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.

Patient-Centered Care: Sherman Howze

by Kathy Dean

Sherman Howze, ATC
Head Athletic Trainer
Dalton State College
Hamilton Sports Medicine
Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training ’11

I love the feeling of helping athletes physically, mentally and spiritually. I like to help turn their bad days into good or not-so-bad ones that usually start with a smile. 

-Sherman Howze ’11

Sherman Howze says his path to becoming an award-winning athletic trainer started with an injury.

“Like most athletic trainers, I suffered an injury in high school, and my athletic trainer also attended the University of Mobile. I admired my athletic trainer because she went above and beyond her call of duty to take care of us, and I wanted to follow in her footsteps,” he said.

Today, this University of Mobile graduate is the head athletic trainer at Dalton State College in Georgia.

“A fun fact about myself and my job is that the college I work for is in the same conference as the University of Mobile. We compete against UM in every sport, and I am always torn on who to root for. I usually clap every time both teams do something great,” Sherman says.

About UM’s Master of Athletic Training

When Sherman graduated from UM in 2011 with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, he was fully prepared for the rigorous Board of Certification Exam that earned him the credentials of Certified Athletic Trainer. 

Since then, the standard for entry into the athletic training profession has become a master’s degree, so UM’s athletic training program expanded. Now, undergraduate or transfer students at UM may earn a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a Pre-Athletic Training Concentration.

UM bachelor’s degree graduates and those from other universities who meet the qualifications may apply to UM’s Master of Athletic Training program. Applications are being accepted through May 1 for the upcoming cohort. Classes begin in June. 

Both Master of Athletic Training and Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology programs are offered through UM’s School of Health and Sports Science in the College of Health Professions.

Learn more about the Master of Athletic Training program at UM and apply at umobile.edu/master-of-athletic-training. Or click here to go directly to the online application portal and start the application process.

Q&A with Sherman Howze

Sherman has worked as an athletic trainer in the collegiate setting for more than 12 years, earning a master’s degree in kinesiology along the way. He joined the Roadrunner Sports Medicine staff at Dalton State College in 2014 and was elevated to the position of head athletic trainer in 2016.

Q. What are some highlights in your career so far?

A. have served two terms as the Chair Athletic Trainer of the SSAC, two stints with the NAIA Athletic Trainers’ Association, and currently serve on the Intercollegiate Council for Sports Medicine (ICSM) of the NATA. I was blessed to be named SSAC Athletic Trainer of the Year in 2016-17 and in 2022, I received the Champ Baker Jr. Young Professional Leadership Award. I am also a massage therapist.

Q. Tell us about your job. 

athletics

A. Athletic trainers, also known as ATs, specialize in managing, preventing and recovering injured athletes. Athletic trainers are often the first medical professionals on the scene after an injury. Athletic trainers collaborate with doctors to provide emergency and follow-up care and develop injury prevention and treatment programs for injured athletes.

Athletic trainers also provide a vital communication link between the injured athlete, the physician, the coach and sometimes the athlete’s family to determine when it’s right to return to practice and competition. 

Q. What do you love about your work?

A. I love the feeling of helping athletes physically, mentally and spiritually. I like to help turn their bad days into good or not-so-bad ones that usually start with a smile. 

One main reason I love athletic training is that there is no typical day. Sometimes I may work 16 hours and have 50 patient interactions; sometimes, I may work 4 hours with four patient interactions.   

Q. MAT program faculty in the School of Health and Sports Science say you have encouraged students to pursue the MAT at UM. What do you tell students?

with student

A. I tell them the truth. I tell them that the athletic training program was challenging and there would be good and bad days, but you would be second to none once they left the program. The MAT program led by Dr. Melissa Thomas and Dr. Megan Harper will produce excellent athletic trainers, and I want to do my part in helping student athletic trainers find a great home where they can learn and thrive. 

Also, I love to brag about how great UM is. I tell them about the good times I had while in college. I brag about how many people were willing to help me in any way. 

Q. What is something you are passionate about?A. I am very passionate about helping people, especially young people. They will run the world one day, and I want to say that I lent a hand to help them out. When graduating from the University of Mobile, (then-president) Dr. Mark Foley told us to go out and change the world, which is my daily goal.

team

UM Alumnus Ira Bates Jr. Named 2023 Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence Recipient 

by Kathy Dean
headshot

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile honors 2004 alumnus Ira Bates Jr., vice president –community development officer for The First Bank, with the Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence.

The Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence was established in 2019 to honor the life of the late Samuel M. Boykin, the first African American graduate of the University of Mobile. The award recognizes outstanding African American graduates of UM who reflect the ideals of virtuosity, faith and charity that Boykin exemplified throughout his career, family and community.

“I am humbled and extremely honored to receive such a prestigious award,” said Bates. “It is a testament to the Most High’s grace, mercy and sovereignty over my life. As a proud graduate of the University of Mobile, that happens to be African American, it means a lot to me to represent my faith, family and university in a positive manner as well as being a role model to other young African American men to pursue greatness.”

Bates, a first-generation graduate, received his undergraduate degree in business administration in 2004 from the University of Mobile. In 2019, he continued his education by earning a degree in banking, corporate, finance, and securities law from the Alabama Banking School. 

Bates is a member of the President’s Advisory Council at the University of Mobile. He serves the local community through a variety of non-profit organizations including United Way, Habitat for Humanity, Housing First, Victory Health Partners, Foley Housing Authority, Africatown Redevelopment Corporation, Junior Achievement, Goodwill Gulf Coast, Ella Grant Elementary Mentors, Toastmasters International and Greater Gulf State Fair. 

Haley Ikner Haney, director of alumni relations, said, “Ira exemplifies not only the characteristics that make the Boykin Award special, but also those of the university. Ira’s story of being a non-traditional, first-generation college student resonates with many of our current students and alumni. Ira is a deserving recipient of this award and leaves a legacy for many others to follow.”

Bates will receive the award on April 1 at the annual Alumni Brunch held at the university. Tickets for the brunch are $10 per person. The brunch will be followed by an Alumni Easter Egg Hunt for children of alumni. To RSVP for the Alumni Brunch or to register children ages 10 and under for the Alumni Easter Egg Hunt, or for more information, visit umobile.edu/alumni-events or contact the alumni office at 251.442.2226.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers 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.

Dr. Hazel Petersen Walter Remembered

by Kathy Dean
hazel

MOBILE, Ala. – When University of Mobile School of Education graduates describe Dr. Hazel Petersen Walter, who died March 15, 2023, at the age of 99, they use words like: motivating, demanding, dedicated and respected. 

In her role as a dean and vice president, faculty and staff saw her as formidable yet mischievous, challenging yet encouraging. 

UM president and 1979 alumnus Dr. Lonnie Burnett adds another descriptor: “mentor.”

“My first mentor, Dr. Hazel Petersen, taught me the importance of always pursuing excellence, even in the smallest details. Next to an eventual ‘Well done, good and faithful servant,’ a word of approval from her was the most treasured acknowledgement,” Burnett recalled.

During her long tenure at the Baptist-affiliated university, “Dr. Petersen,” as she was known to her UM family, served as chair of the Division of Education, interim dean, academic dean and vice president for academic affairs. After retiring in 1989, she returned to the university as assistant to the president and dean of an international branch campus before retiring again in 1998.

Prior to serving at the University of Mobile, she married Neils Petersen and taught school in Florida, Louisiana and Alabama. Later, after his death, she met her second husband, Homer Walter, during her retirement years. They were married for seven years until he passed away in 2007.

‘I Love Students’

Hazel Adams Petersen Walter was a lifelong educator. Born Jan. 17, 1924, she earned a Bachelor of Arts from Howard College (now Samford University) in 1950 and a Master of Education in 1965 from Auburn University. In 1967, after earning a doctorate in education from Auburn, she joined the faculty of the new Baptist-affiliated Mobile College. Founded in 1961, the school enrolled its first class in 1963 and, in 1993, became the University of Mobile. 

“I have a strong feeling about the importance of Christian higher education,” she recalled in 2019. “I made the choice to come to the University of Mobile. It was new, and I had the opportunity to develop the teacher education program. It was a quality school with high expectations, but the support was there for students, and the faculty was committed.”

Those weren’t the only reasons she invested much of her life into the Christian university.

“Of course, I love students,” she said.

“My love for the children I could not have was the greatest thing ever given to me. I had so many young people I could reach out to and become a part of my life, and in some way, I could become a part of their life,” she said.

One of those students was Dr. Debra Chancey, who would eventually follow in Petersen’s footsteps as dean of the School of Education. Petersen taught Chancey in both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Impact the World

HAzel
Debra Chancey and Hazel Petersen

“I cannot think of anyone who exemplifies the impact that an educator can have on her community and world more than Dr. Hazel Petersen Walter,” said Chancey, who now serves as associate vice president for institutional effectiveness in the Office for Academic Affairs.

As a student, Chancey worked in Petersen’s office helping the dean prepare SACSCOC materials and state review documents. In later years, Chancey with husband and fellow UM graduate, Danny, would travel to Gainesville, Florida, to visit Petersen at her retirement community.

“Her life not only touched the students she taught at the college level but also touched the students of the teachers she mentored, the students she taught in Vietnam, the students of the university she helped establish in Nicaragua, and the international students that she welcomed into her home.  She truly became part of all the lives she touched. 

“From the perspective of a former student and lifelong friend, I can say she was one of the most amazing people I have ever met,” Chancey said.

Bold and Adventurous

birthday
99th Birthday Celebration

Throughout her career, the professor-turned-administrator was bold and adventurous.

In the 1960s, women were rarely appointed to high-level administrative positions in higher education. Mobile College founding president Dr. William K. Weaver Jr. promoted Petersen to chair of the college’s Division of Education – one of the highest positions held at that time by women in higher education in the state of Alabama.

Later, when Weaver appointed her to the top post of academic dean, she broke another glass ceiling. At that time, there were no other female academic deans in Baptist colleges nationwide.

“He thought I was the right person for that position,” she said. “I remember a meeting I went to for the Baptist colleges. I went into the deans’ meeting, and one of the gentlemen said to me, ‘The ladies are meeting in another location; this is for the deans.’”

Retelling the story, she paused and, with a chuckle, recalled her response.

“I said, ‘I am a dean,’” and took her seat alongside the men.

Petersen and her Mobile College colleague, English professor Dr. Frances Garner, were among the first American teachers to venture into Vietnam in 1989 following the Vietnam War. They had volunteered to teach English as a second language to Vietnamese educators.

Later, she lived in Nicaragua for several years while the university operated a branch campus, retiring when that campus closed in 1998.

Hazel Petersen Scholarships

Two scholarships at the University of Mobile honor Petersen Walter.

The Hazel Petersen Scholarship is a full tuition scholarship that recognizes outstanding students who have distinguished themselves through academic achievement and personal excellence.

The Hazel A. Petersen Leadership Scholarship is an endowed scholarship established in 2015 by the Chanceys for a teacher education student.

In lieu of flowers, the Petersen Walters family requests donations be made to the Hazel A. Petersen Leadership Scholarship at the University of Mobile. Donors may visit umobile.edu and click “Give” at the top of the page to designate the donation from the dropdown list, or go directly to umobile.edu/give.

‘A Wonderful Life’

In June of 2007 at the age of 83, Petersen visited the University of Mobile campus for the final time. During her two-day visit, Petersen lived in the university’s newest residence hall for women, Karlene Farmer Faulkner Hall, and enjoyed interacting with students.

Former students and longtime faculty and staff gathered in Moorer Auditorum to honor the educator. The RamTonz barbershop quartet demonstrated their award-winning harmonies at an impromptu concert.

“It’s exciting for me to hear of the accomplishments of the students who have come through the university,” Petersen said. “I firmly believe in private higher education and how it affects your quality of life. It makes a difference in your future. We have people in every profession who are making significant differences in the world.”

Surrounded by colleagues, former students and friends, she reflected on her career, her adventures, and the many years and adventures that still lay ahead.

“I’ve had a wonderful life – I’ve always had a wonderful life,” Petersen said.

View obituary here

About the University of Mobile

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 Dean Matthew Downs Featured in Story on Encyclopedia of Alabama

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – A magazine article showcasing how the Encyclopedia of Alabama fosters scholarship and research features University of Mobile history professor and College of Arts & Sciences Dean Matthew Downs.

The article, “Encyclopedia of Alabama encourages scholarship and research” in the Winter 2023 issue of Beyond Auburn Magazine, highlights Downs’ use of the online encyclopedia for his own research and as a classroom teaching tool.

The Encyclopedia of Alabama is a free, online reference resource on Alabama’s history, culture, geography and natural environment. Downs is the author of five Encyclopedia of Alabama entries, including a recent article on prohibition in Alabama. Visit EncyclopediaofAlabama.org to read Downs’ entries and explore the site.

During a recent semester, the UM professor’s students conducted individual research to write encyclopedia-style entries modeled after those he found in EOA, the article stated.

A University of Mobile story titled “Dream Becomes Reality for 2 UM History Students” described one such project. Two UM students in Downs’ Alabama History class, Alyssa Cherry and Eliza Colbert Simmons, researched and wrote an article that was accepted and published by the Encyclopedia of Alabama. Read about their experience here: https://umobile.edu/news/dream-becomes-reality/

“When the online EOA officially launched in September 2008, there were assumptions that not only would the site be a welcomed source of information on its own merit, but it would also encourage additional scholarship and research. Fourteen years later there is much evidence that those expectations were well founded, and Downs’ work as a professor and scholar is one example,” the article stated. 

Read the full article in Beyond Auburn Magazine on pages 37-38 here: https://www.auburn.edu/outreach/beyondauburn/pdfs/BAwinter2023.pdf

Downs serves as editor of “The Alabama Review” and was the winner of the 2015 James F. Sulzby Award, presented by the Alabama Historical Association, for his book “Transforming the South: Federal Development in the Tennessee Valley 1915-1960.”

Visit EncyclopediaofAlabama.org to read Matthew Downs’ entry on prohibition in Alabama.

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’s DNAP Program Expands to Meet Growing Demand

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announced today that its Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Program (DNAP) is expanding to accommodate the growing demand for advanced practice nurse anesthetists. 

UM’s DNAP program received approval from the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs  (COA) to increase the program’s class size from 12 to 15 students. The highly competitive 36-month program is designed for students on a path to becoming Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. 

UM launched its new DNAP program in Fall 2021, becoming the first and only DNAP program in the four-state region of Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Georgia. The first class will graduate in Summer 2024.

“The University of Mobile is committed to providing high-quality health care education that meets the needs of today’s health care industry. The expansion of our DNAP program provides more opportunities for talented students to pursue their professional calling and develop the skills and knowledge to serve our community with excellence,” said Dr. Lonnie Burnett, president of the Christ-centered university. 

Dr. Todd Hicks, executive dean of the College of Health Professions and director of the School of Nurse Anesthesia, said there is a critical need for highly trained nurse anesthetists who can provide safe and effective anesthesia care to patients. 

“Our program is designed to meet this need by equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this challenging field,” Hicks said.

The rigorous application and interview process is nearly complete for students in the Class of 2026 who will begin classes in Fall 2023. DNAP students will train locally in the Mobile area while earning eligibility to attempt the National Certification Examination required to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.

“Some of the best and brightest health care professionals from across the region have been accepted to the Class of 2026. They include students with experiences ranging from critical care nurses to combat veterans and charge nurses,” Hicks said.

The deadline for applications for the Class of 2027 is Oct. 1, 2023. Program information and applications are available at umobile.edu/dnap. 

The University of Mobile DNAP program is accredited and approved by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), Alabama Board of Nursing and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

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.

Apply Now for UM’s Master of Athletic Training Program

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is accepting applications for students interested in pursuing the Master of Athletic Training degree in the School of Health and Sports Science.

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.

Dr. Melissa Thomas, program director and associate professor of kinesiology, said the 2-year, 62-credit-hour MAT program prepares students through both didactic and clinical experiences to sit for the Board of Certification Exam.

“The best athletic trainers possess empathy, perseverance, humor, a strong work ethic and a passion for the profession. These are the students the University of Mobile is seeking for our Master of Athletic Training program,” Thomas said.

Clinical Opportunities

Students enrolled in the Master of Athletic Training program will have multiple clinical opportunities at local high schools, Senior Bowl, collegiate settings, sports medicine clinics, surgery centers, physical therapy clinics and emergent sites.

The program uses the university’s state-of-the-art Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice which includes high-fidelity manikins. Students in their second semester have hands-on learning experiences in the university’s nationally accredited Human Gross Anatomy Laboratory.

Classes Begin June 2023

The MAT third cohort will begin in June 2023. UM’s program received a positive site review by CAATE during its January visit and is awaiting the final decision for initial accreditation.

Learn more about the Master of Athletic Training program at UM and apply at umobile.edu/master-of-athletic-training. Or click here to go directly to the online application portal and start the application process.

MAT Program Mission

In keeping with the mission of the University of Mobile and the College of Health Professions, the mission of the Master of Athletic Training is to challenge each student to become their best self: intellectually, spiritually, and culturally. This path to personal growth and an understanding of God’s purpose is designed to lead the student towards becoming an informed member of society within the athletic training profession. 

The ultimate goal for each student is to successfully pass the Board of Certification exam and seamlessly transition into the world of healthcare. It is the hope of the university, faculty, and staff that each student will be prepared to collaboratively work with all healthcare professionals to provide, administer and manage the healthcare of patients across a lifespan; to participate in research and other activities designed to advance the quality of athletic training services; and to be advocates in building a solid foundation for future professionals, clients, and the public regarding the profession of Athletic Training.

School of Health and Sports Science

The School of Health and Sports Science also offers bachelor’s degrees in kinesiology, sport administration and exercise science. Information about the more than 75 academic programs at the University of Mobile is available at umobile.edu or by calling 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

New Commercial Voice Track Starts Fall 2023

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. –  The University of Mobile announces a new concentration in commercial voice for students pursuing a Bachelor of Music in performance.

The new commercial voice track in the Alabama School of the Arts starts Fall Semester 2023. Applications are being accepted now and scholarships are available for students interested in pursuing a performance degree that prepares graduates for careers in commercial music.

The commercial voice concentration is designed for students interested in careers as a touring artist, background vocalist, commercial voice instructor, session singer and more. The courses and learning experiences equip graduates to be marketable in the ever-changing world of music performance.

Learn more and apply today for admission at umobile.edu/apply.

Professional Training

The University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts equips students with valuable, versatile and creative professional training. Students gain professional-level experience in performing arts, while intentionally cross-training to various styles to expand employment opportunities upon graduation.

Ensembles in the Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts – many of which travel internationally – provide students with vocal, instrumental and theatrical experiences. Highlights are the annual University of Mobile Christmas Spectacular performed live before audiences numbering over 8,000, and the Spring Spectacular outdoor concert that concludes with fireworks.

Degrees Offered

Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees are offered through the Alabama School of the Arts. Undergraduate majors and areas of study include acting, music, music education, theatre, musical theatre, piano or vocal performance, production technologies, and worship leadership. Master’s degrees are offered in piano or vocal performance, worship leadership and theology, musical theatre and music education. The university offers the Doctor of Musical Arts in vocal performance.

Scholarships Available

Talent-based scholarships are available. Students who apply for admission to the University of Mobile may then apply to audition for a scholarship in the Alabama School of the Arts. All 100% of Alabama School of the Arts students who audition and enroll receive scholarships, and students are not required to be an ASOTA major to receive an audition scholarship.

Apply for admission to the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/apply.

#1 Best Small College in Alabama

Prospective students and their families are invited to visit campus, meet faculty and students, and learn about the Christ-centered university that Niche.com has named the #1 Best Small College in Alabama with the #1 Best Dorms in the state. Students who visit campus and enroll may receive a $2,000 visit scholarship.

Visit Campus

The next UM Day is March 24. RSVP at umobile.edu/umday. To schedule a campus visit at another time, go to umobile.edu/visit 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.

Faith Academy, McGill-Toolen Earn Honors at UM Brain Battle 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile campus was the site of an epic intellectual battle on Feb. 16 when students from Mobile and Baldwin counties competed in the fourth UM Brain Battle Tournament. At the end of the day, Faith Academy students held the coveted trophy, along with the title of UM Brain Battle Champions. 

McGill-Toolen earned second place honors at the event. More than 50 students from six high schools gathered on the UM campus to compete on 10 teams for the scholars’ bowl tournament. The UM Brain Battle is a qualifier for NAQT’s High School National Championship Tournament.

Participating schools also included Bayside Academy, Satsuma High School, Alma Bryant High School and Gulf Shores High School.

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.

“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 the English instructor 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.

CFA

Burdette said Chick-fil-A served as a corporate sponsor.

“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.

A Proud Heritage: Tony Weaver

by Kathy Dean

Tony Weaver, DO
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Huntsville Hospital
Associate Degree in Nursing ’06
Pre-medical Studies

I love people, and caring for them as a surgeon is an honor and a privilege. But that doesn’t define me. I am defined by how my family sees me, by my role as a father and spouse, but most importantly, by my life as a Christian.

-Dr. Tony Weaver ’06

The University of Mobile was the starting point for Dr. Tony Weaver’s medical career. Today, he is the first and only Native American in the nation to become a plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

“Beyond my professional achievements, I am particularly proud of my Native American heritage, Mowa Choctaw. More importantly, I am the proud husband of Jenny Snow Weaver and the father of four wonderful children. The most meaningful role in my life is not that of a physician or surgeon, it is the role as husband, father and Christian,” Tony says.

Tony grew up in Mount Vernon, a small, rural, family-centered community in south Alabama. At the University of Mobile, he found a Christ-centered learning community that expanded his knowledge and strengthened his faith. 

With an Associate Degree in Nursing and pre-med studies from UM, Tony built a solid foundation for all that came next – a medical degree, surgical training at the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, peer-reviewed research articles, and a thriving practice. He is a double board-certified Plastic & Reconstructive surgeon, holding active AOA/AOBS board certifications in general and plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Q. What is a typical work day like for you?

Tony surgery

A. A typical day starts with opportunity and excitement. My day begins with quiet time at home where I am able to start with a fresh perspective through prayer and quality time with my family. A typical workday involves evaluating and diagnosing patients in preparation for surgery, performing surgery, and seeing patients after surgery. My surgical schedule usually involves operating on patients of each gender, all ages, and in multiple anatomical regions. Plastic surgery is a dynamic specialty that requires creativity and an in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology from head to toe.

Q. How did the University of Mobile prepare you for this?

A. My time at the University Mobile helped me to establish a firm foundation based on God‘s word and a Christian worldview. I can vividly recall the time spent discussing the word of God and how we as Christians must be a light for everyone everywhere we go. This starts by treating each other with love, kindness and respect. Christianity is meant to be lived from the inside out, and the University of Mobile helped me see that a solid education begins with Christ first, others second, and ourselves last.

Q. Where has your career path taken you?

A. I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Mobile and University of North Alabama, and I proudly served in the United States Coast Guard Reserve for eight years. I received my medical degree, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, graduating with honors. I then completed general surgery training at the Mayo Clinic and the Baptist Health System in Birmingham. For my Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery training, I attended the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.

In addition to my clinical training, I also completed the American Osteopathic Association & New York Institute of Technology Training in Policy Studies program led by Drs. Barbara Ross-Lee and Hank Chaudhry.  I have authored a half dozen peer-reviewed research articles, and my work has been presented at multiple regional, national and international conferences.  

Q. What is something people may not know about you?

A. I have worked as a waiter, telemarketer, soldier, laborer, fire watcher, nursing assistant, cornea harvester, registered nurse and even a rapper before attending medical school.

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