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.

National Broadway Tour: Addison Garner

by Kathy Dean
Addison garner

Addison Garner
Actor
National Broadway Tour of Hairspray
Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre ’14

Those I encounter know that my faith is what I found my life upon, and when I love on people the way Christ loves us, I am able to shine my light for Him. 

– Addison Garner ’14

Addison Garner has always had a passion for music and dance. She fell in love with theatre when she was 10 years old and debuted as Little Orphan Annie in the musical Annie.

She pursued her passion at the University of Mobile. As a student in the Alabama School of the Arts, Addison took full advantage of the many opportunities to expand her talents. From representing the Christ-centered university as Miss University of Mobile to acting on stage in ASOTA productions and singing with Voices of Mobile, Addison added to her skillset with additional training in ballet, jazz, tap and music theory. 

Now, this 2014 University of Mobile graduate lives in New York City and performs across the United States as Velma Von Tussle on the national Broadway tour of Hairspray. 

“What I love most about my job is that I get to tell a story every day that changes people’s lives. Being onstage is always where I have always felt most at home, and I feel so very blessed that I get to wake up and live my dream daily,” Addison says.

Q. What have you been up to since graduating from UM? 

addie2

A. I have performed all over the country at various regional theaters such as Virginia Samford Theater, Sharon Playhouse, Red Mountain Theater, and Theater by the Sea as well as traveled the high seas in the inaugural cast of Hairspray on RCCL Symphony of the Seas and the Norwegian Star. My theater teacher in high school, Revel Gholston, is a huge part of my success and someone I give a lot of my career credit to, as well as my professors at UM. 

Q. What is a typical day like? 

A. Crazy! Tour life is wild. Every week I am in a new city across the country where I am responsible for showing up every night at the theater Tuesdays through Sundays. Mondays are our off days, but we typically spend them traveling to each new venue. I start my day with a local cup of coffee, a run and my quiet time. Then I am able to sightsee, rest up and teach voice lessons before heading to the “office” (the theater) each night. 

Addie

Q. With such a busy schedule, how do you recharge?

A. When not on the stage, to fuel my creative side, I find baking to be very therapeutic. I also really enjoy pretty things, sweets and all things cheese, so I decided to create my own charcuterie and cookie business, “Little Happies.” Growing up, my mom would always send us treats in the mail when off at camps or away at school, or we’d often come home to find goodies on our beds. She would call them “little happies.” I thought this to be the perfect name for my small business. 

Q. What is something are you passionate about?

A. Changing lives through the relationships I am fortunate enough to cultivate is something I am very passionate about in my profession. Being in a field where I am constantly surrounded by new and lost people, I really try to take the time to love on people and create solid relationships where I am then able to have Christ lead conversations that I hope and pray will change their lives. Those I encounter know that my faith is what I found my life upon, and when I love on people the way Christ loves us, I am able to shine my light for Him. 

Q. How can we follow your career?

A. You can see some of my work on my website, addisongarner.com. Better yet, check out our schedule of performances at hairspraytour.com and enjoy the show!

addie 1

3 Generations: The Bruns Family

by Kathy Dean

John Bruns ’78, RN, CRNA 
Alex Bruns ’00, RN, CRNA 
Johnathan Bruns ’02, RN, CRNA 
Amanda Rouse Bruns ’03, RN, CRNA 
Maryann Bruns Dean ’04, RN, CRNA 
Kendall Bruns ’22, RN, MSN-FNP 

We all received a great education from caring professors that made a difference in our lives. It is a great honor for us to have graduated from such a highly regarded institution as the University of Mobile.

-John Bruns ’78

If you have had surgery in Mobile, Alabama, chances are one of the last things you saw before the anesthesia took effect was a member of the Bruns family. This family of five Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and one Family Nurse Practitioner got their start at the University of Mobile School of Nursing. 

John Bruns wasn’t expecting to start a family tradition when he enrolled at then-Mobile College back in the ’70s. He had earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from The Citadel in 1972, then he and Cindy married. After four years serving in the United States Army, John decided to pursue a career in health care, and the couple moved to Mobile where Cindy had family. 

John completed UM’s associate degree in nursing in 1978, becoming a registered nurse. That education provided him the foundation to pursue additional training as a nurse anesthetist. Their children – Alex Bruns ’00, Johnathan Bruns ’02, and Maryann Bruns Dean ’04 – followed in their father’s footsteps, each graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Their daughter-in-law, Amanda Rouse Bruns ’03, met Jonathan at the University of Mobile while both were in the BSN program. Alex’s daughter, Kendall Bruns, took a different path in the health care field and graduated in 2022 with a Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner. 

family photo

That made three generations of the Bruns family to graduate from the University of Mobile School of Nursing in the College of Health Professions.

“We all received a great education from caring professors that made a difference in our lives,” John said. “It is a great honor for us to have graduated from such a highly regarded institution as the University of Mobile.”

The Christ-centered foundation they received in the University of Mobile School of Nursing prepared them to care for the whole person – to comfort patients emotionally and spiritually while also responding to their physical needs.

Maryann said the caring attitudes of her instructors at UM have had a great impact on the way she has taken care of her patients and their families throughout her career.  

“I feel that God has placed us all in the health care field for a reason, and I am honored He chose this path for me and our family,” Maryann said.

University of Mobile Presents 2023 Weaver Awards to Cory Anderson and Jamie Peters

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile presented its two top student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, to Cory Anderson of Saraland, Alabama, and Jamie Peters of Daleville, Alabama.

The awards were presented during graduation ceremonies held on the university campus May 6, 2023.

The William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award is presented to the most outstanding graduating male senior for excellence in exemplifying the mission of the University of Mobile. Selection is made by a secret vote of the faculty based on scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service. The award presented to Lenjamin Cory Anderson II is named for the university’s founding president and is considered the highest recognition possible for a University of Mobile male senior.

Cory Anderson
The William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award – Lenjamin Cory Anderson II 

Cory Anderson is described by his professors in the Alabama School of the Arts as a servant leader who is passionate about the Lord. He pursues his calling with excellence, having made the Dean’s or President’s lists throughout his college career.

This multi-talented student was cast in a lead role in the Fall 2022 production of “The Sound of Music.” He serves faithfully at Rise Church in Mobile as a keyboard player on the worship arts team and is involved in planning special services and events.

Anderson is a godly father and husband, often working two full-time jobs to provide for his family while studying for classes. A former student worker now on staff as coordinator of academic services in the Alabama School of the Arts, he has assisted faculty members and led many administrative practices for the National Association of Schools of Music 10-year review.

Anderson graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Music in vocal performance.

The Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award is presented to the most outstanding graduating female senior for excellence in exemplifying the mission of University of Mobile. Selection is made by a secret vote of the faculty based on scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service. The award presented to Jamie Danielle Peters is named for B Weaver, the university’s first “First Lady,” and is considered the highest recognition possible for a University of Mobile female senior.

Jamie Peters
The Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award – Jamie Danielle Peters

Jamie Peters is described by her professors in the College of Arts and Sciences as an excellent embodiment of Christian values who has made it her mission to honor God through fellowship, discipleship and service.

She maintained a 4.0 grade point average in the rigorous Honors Program, served as a teaching assistant in the English Department and led the university’s Gamma Chapter of Sigma Tau Delta Honor Society. She was a tutor in the writing center and assistant director of the UM Brain Battle scholar’s bowl competition for high school students. In addition, she served as an adult choir leader in several local churches and volunteered for Vacation Bible Schools.

With her exceptional writing skills and passion for literature, she produced a thesis paper that her professors called “extraordinary.”

Jamie Peters graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in English, Honors Program with Thesis, and received the President’s Scholastic Achievement Award.

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.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university offering on-campus and online associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

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 Names ‘Mark Foley Hall’ at Graduation 2023

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – During his commencement address to over 330 members of the UM Class of 2023, University of Mobile President Emeritus Mark Foley challenged graduates to pursue their purpose and be active and effective influencers for Jesus Christ in the world.

When Foley prepared to take his seat and watch the May 6 graduates receive their diplomas, he was in for a surprise. As over 3,000 graduates and families watched the video screen on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn, the university unveiled the name of the university’s newest residence hall: “Mark Foley Hall.”

University of Mobile President Lonnie Burnett made the surprise announcement on the 25th anniversary year of Foley’s selection as the 3rd president of the Christ-centered university.

mark foley graduation 2023

“The highest honor a university can give an individual is to place their name on a building. Today, Dr. Mark Foley joins the illustrious names of Weaver, Bedsole, May and Martin in the history of this university,” said Burnett, who serves as the 5th president of UM.

After the ceremony, Foley said he was humbled by the honor.

The naming of Mark Foley Hall “is an incredibly humbling surprise, but the real story is in the lives of the men and women who built it and the men and women who lived in it. I just happened to be here to see it,” Foley said.

Formerly known as “The Timbers,” the three-story residence hall was built during Foley’s 18-year tenure as university president. The nearly 40,000-square foot building includes 24 apartments housing four students each. 

It was part of a total $44.8 million investment in capital projects during Foley’s service as president. Other major projects were the Weaver Hall Enhancement Project that gave the university’s historic first building its iconic look with a pitched roof, portico and cupola; two more residence halls; a professional recording student; Ram Hall auditorium and more. 

A time capsule is sealed in the lobby floor of the residence hall. Set to be opened in 2061 on the 100th anniversary of the university, the time capsule features memorabilia from the first 50 years of university life. Among the items to be revealed in 2061 are 60 photos featuring the groundbreaking of Mobile College, original faculty and staff, the first graduating class in 1967, the 50th anniversary faculty in 2011, the 2012 President’s Cabinet, Miss UM 2012, the 2012-2013 SGA president, and Dr. Mark Foley at the time capsule dedication in November 2012. 

‘Mark Foley Hall’
‘Mark Foley Hall’ time capsule

Also included are the first yearbook of Mobile College in 1964, an Urban Plunge t-shirt, a stuffed ram mascot, a UMobile class of 2015 ring, a tie chain worn by founding president Dr. William K. Weaver Jr., a cell phone used in the 1990s, a Dr. Mark Foley twelve23 Movement CD, an NAIA uniform patch, October 2012 Board of Trustees booklet, ‘It’s Time’ book by Dr. Mark Foley, a University of Mobile lapel pin, a Voices of Mobile flash drive, a UMobile shaker, Mobile College Homecoming 1987 mini megaphone, a Weaver Hall ornament, a Vision 2000 coaster, and various promotional brochures used throughout the history of the University of Mobile.

A list of 2023 graduates is here at https://umobile.edu/news/class-of-2023/.

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.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university offering on-campus and online associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

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.

Andrew Goodwin Named ASOTA Dean at University of Mobile

by Kathy Dean
Andrew Goodwin

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announced today that alumnus Dr. Andrew Goodwin has been named dean of the Alabama School of the Arts.

Goodwin, who most recently served the university as creative director, artist-in-residence and assistant professor of music, steps into the position held for 20 years by retiring dean Dr. Al Miller.

“Dr. Goodwin has seen this university through the eyes of a student, a staff member and a faculty member. Along with his tremendous artistic talent, he has a deep love for academics and the classroom. I am excited to see him grow as a leader,” said University of Mobile President Lonnie Burnett.

Goodwin has been part of the culture and community at the University of Mobile for 17 years, with experience as an undergraduate and graduate student, staff member, adjunct faculty and full-time faculty in the Alabama School of the Arts. He received a Bachelor of Music in church music from UM in 2010, a Master of Arts in religion and worship studies from Liberty University in 2015, and a Doctor of Musical Arts in vocal performance from the University of Mobile in 2023.

He performed as a member of Veritas, a Dove Award-nominated, classical crossover vocal group, for over 11 years and recorded seven nationally released albums with the group. Goodwin has toured the country, performing about 100 shows a year in both religions and non-religious settings. He has performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, with the Miami Symphony and at the White House in Washington, D.C.

Goodwin was interviewed for the position by a committee that included Dr. Michael Catt, retired pastor of Sherwood Church in Albany, Georgia.

“I’m very excited about Andrew Goodwin and his new role at UM Andrew has exhibited excellence in everything he’s put his hands to,” said Catt. “I believe this is a generational decision that will impact students for generations to come. The future is as bright as the promises of God.”

Goodwin said it is an honor and privilege to be called on to lead ASOTA as dean.

“As I look forward, and dream about the future of the department, I am ambitious about many things, most of which is the opportunity to invest into the lives of the students,” Goodwin said.

“College is a formative time for a student. It is a time when decisions are made, and rules of life are created that affect the trajectory of a student’s life. For a student in ASOTA, it is a time when they learn the commitment it takes to become a skilled instrumentalist, vocalist, actor, dancer, educator, worship leader, audio engineer, lighting designer or studio engineer. But, most importantly, it is a time when they truly begin to understand what it means to follow Jesus on their own. 

Andrew Goodwin

“As dean of Alabama School of the Arts, above all else, it is my desire to lead and be a part of a faculty and staff that is unified in demonstrating what it means to practice the ways of Jesus. It is a joy to reflect on the hundreds of students who have been educated and launched into incredible callings, careers, and ministries from ASOTA. I am hopeful to build upon the strong foundation which has been laid here, keeping the Alabama School of the Arts a leader in Christian higher education.” 

Retiring dean Miller said Goodwin will build upon a strong foundation and continue to grow and deepen the school in spiritual and academic endeavors.

“What a joy to pass the baton to a person who loves God, his family and the University of Mobile,” Miller said.

Goodwin is married to Jenna Goodwin who serves as director of production in the Alabama School of the Arts. The Saraland, Alabama, residents have three children: Riley, Audrey and Anderson.

For more information about the Alabama School of the Arts, visit umobile.edu/asota or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222. 

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.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university offering on-campus and online associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

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 President Emeritus Mark Foley to Deliver Commencement Address May 6

by Kathy Dean
UM President Emeritus Mark Foley

MOBILE, Ala. – Dr. Mark Foley, president emeritus of the University of Mobile, will deliver the commencement address for the UM Class of 2023 on Saturday, May 6. Approximately 330 candidates for graduation will receive associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees during the ceremony that begins at 9 a.m. on the Great Commission Lawn.

A highpoint for commencement is the Great Commission Tradition. After receiving their degrees, new graduates will touch the Great Commission Globe to mark the completion of their degree and the journey ahead as they pursue God’s calling for their lives throughout the world. The ceremony takes place on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn and the Great Commission Globe was made possible through a generous gift from the estate of Doris M. Davis.

Guests are advised to arrive on campus early to allow time for parking and seating. Handicapped parking is available at Bedsole Library and Martin Hall. For more graduation information, including weather plans, please visit the university website at umobile.edu/graduation.

Dr. Mark Foley served as the third president of the University of Mobile, from 1998 to 2016. During his 18-year tenure, he led the move to intentionally integrate learning, faith and leadership in all areas of university life while raising academic standards, establishing outstanding programs such as the Center for Performing Arts, and leading the university to national rankings.

Also during that period, the university invested $44.8 million in capital projects, including the Weaver Hall Enhancement Project that gave the university’s historic first building its iconic look with a pitched roof, portico and cupola. Other additions included three residence halls, a professional recording studio and Ram Hall auditorium.

Previously, Foley served as executive vice president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Hardin Simmons University in Abilene, Texas; and a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Philosophy in psychology and counseling from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He is an ordained minister, a former business owner, and has practiced as a professional counselor. His wife, Marilyn, served at his side as First Lady for the university. She holds a Bachelor of Science in education from Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas, and is a former classroom educator.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university offering on-campus and online associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

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.

Caring Attitude: Katrina Brown

by Kathy Dean
Caring attitude: Katrina Brown

Katrina Brown, DNP, RN, NE-BC, PCCN-K
Vice President of Patient Care
Ascension Providence
Bachelor of Science in Nursing ’94

While studying at the University of Mobile, I was not only able to get a strong nursing education, but I was also able to experience a caring environment with spiritual growth.
-Dr. Katrina Brown ’94

My inspiration and love of nursing come from a calling to be able to make a positive impact and difference in others’ lives. Nurses are able to care for individuals on a physical, emotional and spiritual basis in their daily work. As a nursing leader, the improvement of patient quality indicators is extremely exciting, because it equates to improved care for our patients in our community.

As vice president of patient care, I am responsible for the departments of nursing, cardiology, the emergency department, pharmacy, rehabilitation and radiology. A typical day is challenging, eventful and always rewarding. The usual day will consist of managing staffing, staff recruitment, quality measures, patient experience, staff and provider experience, finance and budgeting, productivity, patient throughput, relationship building, leadership professional growth and development, and so much more.

Q. How has your career progressed since graduating from UM?

A. After graduating from the University of Mobile with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, I started my nursing career in the telemetry unit at Providence Hospital. My career at Ascension Providence has advanced from staff nurse to charge nurse to nurse manager to director of case management to executive director of nursing to vice president of patient care. In July 2012, I graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing in Executive Administration. In July 2019, I earned a Doctor of Science in Nursing in Executive Administration.

I have enjoyed participating in organizations with the goals of improving our local community, such as the American Heart Association Circle of Red, Health Gulf Coast Care Transitions Coalition and Gulf Coast Organization of Nurse Leaders.

Q. How would you say UM helped prepare you for this?

A. UM values the spiritual development of its students. While studying at the University of Mobile, I was not only able to get a strong nursing education but also experience a caring environment with spiritual growth. Similarly, Providence Hospital allowed me to be part of a hospital that values high-quality standards in a faith-based, caring environment. I felt as if I left one family to join another.

Q. What advice would you give to UM School of Nursing students?

A. Study hard, have a positive attitude and understand the importance of caring for others. A caring attitude will assist you in developing strong, trusting relationships that will be important to your future.

Caring Attitude: Katrina Brown
Caring Attitude: Katrina Brown

UM Master of Athletic Training Program Announces CAATE Accreditation

by Kathy Dean
CAATE

MOBILE, Ala. – It is official!

The Master of Athletic Training program at the University of Mobile has been granted initial accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. 

Program Director Melissa Thomas, Ed.D, ATC, said the Master of Athletic Training (MAT) program’s first graduating class will be awarded degrees May 6 during a commencement ceremony on the University of Mobile campus. 

A Promise Fulfilled

Dr. Thomas said the accreditation process validated what she hoped others also could see in UM’s MAT program: committed faculty, and students who were dedicated to the athletic training profession and unwavering in their decision to attend UM as the new program pursued accreditation.

“This is about fulfilling a promise I made to each of these students during their interview for admission, so telling them the program gained accreditation was the best feeling in the world,” said Thomas, associate professor of kinesiology in the School of Health and Sports Science, College of Health Professions.

MAT Program Strengths Cited

The university officially was notified in April of the initial accreditation decision after CAATE peer reviewers completed a comprehensive on-site review of the program in January.

Thomas said the peer review team cited program strengths during its exit interview: 

  • The program’s small cohort sizes are ideal for maintaining exceptional didactic and clinical learning experiences. Students, faculty, and preceptors expressed that the program’s size allows for individualized instruction, learning, and attention to detail in students’ growth, success, and future career endeavors. 
  • The program offers a variety of quality clinical experiences across multiple patient care settings for all students.Preceptors demonstrate an altruistic desire to give back to the program and support students through any means possible. Students regularly engage in hands-on, autonomous clinical experiences throughout the program, regardless of setting. 
  • Dr. Matthew Busbee, MAT program medical director, demonstrates an evident commitment to the success of the MAT program by providing support to MAT faculty and learning opportunities to MAT students. Dr. Busbee has a robust history of working with athletic trainers and is a true advocate of the athletic training profession. Dr. Busbee demonstrates an evident commitment to his involvement in the MAT program across various interactions with students in clinical practice and through planned lectures. The program’s relationship with The Orthopaedic Group P.C. also enhances student clinical practice.
  • Simulation and collaboration through interprofessional education with nursing programs are exceptional. The state-of-the-art simulation facilities provide students with intentional simulation experiences, often through high-fidelity mannequins and equipment. 
UM Master of Athletic Training Program Announces CAATE Accreditation
MAT students from left: Chelsea Acton, Kaitlyn Spangler, Tyesha Smith, Jemiar Jonasian, Paolo Gorme, Hailee Richard, Madilyn Peters
CAATE Accreditation a Team Effort

Thomas said developing and implementing an exceptional Master of Athletic Training Program at the University of Mobile was a team effort.

A key team member was Megan Harper, DAT, ATC, who serves as coordinator of clinical education and assistant professor of kinesiology in UM’s School of Health and Sports Science, College of Health Professions.

“Dr. Harper continues to push students to excel through clinical education opportunities, push the limits of simulations, and use standardized patients for student learning,” said Thomas.

Committed Preceptors & Adjunct Faculty

In addition, Thomas thanked each preceptor and adjunct faculty member listed below who continuously shows a commitment to UM’s athletic training program. 

Adjunct faculty include:

Jennifer Thomas, Pharm.D.; 
James Fisher, PA-C, ATC;
Kristen Rather, PT;
Dr. Lori DeLong, ATC – Dean, School of Health and Sports Science.

Preceptors and clinical sites include:

Kelly Vinson, ATC, PTA – McGill-Toolen High; 
David Bentley, ATC – St. Luke’s Episcopal School; 
Chandler McCulloch, ATC – St. Paul’s Episcopal School;
Rob Milam, ATC – Spanish Fort High;
Rachel Alterio, ATC – Mobile Christian High;
Robert DeLong, ATC – University of Mobile;                    
Kyle McDowell, ATC ­­– Bishop State Community College;
Laura Beth Wright, ATC and Baylee Kimbrell, ATC – Spring Hill College;
Robert Lightfoot, MD – Victory Health Partners;
Shawn McQuade, Paramedic – Mobile County EMS;
Matthew Busbee, MD and Karla Beasley, ATC – The Orthopaedic Group PC;
Brian Risser, PT, ATC – Saraland Physical Therapy;
Jon Hammontree, ATC ­ – Hartselle High;
Scott Armistead, ATC; Alex Villasanti, ATC; and Dalton Davis, ATC – FC Cincinnati Soccer Club;  
Courtney Perkins, ATC – Alabama State University.

UM Accepting MAT Applications to May 1

There is still time for students to apply for admission to the next cohort of UM’s Master of Athletic Training program. 

The online application is completed through ATCAS and remains open until May 1. The ATCAS system allows students to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, observation hours and more through the program’s verification process.

UM’s 2-year, 62-credit-hour MAT program prepares students through both didactic and clinical experiences to sit for the Board of Certification Exam.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university offering on-campus and online associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

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.

Be Part of University of Mobile Give Day on April 4

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Be part of the University of Mobile mission of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose” by making an online donation on April 4 during UM Give Day 2023.

UM Give Day is a 48-hour online event that helps raise funds for student scholarships and various student programs at the Christian university.

Give Day 2023 begins April 4 and will be celebrated across University of Mobile social media platforms. Tax-deductible gifts can be made before April 4 and still count toward the total raised for Give Day. 

Make your donation and keep up with the campaign’s progress at umobile.edu/giveday.

The annual UM Give Day event supports “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose” by providing student scholarships and helping fund various programs. Donors also have the option to designate specific areas where their gifts may be used. 

To be part of UM Give Day 2023:

  • Follow University of Mobile Alumni and UM flagship social media accounts
  • Make your UM Give Day donation at umobile.edu/giveday
  • Share your support on your personal social media accounts
  • Invite others to support the University of Mobile’s mission of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose.”

To learn more about opportunities to support the University of Mobile, go to umobile.edu/visit or contact the Office for Advancement at 251.442.2913.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university offering on-campus and online associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

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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