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.

University of Mobile School of Nursing Invites Public to Town Hall Meeting Feb. 21

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile School of Nursing invites surrounding communities to participate in a public Town Hall meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 21 from 12:30 to 1 p.m.

The purpose of the meeting is to update the public about the university’s Associate Degree in Nursing program, which started in the fall of 2022. The first graduating class is in May of 2024. 

The School of Nursing is in the process of completing the required accreditation requirements. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accreditation team will visit the University of Mobile campus Feb. 20-22 and invites the public to participate in the 30-minute meeting located on the third floor conference room of Weaver Hall.

Information about the University of Mobile Associate Degree in Nursing program is at umobile.edu/adn.                       

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 Christmas Spectacular to Air Christmas Morning on Fox10TV, Plus More Showings

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – An hour-long special featuring the University of Mobile Christmas Spectacular will air locally on WALA Fox10TV from 7-8 a.m. Christmas morning, Dec. 25. 

There will be more opportunities to watch the 60-minute excerpt from the 2022 Christmas Spectacular during this Christmas season.

Where to Watch Christmas Spectacular 2022 

Daystar Television will air Christmas Spectacular 2022 on Dec. 21 at the following times:

12/21 @ 12pm EST NET/CANADA
12/21 @ 1am EST NET/CANADA
12/21 @ 11am CST NET US/INTL
12/21 @ 12am CST NET US/INTL

Also, WHBR Christian Television Network will air the special as follows:

12/11 @ 9:30pm
12/19 @ 7:30pm
12/24 @ 10:30pm

Coming Soon: Christmas Spectacular 2023 Streaming

The 2023 Christmas Spectacular performance, held in November, will be edited by students in the production technologies program in the university’s Alabama School of the Arts. It will be available for streaming during Spring 2024.

For more information about Christmas Spectacular and the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/asota. To learn about enrolling at the University of Mobile, go to umobile.edu/apply.

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 Invites All to Community Christmas Concert Dec. 22

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile will present a free Community Christmas Concert on Friday, Dec. 22, featuring the premier student ensemble VOICES of Mobile in the final performance of its 2023 Christmas Tour.

The concert begins at 7 p.m. at the university’s College Woods Center.

The 2023 Christmas Tour features VOICES of Mobile performances at churches across Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, Lousiana, Florida and Georgia. VOICES is a highly versatile, auditioned vocal ensemble which presents over 200 concerts every year through regional and international tours. Throughout the years, the student ensemble has performed at the White House, Carnegie Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral and The Brooklyn Tabernacle Church.

For information about Voices of Mobile, visit the Alabama School of the Arts website at umobile.edu/asota. For information about the university’s College Woods Center, visit umobile.edu/cwc.

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.

Search Continues for Next University of Mobile President, Applications Accepted Through Dec. 31

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is accepting applications and nominations through Dec. 31, 2023, for a visionary leader to serve as the 6th president of the Baptist-affiliated university in Alabama. An Opportunity Profile and information about the search process is at umobile.edu/presidentialsearch. 

The university launched the search in October, following the decision of Dr. Lonnie Burnett to retire from a presidential tenure that began in 2019. Under his leadership, the university launched the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program and the Associate Degree in Nursing program, completed nearly $3 million in new construction and renovations through existing funds and fund-raising efforts, and was recognized by Forbes as one of only 300 companies in the nation and the only educational institution in Alabama listed as “America’s Best Small Employers 2023.”

Fred Wilson is chair of the Presidential Search Committee comprised of trustees, alumni, denominational leaders, staff and faculty.

“We believe that the foundation laid by Dr. Burnett’s administration creates a tremendous opportunity for an insightful leader with the right set of skills to expand the university’s influence exponentially,” Wilson said.

Key characteristics of the successful candidate will be one who is motivated and drawn to the external aspects of the presidency; exhibits exceptional business acumen; has a proven record of building beneficial partnerships with individuals, businesses and community; and is accustomed to innovative thinking and taking appropriate risks beyond traditional approaches to expand the university’s mission and influence.

Higher Education for a Higher Purpose

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences 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. 

The motto “Know & Be Known” describes a close-knit campus culture of caring and mentoring that prepares students to “Know Yourself. Know your Calling. Be Known.” In a world where education often feels impersonal and disconnected, the University of Mobile offers transformative education, community spirit and a faith-based approach that transcends the ordinary. UM invites students to “Experience the Difference” and follow God’s calling for their lives in a Christ-centered academic community where they will “Know & Be Known.” 

The university has gained respect in the Mobile community, in the faith community in the state of Alabama, among peer institutions in the southern region and among families seeking this type of college experience.

About the University of Mobile

Located in Mobile, Alabama, on an 880+ acre campus just an hour from Gulf Coast beaches, the University of Mobile is a Christ-centered institution of liberal arts and sciences and professional programs integrating faith and learning to provide “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose.” More than 1,900 students from 34 states and 23 nations are enrolled in 75+ academic programs granting associate to doctoral degrees. 

Founded in 1961 by Alabama Baptists, the University of Mobile is affiliated with and supported by the Alabama Baptist State Convention. 

Among the university’s distinctives are the College of Health Professions, located in recently renovated facilities that include the Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice. The university offers the first and only Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice in a four-state region and will graduate the first of three cohorts in Spring 2024. The nationally accredited Dr. Randy Craig Gross Anatomy Lab in the College of Arts & Sciencesmakes UM one of the few universities to provide undergraduate students with laboratory experiences using human cadavers. The School of Nursing attained a perfect 100% pass rate for BSN graduates taking the NCLEX national licensure exam during 2022 – the highest pass rate in Alabama. The School of Education has a well-earned reputation for producing quality educators, and business leaders across the southeast and beyond represent UM’s Grace Pilot School of Business.

The Alabama School of the Arts is an All-Steinway School widely recognized for its bachelor’s to doctoral programs in vocal and instrumental music, theatre, worship leadership and production technology. ASOTA ensembles travel worldwide to represent the university on mission and in schools and churches. One of the highlights of the year is the University of Mobile Christmas Spectacular, seen live by over 8,000 people and viewed worldwide by satellite.

NAIA athletics are an important part of campus life at the University of Mobile. Over 370 scholar-athletes participate in 21 varsity sports in a nationally competitive program that has captured 8 NAIA national championships and multiple Coach of the Year awards and Champions of Character honors.

An innovative 4-day academic week, employees committed to serving as mentors as well as educators and support personnel, and a culture of hospitality have resulted in the University of Mobile’s recognition by Forbes as one of only 300 of “America’s Best Small Employers 2023.” UM is the only educational institution in Alabama cited by Forbes.

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.

Joe Bullard Automotive Partners with University of Mobile Christmas Spectacular 2023; Tickets Still Available!

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Tickets are on sale now and going fast for a Gulf Coast holiday favorite, the University of Mobile’s Christmas Spectacular 2023. The Alabama School of the Art presents four performances of this popular seasonal extravaganza Nov.16 – 19 at Cottage Hill Baptist Church

This year, Joe Bullard Automotive has partnered with the University of Mobile as a corporate sponsor for Christmas Spectacular. Corporate sponsorships provide tax-deductible donations to help underwrite portions of the event, allowing the university to keep production values high and ticket sales affordable. Thank you to Joe Bullard Automotive from the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile!

Purchase your tickets today at umobile.edu/Christmas.

Now in its 21st year, Christmas Spectacular signals the start of the holiday season for the Gulf Coast. The popular event features musical performances by over 250 University of Mobile students, faculty and staff, plus a 50-piece orchestra. Christmas Spectacular is a fast-paced, family-friendly, fun-filled extravaganza of sight and sound that tells the story of Christmas.

Purchase Tickets

This musical celebration of the Christmas season is seen each year in person by audiences totaling over 8,000 who travel to Mobile from across the U.S., and it is televised throughout the Christmas season to millions across the globe. 

Purchase tickets at umobile.edu/Christmas, or click on the links below for specific dates:

For those unable to attend Christmas Spectacular in person, each night’s show will be live-streamed. Purchase tickets for streaming at umobile.edu/Christmas.

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.

Talented Piano Students Invited to Gulf Coast Steinway Society Music Competition IX

by Kathy Dean

Talented pianists are invited to compete in the 9th Annual Gulf Coast Steinway Music Competition to be held at the University of Mobile on Feb.10, 2024. Winners will receive a $200 cash prize and be invited to perform at the Weill Hall at Carnegie Hall, New York City, on June 19th at 7 p.m.

Applicants must be residents of the state of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana or Mississippi, or be studying with a teacher who is a resident of these states. Competition participants will be students from elementary, middle school, high school and undergraduates from colleges and universities in the five-state region. 

The deadline to apply for the competition is Tuesday, Dec. 12. Applications are online gulfcoaststeinwaysociety.org.  Apply here: https://gulfcoaststeinwaysociety.org/contest%20application%202024.htm

This competition will be held on Feb. 10 at 9 a.m. at Martin Hall on the University of Mobile campus. This event is free and open to the public.

Participants will perform three memorized pieces of contrasting styles. Award winners will be selected on the basis of their performance. 

Anna Elliott, who was the high school winner of last year’s GCSS Music Competition VIII, said, “Performing at Carnegie Hall was the most memorable and amazing experience of my life. The history, atmosphere and beauty of the building created a feeling that is indescribable. From the dress rehearsal, to taking pictures, practicing, and playing with other talented pianists, this is something I will never forget.”

The Gulf Coast Steinway Society is a non-profit organization formed by the director of piano studies and professor of music in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile and Steinway Artist, Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, and board of directors. The Gulf Coast Steinway Society is devoted to promoting fine music through education and performance along the Gulf Coast region. The Society collaborates with The Alabama State Council on the Arts and the Steinway Piano Gallery in Spanish Fort. 

dr o

Onalbayeva said, “I am so blessed that the GCSS Music Competition has brought together over a 1000 students these past 9 years and the University of Mobile has become a house of beautiful music! The GCSS mission is to not only bring music to our community, but to share our talents beyond by giving our winners the opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall! The ultimate dream of any musician in the World!”

University of Mobile Adds 2 New Master’s Degrees for Classroom Teachers

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announces two new master’s degree programs in English and History that are designed to give current classroom teachers the qualifications to advance in their careers, earn a salary boost, and teach adjunct college courses. Graduates who already hold teaching certificates also gain the credentials needed to teach dual enrollment high school courses.

The two new graduate degree programs are a Master of Arts in English with a concentration in education (non-certification), and a Master of Arts in History with a concentration in education (non-certification).

Both programs are registering students now for classes that start in January 2024. Apply at umobile.edu/apply.

Designed for Current Teachers

Classes are offered in a blended format, both on campus and online, at times convenient for working teachers. The programs are designed to allow educators the flexibility to continue their teaching career while earning their master’s degree. 

Participants will earn a total of 36 graduate hours consisting of 18 hours in either English or History courses, plus 18 hours in education courses. Graduates would be qualified to teach adjunct college courses in English or History fields. Graduates who already hold teaching certificates also will be qualified to teach dual enrollment courses at the high school level.

Master of Arts in English with Concentration in Education (non-certification)

The Master of Arts in English with a concentration in education is a non-certification degree designed for teachers wishing to expand their career options with a master’s degree in English while experiencing the love of literature that first drew them to teaching. 

“Our greater goal is to offer a haven where teachers can rediscover their love of reading classic works,” said program director Dr. Katherine Abernathy, professor of English in the College of Arts and Sciences.

“We want teachers to rediscover the eternal verities, the universal truths and questions of the great books so they can return to their classrooms with a renewed sense of why great writing speaks to people across ages and cultures,” Abernathy said.

Applications are being accepted now at umobile.edu/apply. The program kicks off in January 2024 with EN501: Graduate Seminar in American Literature.

“We will discuss the era of American Romanticism, reading Charles Brockden Brown’s novel ‘Wieland’ and discuss how it taught Poe how to be Poe. We will also read some Hawthorne and Thoreau, among other American Romantics,” Abernathy said.

For information about the Master of Arts in English with a concentration in education and to apply, visit umobile.edu/ma-english, or contact the Office for Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222, or email Abernathy at kabernathy@umobile.edu.

Master of Arts in History with Concentration in Education (non-certification)

The Master of Arts in History with a concentration in education is a non-certification degree designed specifically for secondary teachers interested in developing the knowledge and skills that come with studying the past. Graduates will earn an advanced degree that qualifies them to serve as an adjunct professor. Those who already hold teaching certificates will gain credentials sufficient for teaching dual enrollment high school courses.

“History courses include topical classes on World War II, the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, and Jacksonian America, as well as seminars in Early and Modern American History and Local History,” said Dr. Matthew Downs, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and associate professor of history.

Applications are being accepted now at umobile.edu/apply. Classes start in January 2024.

For information about the Master of Arts in History with a concentration in education and to apply, visit umobile.edu/ma-history, or contact the Office for Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222, or email Downs at mdowns@umobile.edu.                  

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.

Fulbright Specialist Scholar: Christian Bolden

by Kathy Dean

Christian Bolden
CEO/Principal
The Bolden Group
Author, “The Achiever’s Alphabet”

Bachelor of Arts in Communication ’06

“The University of Mobile provided a foundation that set me up for success. My experience as a student-athlete taught me hard work and perseverance that prepared me for the rigors of entrepreneurship. The university’s commitment to the student experience is second to none. It’s 4 years I wish I could experience all over again.”

–Christian Bolden ’06

COAS

From his days at the University of Mobile wearing the #32 jersey on the Rams basketball team to his current role as an entrepreneur and CEO of The Bolden Group, Christian Bolden has always been an achiever. It was this passion for personal growth and self-discovery that led him to write a children’s rhyme book, “The Achiever’s Alphabet,” to make learning the virtues of good character as easy as A-B-C.

basketball

That same drive and love of learning also led to his recent selection as a Fulbright Specialist Program Awardee – an international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. 

A companion to the traditional Fulbright Scholar Program, the project’s objective is to advance the exchange of knowledge and establish bilateral partnerships through educational and training activities with emphasis on business administration.

The Fulbright Specialist Program provides support for scholars and other professionals with significant experience and expertise in their field, enabling them with an opportunity to engage in research projects focused on critical global issues at host institutions abroad. As a Fulbright Specialist Scholar, Bolden is tentatively set to complete his project in Ireland. 

Q. Why did you choose Ireland as the location for your Fulbright Specialist project?

ireland
Ireland Ambassador to the United States Geraldine Byrne Nason and Christian Bolden at an African American Irish Diaspora Network event in New York City. 

A. After completing my Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Mobile, I obtained my Master of Business Administration at Syracuse University. I am also certified in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEIA) via the University of Michigan. While pursuing my MBA, I completed a series of residencies in Dublin and Cork, Ireland, which is the genesis of my relationship with the country. I also serve on the Board of Directors with the African American Irish Diaspora Network, which fosters relationships between African Americans and Ireland through shared heritage and culture.

Q. How has your career progressed since graduating from the University of Mobile?

A. The beginning of my career involved government affairs and programmatic support of our federal agencies which culminated in working as a professional staff member on the Committee on Homeland Security in the United States House of Representatives at the behest of Rep. Bennie Thompson, whose district includes Jackson, Mississippi. I also spearheaded the Washington, D.C., commemoration of the 5-year Hurricane Katrina anniversary which impacted my hometown, New Orleans and, of course, Mobile. I formerly served on the board of the National Urban League’s Washington, D.C., chapter (Young Professionals.)

I became interested in trying my hand at entrepreneurship, which led to establishing The Bolden Group with core competencies in program/project management, cybersecurity and DEIA-related services. As CEO, I’m responsible for overall company strategy and execution. I also managed the company’s day-to-day operations. 

basketball

Q. How did your time as a student-athlete at UM prepare you for your career?

A. The University of Mobile provided a foundation that set me up for success. As a student-athlete, time management plays a significant role in your collegiate experience. My experience at UM prepared me for the rigors of entrepreneurship and taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. 

The relationships I developed at the University of Mobile have stood the test of time. UM’s commitment to the student experience is second to none. I always felt like I was the school’s ambassador when playing and wearing my jersey. It’s 4 years I wish I could experience all over again. 

Q. What advice would you give to University of Mobile students?

A. My time at the University of Mobile represents some of the best days of my life. My advice to current students would be to take a risk in your career at some point. You won’t regret it. 

Christmas Spectacular 2023 Tickets On Sale Now; Shows Expected to Sell Out!

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – A Gulf Coast holiday favorite returns the week before Thanksgiving when the University of Mobile Alabama School of the Arts presents Christmas Spectacular 2023, with four performances Nov.16 – 19 at Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

Tickets are on sale now and going fast, with shows expected to sell out. Purchase your tickets today at umobile.edu/Christmas.
Now in its 21st year, Christmas Spectacular signals the start of the holiday season for the Gulf Coast. The popular event features musical performances by over 250 University of Mobile students, faculty and staff, plus a 50-piece orchestra. Christmas Spectacular is a fast-paced, family-friendly, fun-filled extravaganza of sight and sound that tells the story of Christmas.

This musical celebration of the Christmas season is seen each year in person by audiences totaling over 8,000 who travel to Mobile from across the U.S., and it is televised throughout the Christmas season to millions across the globe.

Purchase tickets at umobile.edu/Christmas, or click on the links below for specific dates:

For those unable to attend Christmas Spectacular in person, each night’s show will be live-streamed. Purchase tickets for streaming at umobile.edu/Christmas.

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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