Author: Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile’s prestigious Megginson and Faculty Engagement awards were presented at the annual year-end faculty-staff luncheon April 30. The university also announced promotions, years-of-service awards and other recognitions.

The Megginson Awards recognize outstanding contributions to the university in the areas of teaching, research and service. Recipients are chosen by committees of peers from among nominations sent by students, faculty and staff. The recipients are honored for their character, ethics, accomplishments and contributions to the university. 

The Faculty Engagement Award honors a faculty member who demonstrates excellence in student engagement inside and outside the standard classroom setting and intentionally fosters community among students. Recipients of this award are nominated by faculty and selected by a committee of peers.

The 2024 William A. Megginson Teaching Award was presented to Dr. Wanda Jones, associate professor chemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Jones was nominated by her students, who described the chemistry professor as “a scholarly mentor” who demonstrates excellence in classroom teaching through her engagement, clarity and passion.

A student wrote that Jones “makes sure that her teaching styles fit the needs of each student so they can be successful. She is mindful of each student’s major and relates her objectives to each individual’s interests, and she brings up her relationship with God along with a Christian mindset during her lectures.”

Jones has a special interest in understanding the learning styles of college students and encouraging the youth of her community to pursue STEM areas of study.

She joined the University of Mobile faculty in 2019. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in materials science and engineering from Tuskegee University, where she was awarded several National Science Foundation graduate fellowships and was named an Alabama Graduate Research Scholar. She received a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Miles College and has done postdoctoral work at Cornell University and Auburn University.

Jones is a member of the American Chemical Society, Junior League of Mobile and Mobile County Foster Parent Association. She is a foster and adoptive parent and founded a nonprofit startup to assist children who are in foster care.

The 2024 Emma Frances Megginson Service Award was presented to Kim Howell, who has served as a mailroom clerk at the University of Mobile since 1996.

Howell is described as one who “strives to show real hospitality. She always meets you with a smile and a laugh and is always so eager to help everyone.”

Howell goes above and beyond to make sure letters and packages are mailed on schedule, and texts fellow employees to let them know when their packages arrive.

Her attitude toward students is one of encouragement: “She sports her spirit attire and keeps up with our athletes about their sport. She makes our students feel like they have a mom away from home to comfort them or help out financially if needed.”

The 2024 Faculty Engagement Award was presented to Dr. Ashley Milner, associate professor of education and the new dean of the School of Education.

Milner is a 1992 master’s level graduate of the University of Mobile with 27 years of experience in the Baldwin County Public School System before joining the UM faculty in 2016. As faculty counselor for the UM chapter of Kappa Delta Pi international education fraternity, she inspires students to serve the community in projects such as collected stuffed animals for local fire and police departments to give out when children are involved in a crisis. She holds certification in gifted education and school psychometry from the University of South Alabama; and a specialist degree in educational leadership and doctorate in curriculum and instruction, both from the University of West Florida.

“She teaches with enthusiasm and passion, which in turn gets the students excited about learning,” her nomination reads. In addition, the School of Education’s 100% pass rate on the edTPA exam that each candidate must complete before graduation is a reflection of Milner’s commitment in preparing candidates for the exam and the challenging career of teaching.

“Dr. Milner’s entire career has been devoted to teaching, counseling and leadership. Everything she does is driven by UM’s Core Values and is Christ-centered; she is very devoted to students both professionally and personally.”

Years of Service Awards

Service awards were presented to faculty and staff for years of service. Employees are honored at five-year marks. 

35-Year Service Award: Kim Leousis.

30-Year Service Award: Diane Black, Jeffrey Calametti, Dr. Kathy Dunning.

25-Year Service Award: Brian Boyle, Kim Gully, Lori Outlaw.

20-Year Service Award: Sharen Brazel, Hali Givens, Betty Greene.

15-Year Service Award: Dr. Larkisha Winbush.

10-Year Service Award: Jeffrey Caviness, Dr. Lori DeLong, Dr. Karen Dennis, Dr. Cynthia Erickson, Tracie Marks, Lawrencine Mason, Dr. Sevints Nuriyeva, Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, Dr. Jeremy Padgett, Shadoe Valentin, Dan Waldon.

5-Year Service Award: Darnell Archey, Heather Blackwell, Hannah Clardy, Caleb Croom, Dr. Beverly Fox, Dr. Jessica Garner, David Haney, Stewart Hawley, Julie Hughes, Dr. Wanda Jones, Rolanda Morrisette, Broderick Perryman, Brittany Robinson, Mel Sansom, Dr. Kendra Strenth, Greg Wiggins.

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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.

MOBILE, Ala. – Registering for your first college classes could be intimidating – unless you’re a new student at the University of Mobile. Here, “Ram Ready” new student orientation day begins with academic advising and registration – and ends with a taste of southern hospitality and a crawfish boil.

A highly anticipated event by current students, the spring crawfish boil offers incoming students a chance to meet upperclassmen, get to know other new students, and experience the difference of campus life at this Christian university with a faith-based approach that transcends the ordinary.

While Ram Ready 2024 is already a wonderful memory for current and new UM students, there are still plenty of opportunities to enroll for Fall Semester 2024. Here are just a few.

Next Registration Day is June 10

There is still time to register for Fall Semester 2024. Our next registration day is Monday, June 10. Students may come to campus and register in-person or may participate in remote registration. RSVP for registration on June 10 at umobile.edu/registration.

Visit Campus, Earn a Scholarship

Visit campus and receive a $2,000 visit scholarship. Schedule a campus visit at umobile.edu/visit or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222 or 1-800-WIN-RAMS. A $2,000 visit scholarship is for new traditional undergraduate students who schedule a campus visit, apply for admission, and enroll at UM. 

Meet Your Admissions Counselor

Your personal admissions counselor can answer your questions and help you get started on your college journey. Call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222 or 1-800-WIN-RAMS, or email umenrollment@umobile.edu to meet your admissions counselor.

Follow @univofmobile

You’ll learn a lot about college life at the University of Mobile when you check out our social media. Be sure to watch Tiny Mic Tuesday for a behind-the-scenes look at student life at UM.

Learn More

Want to know about over 75 academic programs offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees? You will find that and more information about scholarships, campus life, meet our faculty, and take a virtual campus tour. Visit umobile.edu to get started.

Apply Now!

You may have missed this year’s crawfish boil, but you don’t have to miss out on the University of Mobile experience. Apply now at umobile.edu/apply.

MOBILE, Ala. – Graduation day was especially meaningful for seven University of Mobile graduates who were the first in their families to graduate from college. They were honored prior to the Christian university’s May 4 commencement with a special RamLegacy pinning ceremony.

The RamLegacy program was founded to help first-generation students not just survive the college journey, but to thrive, walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, and leave the University of Mobile with added tools, resources and attitudes to help them throughout their adult life.

Along with the culture of mentoring that the University of Mobile fosters, the RamLegacy program helps first-generation students establish friendships, strengthen interpersonal skills, improve study skills, access networking opportunities and develop mentorships with first-generation alumni faculty and staff.

UM’s RamLegacy celebrated the following students, pictured from left:

• Randall Luke Killam of Semmes, Alabama: Master of Science in Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Management, Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance. Killam also received the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award, School of Business Achievement Award, Area Award: Piano Performance, and graduated summa cum laude.
• Alyssa K. Brashier of Crowley, Texas: Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Bachelor of Science in Psychology
• Robert Terrell Letterman of New Orleans, Louisiana: Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management. Letterman also received the Area Award: Healthcare Management .
• Carli Rouse of Mobile, Alabama: Bachelor of Science in Pre-Health Biology.
• Naomi Shirley of Kissimmee, Florida: Bachelor of Science in Criminology. 
• Haylee Lynd Springer of Eight Mile, Alabama: Bachelor of Science in Management. Spring graduated magna cum laude and was an Honors Program graduate.
•  TaNaja Williams of LaPlace, Louisiana: Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology.

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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

MOBILE, Ala. – Outstanding students in the Grace Pilot School of Business at the University of Mobile were inducted into Delta Mu Delta, an international honor society for business. The top 20% of each class of junior, senior and Master of Business Administration students are invited to join this professional honor society.

Honorees, their year and major are:

Aspen Marie Adams, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting

Jackson Childs Breal, master’s, 5-year MBA program, management

Isabella Rose Cameron, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting

Brady Patrick Clarke, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting

Emory Blaine Cooper, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting

Dazsha Dean, junior, management

Joshua Kyle Harris, senior, 5-year MBA program, accounting

Manisha K C, master’s, Master of Business Administration

Alexis Grace Lambert, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting

Ayanna N. Malone, senior, software development

Michael Andrew McCrary, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting

Joao Pedro Okano, senior, management

Emily Morgan Silbernagel, junior, healthcare management

Braylan T. Stringfellow, senior, 5-year MBA program, accounting

Haley Vanderford, senior, management

Taylor Faye Vice, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting

Whitney Kay Wallace, senior, business administration management

Jordan Nicole Wood, senior, healthcare management

Luana Seyboth Wild, senior, management

Jacob Alan Wright, senior, 5-year MBA program, management

For information about academic programs in the Grace Pilot School of Business or to apply for admission to the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu.

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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.

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile Class of 2024 celebrated graduation on the Great Commission Lawn with fireworks, cheers from family and friends, and a UM tradition – touching the Great Commission Globe to signify being sent into the world to pursue God’s calling for their lives.

Many of the 300 members of the Class of 2024 graduated from high school during the pandemic and did not experience a traditional high school graduation ceremony. To make their UM graduation extra special, each graduate received a brightly wrapped present to open at the ceremony’s end. Each present – a University of Mobile Alumni picture frame – was wrapped by members of the 55+ life group at Cottage Hill Baptist Church as part of their “Love Where You Live” community service program.

Joe Espada Honored

The Doctor of Humane Letters was awarded to Joe Espada, manager of Major League Baseball’s Houston Astros and former UM Rams baseball standout. The presentation was announced via video, as the Astros were scheduled to host the Seattle Mariners later that afternoon at Minute Made Park in Houston, Texas. Read more about Joe Espada and watch the video here.

Weaver Awards Presented

The university presented its two top student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, to Randall Luke Killam of Semmes, Alabama, and Brinkley Madison Hearn of Mobile, Alabama. Read more about the Weaver Awards here.

Burnett Delivers Commencement Address

The commencement ceremony also marked Dr. Lonnie Burnett’s last day as president of his alma mater, and he delivered the commencement address. UM’s 6^th president, Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr., begins his tenure on May 6.

The outgoing president retires from 20 years of service to the university as professor and administrator, including five years as president. Prior to joining UM, the 1979 graduate of then-Mobile College taught history at the high school level in Mobile County Public Schools for 25 years. 

In his final address as UM president, Burnett urged graduates to dream big, love what they do, and pursue God’s purpose for their lives.

“I pray that you are persistent when the world says ‘just give up.’ I pray that you have passion when the world says ‘just get by.’ I pray you seek and follow God’s purpose when the world says ‘get in line,’” Burnett said.

Watch the full commencement address here.

Class of 2024

Following are degrees and honors awarded.

Watch the full commencement ceremony here.

College of Health Professions, School of Nurse Anesthesia, Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice

Olivia Doubet Branning – Eldersburg, Maryland 

Alexandra J. Brock- Fairhope, Alabama 

Evan Nathaniel Brock – Arab, Alabama 

Gregory Alec Cunningham – Prattville, Alabama 

James Tyler Downs – Spanish Fort, Alabama 

Anna Caroline Gaines – Spanish Fort, Alabama 

Morgan Rose Harlan – Mobile, Alabama 

Joel Brian Hicks – Fairhope, Alabama 

Molly Miljus Lane – Birmingham, Alabama 

Brandon Heath McGrew – Saraland, Alabama 

Olivia Megan Partin – Mobile, Alabama 

Meredith R. Perry – Wilmer, Alabama                

College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice 

Chereta Alina Beverly – Mobile, Alabama 

Kiwana T. Brooks – Mobile, Alabama 

Alicia Stewart Todd – Mobile, Alabama 

Alabama School of the Arts, Master of Arts and Master of Music 

Kara Gail Friesen – Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada, M.M., Vocal Performance, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award 

Faith N. Hezel – St. Louis, Missouri, M.M., Vocal Performance 

Gaukhar Kenessova – Almaty, Kazakhstan, M.M., Piano Performance ,Area Award: Piano Performance 

Lydia N. Myers – Meridian, Mississippi M.A., Musical Theatre 

Michaella Leanne Johnson Owen – Van Wert, Ohio, M.A., Musical Theatre, Area Award: Musical Theatre 

Katherine Isabella Powell – Calera, Alabama, M.M., Vocal Performance, Area Award: Vocal Performance 

Lisa Cristina Rosado Rivera – San Juan, Puerto Rico, M.M., Vocal Performance 

College of Arts and Sciences, Master of Arts 

Taylor Alexander Atwell – Dothan, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling, Area Award: Marriage and Family Counseling 

Cosette Justine Balmy – Martinique, Marriage and Family Counseling 

Christal Johnson – Eight Mile, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling 

Ashlynn Sophia Jones – Pickerington, Ohio, Marriage and Family Counseling 

Elizabeth Raygan Salors – Mobile, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling 

Warunyaporn Sumrittikul – Bangkok, Thailand, Marriage and Family Counseling 

College of Arts and Sciences, School of Christian Studies, Master of Arts 

Jared L. Baria – Semmes, Alabama, Biblical and Theological Studies, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award, Area Award: Biblical and Theological Studies 

Irving Boykin – Mobile, Alabama, Biblical and Theological Studies 

Jason R. Breland – Hendersonville, Tennessee, Worship Leadership and Theology 

Melvin Dunn – Mobile, Alabama, Worship Leadership and Theology 

Conrad A. Erskine – Havana, Florida, Worship Leadership and Theology 

Mark Goff – Orlando, Florida, Worship Leadership and Theology, Area Award: Worship Leadership and Theology 

Ellis L. Harper, Jr. – Mobile, Alabama, Biblical and Theological Studies 

Aaron G. Pouncey – Mobile, Alabama, Worship Leadership and Theology 

College of Health Professions, School of Health and Sports Science, Master of Athletic Training 

Paolo Gabriel Gorme – Atmore, Alabama 

Madilyn H. Peters – Northport, Alabama 

Hailee A. Richard – Gretna, Louisiana, Area Award: Master of Athletic Training 

College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing 

Mary Margaret Endris – Jackson, Mississippi, Family Nurse Practitioner 

Connor Elizabeth Frost – Silas, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner 

Victoria Powell Gibson – Monroeville, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner 

Aundrea Sheree Hales – Heidelberg, Mississippi, Family Nurse Practitioner 

Stephanie Palmer Maddox – Mobile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner 

Grace B. Mason – Mobile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner 

Katherine Anne Oberman – Birmingham, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner 

Brieanne Nicole Ragas – Pace, Florida, Family Nurse Practitioner 

Logan Thompson – Toxey, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner 

Grace Pilot School of Business, Master of Business Administration and Master of Science 

Abdulmajeed Sulaiman Alsalmi – Mobile, Alabama, M.S., Leadership and Communication 

Archie J. Bean – Norwich, England, M.S., Leadership and Communication 

Diego Benegas – Villarrica, Paraguay, Master of Business Administration 

Jackson Childs Breal – Spanish Fort, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Benjamin W. Bryant – Louisville, Kentucky, Master of Business Administration 

Tom Carles – Paris, France, M.S., Leadership and Communication 

Jarnay Shantel Collins – Loxley, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Mike Keita Conneh – Sheffield, England, M.S., Leadership and Communication 

Leon Finke – Brunswick, Germany, Master of Business Administration 

Gonzalo J. Godoy – Viña Del Mar, Chile, Master of Business Administration 

Mikayla L. Hintz – Baltimore, Ohio, M.S., Leadership and Communication 

Reagan A. Hyde – Milton, Florida, Master of Business Administration 

Angelo Yasuro Ito Tost – São Paulo, Brazil, Master of Business Administration 

Manisha K C – Austin, Texas, Master of Business Administration 

Randall Luke Killam – Semmes, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Mindup Lama – Kathmandu, Nepal, Master of Business Administration 

Brendon M. Lanham – Bay Minette, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Dani Leone – Putignano, Italy, Master of Business Administration 

Carly McKeithen McCulloch – Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Madison Grace McGuff – Satsuma, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Sage McKenna – Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Master of Business Administration, School of Business Achievement Award 

Frederick Lee Moons – Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Narjis Mzibri – Rabat, Morocco, Master of Business Administration 

Stephen N. Poche – Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Anna-Kathryn Rolin – Atmore, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Tiago Sarmento – Vila Real, Portugal, Master of Business Administration 

Julisa D. Theodore – Gulfport, Mississippi, M.S., Leadership and Communication 

Caroline Belle Tucker – Headland, Alabama, Master of Business Administration 

Alex Verdu – Barcelona, Spain, Master of Business Administration 

Anna Verdu Cobo – Valencia, Spain, Master of Business Administration 

Thierry Zabarel – Paris, France, Master of Business Administration 

School of Education, Master of Arts, and Master of Education 

Raven Denise Casey – Mobile, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education 

Destinee E. Cole – Birmingham, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education 

Amber Brooks Davis – Saraland, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education, School of Education Achievement Award 

Victoria Andrea Gonzalez Moya – Santiago, Chile, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy, Area Award: Higher Education Leadership and Policy 

Margaret M. Lee – Mobile, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education, Area Award: Alternative Elementary Education 

Jahlia S. McNealy – Louisville, Kentucky, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education 

Kassidy Mills – Saraland, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Alternative Early Childhood Education 

Angela D. Morris – Loxley, Alabama, M.A., Elementary Education 

Robyn W. Nail – Saraland, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education 

Kyra Cheyenne Plotner – Rio Rancho, New Mexico, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Shamika W. Williamson – Mobile, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education 

Shyla Briggs Wilson – Mobile, Alabama, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology, Area Award: Instructional Design and Technology 

Susan L. Wright – Daphne, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education 

Alabama School of the Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Science 

Ethan Chase Andrews – Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music 

Benjamin Micah Barnett – Huntsville, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies Magna Cum Laude 

David I. Beasley – Cameron, Missouri, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Worship Leadership, Summa Cum Laude 

Nathan A. Blake – Tuscaloosa, Alabama B.S., Music, Magna Cum Laude

Sarah L. Bransom – Pearland, Texas, B.F.A., Performance, Musical Theatre, Cum Laude 

Cedric S. Burrell – Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Music, Education (Non-Certification), Area Award: Music Education (Non-Certification) 

Joshua T. Clackler – Prattville, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies 

Dylan Joseph Colburn – Moundville, Alabama, B.A., Music, Area Award: Music 

Randall Luke Killam – Semmes, Alabama, B.M., Piano Performance, William K. Weaver, Jr. Excellence Award, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award, Area Award: Piano Performance, Summa Cum Laude 

James M. Loggins – Horton, Alabama, B.S., Music, Education (Non-Certification) 

James Gregory Naman – Mobile, Alabama, B.F.A., Performance, Acting, Area Award: Performance, Acting, Magna Cum Laude 

Tabitha Marie Ott – Arnold, Missouri, B.F.A., Performance, Acting, Magna Cum Laude 

Brenden Tyler Pearson – Dothan, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies, Area Award: Production Technologies, Cum Laude 

Jordan D. Pinkston – Spanish Fort, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music 

William C. Rivers – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies 

Claire K. Strong – Mobile, Alabama, B.M., Musical Theatre, Area Award: Musical Theatre 

Benjamin Cade Whittington – Fort Worth, Texas, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music 

Madeline R. Woodall – Gulfport, Mississippi, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music 

College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Science 

Hanna K. Alexander – Semmes, Alabama, B.S., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude

Alexia P. Barnett- Saraland, Alabama, B.S., History 

Abigale C. Bell – Talladega, Alabama B.F.A., Studio Art, Area Award: Art, Summa Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate 

Christian Bishop – Daphne, Alabama, B.A., Philosophy 

Sydney Madison Bodiford – Semmes, Alabama, B.S., Marine Science, Summa Cum Laude 

Alyssa K. Brashier – Crowley, Texas, B.S., Criminology, B.S., Psychology 

Aryany M. Breek – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Magna Cum Laude 

Kayley Betsy Burgess – Atmore, Alabama, B.S., Biology, Area Award: Natural Sciences, Magna Cum Laude 

John Mark Butler – Anniston, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology 

Emily Butts – Gulf Shores, Alabama, B.S., Strategic Communication 

Kathryn V. Byars – Auburn, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology 

Lily Celeste Caswell – Baker, Florida, B.A., Public History, Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate 

Jamel H. Clark – Tampa, Florida, B.S., Organizational Leadership 

Jessica Mae Clements – Nashville, Tennessee, B.S., Psychology, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Psychology, Summa Cum Laude 

AnnaLaura Elizabeth Colbert – Bay Minette, Alabama, B.A., English, Summa Cum Laude 

Olivia Brooke Counselman – Spanish Fort, Alabama, B.A., Criminology 

Delainy J. Cunningham – Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Psychology, Scholar Athlete Award 

Brendan Powell Dobbs – Roswell, Georgia, B.S., General Studies 

Sydnee D. Fitzgerald – Falkville, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Summa Cum Laude 

Caroline A. Frye – Ocean Springs, Mississippi B.S., Psychology, Summa Cum Laude 

Tschneisha Danell Gray – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Psychology 

Kaylee Rebecca Hall – Dadeville, Alabama, B.A., Philosophy 

Dillon M. Helton – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Sociology 

Thomas Matthew Holston II – Spanish Fort, Alabama, B.S., Criminology 

Allyson Siane Hunter – Four Points, Alabama, B.S., Communication 

Brooke E. Hutcheson – Dothan, Alabama, B.S., Marine Science, Cum Laude 

Thomas Clinton James – Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Biology 

Olivia M. Jimmerson – Montgomery, Alabama, B.S., General Studies, Area Award: General Studies 

Kevin T. Johnson – Mobile, Alabama, B.F.A., Studio Art, Magna Cum Laude 

Erica D. Jones – Trussville, Alabama, B.S., Marine Science 

Aoi Kambara Sakura-Shi – Chiba, Japan, B.S., Psychology 

Emma Noelle Landry – Gautier, Mississippi, B.A., World Languages and Studies, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: World Languages and Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate 

Elijah D. Mahn – Dauphin Island, Alabama, B.S., Marine Science  

Samuel McMurray Malone – Fairhope, Alabama, B.S., Communication 

Emily M. Martin – Eight Mile, Alabama, B.S., Criminology, B.S., History, Area Award: Criminology Area Award: History, Magna Cum Laude 

Caitlin Annette McRee – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Biology, Area Award: Secondary Education, Summa Cum Laude 

Savannah Yokel Morgan – Fairhope, Alabama, B.S., Organizational Leadership 

Joseph C. Moses III – Baton Rouge, Lousiana, B.S., General Studies 

Jordyn L. Myles – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Biology, Magna Cum Laude 

James Gregory Naman – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Communication, Magna Cum Laude 

Joshua J. Naqvi – Central, Louisiana, B.A., Philosophy, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award, Area, Award: Philosophy, Summa Cum Laude, Honors Program with Thesis Graduate 

Jammie D. Oliver – Irvington, Alabama, B.S., History 

Jessica L. Parker – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Psychology, Cum Laude 

Samuel R. Phelps – Franklinton, Louisiana, B.S., Marine Science 

Zoey Breanna Powell – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology 

Dallas P. Renzi – Daphne, Alabama, B.A., Communication, President’s Scholastic Award, Summa Cum Laude 

Nathaniel T. Reynolds – Opp, Alabama, B.S., Social Science, Area Award: Social Science, Magna Cum Laude 

Sarah M. Rose – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology 

Carli A. Rouse – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology 

Rachel A. Sanford – Alexander City, Alabama, B.S., History 

Luke Senteney – Herrick, Illinois, B.S., Biology 

Naomi Jeanette Shirley – Kissimmee, Florida, B.S., Criminology 

Kourtney J. Simpson – Mobile, Alabama, B.F.A., Graphic Design 

Taylor Paige Stafford – Gilbertown, Alabama, B.S., Sociology 

Gregory E. Stamps – Citronelle, Alabama, B.S., Organizational Leadership 

Samantha Lynn Tedder – Dothan, Alabama, B.A., English, Area Award: English, Magna Cum Laude 

Brooke Christine Turner – Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Cum Laude 

Rose Lee Wallace – Prattville, Alabama, B.S., Applied Mathematics, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Mathematics, Summa Cum Laude 

Molly Grace Watkins – Birmingham, Alabama, B.A., Communication, Area Award: Communication, Summa Cum Laude 

Preston R. Webb – Hendersonville, Tennesse, B.S., Marine Science 

Alayah N. Wells – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Psychology 

Anna Elise Wiggins – Stapleton, Alabama, B.A., Communication, Summa Cum Laude 

Emily Anna Williams – Bay Minette, Alabama, B.S., Communication, Magna Cum Laude 

Shanta Briana Williams – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Biology 

College of Arts and Sciences, School of Christian Studies, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Science 

Taylor Makayla Ard – Tallahassee, Florida, B.S., Christian Ministry 

Jordan R. Crane – Tishomingo, Mississippi, B.A., Theological Studies, Summa Cum Laude 

Evan C. Elliott – Gulf Shores, Alabama, B.S., Biblical and Theological Studies 

Kayleigh Regan Nelson – Birmingham, Alabama, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Area Award: Intercultural Studies, Summa Cum Laude 

Anna Elise Wiggins – Stapleton, Alabama, B.A., Theological Studies, Area Award: Theological Studies, Summa Cum Laude 

Caroline G. Wiley – Decatur, Alabama, B.A., Biblical and Theological Studies 

College of Health Professions, School of Health and Sports Science, Bachelor of Science 

Juliana Gomez Beaumont – Valencia, Venezuela, Kinesiology 

Elizabeth Anne Bedford – Eastaboga, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude 

Jane-Marie Madison Botts – Irvington, Alabama, Exercise Science 

Sam Bowman – Summerdale, Alabama, Exercise Science 

Kaleb C. Brantley – Saraland, Alabama, Sport Administration 

Matthew W. Brooks – Daphne, Alabama, Exercise Science 

Kayla L. Butler – Spanish Fort, Alabama, Exercise Science, Cum Laude 

Hunter G. Carter – Jackson, Alabama, Kinesiology 

Jared M. Cauley – Coden, Alabama, Exercise Science, Magna Cum Laude 

Jordan Ayana Clark – Mobile, Alabama, Kinesiology 

Brianna Crim – Thomasville, Alabama,  Exercise Science, Area Award: Exercise Science 

Alainah Breanne Diaz – Mobile, Alabama, Kinesiology 

Madalyn B. Dillard – Dothan, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate 

Cameryn O. Edwards – Silverhill, Alabama, Exercise Science 

Shawnessy G. Edwards – Fairhope, Alabama, Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude 

Jared Harbin – Mobile, Alabama, Exercise Science 

Lacy D. Hawthorne-Abrams – Daphne, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude 

Katie S. Head – Saraland, Alabama, Kinesiology 

Tabitha L. Jordan – Moss Point, Mississippi, Kinesiology, Cum Laude 

Miya N. Kimber – Hoover, Alabama, Kinesiology 

Jack Thomas Lastorka – Mobile, Alabama, Sport Administration 

Jessica M. McCovery-Williams – St. Elmo, Alabama, Kinesiology 

Landon R. Moore – Helena, Alabama, Kinesiology 

Cooper E. Oman – Lynn Haven, Florida, Sport Administration, Area Award: Sport Administration, Magna Cum Laude 

Matthew James Payne – Mobile, Alabama, Kinesiology, School of Health and Sports Science, Achievement Award,  Magna Cum Laude 

William Thomas Pruitt IV – Prattville, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude 

Sophie Alannah Roberts – Swindon, England, Exercise Science 

Meagan Elizabeth Sellers – Semmes, Alabama, Kinesiology, Area Award: Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude 

Faye N. Sherer-Ward – Citronelle, Alabama, Kinesiology, Summa Cum Laude

TaNaja Rachét Williams – LaPlace, Louisiana, Kinesiology 

College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing 

Kaitlyn Armstrong – Mobile, Alabama 

Pavel Bakun – Mobile, Alabama 

Julie Anna Barwick – Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Area Award: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Magna Cum Laude 

Hailey Davina Bice – Clanton, Alabama 

Kayla Bridgmon – Birmingham, Alabama 

Cathelen Coleman-Dancer – Cleveland, Mississippi 

Myla A. Edwards – Brusly, Louisiana 

Lillie Zhanè Hawthorne-Abrams – Daphne, Alabama 

Ellisse Christine Herrera – Long Beach, California 

Maloree C. Kendrick – Saraland, Alabama 

Thomas Lapyem – Mobile, Alabama 

Margaret Ann Leatherwood – Silverhill, Alabama 

Maricela Candelaria Lucas Juan – Wilmer, Alabama, Cum Laude 

Veronica Makovey – Roseville, California 

Stephanie W. Owens – Mobile, Alabama 

Courtney Jarman Phillips – Chunchula, Alabama 

Adriano Pintado – Mobile, Alabama 

Jessica R. Presley – Perdido, Alabama 

Faith Julianne Sanderson – Satsuma, Alabama 

Kassidy S. Stringfellow – Mobile, Alabama 

Jaila Marie Tillman – Mobile, Alabama 

Emily J. Underwood – Spanish Wells, Bahamas 

Kaylie Sayasane Verkouille – Saraland, Alabama 

Damien C. Williams – Chunchula, Alabama 

Haileigh H. Wolfe – Mobile, Alabama 

Shelby Layne Wolfe – Wilmer, Alabama 

Ziyue Yu – Jilin, Yanji, China, Area Award: Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Magna Cum Laude 

Dorothy L. Zimmer – Saraland, Alabama

Grace Pilot School of Business, Bachelor of Science 

Jerrilyn R. Barnes – Axis, Alabama, Business Administration, Post-Traditional Area Award 

Joshua Bell – Fairhope, Alabama, Management 

Jackson Childs Breal – Spanish Fort, Alabama, Management, President’s Scholastic Award, Magna Cum Laude 

Benjamin W. Bryant – Louisville, Kentucky, Business Administration, Cum Laude 

Emily A. Creamer – Brewton, Alabama, Management

Jacob Hales deLange – Mobile, Alabama, Accounting 

Baleigh A. Essary – Mobile, Alabama, Management, Summa Cum Laude 

Nicole Elizabeth Everman – Danville, Kentucky, Integrated Marketing Communications, Cum Laude 

Gonzalo J. Godoy – Viña Del Mar, Chile, Management 

Zacharia Hasler – Vasteras, Sweden, Business Administration 

Tempest Makalya Hebert – Semmes, Alabama, Software Development 

Mikayla L. Hintz – Baltimore, Ohio, Management 

Jasmine D. Howze – Mobile, Alabama, Business Administration 

Gary Jaleel Jefferson – Baltimore, Maryland, Computer Information Systems 

Ivan Jolivet – Paris, France, Management, Magna Cum Laude 

Maximus C. Keebaugh – Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Management 

Randall Luke Killam – Semmes, Alabama, Management, William K. Weaver, Jr. Excellence Award, School of Business Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude 

Brendon M. Lanham – Bay Minette, Alabama, Accounting, Area Award: Accounting, Magna Cum Laude 

Robert Terrell Letterman – New Orleans, Louisiana, Healthcare Management, Area Award: Healthcare Management 

Guilherme Canas Lopes – Lisboa, Portugal, Management, Magna Cum Laude 

Fernando J. Lopez – Dothan, Alabama, Integrated Marketing Communications 

Ayanna N. Malone – Mobile, Alabama, Software Development, Cum Laude 

Guillermo Pena Martinez – Cuernavaca, Mexico, Business Administration, Area Award: Finance 

Madison Grace McGuff – Satsuma, Alabama, Software Development, Area Award: Software Development, Magna Cum Laude 

Sage McKenna – Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Accounting 

Amy Annette Milam – Mobile, Alabama, Management 

Andrew Brian Naugher – Guntersville, Alabama, Computer Information Systems 

Savanna Harris Naugher – Huntsville, Alabama, Accounting, Cum Laude 

Miguel Martins Pereira – Lisboa, Portugal, Computer Information Systems, Area Award: Computer Information Systems, Summa Cum Laude

Ethan C. Phan – Belle Chasse, Louisiana, Healthcare Management 

Stephen N. Poche – Mobile, Alabama, Management 

Joi De’Andra Robinson – Theodore, Alabama, Business Administration 

Anna-Kathryn Rolin – Atmore, Alabama, Management 

Davis M. Ruffin – Biloxi, Mississippi, Management 

Cy A. Smith – Lucedale, Mississippi, Management 

Haylee A. Springer – Eight Mile, Alabama, Management, Magna Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate 

Abigail C. Thibodaux – Satsuma, Alabama, Accounting, President’s Scholastic Award, Summa Cum Laude 

Caroline Belle Tucker – Headland, Alabama, Accounting, President’s Scholastic Award, Summa Cum Laude 

Haley Grace Vanderford – Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Management, President’s Scholastic Award , Area Award: Management, Summa Cum Laude 

Morgan Hill Wallace – Pinson, Alabama, Management, Magna Cum Laude 

Whitney Kay Wallace – Mobile, Alabama, Business Administration 

Dasha Janae Wimbley – Mobile, Alabama, Management 

School of Education, Bachelor of Science 

Gabrielle C. Adams – Mobile, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Cum Laude 

Morgan E. Atchison – Semmes, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude 

Georgette D. Byrd – Mount Vernon, Alabama, Child and Social Development, Area Award: Child and Social Development, Cum Laude 

Kaylee B. Creekmore – Saraland, Alabama, Child and Social Development 

Tayler E. Drinkard – Perdido, Alabama, Child and Social Development 

Precious L. Florence – Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development 

Kimberly Breanne Foster – Satsuma, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education ,President’s Scholastic Award, Magna Cum Laude 

Morgan A. Franklin – Foley, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Early Childhood Education, Summa Cum Laude

Mary Catherine Gipson – Theodore, Alabama, Child and Social Development 

Brinkley Madison Hearn – Mobile, Alabama, Elementary Education, Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, President’s Scholastic Award, School of Education Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude 

Jessica L. Herrington – Saraland, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education

Emma R. Hollingsworth – Meridianville, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education 

Hannah Elizabeth Hopkins – Mount Vernon, Alabama, Child and Social Development 

Brianna T. Kitt – Mobile, Alabama Elementary Education Magna Cum Laude 

Ruthie P. Knight – Knoxville, Tennessee, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude 

Karen Alday Lathan – Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development, Cum Laude 

Abbie R. McLaney – Theodore, Alabama, Early Childhood Education 

Emaleigh S. Poiroux – Saraland, Alabama, Early Childhood Education 

Erin Laffitte Ray – Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development 

Jamecia Jontrel Robbins – Bayou La Batre, Alabama, Child and Social Development 

Madilyn R. Robertson – Satsuma, Alabama, Elementary Education, Area Award: Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude 

Tiffany T. Spencer-Eldridge – Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development 

Rebekah C. Waldo – Semmes, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Area Award: Early Childhood and Elementary Education 

Ansleigh S. Weston – Irvington, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education 

Allison Marie Windham – Saraland, Alabama, Early Childhood Education 

College of Health Professionals, School of Nursing, Associate Degree in Nursing 

Michelle DuBose Adams – Mobile, Alabama 

Sadie C. Bell Pritchett – Mobile, Alabama 

Bethany K. Byrd – Mount Vernon, Alabama 

Tina Ha Coleman – Mobile, Alabama, Area Award: Associate Degree in Nursing 

Marla Marie Foster – Mobile, Alabama 

Skylar G. Jones – Chunchula, Alabama 

Courtney Danielle Lang – McIntosh, Alabama 

Crystal Denise Loper – Mobile, Alabama 

Kennedi Trenae’ Martin – Jackson, Alabama 

Joseph McAdams – Saraland, Alabama, President’s Scholastic Award, School of Nursing Achievement Award, Magna Cum Laude

Mary Leanne Nelson – Citronelle, Alabama 

Abigail Naomi Persson – Mobile, Alabama 

Jalicia Venice Scott – Mobile, Alabama 

Jennifer Faith Soneboulam – Mobile, Alabama, Cum Laude 

Ethan E. Steed – Saraland, Alabama 

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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.

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 Randall Luke Killam of Semmes, Alabama, and Brinkley Madison Hearn of Mobile, Alabama.

The awards were presented during graduation ceremonies held on the university campus May 4, 2024.

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 Randall Luke Killam is named for the university’s founding president and is considered the highest recognition possible for a University of Mobile male senior. 

Luke Killam simultaneously pursued a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master of Business Administration, all of which he was awarded on May 4. He plans to complete a Master of Music in Piano Performance in 2025. He is described by his professors in the Alabama School of the Arts and the Grace Pilot School of Business as “an exemplary University of Mobile student who embodies a holistic approach to education, combining scholarly achievements with a deep sense of Christian values, leadership skills and a dedication to service within the university and his church.”

He is a small business owner, operating Luke Killam Piano Academy where he tutors children in piano. As an administrative intern at 3Circle Church, he manages church community processes and events. His extensive involvement at Redemption Church, West Campus as the music director and musician underscores both his leadership capabilities and Christian service in preparing and directing teams for service and events. 

He served in the University of Mobile Ambassador program and assisted UM’s director of piano studies with the ASOTA Piano Festival, Gulf Coast Steinway Society Competition and Mobile Music Teachers Association events. He was a standout piano student, a leader in the ASOTA piano ensemble, and was called upon to play keys in some of the largest ASOTA events such as Christmas Spectacular.

Luke graduated summa cum laude and received the ASOTA Achievement Award, Area Award in Piano Performance, and Grace Pilot School of Business Achievement Award.

The Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award is presented to the most outstanding graduating female 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 Brinkley Madison Hearn 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.

Brinkley Hearn successfully balanced her academic, professional and personal responsibilities while achieving the President’s List every semester as a student athlete, in addition to serving as a childcare provider for multiple families in our community. Her professors describe her as a leader who demonstrates a serving heart, kindness, compassion and generosity in all situations.

As a member throughout her college career of both the indoor volleyball team and the inaugural beach volleyball team, Brinkley served as a leader, mentor and role model to her teammates and classmates, encouraging involvement in the university’s extracurricular activities, events and service opportunities. She volunteered for multiple education-related events to help support current and future teachers, and to recruit future teachers and UM students, such as the annual Early Childhood Conference in Mobile.

Teachers and administrators who have worked with Brinkley during field experiences say she demonstrates the characteristics of a dedicated, dynamic and influential teacher. She served as a mentor to new students entering the Teacher Education Program, was co-president of the SSAC Student Leadership Council and was a member of the University of Mobile Literacy Council. She was inducted into the Upsilon Chi Chapter of the prestigious honor society, Kappa Delta Pi, as a junior. To enhance her educational pedagogy, she acquired certification in AMSTI for both math and science, LETRS, and completed Dyslexia, MTSS and ARI training.

Brinkley graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and received the President’s Scholastic Award and School of Education 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.

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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.

MOBILE, Ala. – Major League Baseball’s Houston Astros Manager Joe Espada was awarded the Doctor of Humane Letters by his alma mater, the University of Mobile, in an announcement made during commencement ceremonies May 4 at the Christian university.

More than 300 graduates who were being awarded associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees and their families watched a video of Espada receiving the honor a month earlier when he was on campus for his induction into the university’s athletic Hall of Fame. Espada was unable to attend UM’s May 4 graduation ceremony as the Astros were scheduled to host the Seattle Mariners later that afternoon at Minute Made Park in Houston, Texas. (Watch the video presentation here https://youtu.be/abKaRnHrs6Y.) 

A native of Puerto Rico, Espada attended the University of Mobile in the mid-1990s as a middle infielder for the UM baseball program, being named a three-time Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) First-Team All-Conference selection and a two-time GCAC Baseball Player of the Year. Additionally, Espada was selected as an NAIA Baseball Second-Team All-American following the 1995 and 1996 seasons. During the 1996 season for the Rams, Espada hit a program-best .442 on the year with 13 home runs and 38 stolen bases. Following that same season, he was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the second round with the 45^th overall pick.

From there, Espada played 10 seasons of minor league ball across seven MLB organizations, five of those seasons being played in Triple-A. He began his professional coaching career as a member of the Miami Marlins coaching staff from 2006-2013. He served as the third-base coach for the New York Yankees before joining the Astros in 2018 as bench coach. He was named manager on Nov. 12, 2023.

In Fall 2019, Espada returned to Mike Jacobs Field at UM for a reunion of former UM Baseball members and saw his No. 6 Mobile jersey retired. In April 2024 he again returned to his alma mater and was inducted into the Hall of Fame Class of 2024 by the University of Mobile Athletic Department.

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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.

MOBILE, Ala. – University of Mobile scholars were recognized for their hard work, determination and commitment to pursue God’s calling for their lives during the Class of 2024 Honors Convocation held April 24 at Dorsett Auditorium on campus.

The President’s Scholastic Award was presented to baccalaureate students who have attained the highest grade point average while completing a four-year degree at the University of Mobile. This year, 12 graduates earned a perfect 4.0 grade point average during their academic careers at UM.

Academic Achievement Awards were presented to outstanding graduates in each college and school who were recognized for academic accomplishment, service, scholarship and Christian character.

The university’s two top student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, will be announced during commencement on May 4. Approximately 300 students will receive degrees ranging from associate to doctoral at the event on campus. Commencement begins at 9 a.m. on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn.

Subhed – President’s Scholastic Awards

Receiving President’s Scholastic Awards were:

David I. Beasley of Cameron, Missouri – Alabama School of the Arts, Bachelor of Science in Worship Leadership and Music

Jessica Mae Clements of Nashville, Tennessee – College of Arts & Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Emma Noelle Landry of Gautier, Mississippi – College of Arts & Sciences, Bachelor of Arts in World Languages and Studies

Dallas P. Renzi of Daphne, Alabama – College of Arts & Sciences, Bachelor of Arts in Communication

Rose Lee Wallace of Prattville, Alabama – College of Arts & Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics

Jackson Childs Breal of Spanish Fort, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, Master of Business Administration

Abigail C. Thibodaux of Satsuma, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, Bachelor of Science in Accounting

Caroline Belle Tucker of Headland, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, Master of Business Administration

Haley Grace Vanderford of Tuscaloosa, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, Bachelor of Science in Management

Kimberly Breanne Foster of Satsuma, Alabama – School of Education, Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education

Brinkley Madison Hearn of Mobile, Alabama – School of Education, Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

Joseph McAdams of Saraland, Alabama – School of Nursing, Associate Degree in Nursing

Subhed – Academic Achievement Awards

Receiving Academic Achievement Awards were:

Randall Luke Killam of Semmes, Alabama – Alabama School of the Arts, undergraduate and Grace Pilot School of Business, undergraduate

Kara Gail Friesen of Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada – Alabama School of the Arts, graduate

Joshua J. Naqvi of Central, Louisiana – College of Arts and Sciences, undergraduate

Jared L. Baria of Semmes, Alabama – College of Arts and Sciences, graduate

Sage McKenna of Fort Walton Beach, Florida – Grace Pilot School of Business, graduate

Brinkley Madison Hearn of Mobile, Alabama – School of Education, undergraduate

Amber Brooks Davis of Saraland, Alabama – School of Education, graduate

Matthew James Payne of Mobile, Alabama – School of Health and Sports Science, undergraduate

Joseph McAdams of Saraland, Alabama – School of Nursing, undergraduate

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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.