Author: 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.

From Christmas Spectacular to Hamlet: University of Mobile Announces the 2024-2025 Alabama School of the Arts Season

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile invites audiences of all ages to experience a season of unforgettable performances during the 2024-2025 Alabama School of the Arts season.

“In the Alabama School of the Arts, students get to take what they are learning in the classroom and put it on the stage. That’s why we offer a wide range of performance opportunities every year,” said Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts.

“From the beloved tradition of Christmas Spectacular to the enchanted world of the Broadway musical ‘Anastasia,’ we are delighted to present a lineup that highlights the immense talent of our students and offers something special for everyone to enjoy.”

jazz

The season kicks off in September with a full schedule of innovative, inspiring and family-friendly performances featuring theatre, opera, jazz, classical masterpieces, original compositions and more. 

The Christian university offers something extra this Christmas season in addition to its popular Christmas Spectacular, a four-night musical extravaganza now in its 22nd year. A beloved tradition from the university’s early years as Mobile College returns with the “Boar’s Head Festival” medieval Christmas feast. The popular outdoor Spring Spectacular showcases the university’s students as the year comes to a close.

ASOTA Season Overview 

The Alabama School of the Arts season opens in September with an evening of gospel-centered music presented by the Alabama School of the Arts Worship Choir. 

In October, audiences will take an unforgettable journey from the fall of the Russian Empire to the glitz and glamour of 1920s Paris with the musical “Anastasia.” Concerts include the excitement of live music with the Symphonic Winds, and a celebration of the 100-year anniversary of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” with the UM Jazz Band. 

choir

November opens with the UM Piano Ensemble’s “Piano Pop’s” concert featuring a fun mix of popular tunes and new twists on classic melodies.

The Christmas season begins November 21 with the first of four performances of the university’s signature “Christmas Spectacular” celebration. From timeless carols to contemporary holiday favorites, Christmas Spectacular is an impressive variety of musical styles and performances, including choral pieces, a full orchestra, a jazz band, a Celtic string ensemble and more. Tickets sell out fast for this regional Christmas tradition. 

In December, the “Boar’s Head Festival” returns to the University of Mobile. This medieval-themed Christmas celebration that was an annual tradition from 1971 to 2000 includes madrigal songs, a themed dinner and a short performance of “The Second Shepherd’ Play.” 

In February 2025, young artists from across the community take center stage with UM Honor Band. Also in February, a unique production of “Hamlet” takes a fresh approach that reimagines Shakespeare’s classic tragedy in a Princess Diaries theme, while a Black History Month Celebration Concert offers an unforgettable evening of music and culture celebrating the rich legacy of Black artists.

theater

Students in the Alabama School of the Arts Young Artists Program will have the experience of a lifetime in March when they perform at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall in New York City. Closer to home, the Symphonic Winds presents a spring concert in the university’s Burnett Event Center.

April marks a busy month for the arts at the University of Mobile, with three performances of Mozart’s opera “The Magic Flute” as University of Mobile students present this well-known story of love and adventure through the dreams of a young girl in an Alice in Wonderland-themed adventure. “Piano Goes to the Movies” offers a chance to hear the magic of the movies, from classic film scores to modern hits, performed by the UM Piano Ensemble. The UM Jazz Band’s “Brass Machine” concert is a perfect blend of rock and jazz featuring classic American rock with a jazz twist.

piano

In May, the Young Artists Program of the Alabama School of the Arts will highlight the exceptional skills and growth of emerging artists. A summer production to be announced is scheduled for June.

2024-2025 Alabama School of the Arts Season Schedule

Following are dates, locations and ticket information for the 2024-2025 Alabama School of the Arts Season. Unless noted otherwise, performances are held on the University of Mobile campus, 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, AL 36613. Campus venues include the Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center and Ram Hall.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit umobile.edu/asotaseason.

Fall Semester 2024 Events

  • Worship Choir Concert – Sept. 27 at 7 p.m. Location: Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center, free admission. The Alabama School of the Arts Worship Choir will present an evening of gospel-centered music from the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church.
  • Anastasia – Oct. 17-19 at 7 p.m., Oct. 20 at 3 p.m. Location: Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center. Admission: $11 student, $22 general admission at the door or in advance at umobile.edu/asotaseason. This Broadway hit musical follows Anastasia on a beautiful adventure as she discovers her true identity, with exciting twists, heartwarming moments and unforgettable music. 
  • Symphonic Winds – Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. Location: Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center. Admission: $11. Award-winning composer Steve Dunn, director of instrumental music, directs UM’s talented musicians in this fall concert.
  • Jazz Band: Rhapsody in Blue – Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. Location: Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center. Admission: $11. Steinway Artist Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, director of piano studies in the Alabama School of the Arts, collaborates in this one-of-a-kind celebration of the music of George and Ira Gershwin and the 100-year anniversary of “Rhapsody in Blue.” 
  • Piano Pop’s – Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. Location: Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center. Admission: $11. Enjoy a fun mix of popular tunes and light classical music in the Piano Ensemble’s fall concert. All proceeds support The Young Artists Program for the Alabama School of the Arts, to support the emerging exceptional talents of UM students studying in undergraduate and graduate programs. Funds raised in 2024 will help fund a trip to Carnegie Hall in March 2025.
  • Christmas Spectacular – Nov. 21 & 22 at 7 p.m.; Nov. 23 at 2 p.m.; Nov. 24 at 4 p.m. Location: Cottage Hill Baptist Church, 4255 Cottage Hill Rd., Mobile, AL 36609. Admission: $19.50 to $60 in advance at umobile.edu/christmas. Purchase tickets early, as they sell out quickly. This annual holiday tradition showcases the extraordinary talent of students from the Alabama School of the Arts, bringing the community together in celebration of the Christmas season. Featuring over 200 music, theatre and production students from around the world, this event promises an evening filled with joy, worship and celebration. From timeless carols to contemporary holiday favorites, Christmas Spectacular features an impressive variety of musical styles and performances, including choral pieces, a full orchestra, a jazz band, a Celtic string ensemble, and several favorite vocal ensembles.
  • Boar’s Head Festival – Dec. 6 & 7 at 7 p.m. Location: Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center. Admission: $55. This fun evening is filled with music, theatre and a short performance of “The Second Shepherd’s Play.” ASOTA students dressed in medieval costumes will sing madrigal songs as the audience enjoys a themed dinner.

Spring Semester 2025 Events

  • University of Mobile Honor Band – Feb. 6-8. Location: UM campus. Register at umobile.edu/honorband. The 16th annual University of Mobile Honor band is an artistically inspiring, musically challenging, educational experience for students in grades 9-12. Participants have the unique opportunity to perform the world premiere of an original work for band, conducted by award-winning composer Steve Dunn, director of instrumental music.
  • Hamlet – Feb. 20, 21 & 22 at 7 p.m.; Feb. 23 at 3 p.m. Location: Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center. Admission: TBD. Experience “Hamlet” like never before with a fresh approach that reimagines Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. This unique production offers a new perspective on the timeless themes of power, revenge and madness, delivering a thought-provoking and engaging performance that will redefine how you see the story.
  • Black History Month Celebration Concert – Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. Location: TBA. Free admission. An unforgettable evening of music and culture celebrating the rich legacy and profound contributions of Black artists. From soulful melodies to powerful performances, this event honors the artistic achievements that have shaped and inspired generations.
  • Young Artists at Carnegie Hall – March 4 at 8 p.m. Location: Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall, New York City. This prestigious performance showcases the ASOTA Young Artists Program.
  • Spring Spectacular – March 21at 7:30 p.m. Location: Great Commission Lawn, University of Mobile. This annual event draws hundreds to the beautiful UM campus for an hour-long concert followed by a spectacular firework show. A pre-show will feature the Saraland Elementary School Show Choir. Admission: $11 general admission in advance.
  • Symphonic Winds – March 27 at 7 p.m. Location: Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center. Admission: $11 at the door or in advance. This performance showcases the exceptional instrumental students from the Alabama School of the Arts, under the direction of award-winning composer Steve Dunn, director of instrumental music.
  • The Magic Flute – April 10, 11 & 12 at 7 p.m.; April 13 at 3 p.m. Location: Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center. Admission: $11 students, $22 general admission in advance and at the door. Experience this beloved story with fresh perspective as a young girl dreams of this classic story told in an Alice in Wonderland-themed world. Sung in German with all dialogue in English, audiences are sure to enjoy the immense talent of our undergraduate and graduate vocal students.
  • Piano Goes to the Movies – April 22 at 7 p.m. Location: Burnett Event Center. Admission: $11. From classic film scores to modern hits, this Piano Ensemble performance will feature the memorable tunes that make movies unforgettable.
  • Jazz Band: Brass Machine – April 29 at 7 p.m. Location: Burnett Event Center. Admission: $11. Experience a blend of rock and jazz featuring classic American rock with a jazz twist.
  • Young Artists at the Alabama School of the Arts – May 2 at 7 p.m. Featuring our University Chorale and a professional orchestra, directed by Alexandra Trosper, our Young Artists will present a beautiful classical work and highlights of our NYC Carnegie Hall performance. Location: TBA.

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 Students Receive New Bibles at First Chapel of Fall Semester 2024

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – “God’s Word is living and active,” proclaimed University of Mobile President Charles Smith at the first Chapel of Fall Semester 2024 where about 500 students received new Christian Standard Bibles, thanks to a generous gift from Lifeway Christian Resources.

“We want to make sure as a Christian organization that every student has a Bible,” said Smith, opening the weekly Chapel series with a message on Psalm 23. Students also received a notebook to keep track of their notes during Chapel programs throughout the semester.

Chapel services are a central part of the Christian university’s culture of discipleship and leadership development. Through sermons, lectures or panel discussions led by distinguished faith leaders, the university’s Chapel program emphasizes the centrality of God’s Word in every aspect of life. 

The Chapel theme for Fall Semester 2024, based on Ephesians 3:20, is: “More than we ask or think.”

The university’s Worship Collective student ensemble led worship for approximately 500 students, faculty and staff who attended Chapel on Aug. 21 in Ram Hall. 

During his expository message, Smith said the message at the heart of Psalm 23 is the Lord’s power, provision and care. A key theme is not simply that the Lord is a shepherd – it is that “He is MY shepherd,” he said. He shared the story of salvation and encouraged students to rely on Jesus Christ through the valleys and trials of life.

“Oh, what Good News this Bible holds!” Smith concluded, as students left Chapel carrying their new Bibles and chapel notebook.

chapel

Upcoming speakers for the University of Mobile Chapel series include:

Aug. 28: Shane Pruitt, national director of next-gen evangelism, North American Mission Board

Sept. 4:  Jared Baria, campus pastor, University of Mobile

Sept. 11: Dr. Rick Lance, executive director, Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions

Sept. 18: Dewayne Rembert, lead pastor, Flatline Church; church planting strategist, Montgomery Baptist Association

Sept. 25: Dr. Ed Litton, senior pastor, Redemption Church

Oct. 2: Elizabeth Graham, chief executive officer, Stand for Life

Oct. 16: Matt Mason, senior pastor, The Church at Brook Hills

Oct. 23: Dean Inserra, founding and lead pastor, City Church Tallahassee

Oct. 30: Dr. Jason Dees, senior pastor, Christ Covenant Church

Nov. 6: Dr. Ben Mandrell, president & CEO, Lifeway Christian Resources.

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.

26th Annual University of Mobile Alumni & Friends Golf Classic Set for Oct. 25

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Pack your golf clubs and mark your calendar for the 26th annual University of Mobile Alumni & Friends Golf Classic coming to Heron Lakes Country Club on Friday, Oct. 25. 

This year’s event is teeing up more than just a day of fellowship, fun and friendly competition on the green. For the 26thyear, the University of Mobile Alumni & Friends Golf Classic is giving tournament players an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of college students who are pursuing God’s calling for their lives at the Christian university.

Proceeds from the fundraising event go toward supporting scholarships and programs that benefit students at the University of Mobile.

Register or Become a Sponsor Today

Brian Boyle, vice president for advancement and a UM alumnus, said the golf tournament offers alumni a great way to reconnect with former classmates while supporting their alma mater and future alumni. 

It is also a prime opportunity for businesses and organizations to partner with the university by becoming an official event sponsor. Sponsors will enjoy a great day of golf while gaining valuable exposure to a diverse audience of university alumni, community leaders, and friends of the institution while empowering future generations of leaders in health care, education, business, the arts and more.

To register an individual or team, or learn about available sponsorship opportunities, visit umobile.edu/mobileclassic or contact the university’s Office for Advancement at 251.442.2913.

A Winning Combination

Boyle said this year’s golf tournament is “a milestone event that not only represents over a quarter-century of alumni and community support, but also showcases our shared commitment to making a difference.”

A day on the course, good company, a worthy cause and an enjoyable luncheon complete with prizes is a win-win combination for participants. The four-man scramble format is a player favorite, and there are a variety of opportunities to win, including a longest drive and closest to the pin contest, with special awards for the top three finishing teams. A hole-in-one could win one lucky golfer a brand new car, courtesy of Bullard Automotive.

Sign up today at umobile.edu/mobileclassic.

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.

‘The University of Mobile is a Sacred Place,’ says President Charles Smith 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is not just a beautiful, special and sacred place – it is a place that will change you, said UM’s new president, Dr. Charles Smith, during President’s Commissioning on Aug. 16.

Dr. Smith
UM President Charles Smith

“For decades now, thousands of men and women have driven up the drive behind you and left changed,” Smith told nearly 300 incoming students and their families gathered for President’s Commissioning on the university’s Great Commission Lawn. The event is the first of a two-part Great Commission Tradition that bookends each student’s college journey.

At President’s Commissioning, new students touch the Great Commission Globe in the center of the Great Commission Lawn to symbolize the start of their college career. Years later at commencement, they touch the globe again as new graduates to signify the next step in their journey, entering a world-wide mission field to pursue their calling for the glory of God and the good of the world.

Your First Mission Field

Following a time of worship led by UM’s “Worship Collective” student ensemble, Smith called on new students to embrace the journey ahead and make the most of their time at college – to lean in, try hard, make friends, serve, learn and lead.

With Matthew 28:18-20 – the Great Commission – as his theme, Smith said the University of Mobile calls students to serve others and share the hope of the gospel with them – “but only if that is truly your hope.”

“Your first mission field may be your own heart. How might God be calling you to trust and follow Him? How might this season serve to strengthen your faith?” he asked.

God’s Ambassadors

Smith said the University of Mobile prepares graduates for meaningful careers while also challenging them to see the world as it really is, through a biblical world view. 

“It is a world that God created. A world filled with men and women who bear his image and are called to steward their God-given gifts. A world broken by our sin, filled with people who walk in darkness and need God’s truth, love and restoration. 

globe

“It is a world that God loves, where He sent His Son to us to live the life we couldn’t and die the death we deserve, so that in Him we might be reconciled to God and received into heaven and released into the world as His ambassadors.

“One of the most remarkable things about the Christian faith is that God not only saves us, He invites us into His family, and commissions us – the redeemed – to join him in the redeeming,” Smith said.

Classes started Aug. 19 for students enrolled in over 75 academic programs at the Baptist university leading to associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. For more information about the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

Pictured above: The University of Mobile welcomes new students for Fall Semester 2024.

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.

UM School of Education Partners with Saraland Elementary for ‘Beginning of School Experience’

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – It takes a lot of hard work and organization to make the first few days of a new school year successful, says University of Mobile alumna Stephanie Dial, assistant principal at Saraland Elementary. Now, a new partnership between Saraland Elementary and the University of Mobile School of Education – the “Beginning of School Experience” – is giving student teachers at UM an opportunity to work side-by-side with veteran teachers during those crucial first days. 

“The administration of Saraland Elementary invited us to participate in the Beginning of School Experience because they understand and realize how challenging the start of school can be for brand new teachers,” says Dr. Ashley Milner, dean of the UM School of Education. “Our students have extensive experiences in various schools, grade levels and school systems starting in their sophomore year – over 200 hours in the field. But because the college semester starts after k-12 schools have already been in session a few weeks, pre-service student teachers don’t often have the opportunity to experience those early days.”

UM students participating in the Beginning of School Experience are not getting class credit for their three days of service – but they are gaining a priceless experience with Saraland teachers who become mentors.

“We’ve had classes already about classroom management, and so we’ve done plans like first day of school scripts and how to set up a classroom and things like that. But it’s really neat to be in a classroom and see how that works hands-on,” says senior Bethany Kilgore.

How It Started

Assistant Principal Dial says the idea for the Beginning of School Experience was born last spring as Saraland Elementary administrators were interviewing and hiring new teachers.

“We started talking about the challenges that they would come in to, and the fact that most of them had done their student teaching last spring and never saw the opening of school modeled for them. How can you be good at something that you’ve never seen done?” 

So this year when school was about to start, Dial reached out to her alma mater with the idea of the Beginning of School Experience.

“We want these student teachers to have this opportunity so that when they get their own classroom, they come in feeling more confident. They’ll have something to pull from,” says Dial.

Why It’s Important

soe
UM School of Education senior Blakely Norris

Veteran teachers like Allison Nelson, a 2006 UM graduate, say what happens on that pivotal first day sets the tone for the rest of the school year. 

“You are establishing the community ‘family’ you wish to have for the year. Explaining procedures, demonstrating how your room operates and setting clear routines are essential,” says Nelson, who is beginning her 9th year as a 5th grade teacher at Saraland, with a total of 15 years of teaching experience. Knowing what to do when they walk in class every morning, where to turn in homework, test procedures, and what to expect from the start of the school day to dismissal gives students a sense of stability. 

“For parents, we are establishing ways of communication, reassuring them that their child will be loved and accepted for who they are and that their child will receive the best education and be pushed to be their best self, both socially and academically,” she continues.

On the first day of school, “the students are deciding if they will feel loved, safe and comfortable in your room. What will be expected of them? Will they have a cheerleader for a teacher, cheering them on to do their best, or a dictator telling them this is the only way? For me, I want to set my students’ minds at ease from Day 1 on all those questions they have running through their minds. I pray that most of those questions are answered and felt as they enter my room for the first time by how I greet the student and their parents at the door, seeing a warm smile, feeling a comforting hug, experience a bright and cheerful classroom,” says Nelson.

A Sense of Community

UM senior Allie Kelley says she is using the Beginning of School Experience to take note of effective first-day-of-school procedures she can use in her future classroom. It’s one of many opportunities she has experienced through the University of Mobile School of Education, and one of the many lessons she is learning.

“The university encourages education majors to get plugged into their community and lean on others so that they are being the best version of themselves for their students each and every day,” Kelley says.

“One way that UM has prepared me, in particular, is by instilling a sense of community. As an educator, you will wear many hats and will be expected to accomplish many goals in one day. This can take a toll on an individual if you are trying to accomplish everything on your own. Being a teacher requires working with one another and taking advantage of the resources around you” like the Beginning of School Experience.

To learn more about the University of Mobile School of Education, visit umobile.edu/education or schedule at campus visit at umobile.edu/visit. To learn about scholarships and apply for admission, visit umobile.edu/apply or call 251.442.2222.

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Photo: UM student Allie Kelley, left, with UM alumna and Saraland Elementary 5th grade teacher Allison Nelson

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.

It’s Not Too Late to Enroll at the University of Mobile!

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Think you waited too late to start college this fall? Good news! It’s not too late to enroll for Fall Semester 2024 at the University of Mobile! Applications are still being accepted and scholarships are still available. Over 75 academic programs offer a variety of degree options ranging from associate and bachelor’s degrees to master’s and doctorates. 

Apply now at umobile.edu/apply.

Want to earn an extra scholarship? UM offers a $2,000 scholarship to traditional undergraduate students who visit campus, apply and enroll. RSVP for a campus visit at umobile.edu/visit.

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.

Thinking About Earning a Master’s Degree? Start Now at the University of Mobile! 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Thinking about earning a master’s degree to advance your career? There is still time to enroll at the University of Mobile and take the first step toward increased earning potential and career opportunities. Over 20 master’s and doctoral programs offer a variety of options for adults to advance in their current career or make the switch to a new career field.

Applications are still being accepted for Fall Semester 2024. Apply at umobile.edu/apply or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222 to speak with an enrollment counselor. Classes begin Aug. 19.

Flexible Schedules

At the University of Mobile, online and blended programs offer adult students the flexibility to continue working while earning master’s or doctoral degrees. Small classes, individual attention, and UM’s faith-based approach ensure that academic and personal growth are grounded in Christian values.

Master’s and doctoral degrees are offered in a variety of areas, including business, nursing, education, music, worship leadership, theology, athletic training, leadership and communication, history, English, creative arts and more. View a list of graduate programs at umobile.edu/areasofstudy.

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 Announces Fall 2024 Chapel Speakers 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announces its schedule of chapel speakers for the Fall 2024 semester. Speakers include the university’s newly elected president, Dr. Charles Smith; Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions Executive Director Dr. Rick Lance; North American Mission Board National Next Gen Director Shane Pruitt; and Lifeway Christian Resources President & CEO Dr. Ben Mandrell; among other distinguished faith leaders.

“Our students are in for a real treat this fall,” said President Smith. “Each of our chapel guests are godly and gifted communicators who are passionate about investing in the next generation. I can’t wait to see how God uses them for His glory and the good of our students.”

Weekly chapel services are a central part of the University of Mobile’s culture of discipleship and leadership development. 

“Once a week, the university’s residential student body gathers to pray, worship and engage the Word of God. Though this usually takes the form of a sermon, chapel services occasionally feature lectures and panel discussions on pressing issues. In every case, we seek to expose our students to God’s Word and equip them to be Kingdom leaders,” Smith said.

Fall 2024 Chapel Schedule

Chapel is held Wednesdays at 2 p.m. in Ram Hall. Chapel speakers for Fall Semester 2024 are:

Aug. 21: Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr., president, University of Mobile

Aug. 28: Shane Pruitt, national director of next-gen evangelism, North American Mission Board

Sept. 4:  Jared Baria, campus pastor, University of Mobile

Sept. 11: Dr. Rick Lance, executive director, Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions

Sept. 18: Dewayne Rembert, lead pastor, Flatline Church; church planting strategist, Montgomery Baptist Association

Sept. 25: Dr. Ed Litton, senior pastor, Redemption Church

Oct. 2: Nick Murray, associate pastor, Christ Fellowship Church

Oct. 16: Matt Mason, senior pastor, The Church at Brook Hills

Oct. 23: Dean Inserra, founding and lead pastor, City Church Tallahassee

Oct. 30: Dr. Jason Dees, senior pastor, Christ Covenant Church

Nov. 6: Dr. Ben Mandrell, president & CEO, Lifeway Christian Resources.

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 Piano Professor Kadisha Onalbayeva Receives Prestigious Artist Fellowship 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama State Council on the Arts presented a highly coveted Artist Fellowship to the University of Mobile’s Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, distinguished Steinway Artist, professor of music and director of piano studies in the Alabama School of the Arts.

Onalbayeva was the only recipient of a music fellowship among the 23 artists awarded grants during summer 2024. The $5,000 grants are awarded to outstanding Alabama artists to support the growth and development of their artistic careers.

Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, said, “Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva has an unwavering dedication and genuine love for her students. This is evident in the countless hours she invests in their growth as musicians and followers of Christ. Being the recipient of this music fellowship is a testament to Dr. O’s extraordinary talent. I am proud to have her as a part of UM’s faculty.”

Over the course of her career, Onalbayeva has garnered international recognition and accolades as a composer, performer and competition organizer. In addition to teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile, Onalbayeva serves as founder and president of The Gulf Coast Steinway Society. The Society encourages the development of piano students of all ages and sponsors competitions that result in Carnegie Hall appearances for the regions’ top students.

She holds two Master of Musical Arts degrees from the University of New Orleans and a Doctor of Musical Arts from Louisiana State University. A native of Kazakhstan, Onalbayeva began her musical training at the age of five and has won numerous awards throughout her career. An internationally known pianist and composer, she was commissioned to write a symphonic poem titled “Zherym” (My Motherland) by the Kazakhstan National Orchestra. The Minister of Culture of the Republic of Kazakhstan filmed a documentary on her life and musical career titled “Independent National’s Heritage” which was released in both Kazakh and in Russian.

She recently returned from Kazakhstan where she was an adjudicator in the International Competition “Rotary Starts” and performed on recitals in the National Kazakh Philharmony. She is participating in the Golden Key Music Festival in Vienna, Austria from July 28-Aug. 5 where she will perform in Vienna’s historic Ehrbar Hall. 

Artist Fellowship applications undergo a rigorous review process, including evaluations by staff, panels of arts professionals, the Council’s Grants Review Committee, and the full Council on the Arts. The recognition is a testament to Onalbayeva’s significant contributions to the cultural landscape of Alabama and dedication to advancing the arts through her exemplary work.

Dr. Elliot A. Knight, executive director of the Alabama State Council on the Arts, conveyed his congratulations, stating, “We are deeply appreciative of your contributions to the cultural environment of Alabama. It is very gratifying to know that we can support your work through this fellowship.”

Expressing her gratitude, Onalbayeva said the grant will provide her with the resources and opportunities to pursue new creative projects and further her influence in the field of music. This is the second Artist Fellowship she has received from the Alabama Council on the Arts.

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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