Author: Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and "playing with words" to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

University of Mobile’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.

Mac & Molly: A Love Story

by Kathy Dean
Mac and Molly

This is the story of Mac and Molly.

It is a love story.

Mac and Molly are mascots for the University of Mobile.

So, while their love story isn’t necessarily typical of all the college students who fall in love on this beautiful campus and eventually marry, there are some similarities.

Like Ram Rush.

That was the day Mac first noticed Molly. Mac was an upperclassman. He had been hanging around UM’s powerhouse NAIA athletic program and had started showing up at all the basketball games. He was such a big fan that he dressed in a basketball uniform every chance he could, which was pretty much all the time, since he was a rather large ram and it was hard to find clothes that would fit.

Mac was also super involved in student life, like the Student Government Association and Campus Activities Board, and all the organizations that plan the events that make being a college student at UM so much fun.

Events like Ram Rush.

Now, this is a good time to mention that rams are a big deal at the University of Mobile. It all started back in 1963 when the first freshman class was picking things like school colors and the name of the yearbook. They considered a lot of possibilities for a mascot – knights, saints, pioneers, bucks, elephants and falcons.

It is also a good time to mention that the University of Mobile is a Christian university, and faith is the foundation for everything they do, from the classroom to the athletic field. So it’s no surprise those students looked to the Bible for inspiration. Turns out, there are 44 verses in the Bible about rams. And rams are strong and powerful, which are good qualities to have in a winning athletic program. So a ram it was.

But we digress. Back to the love story.

Mac was a Ram Rush leader, which meant that he was in charge of a small group of new students known as a Ram Fam, short for Ram Family, that spends about a week going to orientation and events together.

When Molly showed up at the designated time at the designated place for the designated Ram Fam meeting, it was all over for Mac.

He was head over hoofs in love.

It took Molly a little while longer to fall in love. There were the traditional courting rituals, like meeting in the caf for their favorite lunch – fried chicken and mac & cheese. They sang in the choir together, over the years participating in both the Boar’s Head Festival and Christmas Spectacular. They had a few classes together in Weaver Hall, went on a few international mission trips, and spent a lot of time cheering on the university’s many athletic teams.

In fact, Molly became such a rambunctious Rams fan that she special-ordered a cheerleading outfit that coordinated beautifully with Mac’s attire.

But it wasn’t until one fateful afternoon that it became obvious to everyone that Mac and Molly were a couple.

They sat beneath an old live oak tree to talk, and it got everyone on campus talking. Because they sat in what students call “the love swing.” It seems that, more often than not, when a couple spends time together talking and swinging beneath that old oak tree, what they end up talking about is their future.  It’s about as close to a declaration of love as a marriage proposal, alumni say.

That’s been awhile back, and Mac and Molly seem to be happy with the current state of their relationship. Most times when you see Mac, you will see Molly, too – usually leading enthusiastic fans in cheers at a Rams sporting event. Marriage may be in the future, but word is they haven’t reached a consensus on whether to have the ceremony in Pharr Gym, at The Jungle soccer field, or on Mike Jacobs Baseball Field.

So that’s the short story of how Mac and Molly became a couple. It is possible this isn’t the true story. Like most good stories we tell, some parts are completely true, and some parts are somewhat true, and some parts are not true at all.

But it’s a nice love story for Valentine’s Day, isn’t it?

World Traveler: Harrison Hughes

by Kathy Dean

Harrison Hughes ’15
Owner, Black Mountain Photo + Cinema
Film Director, Heyday
Bachelor of Arts in Worship Leadership/Film Concentration 

At the University of Mobile, I felt known and appreciated. My friends became family. Even years after graduation, we still talk every day and try to all meet up every year.

-Harrison Hughes ’15   

As a freelance filmmaker and photographer, Harrison Hughes travels the world. Through the company he started, Black Mountain Photo + Cinema, this University of Mobile graduate has shot promos and commercials in Italy, Greece, Germany, Iceland, Cuba, Russia, the Caribbean and all across the United States for different brands.

“We have shot at famous studios in Nashville as well as concerts at Red Rocks amphitheater in Denver, Colorado,” he says. “Black Mountain has worked with Tim Tebow, The Harlem Globetrotters, Beth Moore, Toby Keith, the Tennessee Titans, K-Love Radio, Casting Crowns, Tenth Avenue North, The Guinness World Records, FedEx, National Geographic, Lifeway, politicians, authors, dozens of churches, as well as Nashville bands and artists.“

Denver

Harrison took his first steps on this remarkable journey as a student at the University of Mobile where he was a member of RamCorps, a traveling brass and percussion ensemble in the Alabama School of the Arts.

“We played over 150 shows and worship services each year, which consisted of traveling across the Southeast. RamCorps instilled in me the value of hard work and taught me how to travel well. Creating videos for them gave me the experience I needed to land a production job in Nashville after I graduated. My closest friends and some of my fondest memories came from traveling and performing with RamCorps,” he says.

IDADO

Q. Tell us about your typical workday.

A. I recently took on the position of film director for a large corporate company called Heyday. Heyday owns several brands, and I create marketing material and promo videos for many of those brands. With Heyday, some days consist of shooting outdoor lifestyle stills for a drinkware company, Ironflask, while other days are spent in Los Angeles studios filming videos for Eva Longoria’s cookware company. 

My main focus is a flyfishing brand, Moonshine Rod Co. Creating content for them usually consists of flying to gorgeous and often remote places to produce content, like a hype video in Maui. With Moonshine Rods, I have been able to capture content in Iceland, Colorado, Idaho, Michigan, Florida, North Carolina and Wyoming. 

When I’m not traveling, I’m home editing. My first short film was accepted in an international film festival, as well as a nationwide flyfishing film festival. Story-driven content is something I look forward to doing more of in the future, and another one is coming soon with a future film from our recent trip to Maui!

with baby

Q. What are your greatest accomplishments?

A. My greatest accomplishment is marrying Haley in 2015. We worked FUGE Camps together where she was the director and I was the video producer. She worked as an event coordinator at Lifeway for several years before taking on the wedding side of Black Mountain full time and absolutely loving it! We had our daughter, Charlie Knox, and she has changed our world in all of the best possible ways. We are excited to put a camera in her hand one day!

fellowship

Q. How did your time at UM prepare you? 

A. At many other college campuses, I feel like you are just part of a massive herd. My wife went to a large state school and talks about being in biology class with 500 people and never having a single conversation with the professor. At the University of Mobile, I felt known and appreciated. My friends became family.  Even years after graduation, we still talk every day and try to all meet up every year. The professors called out my strengths, and I was even able to create videos as my final for several courses. 

friends

Q. What advice would you give to prospective UM students?

A. The best advice I could give students is to PLUG IN. Get involved in everything you can. I met the best people on the planet because I went to Ram Rush, participated in campus life activities, and joined several music groups. Get all your work and studying done, but do not miss out on the social aspect of college. Those were some of the best times of my life.

Black History Month Lecture/Concert Celebrates Composer William Dawson

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile will celebrate Black History Month in February with a special lecture and concert on the life and works of composer William Levi Dawson.

The University of Mobile Chorale and soloists from the Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts will perform several of Dawson’s works while professor and author Mark Malone, Ph.D., shares the fascinating tale of the composer’s early life, quest for education, rise to success at Tuskegee Institute, achievement of national fame as a composer, and retirement years spent conducting choirs throughout the United States and around the world.

A Celebration of the Life and Work of William Levi Dawson will be presented Monday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m. in Dorsett Auditorium on the University of Mobile campus. Admission is free. For information, visit umobile.edu or contact the Alabama School of the Arts at 251.442.2383.

Dr. Malone

About the Speaker

Malone’s book, William Levi Dawson: American Music Educator, will be published later this year. He is a veteran music educator with over 46 years of classroom experience and has presented at the NAfME Convention as well as state music educators conferences. An expert in choral sight-reading, Malone has written sight-singing materials for several states. As curriculum designer for the Mississippi Arts Commission, he has created arts integration lesson plans that use music, dance, theatre, visual arts and media arts to enhance understanding of traditional core subjects such as math, science, social studies and language arts.

About the Composer

William Levi Dawson was born just prior to the dawn of the 20th Century and encountered challenges along the road to becoming a nationally recognized composer, choral arranger, conductor and professor of music at Tuskegee Institute. 

“Under his direction, the Tuskegee Choir achieved a national reputation by singing to open Radio City Music Hall, presenting concerts for Presidents Herbert Hoover and franklin D. Roosevelt, as well as performing over nationwide radio broadcasts and appearing on television,” Malone said.

Dawson’s Negro Folk Symphony, only the second extended musical work to be written by an African American, was premiered by Leopold Stokowski and the Philadelphia Orchestra in both Philadelphia and New York City. His arrangements of spirituals, the original folk music of African Americans enslaved in America during the antebellum period, quickly became highly sought-after choral works.

“Some of these works were published by established companies, but Dawson soon wisely utilized the steam press at Tuskegee Institute to publish his own compositions, thereby reaping more of the publishing profits,” Malone said.

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 Tops Alabama with 100% NCLEX Pass Rate for BSN Graduates

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile School of Nursing scored a perfect 100% pass rate for BSN graduates taking the NCLEX national licensure examination during 2022 – the highest pass rate in the state of Alabama.

The Christian university’s 100% NCLEX pass rate gives it the top score among all 15 Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs in Alabama for 2022, according to an Alabama Board of Nursing online listing of nursing education programs.

Nursing graduates are required to pass the NCLEX to be licensed as a Registered Nurse in the United States and Canada. The standardized test assesses a candidate’s competency and ability to provide safe, effective nursing care prior to entering the profession.

“Our School of Nursing faculty is committed to assuring that our graduates are well prepared for the NCLEX and their entry into the nursing profession. We are proud of our BSN graduates whose hard work and dedication to their professional calling has resulted in this excellent score,” said Dr. Pamela Buchanan Miller, vice president for academic affairs.

“I thank God for His faithfulness and the dedicated School of Nursing faculty,” said Dr. Sarah Barnes-Witherspoon, dean of the UM School of Nursing.

She said an emphasis on face-to-face NCLEX review, integrated specialty testing and the addition of a test-taking strategies were among the strategies used to assure graduates were well-prepared for the 2022 testing cycle. New processes were put in place following the challenges of teaching and learning during a pandemic. 

In addition, faculty stressed the importance of taking the test as soon as possible after graduation, while a new graduate’s test-taking skills are still fresh.

The UM School of Nursing is part of the College of Health Professions, which also includes the School of Nurse Anesthesia and the School of Health and Sports Science.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing is one of many professional degree programs offered in the School of Nursing, including the online RN to BSN program and a new five-semester Associate Degree in Nursing. 

Graduate programs include the Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner, Master of Science in Nursing Leadership, and Post-Master’s APRN Certificate. 

Doctor of Nursing Practice programs include BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner and Post-Master’s DNP.

For more information about academic programs in the School of Nursing and the College of Health Professions, or to learn about any of the more than 75 academic programs at the University of Mobile, call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222 or visit umobile.edu.

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.

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weaver hall building