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 School of Nursing Announces Nurse Educator Loan Forgiveness Grant 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile School of Nursing has been awarded a grant that provides up to 85% loan forgiveness for eligible students seeking a graduate nursing degree.

Dr. Jessica Garner, graduate dean of the University of Mobile School of Nursing, said the Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP) award is designed to help current nurse educators or practicing nurses obtain a graduate nursing degree. 

Students who enroll in any of UM’s graduate nursing programs may be eligible for up to 85% loan forgiveness for student loans accrued during their program. 

Grant recipients will complete graduate nursing education courses as part of their curriculum and will be eligible to become Certified Nurse Educators.

“This program is a great incentive for nurses who have a desire to teach in the future to take the next step in their careers and earn a master’s or doctoral degree,” Garner said. 

Applications are being accepted now by the UM School of Nursing for a variety of graduate programs, including the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). The BSN-to-DNP Nurse Practitioner track is an online program with three on-campus intensives that allows nursing professionals to work full-time while earning a graduate degree. The program prepares nurse leaders to provide instruction for the next generation of nurses and provide advanced knowledge and skills to further their own careers.

Fall Semester 2023 classes begin Aug. 14. For DNP program information and to apply for admission the UM School of Nursing, visit umobile.edu/dnp or contact Garner at jgarner@umobile.edu or 251.442.2339.

Information about additional graduate programs in the School of Nursing that are included through the Nurse Faculty Loan Program loan forgiveness grant is on the UM website at umobile.edu/schoolofnursing. They include:

The grant award from the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) aims to address the growing national shortage of nurse educators. Recipients agree to serve as a nurse preceptor or nurse faculty member following graduation.

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 Welcomes Super Summer Alabama!

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile welcomed over 275 high school students and 100 leaders from across the state for Super Summer Alabama 2023, a week-long leadership and discipleship camp of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.

University of Mobile President Lonnie Burnett welcomed campers to UM, a Christ-centered university affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

“We are delighted to serve as the host for this week-long camp. Super Summer Alabama gives outstanding high school students a unique opportunity to spend a week focused on great Bible teaching, experience meaningful worship and build relationships with other students from across the state, while also experiencing campus life at the University of Mobile,” Burnett said.

Worship

University of Mobile students from the Alabama School of the Arts ensemble Ignite Worship have had the privilege of leading worship throughout the week, as well.

Super Summer Alabama was held July 10-14. The camp is designed for students who are leaders or potential leaders in their church youth groups who have a desire to learn, study and grow in their faith, said Denis Tanner, associate pastor of students and spiritual formation at Shades Crest Baptist Church in Hoover, 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 Offers LIFT Scholarship for New Local Students 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is pleased to offer the LIFT Scholarship (Learning Investments for Tomorrow) for new local students with significant financial need who enroll at the Christian university for fall semester 2023.

Now in its second year, this scholarship initiative bridges the financial gap between tuition costs and the amount covered by financial aid and scholarships.

The LIFT Scholarship is available to new students from Mobile, Baldwin, Washington, Clarke and Escambia counties who demonstrate significant financial need and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. 

“The University of Mobile LIFT Scholarship serves as a bridge between tuition costs and available financial aid, easing the financial burden for deserving students who have the drive and potential to excel, but may face financial barriers,” explains Dr. Lonnie Burnett, president of the University of Mobile.

By offering this scholarship opportunity, Burnett says the University of Mobile aims to empower students in the local community to reach their full potential with a college experience that goes beyond the traditional classroom to nurture their faith, foster a deep sense of community, and prepare them academically to pursue their calling.

The University of Mobile offers over $12.5 million in scholarships annually, ensuring that 99% of UM students receive financial aid.

There are a limited number of LIFT Scholarships available. Interested students should apply now for admission to the University of Mobile. 

New students who apply for admission, meet the LIFT Scholarship requirements and enroll for fall semester 2023 are automatically considered for the LIFT Scholarship. There is no separate application for the LIFT Scholarship. 

Applications for admission are being accepted now. Fall semester 2023 classes start in August. Apply today at umobile.edu/apply or schedule a campus visit at umobile.edu/visit. 

For more information or to speak with an admissions counselor, call 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. The university offers on-campus and online associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. 

About the University of Mobile

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 Passion for Art: Caroline Ennis

by Kathy Dean
sculpt

Caroline Ennis
Professional Visual Artist
Ceramics Instructor
Bachelor of Arts in Art ’16

The time and effort my professors devoted to me during my years at the University of Mobile was priceless.

– Caroline Ennis ’16

“All my life, I have been entranced by the beauty and excitement the water has to offer. Through my art, I express the passion I have for the water,” says award-winning visual artist Caroline Ennis, a 2016 graduate of the University of Mobile.

During her years as an art student at UM, Caroline experienced professors who challenged her to dig deeper into the ideas behind her art. She also had the advantage of studying at the 880-acre Christian university campus located just an hour from Gulf Coast beaches and minutes from the diverse ecosystem of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta known as “America’s Amazon.”

Today, Caroline teaches ceramics in Tampa, Florida, and creates works at the Morean Center for Clay in St. Petersburg, Florida. She uses installation and sculptural methods that include ceramic, fiber, drawing and unfired clay to explore ways to reflect the coastline’s familiarity and the obscurity of deep water. 

“University of Mobile professors Phil Counselman and Megan Cary taught me skills that were important to my development as an artist. They taught me to dig deeper into the thoughts behind my work, how to install my work in a gallery, how to professionally showcase my work in a digital format, and how to give an artist talk. The time and effort they devoted to me during my time at UM was priceless,” Caroline says.

Q. What inspires you to create art?

A. Growing up near the Gulf of Mexico shaped my life from a young age. Activities such as offshore fishing, scuba diving, searching for seashells, reading stories or poetry about the sea, or just living near the water have influenced my life and art in many ways. The ideas in my art come from the appreciation and respect I feel for the water.

Q. What did you enjoyed about being a UM student?

object

A. I graduated from the University of Mobile in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in Art and a minor in Graphic Design. From 2012-2016, I played on the UM Rams volleyball team under Coach Jon and Amber Campbell. Being a collegiate student-athlete was a very exciting and memorable time for me. I am grateful for the opportunity to have continued my athletic career in college, and I enjoyed the challenge of being a student-athlete.

What I love most about UM is the faculty and staff! My instructors across all subjects at UM were so incredibly dedicated to forming my education. Most of all, I am so thankful for the immense support and one-on-one instruction and mentorship I received from Professor Phil Counselman and Professor Megan Cary. 

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

A. I attended Florida State University to work toward my Master of Fine Arts degree. Florida State University’s Art Department granted me a full tuition waiver and a paid graduate teaching assistantship. Some notable awards during my time at FSU include MFA Award (2019-2020), Ceramics Award (2020), graduate study travel grants, and a scholarship to an artist residency at Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts in Maine. I graduated with my Master of Fine Arts in 2020 summa cum laude. 

My MFA thesis titled “The Gulf, the Shallows, the Deeps” centered around my passion for the water and my experiences growing up near the Gulf of Mexico. My thesis art installation included hand-cut fabric patterns resembling fishing nets and three large ceramic sculptures influenced by views of the seafloor through nautical charts and underwater sonar.

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After my graduation from FSU in 2020, I accepted a ceramics teacher position at Land O’ Lakes High School in Tampa, Florida, and spearheaded a new 3-dimensional art program. 

Through it all, I continue to pursue my own creative work and participate in numerous group and solo art exhibitions. I have been creating work in a shared studio space at the Morean Center for Clay in St. Petersburg. I enjoy the community aspect of working in a shared studio and have made many great connections with talented artists. Currently, I have been working on sculptures resembling castles embedded in the seafloor and decorative pieces thrown on the pottery wheel adorned with hand-sculpted seashells. 

Q. How has the University of Mobile continued to be a part of your life after graduation?

A. In 2021, Phil and Megan invited me to install a solo show in the Marilyn Foley Gallery at the University of Mobile. My show was titled “Uncharted Blue” and included work I completed between the years of 2018-2021. 

with Megan and Phil

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

A. My advice is to take full advantage of the opportunities you have during your time at UM. Find it within yourself to independently put in the extra time it takes to hone your craft. Stay late in the studio, do internships, work closely with your professors and make connections with your peers. 

Q. Where can we see some of your work?

A. You can view images of my recent work on my website and Instagram art page. 

Website: www.carolineennis.com

Instagram Handle: caroline_ennis_art

National Broadway Tour: Addison Garner

by Kathy Dean
Addison garner

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

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

– Addison Garner ’14

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

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

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

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

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

addie2

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

Q. What is a typical day like? 

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

Addie

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

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

Q. What is something are you passionate about?

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

Q. How can we follow your career?

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

addie 1

3 Generations: The Bruns Family

by Kathy Dean

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

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

-John Bruns ’78

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

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

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

family photo

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

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

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

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

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

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

by Kathy Dean

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

About the University of Mobile

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

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Names ‘Mark Foley Hall’ at Graduation 2023

by Kathy Dean

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

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

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

mark foley graduation 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

About the University of Mobile

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

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Andrew Goodwin Named ASOTA Dean at University of Mobile

by Kathy Dean
Andrew Goodwin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Andrew Goodwin

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

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

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

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

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

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

About the University of Mobile

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

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

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weaver hall building