Author: Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Lives are being transformed this summer at the University of Mobile, where more than 2,400 middle to high school students are arriving for MFuge – week-long camps centered on missions, worship and spiritual growth.

Youth groups and leaders from 103 churches across 13 states are taking part in the summer camp program at UM operated by the Southern Baptist Convention’s Lifeway Christian Resources.

Dr. Charles Smith, president of the University of Mobile, said MFuge embodies the university’s mission to glorify God and serve others.

“When thousands of students gather on this campus to serve our city and grow in their faith, we are witnessing the next generation of Kingdom leaders in action,” Smith said. “It’s a powerful expression of what it means to live ‘For Christ & His Kingdom.’”

Last summer at UM, the impact was clear: 90 salvations, 66 recommitments to faith and 41 calls to ministry were recorded, according to Melina Baird, event coordinator for MFuge.

A Legacy of Ministry and Missions

The Southern Baptist Convention’s FUGE Camps youth ministry program started in 1979 and now includes two primary tracks: MFuge, which incorporates opportunities for service with worship and Bible study; and Centrifuge, which focuses on recreation, Bible study, worship and topical tracks. The University of Mobile has been hosting FUGE Camps since 1981. In 1996, UM became one of the first sites to host MFuge and today is the longest-running MFuge location in the nation.

The camps are held on 24 university campuses and 11 retreat/conference centers across the United States. At the University of Mobile, students and church youth group leaders get a taste of college life – living at Alabama’s #1 safest college campus with the #1 best dorms and enjoying campus amenities including sand volleyball courts, outdoor pool, disc golf and pickleball courts.

Serving the City Through Hands-on Ministry

MFuge introduces students to real-world ministry opportunities throughout the Mobile area. Campers choose from four types of service: painting, construction and yard work; children’s ministry; games and recreation; and social ministry sites such as soup kitchens, clothing closets and nursing home visits, among others. Children’s and recreation ministries are held in area parks and at organizations such as Boy’s & Girl’s Clubs. Each night, they gather in Ram Hall for worship.

“This summer during daily Bible study, students will learn about how to own their faith and not just ride the coattails of the parents’ faith,” said Joe Hicks, FUGE Camps manager. “Then in the afternoon, they will learn how to put this faith into action as they serve the greater Mobile community.

“Our desire is that FUGE Camps are truly a life-changing camp for all who attend this summer.”

Churches Return for Relationships and Impact

This year, church youth groups are coming to Mobile, Alabama, from as far away as Texas, Missouri, Illinois and North Carolina.

Baird said it’s common for churches to return year after year to the University of Mobile.

“We have multiple churches that come back to the University of Mobile each year based on the relationships they’ve established with ministry sites in the greater Mobile area,” Baird said.

Spiritual Growth that Lasts Beyond Camp

Campers aren’t the only ones impacted by the MFuge experience. Micah Steadham, a University of Mobile graduate, served as an MFuge staff member for three years at various sites. Now UM’s videographer and photographer, he reflected on seeing this summer’s first wave of campers and staff arrive.

“It brings back memories of how the Lord worked and what He did through FUGE Camps – in the lives of thousands of students and in my life,” Steadham said. “It brings a sense of joy to get to see these MFuge staffers experience what I experienced.

“My prayer for them is that they would come out of this summer with a deeper understanding and love for Jesus and for the Gospel and take that back home with them – to their churches, their communities and their everyday lives.”

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.

Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/umday-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

MOBILE, Ala. – The Saraland City School System and the University of Mobile expanded their longstanding partnership with a new agreement broadening dual enrollment opportunities for high school students. Among other benefits, the university is creating new college scholarships for school system teachers and employees.

Saraland City Schools Superintendent Brent Harrison and UM President Charles Smith officially signed the partnership agreement on March 25 at Saraland High School.

Partners with Shared Goals

Superintendent Harrison said, “This agreement strengthens the relationship we have built with the University of Mobile, ensuring our students continue to have access to valuable educational pathways beyond high school. We are excited about the benefits this expanded partnership will bring to our students, educators and the broader community.”

University of Mobile President Charles Smith added, “We at the University of Mobile could not be more excited to deepen our longstanding relationship with Saraland City Schools, Saraland High School and the community as we partner together in our shared educational goals.

“Additionally, we are thrilled to offer a wide array of new scholarship opportunities for the teachers and employees of the Saraland School System. This is a testament to our continued support of educational excellence in our community.”

Expanded Dual Enrollment

Saraland High School Principal Scott Croley emphasized the direct impact the expanded partnership will have on students and their families.

“This partnership is a huge benefit to our students, giving them an opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school, which can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education. It’s a win for our students, our teachers and our community,” Croley said.

The dual enrollment program allows students to earn college credits by taking college-level courses at their high school. Through dual enrollment, students may reduce their overall cost to earn a college degree and jump-start their college career.

High school instructors teaching dual enrollment courses, along with their dependents, may be eligible for significant scholarships to the university.

New Scholarships for Saraland School System Employees

The Christian university has created several new scholarships specifically for Saraland City Schools teachers and employees. Teachers interested in pursuing their master’s degrees at the University of Mobile may be eligible for these significant scholarships.

Plus, employees of the Saraland City School System who wish to pursue their first bachelor’s degree at UM also may qualify for special scholarships.

Investing in Education

These initiatives demonstrate a deep investment in the future of education within the Saraland community, said UM President Smith.

“With Saraland City Schools recognized as one of the top school systems in Alabama, and the University of Mobile’s commitment to academic and spiritual excellence, the partnership is a natural fit,” Smith said. 

The expansion represents a shared investment in the success of students and educators alike, ensuring lasting benefits for years to come.

Principal Croley added, “To have this type of partnership with an institution so highly regarded as the University of Mobile is super exciting for everyone involved – our teachers, our students, and our community.”

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ and 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.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

MOBILE, Ala. – Choosing the right college is a big decision, and the best way to know if a university is the perfect fit is to experience it in person. That’s why the University of Mobile invites high school and transfer students and families to UM Day, a special preview event designed to give students a firsthand look at life at UM.

There is still time to sign up for the last UM Day of spring semester on Friday, March 21. RSVP today at umobile.edu/umday-info.

Get Ready for Your College Visit

Hali Givens, assistant vice president for enrollment services at UM, says a well-planned college visit can make all the difference. She offers these expert tips to help students and parents get the most out of UM Day:

1. Sign Up in Advance – Register for UM Day at umobile.edu/umday-info to ensure you receive important event details and a personalized experience.
2. Plan Your Questions – Get the most from your visit by coming prepared with questions about academics, student life and financial aid.
3. Explore Faith Opportunities – Ask about worship events, campus ministries and faith-based learning experiences.
4. Meet Professors in Your Field of Study – Faculty connections can help you understand program expectations and opportunities.
5. Tour Campus – Picture yourself as part of the RamFam! Walk through classrooms and state-of-the-art labs, check out the #1 Dorms in Alabama, and experience UM’s beautiful campus.
6. Explore Scholarships – Learn how your visit could earn you a $2,000 scholarship when you apply and enroll.
7. Engage in Worship and Community – Experience the Christ-centered culture that makes UM unique.

“A college visit is a crucial step in the decision-making process. It allows students to truly envision themselves as part of the University of Mobile community,” Givens says.

Sign Up for UM Day

Sign up for the next UM Day on Friday, March 21 at umobile.edu/umday-info or call 251-442-2222 to speak with an admissions counselor.  

Schedule a Private Campus Visit

Can’t make it to UM Day? UM offers convenient private tours throughout the year. Learn more about UM and schedule a campus visit at umobile.edu/um-info.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ and 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.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

MOBILE, Ala. – Dr. Kevin Blackwell, the newly named executive director of missions for the Mobile Baptist Association, also joins the University of Mobile as special assistant to the president for institutional relations and assistant professor of disciple making in the School of Christian Studies.

UM President Charles Smith welcomed Blackwell to the Mobile area, noting that his partnership with the University of Mobile reinforces UM’s longstanding commitment to equipping the next generation of ministry leaders.

“We are thrilled to see Dr. Blackwell joining the Mobile Baptist Association in our Great Commission work of making disciples of Jesus Christ. All of us here at the University of Mobile share in this high calling and look forward to partnering with Dr. Blackwell not only as our associational leader, but also in his new roles here at the university. He has served our friends at Samford University so well, and I have no doubt he will make a similar impact through the University of Mobile.”

University of Mobile Executive Director of the Center for Christian Calling, Dr. Doug Wilson, added, “We are truly blessed to have Dr. Kevin Blackwell join the School of Christian Studies faculty. With his ministry institute experience, he is uniquely qualified to equip UM students in practical ministry. As the new DOM for the Mobile Baptist Association, his connection with local congregations will be beneficial for students to gain valuable experience with ministry teams and ministry internships.”

‘Thrilled to Join the Faculty’

Blackwell said, “It is a great honor to have the opportunity to serve the 110 churches of the Mobile Baptist Association to make disciples for Christ in Mobile County. The local church is the greatest hope for gospel propagation in our world, and Christ-centered schools like the University of Mobile are working to support its work. 

“I am thrilled to join the faculty of UM’s School of Christian Studies to equip students to prepare to serve in ministry and missions for the glory of God. I am grateful to my friend Dr. Charles Smith for the invitation to join his team as Special Assistant to the President as we strive to nurture meaningful connections with Alabama Baptists and other Southern Baptists across the nation. 

“The Mobile Baptist Association was integral to the university’s founding in 1961, so it makes sense that UM and the MBA should work cooperatively for the work of Christ. For over six decades, the University of Mobile has provided quality higher education for a higher purpose, and it is truly one of the greatest honors of my life to contribute to the future of UM. Go Rams!”

Mobile Baptist Association Leader

Blackwell was elected executive director of missions for the Mobile Baptist Association on March 6.

Dr. Mack Morris, chair of the Association’s search committee, said Blackwell’s election followed a year-long nationwide search as they sought “someone who would be a leader among leaders.”

“In the Alabama Baptist State Convention there are several names who have instant name recognition. When we talked to people who knew Dr. Kevin Blackwell, we heard these descriptions: “Visionary, level-headed, bridge-builder, impactful, difference maker, creative, contagious, Kingdom strategist, powerful preacher, pastor’s heart, strong business traits, family man, authentic, humble, wise, rooted in the Bible, integrity, disciple maker…connected between generations.

Pastor, Author, Disciple Maker

Blackwell has served in church ministry for 31 years and was senior pastor of Valley Creek Baptist Church in Hueytown, Alabama, prior to joining Samford University in 2014, where he served as assistant to the president for church relations and executive director of the Ministry Training Institute. 

He was president of the Alabama Baptist Convention Pastor’s Conference and received the Troy L. Morrison Award for pastoral excellence through the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions. Blackwell is the author of “Repairing the Missional Breach: Why the Church Isn’t Making Disciples and What We Can Do About It,” co-author of “Cultivate Disciplemaking: Growing Disciples Who Make Disciples” and a member of the evangelical Missiological Society.

Blackwell holds a Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Theology, both from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; a Doctor of Ministry and Master of Divinity, both from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary; and a Bachelor of General Studies from Samford University.

He and his wife, Lorrie, have four children: Maggie LeeAnn, Andie Grace, Averie Hope and Brodie James.

Read more in The Alabama Baptist at thealabamabaptist.org

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.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

MOBILE, Ala. – High school and transfer students and their families have a chance to experience college life up close at UM Day on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the University of Mobile.

Whether you’re exploring your college options or ready to make your decision, UM Day is your behind-the-scenes look at what makes a Christ-centered higher education at UM different. RSVP now at umobile.edu/umday-info or call 251.442.2222.

Why RSVP Now?

• FREE UM Day T-shirt for students who apply for admission!
• FREE UM sweatshirt for students who make their enrollment down payment!
• $2,000 scholarship for new traditional undergraduate students who visit, apply and enroll!

What to Expect at UM Day:

• Campus Tour – Walk our beautiful campus and picture yourself here.
• Meet Your Future Professors & Friends – Connect with caring faculty and current students.
• Financial Aid & Scholarship Info – Discover how affordable UM can be.
• Apply for FREE – Take the next step toward your future!

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a Christ-centered education and find out why students choose UM.

WHAT: UM Day

WHO: High School and Transfer Students and families

WHEN: Friday, March 21, 2025 – check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. in Ram Hall

WHERE: University of Mobile, 5735 College Parkway, Mobile, AL 36613

Can’t Make it to UM Day?

No problem! Schedule a private tour and you can still receive a $2,000 scholarship when you visit, apply and enroll! Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

RSVP today and get ready to experience the difference at the University of Mobile!

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.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.