Author: Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Move-in Day at the University of Mobile is more than unpacking boxes and decorating dorm rooms – it’s the first step in a life-changing journey.

“Thousands of people just like you have started here and left changed,” UM President Charles Smith said at President’s Commissioning on Aug. 15, a UM tradition that welcomes new students to campus on Move-in Day and sets the tone for their college journey.

President’s Commissioning is the first part of The Great Commission Tradition at UM. Students touch The Great Commission Globe in a ceremony they will repeat as graduates, signifying their preparation and commitment to use the knowledge and skills they gain at UM to fulfill the Great Commission in Matthew 28: 19-20 – to take the good news of Jesus Christ to all nations.

“It is so tempting as you enter college to see what you’re about to embark on as merely career preparation. But I want you to hear – we are talking to your heart as much as your hands and your head,” Smith said.

“Students, do you want to make a difference? Do you want to live the good life? Do you want to maximize your joy, your purpose, your peace, your wisdom? Then I would invite you to look to Jesus,” Smith said.

Record Enrollment

For the first time in the university’s history, residence halls are filled to capacity. Classes started Aug. 18 with a record new student enrollment increase of about 15% over last year, and a graduate enrollment increase of over 20%. (Official enrollment numbers will be released following census day the first week in September.)

New Student Stories: Reya and Arianna

For some new students like Reya McGuffin of Mobile, the college journey began decades ago with family roots that run deep at the Baptist university.

Initially uncertain about attending college, Reya’s campus visit on UM Day opened her eyes to the university’s healthcare and medical studies programs — and brought her parents back to a campus they once called home. For Reya, Move-In Day was the beginning of fulfilling both a family legacy and a launching pad for a career as a surgeon.

For others like Arianna Gioia of Buffalo, New York, it started hundreds of miles away with a childhood dream of playing softball in the warm south. She wanted a campus that felt like home, where people knew each other’s names. Her new roommate, Ninah Kerr from Montana, said she understands what it feels like to be far from home – and to have a campus community that becomes home.

“That’s what attracted me the first time I walked on campus – it felt like home,” said Ninah. “Now I look at everyone and I know their faces. I just love being here because I can make Arianna feel at home, because it’s my home, too.”

Ram Rush Kicks Off New School Year

Students like Reya and Arianna jumped right into campus life with Ram Rush

 – UM’s new student orientation designed to help students quickly make friends and acclimate to college life.

Ram Rush 2025 kicked off with a concert in Ram Hall featuring Luke Bower. The Goodwill Gala – an alumni favorite for over twodecades – brought Ram Fam student groups together to find outfits at thrift shops for the skate party theme of “Reality TV.”

Sundaes with the Smiths featured an ice cream social with President Charles and Ashley Smith, while Prayer Room brought the campus community together for a time of praise and worship. Ramily Feud, a church picnic and blacklight dodgeball brought students together for fun and games. Table Talk for women with Ashley Smith themed “(Be)hold: Becoming a Woman of God and a Make Much study themed “Great is Thy Faithfulness” focused on spiritual growth.

The first week of fall semester ended with a field day, outdoor movie, lake trip and glow-in-the-dark pool party.

Check out the Ram Rush video to see a recap of Ram Rush 2025. Click here.

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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.

MOBILE, Ala. – What if one day on a college campus could help you see God’s calling for your life more clearly? UM Day at the University of Mobile is designed to do exactly that.

High school and transfer students are invited to experience a Christ‑centered university where students are known by name and prepared to become Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.

The next UM Day is Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, with check‑in beginning at 8:30 a.m. in Ram Hall on the University of Mobile campus, 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, Alabama 36613.

RSVP today at umobile.edu/umday-info or call 251.442.2222.

Earn a $2,000 Visit Day Scholarship

Students who attend a UM Day, apply and enroll are eligible for a $2,000 Visit Scholarship for new traditional undergraduate students – making this the perfect time to plan your visit and take the next step toward your future.

Why RSVP Now?

When you RSVP, you unlock exclusive opportunities and special perks that make your visit even more rewarding.

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

What Happens at UM Day?

On your visit, you’ll:

• Tour our beautiful 880‑acre campus and see why our dorms are ranked #1 in Alabama on a campus ranked #1 for safety.
• Meet professors and current students who will inspire you.
• Learn how affordable a private Christian university can be.
• Apply for free — and take the first step toward your future.

More UM Days for 2025-2026

Reserve your spot for any of these upcoming UM Days:

• October 13, 2025
• November 20, 2025
• February 5, 2026
• March 23, 2026

RSVP at umobile.edu/umday-info or call 251.442.2222.

Schedule a Private Visit

If you can’t make a UM Day, private tours are available year-round. You can still qualify for the $2,000 Visit Scholarship when you visit, apply and enroll.

Schedule a visit at umobile.edu/visit or call 251.442.2222.

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.

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announces three faculty promotions as Fall 2025 semester begins.

“Our faculty are at the heart of the University of Mobile’s mission to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world,” said UM President Charles Smith.

“These promotions recognize the exceptional expertise professors Megan Cary, Jose Molina and Kevin Levy bring to their fields, as well as their dedication to mentoring students who will serve with excellence in their professions and communities.”

Faculty promotions for Fall Semester 2025 are:

Megan Cary, associate professor of graphic arts, has been promoted to chair of the Department of Visual Arts in the College of Arts & Sciences. Cary joined the University of Mobile in 2013 as assistant professor of graphic arts. As program coordinator of graphic design, Cary emphasizes new and emerging design methods, user experience, multiple internship opportunities and portfolio building – resulting in above-average employment rates for graphic design graduates. In 2018, she founded the Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design program and co-founded the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art program.

Cary serves in a variety of capacities at UM, including as vice president of the Faculty Council. Most recently, she curated the art show “Other Worldly” on the university campus and co-led an arts and literature class international trip across Italy. Her small business and studio, Megan Cary Design & Illustration, has operated since 2007.

Cary holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of South Alabama and Master of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design.

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Jose Molina has been promoted to assistant professor of art in the Department of Visual Arts in the College of Arts & Sciences. Molina joined UM in 2024 as visiting instructor of art. His solo exhibit, “Magical Realism” opened at the University of Mobile in 2022 with works he described as “an investigation of everyday objects and people in the modern world, but with an additional element of the fantastic.”

Molina holds a Bachelor of Arts from Northwest Florida State College, a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of West Florida, and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of South Alabama.

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Kevin Levy has been promoted to assistant professor of criminology and cybersecurity in the Grace Pilot School of Business. Levy joined the university in 2024 as visiting instructor of criminology, after serving as an adjunct faculty member for several years. His 30-year-career as a working professional within the government and law enforcement community included developing and implementing an intelligence-based initiative for a local police agency while collaborating with hundreds of federal, state, local and military entities along the Gulf Coast.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Florida International University and a master’s degree in justice administration from Faulkner University.

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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.

MOBILE, Ala. – Ram Hall overflowed with enthusiastic students, faculty and staff on Aug. 20 as the University of Mobile kicked off its first Chapel program of Fall Semester 2025. The standing-room-only crowd spilled over into the adjacent cafeteria for what has become a hallmark of campus life: a Chapel experience that inspires, challenges and unites the UM community.

“Chapel is an expression of who we are – a university that exists For Christ & His Kingdom with a mission to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world,” said Dr. Charles Smith, president of the Baptist university.

This is the second year for a reinvigorated Chapel program that draws dynamic faith leaders to campus each week. Worship is led by the university’s Worship Collective student ensemble during the hour-long event held each Wednesday.

The Chapel program is part of UM’s emphasis on faith development and spiritual growth. Along with an active campus ministries and student life program designed to supplement students’ involvement in their local church, the university’s academic program integrates faith and learning across all areas of study.

“As this second year unfolds with dynamic voices and bold worship, it’s encouraging to see students, faculty and staff lean in together, cultivating a spiritual atmosphere that permeates all corners of campus,” Smith said.

“We’re accompanying our students on a journey where faith informs every facet of life, and we’re grateful to be a part of God building something transformative here,” he added.

First Chapel Message: 2 Corinthians 5:21

The first Chapel speaker for Fall Semester 2025 was UM Vice President for Institutional Relations Nathan Harris, who also serves as assistant professor of New Testament and biblical interpretation.

His message – the good news that sinners are reconciled by the cross of Christ – was based on 2 Corinthians 5:21: “For our sake, he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

“Students, if you want to build your life around a verse, pick this one,” Harris said. “In this verse, we find the truth, the good news that the lost need to hear. This is the hope that needs to be proclaimed to the ends of the earth.”

He said the scripture passage “points the reader to the reality of our sin, to the necessity of Christ’s substitution, and the result of the cross, which is Christ’s righteousness for the believer. It’s at the center of the gospel that we find this divine exchange – sinners for a sinless Savior.”

Chapel Video and Podcast Available

New Chapel videos and podcasts are available each week at umobile.edu/chapel. Previous chapel videos and podcasts are also available at the link.

Upcoming Chapel Speakers

Fall semester’s Chapel lineup brings leaders who will encourage students to grow in their faith and embrace their calling with purpose. They are:

Aug. 27 – Chris Bell, Lead Pastor of 3Circle Church, multiple locations in south Alabama.

A UM alumnus, Bell is gifted communicator committed to helping people live out the gospel in every area of their lives. Under his leadership, 3Circle has grown into a vibrant multi-campus church focused on reaching people locally, regionally and globally with clarity and conviction.

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Sept. 3 – Fred Luter Jr., Senior Pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, New Orleans.

A trailblazer in the faith and a powerful voice in the church, Luter made history as the first African American president of the Southern Baptist Convention. He is known nationwide for his passionate preaching, heart for the gospel and unwavering commitment to building strong families and strong churches.

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Sept. 10 – Matt Smethurst, Lead Pastor of River City Baptist Church, Richmond, Virginia.

Smethurst has served around the world as a missionary; in Washington, D.C., as an intern at Capitol Hill Baptist Church; and in Louisville, Kentucky as a longtime elder and deacon. He is a former managing editor of The Gospel Coalition and is the author of several books including “Before You Share Your Faith” and “Tim Keller on the Christian Life.”

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Sept. 17 – George Wright, Senior Pastor of Shades Mountain Baptist Church, Birmingham, Alabama.

A graduate of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wright was raised in a ministry family and developed a passion early on for helping others discover the hope of the Gospel. His journey has taken him from student ministry to church planting, pastoring in both Georgia and South Carolina, and now serving at Shades Mountain since 2021.

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Sept. 24 – Vance Pitman, President, Send Network.

Pitman is a passionate leader with a vision to see churches planted everywhere, for everyone. As president of Send Network, he leads a nationwide movement equipping church planters and local churches to take the Gospel to their communities and beyond.

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Oct. 1 – C12, Christian Business Leaders Panel.

A panel of dynamic faith-driven leaders will explore how gospel-centered principles shape real-world business decisions, workplace culture and make an impact that echoes into eternity. C12’s unique model brings together Christian CEOs and executives in peer advisory groups where they are challenged and equipped to lead faithfully in both life and business.

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Oct. 15 – Paul Davis, President, ABWE (Association of Baptists for World Evangelism).

As president of ABWE, Davis leads a global movement of missionaries and churches committed to taking the gospel to the nations. ABWE champions gospel-centered missions, equips sending churches and strengthens partnerships around the world

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Oct. 22 – Dr. Jason Lee, Professor of Theological Studies, Director of Center for Biblical Integration, Cedarville University.

A respected voice in historical theology and biblical interpretation, Lee is a UM alumnus who serves as discipleship pastor at Heritage Fellowship Church in Springfield, Ohio, in addition to his academic work. Lee has taught at Southeastern and Southwestern Baptist theological seminaries and served in pastoral roles in Louisiana and Scotland.

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Oct. 28 – Mark Vroegop, President, The Gospel Coalition.

A trusted voice in the evangelical world, Vroegop served in pastoral ministry for nearly 30 years, most recently as lead pastor of College Park Church in Indianapolis. He is the award-winning author of “Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy” and “Waiting Isn’t a Waste” — books that have helped many find hope through biblical lament and trusting God through life’s uncertainties.

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Nov. 11 – Isaac Adams, Lead Pastor, Iron City Church, Birmingham, Alabama.

Adams holds degrees in journalism and religious studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, along with a Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has served overseas with the International Mission Board and has been involved with ministries like Together for the Gospel, CROSS Conference, and The Front Porch. In 2017, Adams founded United? We Pray (UWP), a ministry focused on prayer around racial reconciliation — especially within the church.

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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.

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announces a new name for its graduate counseling degree – the Master of Arts in Counseling and Family Therapy.

Formerly known as the Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling, the updated name reflects the program’s broad scope in preparing graduates to serve individuals, couples, families and groups in a variety of professional counseling settings.

The Master of Arts in Counseling and Family Therapy offers rigorous academic preparation rooted in a Christ-centered worldview, combining evidence-based therapeutic approaches with biblical principles.

“The new name reflects the full range of opportunities our graduates have to serve as counselors and family therapists,” said Dr. Glenn Hollingsworth, chair of the Department of Counseling and Family Therapy in the College of Arts & Sciences.

UM graduates are employed in private practice, online telehealth platforms, community agencies and non-profits. Many are owners of thriving group practices and some graduates have continued their education with doctoral degrees in counseling psychology, counselor education and supervision, and more.

Eligible for Both LPC and LMFT Credentials

UM’s program is the only one in the region that enables students to graduate with eligibility for both the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) credentials in Alabama.

“The dual focus of the Counseling and Family Therapy program allows us to teach and train our students in such a way that maximizes their exposure to the diverse array of interventions and pathways available to master’s level helping professionals,” Hollingsworth said.

“Our goal is to equip professionals who are prepared to walk alongside individuals, couples and families with skill, compassion and a Christ-centered approach.”

Program Highlights

• Dual Licensure Preparation – Meets education requirements for both LPC and LMFT licensure in Alabama.
• Designed for Working Professionals – Evening and online courses compatible with work and family responsibilities
• Small Classes & Mentorship – Close faculty guidance in a collaborative learning environment. 

“Whether students are beginning a new career or advancing their calling to serve others, the Master of Arts in Counseling and Family Therapy equips them to bring hope and healing to a hurting world,” Hollingsworth said.

Now Enrolling 

Applications are being accepted for classes starting Fall Semester 2025 and Spring Semester 2026. Apply at umobile.edu/apply. Learn more about the program at umobile.edu/counseling. Want to know more? Request information at umobile.edu/um-info.

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.

MOBILE, Ala. – During the University of Mobile’s annual Ignite Conference for faculty and staff, UM President Charles Smith shared the good news of record enrollment, dorms filled to capacity and key campus updates as a new academic year began at the Baptist university.

Record enrollment and mission-driven momentum ignite a historic year at the University of Mobile, Smith shared at the Aug. 14 conference that kicked off Fall Semester 2025.

New student enrollment is up a record-breaking 13% while graduate program enrollment has grown 20%. For the first time in the university’s history, residence halls are filled to capacity.

“I could not be more grateful for the growth we’re experiencing,” Smith said. “Every one of the students is a living reminder of our high calling as Christian educators.”

Overall, more than 2,000 students are enrolled at the Baptist university as classes began Aug. 18, pursuing associate to doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Official enrollment numbers will be announced after census day in early September.

The importance of the university’s mission was highlighted during the annual Ignite Conference where faculty and staff gathered for the annual kick-off to a new academic year.

A Mission-Driven College

Dr. Rick Langer, retired professor and co-author of “Mission-Driven Colleges: Keeping First Things First in Christian Higher Education,” joined President Smith at the Ignite Conference for a keynote address and armchair discussion about what it means to be a Christian university.

The University of Mobile exists “For Christ & His Kingdom” with a mission to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world. That missional clarity is key to the success of a Christian university, said Langer, retired director of the Office for the Integration of Faith and Learning at Biola University

“Let everybody know what you stand for, what you believe,” Langer urged.

Integration of Faith and Learning

Langer said the Christian faith is not meant to be compartmentalized into one hour a week at church.

“One of the worst things that can happen with Christian faith is we don’t make our faith intersect with the rest of our life. You are missing out on life when your faith in Christ is confined to one hour a week. I need to have Christ permeate everything in my life,” he said. 

The integration of faith and learning is human learning oriented toward the lordship of Christ, he said.

“If you are doing a good job of integrating faith and learning, you want to have Christ woven into the fabric of the university. We’re not talking about having prayer or a devotion at the beginning of class. It’s teaching in such a way that everything points to Christ as creator and sustainer.”

He encouraged faculty to think about what they love about teaching and share that with colleagues.

“Be people who have an eye to notice and a voice to celebrate,” Langer said.

Smith Shares Vision, Celebrates Growth

During the president’s update, Smith noted the past year’s successes and looked ahead to the coming year.

“The Lord has blessed us,” Smith told faculty and staff, noting the following highlights:

• The incoming class of students grew by 13%
• Graduate programs increased by 20%
• For the first time in UM’s history, residence halls are filled to capacity
• UM had multiple positive accreditation visits
• Chapel has generated excitement and growth
• The Great Commission Fund was launched
• Eight collegiate teams made it to NAIA Nationals
• Facility updates refreshed the campus core
• Multiple new administrators joined the team, along with several internal faculty and staff promotions
• A brand new umobile.edu has launched

Smith said goals for the 2025-2026 year include creating an unforgettable campus experience, pursuing academic entrepreneurship by exploring new program and pathways, stewarding institutional resources wisely and building bridges and strengthening partnerships with ministry leaders, alumni, schools, community organizations and other key stakeholders.

“We will succeed by advancing a sincere, winsome and unmistakable commitment to Christ and His Kingdom, remembering and reasserting our identity and value as a premiere Christ-centered university and consistently and creatively telling our story – reminding our region and beyond what makes the University of Mobile so special,” Smith said.

He urged faculty and staff to embrace the university’s core values: Hungry team members who are passionate about progress, Humble team members who are eager to serve, Smart team members who approach both people and projects with wisdom, and Happy & Hopeful team members who are kind, encouraging and optimistic.

“Live out the vision,” Smith encouraged faculty and staff.

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.

MOBILE, Ala. – Looking for a college visit that shows you more than classrooms and degrees?

The University of Mobile invites high school and transfer students and their families to experience UM Day – a special campus-visit event where you can see firsthand how our Christian university prepares you to be a Kingdom leader for the glory of God and the good of the world.

Registration is open now for UM Days scheduled during 2025-2026. Reserve your spot for any of these upcoming UM Days:

• September 25, 2025
• October 13, 2025
• November 20, 2025
• February 5, 2026
• March 23, 2026

RSVP today at umobile.edu/umday-info or call 251.442.2222.

Earn a $2,000 Visit Scholarship

Now is the perfect time to plan your visit and take the next step toward discovering your calling at a university that exists For Christ & His Kingdom.

Students who attend a UM Day, apply and enroll are eligible for a $2,000 Visit Scholarship for new traditional undergraduate students.

Why RSVP Now?

When you RSVP, you unlock exclusive opportunities and special perks that make your visit even more rewarding.

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

What Happens at UM Day?

Each UM Day begins with check-in at 8:30 a.m. in Ram Hall on the University of Mobile campus, 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, Alabama, 36613.

On your visit, you’ll:

• Tour our beautiful 880‑acre campus and see why our dorms are ranked #1 in Alabama on a campus ranked #1 for safety.
• Meet professors and current students who will inspire you.
• Learn how affordable a private Christian university can be.
• Apply for free — and take the first step toward your future.

Schedule a Private Visit

If you can’t make a UM Day, private tours are available year-round. You can still qualify for the $2,000 Visit Scholarship when you visit, apply and enroll.

Schedule a visit at umobile.edu/visit or call 251.442.2222.

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.

MOBILE, Ala. – It’s not too late to take the next step toward a Christ-centered college experience at the University of Mobile. Classes start Aug. 18 and there’s still time to apply, be accepted and take your place at the University of Mobile.

Scholarships Still Available

Whether you’re just starting your college search or making a last-minute decision, the University of Mobile is still accepting applications for Fall Semester 2025 — and scholarship opportunities are still available for new students.

Quick Admission Decision

Apply now, and you’ll receive a quick admission decision so you can take your next step with confidence. Plus, you can visit campus and qualify for UM’s $2,000 Visit Scholarship, available to traditional undergraduate students who visit campus, apply and enroll.

UM is More Than a Degree

At the University of Mobile, college is about more than just earning a degree. It’s about discovering your calling, deepening your faith and preparing for a life of purpose. Whether your path is business, education, health care, ministry or the arts, UM equips you to serve with excellence — for the glory of God and the good of the world.

Go to umobile.edu/um-info to get started, or call us at 251.442.2222 to speak with an admissions counselor.

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.

MOBILE, Ala. – Nearly 350 middle and high school students, church leaders and volunteers are gathered at the University of Mobile July 14-18 for Super Summer Alabama, a leadership and discipleship camp made possible through a partnership between the Baptist university and the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions (ALSBOM).

More than a typical summer camp, Super Summer Alabama is designed for middle and high school students wanting to deepen their faith and take the next step in following Christ. Students attend worship, engage in small-group Bible study, learn from college-level curriculum and build lasting relationships with peers and mentors from across the state.

This marks the third consecutive year the University of Mobile has hosted the event. The 2025 camp welcomed 245 students, 32 church leaders, 35 adult volunteers, and 33 college team leaders to UM’s 880‑acre campus – recognized as Alabama’s safest college campus and home to the state’s top‑rated residence halls.

Dr. Charles Smith, president of the University of Mobile, said, “It is a great privilege to partner with Alabama Baptist churches in this Kingdom work and invest in the next generation of Kingdom leaders.

“We believe in the transformational power of Christian higher education and experiences like Super Summer Alabama to shape hearts, strengthen faith and prepare students to live out their calling. We are honored to be part of what God is doing in their lives,” he added.

Partnering for Kingdom Impact

The theme of this year’s camp, “Enough,” invites students to focus on Christ’s sufficiency and their identity in Him. Camp pastor Dr. Jamie Dew, president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, is leading students through Scripture, challenging them to respond in obedience to the Gospel and live boldly for Christ.

“I am excited to be with the youth of Super Summer Alabama this week,” Dew said. “We will be learning that Jesus is ENOUGH for everything we need in salvation, life, trials and ministry. I pray that this week will make these teenage disciples encouraged and better equipped to serve the Lord.”

The program includes worship led by University of Mobile students, small-group discipleship and curriculum sessions in theology and biblical leadership.

Students who attend the camp on the university campus, then later enroll at the University of Mobile, are eligible for a $2,000 UM Visit Scholarship. Students who attend all nine components of the Super Summer Alabama program are eligible for a $4,000 Super Summer Scholarship at UM and will have met requirements for the freshman course “Introduction to Christian Worldview.”

Discipleship That Lasts

Josh Meadows, student ministry strategist for the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, said Super Summer Alabama is “a week that God uses to change lives for His glory and to send students out commissioned to be on mission for Christ.”

“We want students to have a chance to really connect with God and grow their faith. Super Summer Alabama gives them the opportunity to dive deep into the Word of God and meet other like-minded students from all over Alabama. It’s not just about making friends – these are lifelong connections that will shape lives for the future,” Meadows said.

The program also offers resources and support for youth pastors throughout the year, including opportunities to learn, grow and network.

Tyler Gresham is one of those youth pastors. He has participated in Super Summer Alabama since 2014.

“I can testify that Super Summer has had a tremendous impact on my students’ growth in Christ and faithfulness to the church, not only during high school, but afterwards,” says the administrative pastor of students at Fairhaven Baptist Church in Demopolis, Alabama.

“We are able to discuss topics in Super Summer that are typically harder to cover thoroughly during a regular youth Bible study. Once they graduate, my students who’ve gone through Super Summer overwhelmingly stay connected to the local church wherever they end up, and many of them go on to serve their current churches well through lay ministry.”

Super Summer Alabama was launched in 2008 by UM alumnus Denis Tanner, associate pastor of Next Steps and students at Shades Crest Baptist Church in Hoover.  He said he appreciates how his alma mater has welcomed the program – “They really want us here on campus because it is reaching people for the Kingdom.”

“We live in a world where there’s so many negative things going on, so much hurt and brokenness,” Tanner said. “What’s wonderful about Super Summer Alabama is that we really focus on helping kids remember their identity is in Christ…and that they are called to make a difference in the lives of those around them.”

Equipping Future Leaders

Tim Adams, UM’s vice president for student development and collegiate athletics, said the purpose of Super Summer aligns with the University of Mobile’s mission.

“At the University of Mobile, we are committed to multiplying Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world. Throughout our history, thousands of college students have encountered the Lord’s presence on this campus and been shaped by His calling,” Adams said.

“It brings us great joy to open our facilities to Super Summer campers, with the prayer that they, too, will be transformed by God’s work in their lives and inspired to follow His call.”

Learn More

For more about Super Summer Alabama camp and youth pastor resources, visit supersummer.ymlink.org. https://supersummer.ymlink.org

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.

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.