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 Announces New Graduate Certificate in Creative Practice

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announces the launch of a new academic program, the Graduate Certificate in Creative Practice, offered by the College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Visual Arts. 

This graduate-level certificate program is designed to nurture the creative talents of aspiring artists, designers and professionals seeking to enhance their creative skills and expand their career opportunities. The program includes six courses totaling 18 credit hours.

clay

“The Graduate Certificate in Creative Practice is designed for individuals who are passionate about creativity and want to take their artistic abilities to the next level,” said Megan Cary, MFA, associate professor of graphic design.

The University of Mobile is enrolling now for classes beginning January 2024. For a program overview and to apply, go to umobile.edu/visualarts and choose Graduate Certificate in Creative Practice on the dropdown menu. For more information, contact Cary at mcary@umobile.edu.

Program Highlights

Key highlights of the program include:

Interdisciplinary Approach: The program is designed to foster collaboration between students from diverse creative backgrounds, promoting cross-pollination of ideas and the exploration of new, innovative artistic practices.

Professional Guidance: Students will benefit from the mentorship of highly experienced faculty members who are renowned in their respective fields, ensuring that they receive personalized guidance and support throughout their creative journey.

Flexible Learning: The Graduate Certificate in Creative Practice offers a flexible curriculum that can be completed in a short time frame, making it ideal for working professionals and individuals with busy schedules.

Hands-On Experience: The program includes a variety of hands-on projects and practical experiences, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.

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.

‘Italian Stallion’ Johnny Musso Shares Faith Story at University of Mobile

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The Italian Stallion – football legend Johnny Musso – shared his faith story with University of Mobile supporters at the Partners for Purpose fundraising luncheon on Oct. 19. The event raised scholarships for students at the Christian university.

coffee

In an interview format hosted by Dan Brennan, co-host of Mobile Mornings on FM Talk 1065, Musso recalled being recruited by Alabama Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. Musso spoke of his mother, whose cooking was often praised by Coach Bryant, and whose “life of joy” despite severe hardships was founded on faith. While being raised in a home where devotion was modeled, Musso said it wasn’t until he was married with a child that he developed a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

A self-described “straight arrow” in high school who didn’t drink or smoke, Musso said that, as a college student, “I didn’t turn into a monster, but I was just pretty average in what I would do or not do. I didn’t want to stand out and do something wrong that I’d get embarrassed about, but on the other hand, I compromised my morals and just lived like people live.

“I started accumulating guilt. I’d still go to church, but I knew I was not living right,” he said.

He married and, two years after school, the couple had their first child. It was “a transformative moment, seeing my son’s birth.” Musso realized he would be an influence in his son’s life, “and I wasn’t prepared for it.” 

During his second off-season in professional football, the family lived in an apartment in Birmingham. That was when a backyard conversation with a neighbor and former Alabama teammate, whose life had visibly changed as a result of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, proved the turning point for Musso.

“One night we invited him over, and I just asked him, ‘You are different than I remember. And he told me how Jesus had changed his life. And it had credibility; he was different from my perspective. And I’m going to church every day with this guilt, trying to get it off of me, trying to be a better person. So I was ready,” Musso said.

“He explained that Jesus died for my sins. I knew Jesus died for the sins of the whole world, but this was personal, and it made sense. It started my life all over. I prayed that God would show me what He had for me. 

“I went to bed that night, and I woke up the next morning and life was just different. I could feel God’s spirit inside of me. It was very emotional and very dramatic for me. It was like night and day. And so I started walking with the Good Lord, and it was just a new day for me. That’s how I became a Christian.”

interview

‘The Italian Stallion’

Musso was born in March of 1950 in Birmingham, Alabama. Nicknamed “The Italian Stallion,” he was a star running back at Frazier Banks High School in Birmingham. After graduating high school, Musso joined the Crimson Tide football team at the University of Alabama, where he played for legendary coach Paul “Bear” Bryant as a three-year starter at halfback.

Known as a “bulldozing blocker and breakaway runner”, Johnny was a part of the now famous “switch to the wishbone” in 1971, famously upsetting USC with Musso scoring two touchdowns in the win.

College Career

Musso was twice an All-American and a three-time All-Southeastern Conference player. As a senior, he finished fourth in the voting for the 1971 Heisman Trophy and was named “Player of the Year” by Football News, The Miami Touchdown Club and the Touchdown Club of Atlanta.

He led the Southeastern Conference in rushing two years and in scoring (100 points) in 1971. He set a school record for rushing touchdowns (34) that lasted 28 years. His career rushing yardage of 2,742 was also a school record.

Musso’s big games included 221 yards against Auburn in 1970 and four touchdowns against Florida in 1971. Musso holds an Alabama team record for most rushes in a game; 42 in the 1970 Iron Bowl. He was a National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete and an NCAA postgraduate scholarship winner.

Professional Career

lunch

Musso was selected by Chicago in the 1972 NFL draft but chose instead to play for the Canadian Football League’s British Columbia Lions (1972 – 1974) where he ran for over 1,000 yards in 1973 and was a West All-Star. In 1975 he returned to Birmingham as a member of the World Football League’s Birmingham Vulcans. That fall he began a three-year NFL career with the Chicago Bears.

Musso was inducted into the National Football Foundation Scholar-Athletes Hall of Fame in 1971, the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 1989 and into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. In 2007 he was awarded the Legend of Birmingham Award during the Papa Johns.com Bowl at Legion Field.

Business & Ministry Leader

After retiring from football, Musso became president of the Schreiner-Musso Trading Co., a commodities firm serving as an independent trader at the Chicago Board of Trade.

Musso served in urban ministry, working with underprivileged youth. He served on the local and national boards of the youth ministry groups Young Life and Kids Across America.

He and his wife, Tanner, have four sons and one daughter.

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 Starts Presidential Search for Visionary Leader

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile has launched a national search for a visionary leader to serve as the 6thpresident of the Baptist-affiliated university in Alabama.

“The University of Mobile seeks a visionary leader who understands UM’s opportunities and challenges and, with dependency on the Holy Spirit, is eager to lead the school into the future,” said Fred Wilson, chair of the Presidential Search Committee comprised of trustees, alumni, denominational leaders, staff and faculty.

The university is accepting nominations and applications for the position through Dec. 31, 2023. An Opportunity Profile and information about the search process is at umobile.edu/presidentialsearch. 

Key Characteristics of the Next President

The opportunity for a new president comes with the decision of Dr. Lonnie Burnett to retire from a presidential tenure that begin 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.”

“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.

The Presidential Search Committee

The UM Board of Trustees appointed a Presidential Search Committee to guide the process. Members are:

Fred Wilson, Chair, Presidential Search Committee and Member, UM Board of Trustees

Terry Harbin, Chair, UM Board of Trustees 

Mike Tew, Member, UM Board of Trustees

Ron Moore, Member, UM Board of Trustees (alumnus)

Jamey Pruett, Member, UM Board of Trustees (alumnus)

Brynn Albretson, Member, UM Board of Trustees (alumna)

Kenny Harris, Member, UM Board of Trustees

Charity Wittner, Vice President for Student Affairs (alumna)

Dr. Kathy Dunning, Dean, Grace Pilot School of Business

Chase Alford, Teaching Pastor, Dayspring Baptist Church (alumnus)

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 & Sciences makes 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.

University of Mobile Hosts ‘UM Day’ Nov. 17 with $2,000 Scholarship Offer, ASOTA Auditions

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile invites potential students to “Experience the Difference” of UM’s Christ-centered higher education and earn a $2,000 scholarship for visiting campus on an upcoming UM Day. The next UM Day is set for Friday, Nov. 17.

Sign up to attend UM Day at umobile.edu/umday.

In addition, the Alabama School of the Arts will hold auditions for performing arts scholarships during UM Day on Nov. 17. All undergraduate students who audition will receive an ASOTA scholarship when they audition, apply and enroll at the University of Mobile. ASOTA scholarships are available for those who major or minor in any of the more than 20 programs offered in the performing arts. 

Sign up to audition for a performing arts scholarship at umobile.edu/audition.

RSVP for UM Day

UM Days give potential students and families an opportunity to tour the University of Mobile campus, speak with professors, meet current students, learn about financial aid and submit a free application. New traditional undergraduate students who attend a UM Day will also receive a $2,000 scholarship when they visit campus, apply and enroll.

To RSVP for UM Day on Nov. 17, please visit umobile.edu/umday or call 251.442.2222. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. in Ram Hall on the University of Mobile campus, 5735 College Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36613. 

Other UM Days scheduled for the 2023-2024 academic year are:

  • Friday, Feb. 16, 2024
  • Friday, March 22, 2024. 

To RSVP for a future UM Day, visit umobile.edu/umday.

Schedule a Private Tour

Personalized, private tours also may be scheduled for Mondays through Fridays. Students who attend a private campus visit also will receive a $2,000 scholarship when they apply for admission and enroll. 

To schedule a private campus tour, please visit umobile.edu/visit for more information.

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.

Q&A with UM Nursing Professor Tammy Brown

by Kathy Dean
Tammy brown

“Growing up, I never wanted to be a nurse.”

Tammy Brown’s childhood dream was to become an aerospace engineer, and she started college with that goal. But God had different plans. 

“When my oldest son was in the hospital, after he was born with many complex medical problems, and we were preparing to take him home, I remember the most profound words that were said to me, and those were by a nurse. She said, ‘You will need to choose right here and right now whether to spend every day laughing or every day crying because God gave him to you to take care of, and that is exactly what you are going to do.’

“She was right, and I chose right then and there to spend every day laughing and praising Him for the blessing that He gave to us through that little boy’s life. That is the difference I want to make as an educator at the University of Mobile,” said Brown.

As assistant nursing professor and undergraduate chair at the School of Nursing in the College of Health Professions, Brown sees her role as much more than teaching.

“It is an opportunity to be a mentor, promoting professionalism and a lifetime love for learning. Here at UM, it is also an opportunity to offer spiritual guidance while being a positive influence in the lives of young people as they begin to strengthen their Christian values while they remain mindful of who God desires for them to be.”

Q. How did your journey to the nursing field begin?

A. I married young, right out of high school, and my husband served in the U.S. Air Force. After he returned from the Gulf War, I gave birth to our first son, who was born with many complex medical problems. I left school to care for him, and as he grew older and my medical knowledge grew right along with him, I decided to return to school and pursue a degree in nursing. I graduated with an Associate Degree in Nursing in 1998, shortly before he passed.

My journey as an ADN was long. I practiced for 17 years, working as a staff nurse, charge nurse and finally a nurse manager, primarily in the medical-surgical setting and, for a short time, in the labor and delivery/postpartum setting. In 2014, I decided to pursue my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Mobile. I graduated in 2015 and immediately began my journey to a Master of Science in Nursing, graduating once again from UM in 2017.

Less than one month after graduation, I was blessed with an offer to become a nurse educator in the School of Nursing, and I happily accepted. This began my journey on the path that, I believe, God had intended for me to take all along. 

Q. What do you love about teaching at UM?

A. For me, there was never a consideration to teach anywhere other than the University of Mobile. As a student in the School of Nursing undergraduate and graduate programs, I experienced first-hand the love and sincerity offered by each and every one of my professors, and I knew instantly that as an educator, I wanted to be a part of that. I wanted my students to be more than “just a number,” and I wanted to be able to love on them and pray with them during their times of triumph as well as during their times of challenge, both academically and personally. I knew that UM was the place that would allow me to do just that. 

I have the privilege of teaching the undergraduate nursing students during their first semester in nursing school. This can be such an overwhelming time for them, as they begin to develop new ways of learning and testing while being introduced to information that is generally quite foreign to them. I love seeing them begin to make those important connections between knowledge and practice, and I celebrate with them when those lightbulbs finally start to come on.

Q. Why should someone choose to study nursing at UM?

A. A nursing degree from the University of Mobile is more than just a piece of paper! It is an acknowledgment of hard work, a passion for helping others, and a desire to connect with people on a more intimate level. Nurses are the faces that are seen and the hands that are held during some of the best and some of the worst times in a person’s life. Here at UM, we teach students to value and respect each and every one of these experiences, recognizing the impact they can have with simply a word or a touch. 

Students learn the value of communication while they fine tune their skills in our state-of-the art skills lab and simulation center. Each experience in these areas is treated just as it would be in real life, offering students the chance to learn and to grow while making mistakes in an environment that is safe and judgment free.

UM is also a great choice because a student can begin their journey toward nursing and complete it in the very same place. We offer an Associate Degree in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing (Family Nurse Practitioner, Leadership, and Education tracks), Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice. 

Plus, for the second consecutive year, the University of Mobile School of Nursing scored a perfect 100% pass rate for BSN graduates taking the NCLEX national licensure examination!

Q. Where can we find you outside of class?

A. When I am not teaching or preparing lesson plans, I enjoy spending time with my family. I am a proud wife to an Air Force vet and mother to 3 wonderful sons, one who has angel wings. I have a beautiful daughter-in-love and one soon to be daughter-in-love, and I am Gigi to the most precious 9-month old little girl in the world, and in February of 2024, I will become a Gigi again. My family is my pride and joy, and if you have ever talked to me for more than 2 minutes, I am sure you already know that! 

Making Magic: Hannah Goodman

by Kathy Dean

Hannah Goodman
Entertainment Technician
Walt Disney World
Bachelor of Science in Production Technologies ’23

“The hands-on experience provided to me in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile prepared me to confidently walk into the professional environment of entertainment, knowing I have the knowledge and skill to perform my job at the highest caliber.”  

– Hannah Goodman ’23

alumni spot. asota

It was Spring Spectacular, the final spring semester performance for students in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile. In a few weeks, Hannah Goodman would graduate from the Christian university with a Bachelor of Science in Production Technologies. But this night was her real graduation experience – when she put the previous four years of undergraduate study and experience to the test as Student Technical Director.

“I was able to step into a role unlike anything I had done before to manage a team of my peers to produce the final spring performance of the year,” Hannah said. “The practical experience I gained throughout my time at the University of Mobile gave me the confidence I needed to step into any position that God provided for me.”

Soon after graduation, Hannah was using her UM degree and experience to make the magic happen at “The Happiest Place on Earth” – Walt Disney World.

Q. Tell us about working as an entertainment technician at Walt Disney World. What is a typical day like?

lion king

A. As an entertainment technician, I do a little bit of everything. My day-to-day tasks vary wildly. Some days I work in the Harambe Theater as a technician for the stage show “Festival of The Lion King.” Within this role, I have been able to learn a variety of different skills to support the acts that perform at this stage. Due to the nature of the requirements of this show, I was also given the opportunity to receive pyrotechnic certification. 

Other days I am the audio technician for the “Viva Gaia” street band that performs on Discovery Island at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

I also get the opportunity to do audio and lighting for evening park events, tech installations and weddings throughout the park. I work on various stages, and I am able to train in a variety of positions throughout Walt Disney World. 

Q. How did your time in the Alabama School of the Arts prepare you for this? 


A. My time at the University of Mobile prepared me for my career in so many more ways than I realized. The hands-on experiences provided to me prepared me to confidently walk into the professional environment of entertainment, knowing I have the knowledge and skill to perform my job at the highest caliber. 

Q. What kind of experiences did your production technologies degree program provide that prepared you for the professional world?

Christmas Spec

A. During my final year at UM, I was given the privilege to work alongside the technical director and FOH engineer, Jeremy Harford, at Christmas Spectacular. In the months leading up to Christmas Spec, I was given the opportunity to work with the ASOTA lead team to learn about everything that goes into this performance. During my final semester at UM, I was able to use all of the skills I acquired in my four years of undergrad to gain the title of Student Technical Director for Spring Spectacular. 

Q. Our motto at UM is “Experience the Difference.” What would you say is the UM difference?

A. The University of Mobile gave me such a strong community of people, both staff and students, that I consider family. With small class sizes, I was able to gain valuable mentorship from staff members both in and out of the classroom. 

One of these mentors is the Director of Production Technology, Jeremy Harford. During my time as a production technologies student, Jeremy went out of his way to make sure students understood concepts, even outside of the classroom. I was able to work alongside Jeremy outside of UM at South Coast Church, where he continued to mentor and help sharpen my skills, as an audio engineer, lighting designer and a leader. There were many times in my four years when Jeremy stepped up not only for me, but for my classmates, to help us problem solve and give us practical advice about our next steps in our career. If it were not for the constant support and practical advice, I would not be as confident as I am in my technical field. The ASOTA community is unlike any other and was one of the greatest parts of my time at the University of Mobile.

RamFest Features Fireworks, a Solar Eclipse, Miss UM Competition and Athletics Events on UM Campus

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile’s four-day RamFest celebration Oct. 12-15 has it all – athletic contests, a tailgate, Miss University of Mobile competition, a worship service at Cottage Hill Baptist Church, and even fireworks at The Jungle.

A few hours before the fireworks begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14, attendees are invited to a mid-day viewing of the annular solar eclipse – called a “Ring of Fire” – narrated by physics professor Dr. Salomon Itza. 

“In our area, the eclipse will be partial, with about 70% of the solar disk appearing black, not orange, as our view of the sun is blocked by the moon,” the professor explained.

Itza, who hosts UM’s “Stargazing with Dr. Itza,” said faculty and students from the Natural Science Department will be stationed on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn with solar telescopes and solar glasses. The eclipse is expected to begin at 10:37 a.m., be at its peak about 12:10 p.m., and end by 1:47 p.m.

“We may also observe changes in animal behavior, as the weather resembles a sunset and sunrise during the middle of the day,” Itza said. He said there will be a limited number of solar glasses that visitors can share, and said it is important to never look at the sun without proper eye protection. (In case of rain or overcast skies, the solar eclipse viewing will be canceled.)

Those in the Mobile area will see the Ring of Fire as a partial eclipse, and another total eclipse set for April 2024 will also be seen as a partial eclipse in our area. But stick around, and you may have a chance to see a total eclipse a few years from now.

“In 2052 and 2078, Gulf Shores and Mobile area will be the ground for Total Solar Eclipses, so mark your calendars!” Itza said.

For information about all RamFest events, visit umobile.edu/ramfest. Some events are free and others require tickets.

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 Dedicates Ram Fitness Trail in ‘Exercise is Medicine’ Initiative

by Kathy Dean
um kinesiology

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile dedicated a 1-mile walking trail on campus as part of a campus culture of wellness that has earned UM recognition by the “Exercise is Medicine – On Campus” program.

Students from the UM Kinesiology Club, faculty in the School of Health and Sports Science, and UM President Lonnie Burnett joined the university mascot, Mac the Ram, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony Sept. 28 for the newly designated Ram Fitness Trail.

‘Honor God With Your Body

The 1-mile fitness trail begins and ends at Weaver Hall and takes walkers on a picturesque journey down Pollock-Altmayer Drive, then encircles the campus center. A QR code gives walkers access to a campus map of the trail and distance markers.

Dr. Lori DeLong, dean of the School of Health and Sports Science in the College of Health Professions, said the dedication marks the first leg of what eventually will be a longer Ram Fitness Trail through the 880-acre campus.

QR code

She said UM’s campus wellness effort is in keeping with the motto for the School of Health and Sports Science: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. The scripture describes the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and urges Christians to “honor God with your bodies.”

“Let’s work on our health and wellness together,” said DeLong as the ribbon was cut, attendees applauded and walkers took the first steps on the Ram Fitness Trail.

‘Exercise is Medicine’ Recognition

The University of Mobile is one of only 149 universities and colleges around the world to be honored by “Exercise is Medicine” for efforts to create a culture of wellness on campus. The Kinesiology Club’s annual health fair and health survey conducted last year helped UM earn bronze-level designation from the “Exercise is Medicine – On Campus” program.

The university was officially recognized on June 1 as part of the 2023 Exercise is Medicine World Congress, held in conjunction with the American College of Sports Medicine’s annual meeting. The American College of Sports Medicine, which is the world’s largest sports medicine and exercise science organization, co-launched “Exercise is Medicine” in 2007 with the American Medical Association.

UM Kinesiology Department

Heather Smith, visiting instructor of kinesiology, said students in the Kinesiology Department have been working toward the education of personal health and wellness of students, faculty and staff on campus.

“We also want to extend our efforts into the community and provide education to promote health and wellness, and to grow and establish more resources and opportunities to provide our campus with the tools to establish healthy living,” Smith said.

For more information about the School of Health and Sports Science and other healthcare degree programs at the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/healthcare.

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 Hosts ‘UM Day’ Oct. 9 with $2,000 Scholarship Offer

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile invites potential students to “Experience the Difference” of UM’s Christ-centered higher education and earn a $2,000 scholarship for visiting campus on an upcoming UM Day. The next UM Day is set for Monday, Oct. 9.

UM Days give potential students and families an opportunity to tour the University of Mobile campus, speak with professors, meet current students, learn about financial aid and submit a free application. New traditional undergraduate students who attend a UM Day will also receive a $2,000 scholarship when they visit campus, apply and enroll.

RSVP for UM Day

To RSVP for UM Day on Oct. 9, please visit umobile.edu/umday or call 251.442.2222. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. in Ram Hall on the University of Mobile campus, 5735 College Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36613. 

Other UM Days scheduled for the 2023-2024 academic year are:

  • Friday, Nov. 17, 2023
  • Friday, Feb. 16, 2024
  • Friday, March 22, 2024. 

To RSVP for a future UM Day, visit umobile.edu/umday.

Schedule a Private Tour

Personalized, private tours also may be scheduled for Mondays through Fridays. Students who attend a private campus visit also will receive a $2,000 scholarship when they apply for admission and enroll. 

To schedule a private campus tour, please visit umobile.edu/visit for more information.

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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