application for free!

New traditional undergraduate students who visit campus, apply, and enroll are eligible for the $2,000 scholarship. Don’t miss this opportunity to take the next step toward your future!

Save Your Spot Today!


Visit https://umobile.edu/umday-info/ or call 251.442.2222 to RSVP. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. in Ram Hall at the University of Mobile, 5735 College Parkway, Mobile, AL 36613.

Schedule a Private Tour!

Personalized, private tours also may be scheduled for Mondays through Fridays. Students who attend a private campus visit also will receive a $2,000 scholarship when they apply for admission and enroll. 

To schedule a private campus tour, please visit umobile.edu/um-info for more information, or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Sign Up Now for Spring Semester UM Days 

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile invites you to UM Day — a special opportunity to explore campus, meet professors and students, and experience our Christ-centered higher education. Plus, every new traditional undergraduate student will receive a $2,000 scholarship when you visit, apply and enroll.

What Happens at UM Day?

  • Take a guided tour of our beautiful campus
  • Meet professors and current students
  • Learn about financial aid and the admissions process
  • Submit your free application

Upcoming UM Days:

  • Friday, Feb. 7, 2025
  • Friday, March 21, 2025

Save Your Spot Today:
Visit https://umobile.edu/umday-info/ or call 251.442.2222 to RSVP. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. in Ram Hall at the University of Mobile, 5735 College Parkway, Mobile, AL 36613.

Schedule a Private Tour

Personalized, private tours also may be scheduled for Mondays through Fridays. Students who attend a private campus visit also will receive a $2,000 scholarship when they apply for admission and enroll. 

To schedule a private campus tour, please visit umobile.edu/visit for more information.

Learn more about the University of Mobile and what makes it an award-winning institution at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher 
Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their 
future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Christmas Spectacular 2024 Returns: A Holiday Tradition with University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – Kick off the Christmas season on the Gulf Coast as the University of Mobile Alabama School of the Arts presents “Christmas Spectacular 2024!” This beloved holiday tradition lights up the stage with four breathtaking performances from November 21-24 at Cottage Hill Baptist Church. 

Tickets are going fast but many are still available now at umobile.edu/Christmas.  Reserve your seats today and start your holiday season with Christmas Spectacular — a celebration too good to miss!

 “This year’s show is full of great music and spectacular moments, however, what makes the event truly special is the heartbeat behind it all. A lead creative team of faculty and staff members have been planning this event since June and students have been rehearsing the music since August, all to bring glory to God. The students and their commitment to sharing the good news of Jesus with audiences every night is was makes this show truly amazing” says Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of Alabama School of the Arts.

Now in its 22nd year, Christmas Spectacular showcases over 250 performers, all students, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra. Audiences will be immersed in the joy of the season with a family-friendly production featuring familiar music and vibrant visuals that celebrate the spirit of Christmas.

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This year’s musical lineup promises unforgettable performances from a variety of ensembles, including the 100+ voice University of Mobile choir, the high-energy brass and percussion group RamCorps, Welsh Revival, Voices of Mobile, and the new gospel ensemble Dunamis. These talented groups, along with the full orchestra, brings the gospel message of Christmas to life in incredible ways.

Each year, Christmas Spectacular draws more than 8,000 attendees from across the U.S. to Mobile, and its televised broadcast reaches millions around the world. For those unable to attend in person, every performance will be live-streamed, bringing the experience of Christmas Spectacular directly to homes across the globe.

Special invitations are extended to high school aged juniors and seniors as well as University of Mobile alumni. Alabama School of the Arts offers early entry and a VIP backstage pass to juniors and seniors in high school. Participating in this experience enters students into a drawing for a half-tuition scholarship. Additionally, University of Mobile Alumni are invited to attend a special Alumni reception 30 minutes prior to the Friday, Saturday and Sunday performances. 

Performance Dates and Times:

  • Thursday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m.
  • Friday, Nov. 22 at 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, Nov. 23 at 2 p.m.
  • Sunday, Nov. 24 at 4 p.m.

Secure your seat or live stream today at umobile.edu/Christmas. Don’t miss this opportunity to kick off the holiday season with a musical experience that has become a staple for families and friends on the Gulf Coast and beyond.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Celebrates 100th Anniversary of ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ with Unique Jazz Band Premiere 

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – In honor of the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin’s iconic “Rhapsody in Blue,” University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts will host a special concert on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 7 p.m. at the Burnett Event Center. This landmark event will feature a premiere performance of an original arrangement for jazz band, marking the first time this original orchestration will be performed by a jazz band in the United States. Tickets are now available for purchase at umobile.edu/asotaseason, and this one-of-a-kind performance is not to be missed.

hughes

A Jazz Band Premiere: A New Take on a Classic

Traditionally performed with a full orchestra, Rhapsody in Blue has been reimagined in this orchestration created specifically for a jazz band, penned by Texas-based Southern Baptist musician Billy Bob Dempsey. Known for his dynamic and innovative compositions, Dempsey’s work on this project has paved the way for a fresh, lively interpretation of Gershwin’s masterpiece, said Kenn Hughes, associate dean of the university’s Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts and director of the UM Jazz Band.

“Rhapsody in Blue, written in 1924 by George Gershwin and commissioned by Paul Whiteman, is THE composition that brought a new era of American Music to all audiences,” Hughes said. “It combined elements of classical and jazz music which helped to define ‘The Jazz Age.’ 

“Here we are, 100 years after it was written, and the most accomplished pianists perform this work with symphony orchestras all around the world, establishing it as one of the premiere works of all time.”

To learn more about the history and impact of Rhapsody in Blue and the university’s upcoming performance, watch a video.

Pianist Kadisha Onalbayeva Featured 

piano

The concert will showcase pianist Kadisha Onalbayeva, a Steinway Artist who has performed Rhapsody in Blue at concerts across the world. She said she is thrilled to collaborate with University of Mobile’s jazz band. 

“I love working with students because I learn so much,” Onalbayeva said. ” Working with our students on this piece has been truly inspiring. It’s given me new opportunities to connect with them on stage and share this iconic work in a meaningful way.” Her unique artistry and passion for teaching elevates this centennial celebration to new heights, promising an unforgettable experience for concert-goers.

Student Spotlight: Bringing Gershwin to Life

everyone

Among the performers is senior math major and music double-minor Jack Mims, who plays the tenor sax, flute and clarinet in jazz band. Mims is excited to bring Rhapsody in Blue to life in this special performance. 

“I love Rhapsody in Blue. My favorite part about it is that it’s beautiful, fast and upbeat. It’s just so fun to play,” said Mims, reflecting the enthusiasm shared by his fellow student musicians.

A Night to Remember

This once-in-a-lifetime concert will take place at the Dr. Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center on campus. The performance begins at 7 p.m. and tickets are available through umobile.edu/asotaseason. 

View the full ASOTA season schedule and purchase tickets at umobile.edu/asota. To learn more about the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/um-info. 

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222

Attend Nov. 22 UM Day, Earn a University of Mobile Scholarship 

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile invites potential students to “Experience the Difference” of UM’s Christ-centered higher education and earn a $2,000 scholarship for visiting campus on an upcoming UM Day. The next UM Day is set for Friday, Nov. 22.

UM Days give potential students and families an opportunity to tour the University of Mobile campus, speak with professors, meet current students, learn about financial aid and submit a free application. New traditional undergraduate students who attend a UM Day will also receive a $2,000 scholarship when they visit campus, apply and enroll.

RSVP for UM Day

To RSVP for UM Day on November 22, please visit umobile.edu/umday-info or call 251.442.2222. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. in Ram Hall on the University of Mobile campus, 5735 College Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36613. 

Schedule a Private Tour

Personalized, private tours also may be scheduled for Mondays through Fridays. Students who attend a private campus visit also will receive a $2,000 scholarship when they apply for admission and enroll. 

To schedule a private campus tour, please visit umobile.edu/umday-info for more information or call 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

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weaver hall building