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 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.

You’re Invited! Come to UM Day on Oct. 14 and Earn a 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 Monday, October 14.

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 October14, please visit umobile.edu/umday 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/visit for more information.

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 Faculty, Students Earn Prestigious Kennedy Center Honors 

by Baleigh Essary

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts has been honored with 10 prestigious awards from The Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, a national program recognizing excellence and diversity in university and college theatre programs across the United States.

The awards program celebrates the finest work in university and college theatre, highlighting outstanding achievements in all areas of production. This recognition is a significant honor, as only a select few institutions receive these coveted awards each season. 

Shinning lives
These Shining Lives 

Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, said ASOTA faculty bring decades of experience and expertise into University of Mobile classrooms and rehearsals. 

“I am immensely proud of the faculty who received these prestigious awards from the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. Their recognition is testament to their creativity and dedication to our students. Our theatre department is thriving, and I am confident our 2024-2025 season will be another award-winning season,” Goodwin said.

Musical Comedy
The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile provides quality academics with unique performance opportunities in a Christian environment. A wide range of ensembles and concerts give students extensive opportunities to spend more time gaining real-world, hands-on experience on stage and behind the scenes.

Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees are offered through the departments of music, theatre, worship leadership and production technologies. For more information about the Alabama School of the Arts, including opportunities to audition for scholarships, visit umobile.edu/asota.

Outstanding Faculty and Students

The following Alabama School of the Arts faculty and students in the Department of Theatre were recipients of The Kennedy Center awards:

Director:

  • Stewart Hawley, assistant professor of theatre and chair, department of theatre – These Shining Lives, The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940
  • Alexandra Trosper, assistant professor of music – The Pirates of Penzance

Music Direction:

  • Gregory Wiggins, instructor of music – The Pirates of Penzance

Costume Design:

  • Malinda Powers, adjunct instructor, theatre costumes and design – The Pirates of Penzance, The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940

Choreography:

  • Heidi Lemon, adjunct instructor, theatre dance – The Pirates of Penzance

Lighting Design:

  • Chad Rivers, production technologies student – The Pirates of Penzance

Technical Direction:

  • Jeremy Harford, director of production technologies – The Pirates of Penzance

Sound Design:

  • Katie Jones, director of media and production – The Pirates of Penzance

Upcoming ASOTA Theatre Productions

The 2024-2025 Alabama School of the Arts season includes several major productions. Audiences will explore the world of 1920s Russia with the musical “Anastasia,” celebrate a medieval “Boar’s Head Festival” Christmas feast and experience a fresh approach to Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, “Hamlet.”

Information on these and many more upcoming events presented by the talented students and faculty of the Alabama School of the Arts can be found on the University of Mobile website at umobile.edu/asotaseason.

Pictured above: The Pirates of Penzance.

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 a 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, Sept. 20. 

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 Sept. 20, please visit umobile.edu/umday 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. 

Other UM Days scheduled for the 2024-2025 academic year are:

  • Monday, Oct. 14, 2024
  • Friday, Nov. 22, 2024
  • Friday, Feb. 7, 2025
  • Friday, March 21, 2025. 

To RSVP for a future UM Day, visit umobile.edu/umday.

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.

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 Graduate Wins National Athletic Training Award

by Baleigh Essary
MAT

Mobile, Ala. – Hailee Richard, a 2024 graduate of the University of Mobile’s Master of Athletic Training program, has been honored with the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) 2024 Bobby Gunn Student Leadership Award for District Nine. This award recognizes her exceptional leadership and dedication in athletic training.

“Winning the Bobby Gunn Leadership Award is a tremendous honor,” Richard said. “It represents the growth I experienced during my time at the University of Mobile and the dedication I have to the athletic training profession. Bobby Gunn was a true pioneer whose leadership inspires me to make a difference.”

Dr. Melissa Thomas, program director for the Master of Athletic Training at the University of Mobile, said, “This is such a great honor for Hailee and, of course, for the University of Mobile’s Master of Athletic Training program. I am excited to see Hailee’s first NATA convention experience through a recent graduate’s eyes. I am so happy for Hailee and all the work she has put into becoming an athletic trainer. We wish her the best on her journey.” 

Prestigious Award

MAT Award

The Bobby Gunn Student Leadership Award, named to honor one of the pioneers in athletic training, is awarded annually to one student from each of NATA’s 10 districts. District Nine, which includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky and Louisiana, selected Richard for her outstanding contributions and leadership.

As part of this prestigious award, Richard will receive an all-expense-paid trip to the 75th NATA Clinical Symposia and AT Expo in New Orleans, Louisiana, from June 25-28, 2024. She will be formally recognized at the Pinky Newell Scholarship and Student Leadership Reception on Thursday, June 27, 2024. 

Transformative Impact of MAT Program

Reflecting on her time at the University of Mobile, Richard highlighted the transformative impact of the Master of Athletic Training program.

“The program not only prepared me for a career in athletic training by developing my clinical skills and knowledge, but also taught me the importance of serving others. The support from my professors and preceptors has been invaluable,” she said.

About UM’s Master of Athletic Training

UM’s Master of Athletic Training program is a two-year, 62-credit-hour program that prepares students through both didactic and clinical experiences to sit for the Board of Certification Exam. UM’s CAATE-accredited program offers students multiple clinical immersion opportunities at local high schools, sports medicine clinics, surgery centers, physical therapy clinics and more.

Students have the opportunity to learn in the university’s state-of-the-art Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice located on campus, complete with high-fidelity manikins used for patient encounters. Students may also take advantage of UM’s nationally accredited human gross anatomy lab as part of their learning experience.

For more information about the Master of Athletic Training program at the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/mat. To apply or learn more, visit umobile.edu/apply, email umenrollment@umobile.edu, or call 251.442.2222 or 1.800.WIN.RAMS.

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.

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