Author: Heath Vester

Heath Vester is an experienced graphic designer and photographer. He serves as the Associate Vice President for Creative Services for the University of Mobile’s Office of Marketing & Public Relations. He is an alumnus of the University of Mobile, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art and a Master of Science in Leadership and Communication. Beyond his role at the university, Heath is the owner of Heath Vester Creative, his freelance company where he provides a wide variety of creative services to individuals and organizations.

University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts Presents ‘The Book of Will’

by Heath Vester

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile presents “The Book of Will” by Lauren Gunderson, a heartwarming and hilarious play that brings to life the friends who saved Shakespeare’s greatest works from being lost forever.

Performances run October 2–5 in the Dr. Lonnie and Lynne Burnett Event Center on the UM campus. Tickets are available at the door and online at umobile.edu/asotaevents.

Showtimes are:

  • Thursday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m.
  • Friday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m.
  • Sunday, Oct. 5 at 3 p.m.

An Unforgettable Theatrical Experience

Directed by Stewart Hawley, chair of the UM Theatre Department, the production promises an unforgettable theatrical experience.

“The Book of Will is packed with humor, love and the magic of theatre. It’s a celebration of friendship and storytelling you won’t want to miss,” said Hawley.

Production highlights include an exquisite set design, authentic Elizabethan costumes, and exceptional performances from a talented cast, all coming together to create a remarkable theatre experience.

Chesed Turner, a senior BFA Musical Theatre major who plays Elizabeth Condell, said the experience has been both challenging and rewarding.

“Elizabeth has been such a fun character to unravel, working through her own personal loss and balancing it with the joy and playfulness of her marriage with Henry,” Turner said. “It’s also been such a cool experience working on this set. Seeing all the time and effort the students have put into it has been such a sweet thing to witness.”

ASOTA Performing Arts Season

The Book of Will is part of the Alabama School of the Arts performing arts season that offers a  variety of events from musical theatre and opera to ensemble performances and piano festival. Tickets for UM’s popular Christmas Spectacular go on sale Oct. 1. For details on upcoming performances and events, visit umobile.edu/asotaevents.

Cast & Creative Team

The cast for The Book of Will features:

  • Caden Dazzo as Henry Condell
  • Malik Johnson as John Heminges
  • Marleigh Turner as Alice Heminges/Susannah Shakes/Fruit Seller
  • Chesed Turner as Elizabeth Condell/Marcus/Barman 2
  • Reagan Daniels as Rebecca Heminges/Anne Hathaway/Emilia Lanier
  • Jonah Nelson as Richard Burbage/Issac Jaggard
  • Meagan Eveleigh as William Jaggard/Barman 1
  • Erica Jackson as Edwina Knight/Crier/Marcus/Francisco
  • Katie McCrory as Ralph Crane/Bernardo
  • Laurel Burcham as Compositor/Crier/Horatio/Boy Hamlet
  • Molly Hughes as Sir Daring/Crier/Barman

Stage management and production support are led by Presleigh Turner (stage manager), Alana Carson (assistant stage manager), Prentiss Baker (stagehand), Logan Mitchel (stagehand), Fayth McDonald (stagehand) and Naima Drake (stagehand).

Creative collaborators include Kristina Swearingen (set builder), Jerrilyn Duckworth (costume designer), Mason Moak (light and sound designer) and Chris Dietrich (set designer).

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university equips students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

Founded in 1961 and affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention, UM is 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. 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.

University of Mobile Campus Updates Transform Key Spaces to Enrich Student Experience and Community

by Heath Vester

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile introduced a fresh wave of campus improvements this summer designed to create a welcoming, inspiring environment for both current students and visitors. The updates focused on some of the most strategic and high-traffic areas on campus — spaces where students learn, gather and form their first impressions of UM.

University of Mobile President Charles Smith said the renovations were strategically chosen to make the greatest impact on daily student life and prospective student experiences.

“At the University of Mobile, every space on our campus tells a story about who we are and what we value,” Smith said.

“These updates were chosen with intentionality so that when students walk into a classroom, gather for a meal, or connect with one another, they are in an environment that reflects excellence, hospitality, and our Christ-centered mission. We want every student and guest to feel welcomed, inspired, and reminded that UM is a place where they belong.”

Campus Improvements

Ingram Dining Hall now shines with new floors, modern furniture and fresh signage, offering a brighter, more inviting place for students to share meals and build community. The updates not only enhance the dining experience but also create a warm first impression for campus guests who often begin their visit here.

Bedsole Commons received a refreshed look with new paint and an inspiring mural at the front entrance. The mural depicts the iconic Weaver Hall, symbolizing both the tradition and forward-looking vision of the university. These updates make Bedsole Commons an even more welcoming gathering spot for students and a visual reminder of the heart of UM’s campus.

Enrollment Services in Weaver Hall was reimagined with new paint, furniture and signage that reflect the mission of the university. This transformation ensures that future Rams are welcomed in a space that embodies the professionalism and hospitality of UM.

Academic spaces also received careful attention. Two classrooms in Martin Hall were renovated with new furniture, technology upgrades and clean, modern finishes that make them more conducive to learning and collaboration. These updates highlight UM’s commitment to equipping students with spaces where they can thrive academically.

Additional student spaces were created in the lower level of Weaver Hall, including the addition of a dedicated call center. With fresh design elements, updated furniture and motivational wall graphics, the area has been transformed into a hub of energy and connection — providing students with places to work, relax, and support their peers.

Campus landscaping received attention at Ram Hall patio and throughout the grounds, providing refreshed outdoor spaces that enhance the beauty of campus and create a welcoming environment for students and visitors alike.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

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.

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