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 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.

University of Mobile Announces Scholarship Auditions for Alabama School of the Arts

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile announces its 2023-2024 audition schedule, offering aspiring undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to pursue their passion for the arts at a Christian university known for quality academics and unique performance opportunities.

The first audition day is Friday, Nov. 17.

“Pursuing the arts in college should not mean sacrificing academics, performance opportunities or your faith,” said Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts. 

“Whether you are a vocalist, instrumentalist, actor, dancer, production technician or worship leader, here you will receive expert guidance, both in the classroom and on the stage, so when you graduate, you have everything you need to not only succeed but to thrive.”

100% Receive Scholarships

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. Undergraduate degree programs in the Alabama School of the Arts are listed at https://asota.umobile.edu/degrees/. 

Graduate students interested in enrolling in ASOTA’s master’s and doctoral level programs are invited to audition for acceptance into the program. To receive first consideration for assistantships, graduate students should audition no later than February 2024. Graduate degree programs are listed at https://asota.umobile.edu/degrees/graduate/.

For the full list of more than 75 programs at the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/areasofstudy.

2023-2024 Audition Schedule

The 2023-2024 audition schedule is:

  • Friday, November 17, 2023
  • Saturday, January 27, 2024
  • Saturday, February 17, 2024
  • Saturday, March 23, 2024

For information about the audition process and to schedule an audition, visit umobile.edu/audition. Private auditions may be scheduled by request.

Audition requirements vary depending upon the area of study. Requirements are listed at umobile.edu/audition for instrumentalists, vocalists, theatre and production technology.

The Audition Experience

ASOTA audition coordinator Kaelyn Floyd said, “Students who audition can expect a supportive, encouraging environment with faculty who are excited to hear your potential.” 

Vocal performance major Nathan Blake agreed.

“I was extremely nervous waiting for my audition time to arrive. The friendliness of the staff and students helped me to calm down before I went in to audition. Their loving presence assisted me in performing my best in the audition,” said Blake. 

Lauren

Since enrolling at UM, he has been involved with the University Singers and performed in Christmas Spectacular, an annual seasonal extravaganza that draws audiences of over 8,000 and is broadcast worldwide.

Lauren Routledge, a musical theatre major, said visiting the University of Mobile campus and her audition experience made her college decision easy.

“I remember, after I visited, I felt at home and felt incredibly valued as an individual,” said Routledge.

About ASOTA

The Alabama School of the Arts combines quality academics with unique performance opportunities in a Christian environment at a university named #1 Best Small College in Alabama in 2023 by Niche.com

“Our students benefit from comprehensive across styles training that cultivates skills and techniques spanning a diverse range of performance styles or genres,” said Dr. Lori Guy, associate dean.

Across styles training provides graduates with a broad skill set that can be applied to different performance contexts. That gives ASOTA graduates career advantages by equipping them to find opportunities in various types of productions and developing the versatility to be well-rounded and adaptable in their craft, she said.

In addition, ASOTA students have extensive opportunities for gaining on-stage and back-stage experience.

“With a wide range of ensembles and performances each year, our students have the advantage of honing their craft on stage while also experiencing classroom instruction from faculty mentors who bring decades of experience in teaching and performance,” Guy added.

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

400-Year-Old Bible Finds New Home at University of Mobile

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – A 400-year-old King James Bible has a new home at the University of Mobile, thanks to the generosity of 1975 alumnus Dr. Leslie Holmes and his wife, Barbara.

The 1627 Bible was on display during a reception Sept. 26 at Lyon Chapel where Holmes shared the story of its journey from “bits of a Bible in a box” filled with loose pages through a restoration process that spanned Ireland, Scotland and England. 

Holmes also spoke of the couple’s own journey from northern Ireland to the United States, and from self-described “non-committed Christians” to serving over 50 years in Christian ministry.

The University of Mobile played a central role in their journey. 

group

‘Thank You’

University of Mobile President Lonnie Burnett thanked the couple for the gift, which is now the oldest Bible in the university’s collection. It will be on display in the Center for Christian Calling in the School of Christian Studies at the Baptist-affiliated university.

“Imagine somebody in the 1600s with this very Bible in their hands, reading it,” Burnett said. “When you think about it, if that were a science book that was 400 years old, what a person read that day would be true – but it would not be true today, because we have found out more things. But what a person read (in this Bible) on that day is still true today.”

Holmes said the gift is a way to say “thank you” to the university as well.

“I said to Barbara, I want to give this to the University of Mobile. They took me in when nobody else wanted me. And I want to give it in honor of Col. Ira Matthews.”

Preach the Gospel

When Holmes was applying to Mobile College – after being turned away from three other universities because his Belfast educational credentials weren’t recognized by U.S. colleges – his Belfast accent sparked an encounter with Matthews, who was then assistant to the Mobile College president. 

The retired war hero had flown out of Belfast over Germany during World War II with the U.S. Army Air Forces’ 40thBombardment Group. A conversation about Belfast, and a longer conversation about Holmes’ desire to preach the gospel – coupled with Matthews’ belief that the university “could not turn away a man God has called to preach” – paved the way for Holmes to enroll on academic probation. He thrived, graduated in 1975, then pursued graduate training in theology and psychology. 

A Scholar-Pastor

speaking

For over 40 years, Holmes was a solo or principal pastor, leading congregations from 30 to 4,300 members in Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, California, Pennsylvania and South Caroline. Later, he served as provost/CEO and professor of preaching and pastoral theology at Erskine Theological Seminary and moderator of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church.

Former U.S. Senate Chaplain Dr. Lloyd Ogilvie called Holmes “One of America’s foremost scholar-pastors.” He has been invited to speak, teach and present at preaching and leadership conferences as well as on university campuses and at churches on six continents. Having been published on both sides of the Atlantic, he is the author or contributing editor of 20 books and hundreds of articles and has offered the opening prayer for a session of the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. His latest book is “Leading the Way: Principles of Leadership Excellence for All Believers.” 

A Salvation Story

In another connection to the university, Holmes shared his salvation story, his call to ministry, and his wife’s initial reluctance to “be a preacher’s wife.” Then the young couple went to a concert in Mississippi, heard the gospel, and Barbara committed her own life to Christ.

The concert featured one of the very first contemporary Christian groups – TRUTH. The person sharing that message was TRUTH’s founder, Dr. Roger Breland, who now serves as executive director of UM’s Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts. At the reception, Breland learned for the first time of the role he played in Barbara’s life-changing commitment to Jesus Christ.

See What God Has Done

Holmes said he has kept up with his alma mater through the years.

“Over the years, I have watched the school grow, grow, grow. It’s a real privilege to stand here as an alum and see what God has done,” he said. 

“I am honored and delighted and thrilled that Barbara and I can give this to the school and say ‘Thank you,’” he added. “Because if you hadn’t taken us in, our lives would have been a whole shape different than what they have been.”

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.

Baker High Wins UM’s 5th Annual Brain Battle 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile campus was the site of an epic intellectual battle on Thursday, Sept. 14 when students from Mobile and Baldwin Counties competed in the fifth annual UM Brain Battle Tournament. 

At the end of the day, Baker High School students held the coveted trophy, along with the title of UM Brain Battle Champions. Daphne High School earned second place honors at the event. The UM Brain Battle is a qualifier for NAQT’s High School National Championship Tournament.

Tournament coordinator, Amy Burdette, said the University of Mobile Brain Battle brings together some of the best and brightest students from the community for a day of mind-stretching fun.

More than 70 students from eleven high schools gathered on the UM campus to compete. Proud parents, grandparents and a select few high school students joined as spectators for the event.

Participating schools also included Bayside Academy, Elberta High School, Alma Bryant High School, Gulf Shores High School, Barton Academy, Cottage Hill Christian Academy, McGill-Toolen Catholic High School, Faith Academy, and UMS-Wright Preparatory.

“At the University of Mobile, we believe we can make a difference in our community, and we are dedicated to serving our city and its young scholars,” said Burdette, English faculty member in UM’s College of Arts & Sciences.

University faculty served as moderators for the event. 

“No tournament is successful without amazing moderators,” Burdette said. “Our faculty brought energy, excitement, pizazz, poise and incredible enunciation skills to the table!”

UM students volunteered to serve as scorekeepers and timekeepers.

“All the student volunteers were invaluable to this tournament’s success. Our UM students truly embody service in Christ and in our community,” Burdette said.

Burdette said Chick-fil-A joined the tournament as a corporate sponsor.

CFA

“They generously provided 150 chicken biscuits to our competing scholars, coaches and volunteers,” Burdette said. “We are so blessed that our tournament is becoming more successful every semester.”

For more information about the University of Mobile Brain Battle, visit umobile.edu/brainbattle.

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 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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weaver hall building