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.
For Coach Mike Jacobs, the University of Mobile baseball field was never just a baseball field.
“It was a mission field. He didn’t run a baseball program. He ran a discipleship program. Coach Jacobs always thought of the person first and the player second. He was preparing you for life,” said former player and current UM campus pastor Jared Baria ’09.
Jacobs Field and Archway
The University of Mobile’s beloved athletic director and head baseball coach passed away suddenly Dec. 3, 2019, after suffering a heart attack at the baseball field on campus that bears his name. He left a legacy as a man of faith and integrity who invested his life in the young men he coached, in his family, and in service to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The baseball field at the University of Mobile was named Jacobs Field in 2011 after Coach Jacobs compiled 700 career wins. The Jacobs Field Archway at the entrance to Jacobs Field was dedicated in 2021 to honor his memory.
A Coach’s Calling
In a profile in the university’s TorchLight magazine, Jacobs spoke about his calling as a coach at the University of Mobile.
“I’ve always felt like this was a ministry for me, that God brought me here not only to coach baseball, but to mentor young athletes and prepare them for what life is going to bring them when they leave here. I try to be an example of what I feel God wants these students to see,” Jacobs said.
Overall, Coach Jacobs earned 993 total wins in 30 seasons while leading the University of Mobile Rams baseball program. He reached the 30-win plateau in 17 of his 30 seasons as head coach and led the Rams to seven conference championships and a berth in the 2001 NAIA World Series. Coach Jacobs was inducted into the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2018. In July of 2019, he was named athletic director at UM, leading one of the NAIA’s largest athletic programs.
He won Conference Coach of the Year three times in his career; in 1998, 2001 and 2008. He coached 20 total All-Americans, 88 First-Team All-Conference performers, 10 NAIA Scholar-Athletes, 13 conference Gold Glove winners, and 102 conference All-Academic performers, and saw 35 players go on to sign professional contracts.
As a college player, Jacobs had an outstanding career as a four-year letterman at University of South Alabama and was the Jaguars’ leading hitter in 1976.
Coach: A Prayer
A prayer titled “Coach” written by Baria and read at Jacobs’ memorial service recalled familiar scenes at Jacobs Field, with the coach’s wife, Joy, in the stands.
O Lord in this brokenness, please calm the raging storms, Just get me past the gate and let me make it past the dorms.
Where my heart is not so heavy, and loaded down with hurt, Just take it out and leave it, upon the brick-crushed dirt.
Where everything was good and your children were at play, Just take me back again, to another Saturday.
Where the fans are in their seats, hearing Mrs. Joy shout, Just put me in the box when the wind is blowing out.
Where the grass is freshly cut, and the Rams always get the win, Just put me there on second, and have Jacobs wave me in.
Where lives have been transformed and where baseball’s just a game Just leave me there with him, on the field that bears his name.
Where a man lived out his faith and made the gospel known, Just let me help to water, the countless seeds he’s sown.
Where he is right now, I can tell from all their faces, Lord, let me stand beside him, when I’m finished running bases.
UM Legacy: People of the Halls
The UM Legacy story collection celebrates the rich history of the University of Mobile by sharing the stories of people past and present who helped make UM what it is today. This story is part of the “People of the Halls” series spotlighting the people behind the names of the buildings and sports facilities at the University of Mobile. Read more UM Legacy stories at umobile.edu/umlegacy.
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.
MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile invites piano students and teachers to “Sound Weight,” a pedagogy workshop taught by Barbara Laurendine, a nationally certified teacher of music.
“Sound Weight” explores how weight controls the sound value produced and promotes dynamic life in the music. The hour-long workshop is free and open to all piano teachers and students.
The workshop will be held Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 3 p.m. in the newly renovated Moorer Auditorium in Thomas T. Martin Hall on the University of Mobile campus. The campus is located off I-65 Exit 13 at 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, Alabama, 36613.
“Piano teachers attending the workshop will learn how to help their students understand how to produce many facets of sound to correctly interpret many facets of style. Students who attend will learn what it means to produce a correct sound. We will focus on thinking ahead and listening to the sound produced,” Laurendine said.
ASOTA Piano Festival VI
The workshop is part of the 6th annual Alabama School of the Arts Piano Festival VI, a year-long series of master classes and workshops, recitals by guest artists and faculty, and special performances by university students and Elite 88, UM’s piano ensemble.
All Piano Festival events are free and open to the public and are held in Moorer Auditorium. The full schedule can be found on the university calendar at umobile.edu, or call the Alabama School of the Arts at 251.442.2383.
Music Teacher of the Year
Named “Teacher of the Year” in 2001 by the Alabama Music Teachers Association, Laurendine taught piano at the University of Mobile while founding and directing the highly successful Summer Music Camp for 18 years.
She was named one of “Mobile’s Most Influential People in the Arts” by Mobile Bay Monthly and received the Greater Mobile Arts Award for Outstanding Educator in the Field of Music for 2005. In 2001 during its national convention in Washington, D.C., The Music Teachers National Association established the Barbara Laurendine Foundation Fellowship Award in recognition of her contributions to the field of music instruction.
Currently, Laurendine maintains a private studio for both preparatory and adult piano students in the Mobile area.
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.
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.
MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile enrolled its largest freshman class in seven years and residence halls are near capacity as the Fall 2022 semester gets underway at the Christ-centered university.
The university enrolled 273 first-time freshmen, making this the largest influx of new freshmen since 2015. Currently, 622 students live in residence halls the ranking site Niche rates as the #1 Best Dorms in Alabama.
In addition, UM’s new Associate Degree in Nursing program met its goal of 30 students for its first class. The five-semester nursing degree program aims to address the local and national nursing shortage by preparing nursing students to enter the workforce quickly.
New Scholarships
University of Mobile President Lonnie Burnett said new scholarships and partnerships contributed to the university’s gain in new student enrollment, an area that nationally has shown a decline.
Burnett said the university worked with donors to develop the LIFT Scholarship (Learning Investments for Tomorrow) for new students from a five-county area who have financial need. The LIFT Scholarship fills a gap between the cost of tuition and the amount covered by financial aid and scholarships.
New partnerships created this year with Infirmary Health and Springhill Medical Center provided new scholarships for School of Nursing students earning the Associate Degree in Nursing and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
“Our corporate partners and donors see the University of Mobile and the Christian higher education we offer as an excellent investment in our community. We are continuing to develop new partnerships that will expand opportunities for even more students,” Burnett said.
Charity Wittner, vice president for student affairs, said preliminary census figures show that UM mirrored national trends in some areas, while bucking trends in others.
“We went into the fall following national trends and anticipating anywhere from a 4-to-7% decline in new students. We ended up being 8% higher in new student enrollment for our traditional on-ground program,” Wittner said.
Overall, preliminary census numbers show that UM was part of a national trend as total enrollment of 1,851 for Fall 2022 fell 3% below Fall 2021’s total of 1,911. Undergraduate enrollment for online programs increased by 18%, while enrollment declined for graduate programs. Final enrollment numbers are not yet available for dual enrollment and early enrollment, but officials expect a slight decline from last year.
College Visit Days
The university is already focusing on recruiting for Fall 2023. The next UM Day for prospective students is Sept. 23, and interested students are invited to RSVP at umobile.edu/umday. Private visits are also available. For more information or to schedule a visit, 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 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.
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.
MOBILE, Ala. – A suite of 10 piano pieces known as a showpiece for virtuoso pianists, “Pictures at an Exhibition,” will be performed by the University of Mobile faculty to open the 6th annual Alabama School of the Arts Piano Festival.
The free concert set for Thursday, Sept. 15, features duets by Steinway Artist Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, director of piano studies and professor of music, and Greg Wiggins, instructor of music. Dr. Charlotte Hester, associate professor of music education, will discuss the 1874 suite that is the most famous piano composition by Russian composer Modest Mussorgsky. The suite musically illustrates the paintings and watercolors of the composer’s close friend, the architect and painter Victor Hartmann.
The concert begins at 7 p.m. in the newly renovated Moorer Auditorium in Thomas T. Martin Hall on the University of Mobile campus. The campus is located off I-65 Exit 13 at 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, Alabama, 36613. The concert and lecture will be live streamed at https://fb.me/e/3AhBucFdG.
What is the ASOTA Piano Festival?
The Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA) Piano Festival is a year-long series of master classes and workshops, recitals by guest artists and faculty, and special performances by university students and Elite 88, UM’s piano ensemble.
It was started by UM’s Steinway Artist and Director of Piano Studies Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva. Along with retired music professor Becky Fox, Onalbayeva was instrumental in leading the university to gain the prestigious status of All-Steinway School.
“The annual Piano Festival combines educational and performance variety, not just for pianists, but also for other instrumentalists and vocalists. Our students who study composition have performances of their original works. This year, we have workshops and master classes with international artists and educators from Kazakhstan, Belgium, Costa Rica and other countries,” said Onalbayeva.
All Piano Festival events are free and open to the public and are held on campus in Moorer Auditorium. The full schedule is below and can be found on the university calendar at umobile.edu/calendar, or call the Alabama School of the Arts at 251.442.2383.
‘Pictures at an Exhibition’ Lecture/Recital
The piano suite “Pictures at an Exhibition” represents a melding of Russian painting, music and culture, and also is a musical memorial to the common goals and friendship between composer Mussorgksy and architect/painter Hartmann, said Dr. Charlotte Hester, who will discuss the work prior to its performance.
“As creative artists, both Mussorgsky and Hartmann were dedicated to the promotion of essentially Russian musical and artistic forms. Today, most of Hartmann’s paintings have been lost, whereas Mussorgsky’s suite remains as one of his most famous piano compositions,” Hester said.
Wiggins, who will perform with Onalbayeva, said the original work that was created in just two weeks for solo piano exploded in popularity.
“The extent to which this composition has reached the world is staggering,” said Wiggins. A 1922 orchestration from French composer Maurice Ravel became the standard for orchestras all over the world and has surpassed the original piano solo version in popularity. The 1970s rock band Emerson, Lake and Palmer recorded a live concert of the work, incorporating their signature styles of progressive rock, jazz and folk music.
The Sept. 15 performance for two pianos was arranged in 2014 by Clemens Starybrat, who used Mussorgsky’s original composition as well as Ravel’s original orchestration as inspiration for his arrangement.
All-Steinway School Piano Festival
The university’s 6th annual Alabama School of the Arts Piano Festival includes an annual celebration of the university’s status as an All-Steinway School. Events include:
Oct. 19, 3 p.m. – “Sound Weight” pedagogy workshop with Barbara Laurendine, nationally certified teacher of music and former adjunct music instructor at the University of Mobile.
Nov. 3, 7 p.m. – Elite 88 Piano Ensemble “Goes to the Opera.”
Nov. 9, 3 p.m. – Lecture/recital with Steinway Artist Dr. Natsuki Fukasawa, Orfeo Music Festival and Talis Festival & Academy, artist and faculty at American River College, Sacramento, California.
Feb. 4, 9 a.m. – Gulf Coast Steinway Society Music Competition VIII
Feb. 6, 4 p.m. – “The Five Basic Motions of Piano Technique” pedagogy workshop with Dr. Marian Lee, associate professor of music and head of piano department at St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa
Feb. 7, 7 p.m. – Guest Artist Recital with Dr. Marian Lee.
Feb. 8, 3 p.m. – Master Class and Workshop with Dr. Marian Lee.
March 21, 7 p.m. – “Music for Today and Tomorrow” ASOTA Piano Duet with Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva and Greg Wiggins.
March 30, 7 p.m. – All-Steinway School Celebration piano department concert.
April 13, 7 p.m. – Elite 88 Piano Ensemble “Goes to the Symphony”
April 18, 7 p.m. – “Eclectic Music” chamber music concert by ASOTA students.
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.
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.
From mixing chemicals in the lab to mixing ingredients in the kitchen for her signature BBQ Bacon Meatloaf Muffins recently featured in Mobile Bay Magazine, Wanda Jones loves to experiment.
“Being in the kitchen, just like being in the classroom and lab, is one of my happy places,” says the assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Mobile. “Everything is made of atoms. How those atoms make different types of matter is so exciting to look at.”
Dr. Jones helps University of Mobile students catch that excitement and build a strong foundation in chemistry. She also encourages them to follow God’s calling for their lives – something she is passionate about for her own life.
“In James 1:27, it says to take care of the widows and the orphans. By being a foster and adoptive parent, I am living out the Gospel. When I volunteer to help others in the community, I am spreading the love of Jesus. When I teach, I am showing others to be like Christ. That is purpose…that is calling…that is my life,” she says.
Read on to learn more about Dr. Jones and what it’s like to teach and learn at the University of Mobile.
Q. You have taught at UM since 2019. What is your background?
A.My undergrad is in chemistry with a minor in mathematics. My PhD is in materials science and engineering. Materials science and chemistry are interdisciplinary and related like first cousins.
I always tell my students that chemistry is my first love and engineering is my second love. I have always found it challenging and therapeutic to know that everything is made of atoms. How those atoms make different types of matter is so exciting to look at. We as humans are walking chemistry experiments. When students look at chemistry that way, it helps them to relate to the subject matter better.
Q. Why should someone choose to study chemistry?
A. Chemistry is ever-changing. With all the advancements in technology, there are some basics that we all still must know. That is foundation. If you have a strong foundation, you will be able to adapt to the changes and face the challenges that come your way.
Having a major in biology with a minor in chemistry is a very versatile degree. You can teach, go into medicine, animal science, marine science, graduate school…the possibilities are endless. There are always opportunities in science.
Q. UM offers “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose.” What does that mean to you?
A. We know that our purpose must be found in Jesus Christ. Students are here to be educated to serve their purpose found in Jesus Christ. At the University of Mobile, faculty and staff are here to help our students find that purpose while being educated.
Q. Why do you teach at UM?
A. I love the family-friendly atmosphere! I also enjoy having coworkers whom I can talk with and do life with. The class sizes are perfect and I get to know my students. Being in the classroom and lab is one of my happy places.
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.
Dr. Lynne Leonard – Program Coordinator, Marine Science College of Arts & Sciences
Dr. Lynne Leonard joins the College of Arts & Sciences as program coordinator of the Bachelor of Science in Marine Science program.
Lynne was born in Cheektowaga, New York, and moved to Mississippi when she was 16, then attended Mississippi State University and graduated with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. She opened a veterinary practice in Semmes and has been in private practice for over 30 years. Lynne and her husband have 4-legged children – 3 dogs, and 2 cats – plus one spoiled chicken. Her hobbies include kayaking, backpacking and trail running, and she dabbles in flame working and pottery. This year she started an adventure in beekeeping.
Dr. Jessica Freeland – Assistant Professor of Education School of Education
Dr. Jessica Freeland joins the School of Education as Assistant Professor of Education.
Jessica holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Elementary Education, and earned her doctorate in Instructional Design and Development. She taught elementary school for six years, where she has been a grade level chair, PowerSchool/Schoology lead teacher, and mentor teacher to student teachers. Her specialty is arts integration, and she served as the coordinator of the Arts in Education professional development program at the University of South Alabama for over seven years. She has also worked as a grant development specialist and has experience in both writing and managing grants, which she plans to continue at UM.
Dr. Martha (Marty) Gibson – Associate Professor of Nursing School of Nursing
Dr. Martha Gibson joins the School of Nursing as Associate Professor of Nursing.
Marty graduated from the University of South Alabama with a Bachelor of Science in math/secondary education, then earned an Associate Degree in Nursing from Bishop State Community College. She went on to receive a Master of Nursing from USA. She taught for 20+ years as a private and public school math teacher, and added school nursing to the mix after becoming a registered nurse. In 2004, she moved to Texas and worked in rural nursing and as an assistant professor in nursing at Midwestern State University. She attended Texas Woman’s University and earned a PhD in Health Studies, then moved back to Mobile to begin as an associate professor of nursing at Spring Hill College. Marty has a son and daughter, both married, and 6 wonderful grandsons. In addition to loving her family, she enjoys singing, gardening, traveling and playing with the animals on her farm.
Laurie Houston – Assistant Professor of Nursing School of Nursing
Laurie Houston returns to her alma mater as Assistant Professor of Nursing in the School of Nursing.
She is an obstetrical nurse with a passion for teaching. Laurie earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from the University of Mobile, and spent 9 ½ years serving in the military as an Army Nurse. Her journey in nursing education began upon her return to Mobile in 2000. She taught nursing students in the clinical setting at Spring Hill College, the University of South Alabama, and Bishop State Community College. She continued to teach in the classroom setting at Virginia College and Bishop State, where she spent the last nine years instructing nursing students. Laurie is a Mobile native who enjoys living on the Gulf Coast surrounded by friends and her beautiful family, which includes one spoiled dog and a very pertinacious nephew.
Dr. Melinda (Lindi) McGaughy – Associate Professor of Nursing School of Nursing
Dr. Melinda McGaughy joins UM as Associate Professor of Nursing in the School of Nursing.
Lindi earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from The Ohio State University and is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. Her nursing experience has been in neonatal intensive care, pediatric primary care, retail health, and family practice. She served full-time in the graduate school on the Family Nurse Practitioner faculty at Ohio State for 6 years before relocating to Alabama. Lindi completed a Post-Master’s certification in Advanced Practice Nurse Education and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Otterbein University with a project focused on integrative advanced practice nursing education. She is on the advisory board for the Center for Integrative Medicine at Ohio State. She presents regularly at national nursing organizations, and her research interests include peer review in nursing education, faculty civility in higher education, and integrative health. Lindi and her husband, David, have been married for 40 years. They have 3 children and 7 grandchildren, and together they have parented or fostered 79 children.
Dr. Michael Hendrick – Associate Professor of Music Alabama School of the Arts
Dr. Michael Hendrick joins the Alabama School of the Arts as Associate Professor of Music.
Michael earned an undergraduate degree in music education and two graduate degrees from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (a Master’s in Vocal Performance/Artist Diploma in Opera Performance). After an illustrious career as a full-time performing tenor soloist in opera and classical music for 27 years, he returned to higher education to earn a Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance (Vocal Pedagogy) from Louisiana State University. Michael has performed on stages worldwide including leading roles at The Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, The Washington Opera, Los Angeles Philharmonic, London Philharmonic, and the National Orchestra of Spain. Having learned first-hand about the challenges and complexity of the music industry, he is excited about the opportunity to teach and guide the up-and-coming diverse generation of students at UM.
Alexandra Trosper – Visiting Professor of Music Alabama School of the Arts
Alexandra Trosper joins the Alabama School of the Arts as Visiting Professor of Music.
Alex is in the final stages of completing her Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance at the University of Mobile. She earned a bachelor’s degree in music education and master’s in vocal performance from Colorado State University. As an educator, she served as musical and choral director for Battle Mountain High School in Vail, Colorado, taking the choir to a 2nd place finish at the Anaheim Choral Festival in California. She has an extensive performance career, including international appearances in Germany and China. Alex was selected as an apprentice artist for Opera Fort Collins, and has been a featured artist for the Harbor Springs Opera House in Michigan, the Charles and Rita Ralph Opera Center in Colorado, the Boulder Symphony, and was a soprano soloist for The Messiah in Grand Junction with the Handel Choral Society, among others.
Rob DeLong – Head Athletic Trainer Athletic Department
Rob DeLong, MEd, ATC, is UM’s Head Athletic Trainer.
Rob has been a certified athletic trainer for more than 26 years. His experience began in the NFL as an intern and spanned over many other settings such as collegiate head athletic trainer, high school head athletic trainer, clinical settings, and most recently an industrial athletic trainer. Rob is excited to return to his roots as an “athletic” athletic trainer. He is married to Lori DeLong and has two children, MacLynn and Braeden.
Dana Evans – Men’s and Women’s Bowling Coach Athletic Department
Dana Evans joins the Athletic Department as our first Men’s and Women’s Bowling Coach.
This is our first year for Men’s and Women’s Bowling, giving us 21 NAIA competitive sports. Dana graduated from UM with a Bachelor of Science in health, physical education and recreation with a teaching certificate. She holds a master’s in special education from the University of South Alabama. She has coached Special Olympics in the Mobile County Public School system in addition to bowling, basketball and volleyball and comes to UM from Marry G. Montgomery High School, where she assisted a bowling program that earned an area championship. She has 3 sons: Dustin, Cody and Joshua, a daughter-in-law and grandson. Her son Cody played baseball at UM under Head Coach Mike Jacobs. Joshua plans to attend UM as a future bowler.
Matt McArthur – Asst. Coach Men’s Soccer Athletic Department
Matt McArthur joins the Athletic Department as Assistant Coach for Men’s Soccer.
Born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, Matt moved to the US in 2015 as a member of the UM Men’s soccer team and graduated in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with teacher certification. He worked as a physical education teacher, then enrolled full-time to graduate in 2022 with a Master’s in Business Communication and Leadership. Matt currently holds a UEFA B License Coaching qualification and a US D License and is continuing to complete his soccer coaching qualifications with additional licenses in 2023.
Jordan Sinclair – Asst. Coach Women’s Soccer Athletic Department
Jordan Sinclaire is a former UM soccer player who joins the Athletic Department as Assistant Coach for Women’s Soccer.
Jordan is originally from Glasgow, Scotland and moved to the US in 2015 to play soccer on our men’s team. He earned his undergraduate degree in kinesiology, then moved into a graduate assistant position with our men’s soccer program and completed a master’s in education. He is also part of the staff at McGill-Toolen’s girls soccer program.
Leith Rawson – Asst. Coach, Men’s & Women’s Cross Country and Track & Field Athletic Department
Leith Rawson was a member of UM’s cross country and track & field programs, and he joins the Athletic Department as assistant coach for cross country and track & field.
While at UM, Leith became the first Ram since 2008 to qualify for the NAIA Cross Country National Championships, while earning All-Conference honors. He graduated with a bachelor of science degree in business administration and recently received his MBA from the University of Mobile.
Reagan Hyde – Data Processing/Social Media Office for Advancement
Reagan Hyde joins the Office for Advancement and is responsible for data processing and social media.
Reagan is 2022 graduate from the University of Mobile, having earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. She currently is pursuing a master’s degree in business administration from the Grace Pilot School of Business, and is on pace to complete her graduate work in 2024. Reagan is responsible for UM Donor data entry, and collaborates with the marketing office to manage the university’s alumni social media accounts. She is from Milton, Florida, and was a student-athlete playing on the UM Women’s Soccer team.
Jillian Lane – Assistant to the Associate VP for Business Affairs and Plant Accountant Office for Business Services
Jillian Lane is Assistant to the Associate Vice President for Business Affairs and Plant Accountant in the Office for Business Services.
Jillian started working for the UM Business Office in December 2021, while pursuing her degrees in accounting and business administration, and graduated summa cum laude in August 2022. Her journey with UM began when she was a 15-year-old homeschool student taking Early Enrollment classes, which enabled her to graduate a year early. In the Business Office, Jillian works with the student book voucher program, international student insurance program, international student tax reporting, 1099 tax reporting, and managing capital improvement accounting and UM campus cash program, and is helping students get acclimated to the new student billing system. Jillian is a member of West Mobile Baptist Church where she has served as the pianist for the past seven years and teaches AWANA on Wednesday nights. She recently earned her 3rd Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo.
Rhiannon Combs – Admissions Counselor Office for Enrollment Services
Rhiannon Combs has joined the Office for Enrollment Services as an admissions counselor. Rhiannon is a 2022 UM graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Intercultural Studies.
Grace Whittington – Admissions Counselor Office for Enrollment Services
Grace Whittington has joined the Office for Enrollment Services as an admissions counselor. Grace is a 2022 UM graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and minors in Psychology and Music.
Abbie Williams – Admissions Counselor Office for Enrollment Services
Abbie Williams is also a new admissions counselor in Enrollment Services. She graduated in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration/Marketing.
Ayeshia Abraham – Financial Aid Counselor Office for Enrollment Services
Ayeshia Abraham joins the Financial Aid Office as a Financial Aid Counselor.
Ayeshia is in graduate school in the Grace Pilot School of Business. She will graduate in May 2023 with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration.
Emily Deal – Social Media Specialist Office for Marketing & Public Relations
Emily Deal returns to her alma mater as the Social Media Specialist in the Office for Marketing & Public Relations.
Emily handles all of the social media for the university’s flagship accounts and produces a variety of content promoting the university across all platforms. She graduated from UM in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design. While still a student, she started working as a freelance graphic artist. Before joining UM, Emily was a Studio Design Specialist at Red Square Agency in Mobile where she gained a broad understanding of branding, content creation, project management and campaign-oriented strategies. Emily and her husband, Alex, are active at Mars Hill Church.
Michael Zona – Area Coordinator/Coordinator for Health and Wellness and Intramurals Residential Life
Michael Zona graduated from UM in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing and a minor in theology. He will oversee Samford Hall along with intramural sports on campus. He enjoys photography, hiking and camping, and investing in students and developing them into the best leaders that they can become.
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.
MOBILE, Ala. – Online college programs offer flexibility for students interested in earning a college degree on their own schedule. The University of Mobile is enrolling students now in a variety of online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs.
There is still time to apply for admission to Fall Semester 2022 at the University of Mobile. Classes start Aug. 15, and applications still will be accepted through Aug. 19. Apply online at umobile.edu/apply.
For a list of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs available online, visit umobile.edu/online or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.
Online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs are offered in areas such as nursing, business, education, Christian calling, behavioral studies and the arts. On-campus graduate programs are available in counseling, athletic training, musical theatre, and vocal or piano performance, among others.
Overall, the University of Mobile offers more than 75 academic programs.
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.
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.
MOBILE, Ala. – There is still time to enroll for Fall Semester 2022 at the University of Mobile. Classes begin Monday, Aug. 15, and applications are still being accepted at umobile.edu/apply.
UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in more than 75 academic programs. The University of Mobile was ranked in the Top 25 College Campuses in America with the #1 Dorms in Alabama for 2022 by Niche.com. Also, U.S. News & World Report named UM a Best Value School and ranked the Christ-centered university among the Best Regional Colleges in the South for 2022.
Students move into Alabama’s #1-rated college dorms on Friday, Aug. 12, starting at 9 a.m. Later that day, UM President Lonnie Burnett welcomes new students during the President’s Commissioning service beginning at 3:30 p.m. on the Great Commission Lawn. Ram Rush new student orientation starts with a week of events and activities to help students meet new friends and get involved in campus life.
For more information about admissions and academic programs, or to speak with an admissions counselor, call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222 or visit umobile.edu/apply.
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.
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.
MOBILE, Ala. – Michael Hendrick, a leading operatic tenor whose career includes nearly three decades of performances with opera companies and symphony orchestras throughout the world, has joined the faculty of the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile.
The newly appointed assistant professor of music comes to the Christ-centered university having recently received the Doctor of Musical Arts in vocal performance with a minor in vocal pedagogy from Louisiana State University.
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Michael Hendrick join the voice faculty at the University of Mobile. He brings a wealth of experience from an illustrious career, and I cannot wait for our students to benefit from his knowledge and wisdom of not just singing, but also the business of singing,” said Dr. Lori Guy, chair of graduate studies in the Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA).
Washington National Opera Artist of the Year
“I look forward to meeting the students I will be teaching, and working with them to help them to continue to find their voices and increase their love of singing,” Hendrick said.
Among many recognitions throughout his career, Hendrick was honored at the Kennedy Center as Washington National Opera’s Artist of the Year in 2001 for his portrayal of Lennie in “Of Mice and Men,” a role he most recently portrayed in 2016 at Manitoba Opera in Winnipeg, Canada.
He made his Metropolitan Opera debut in New York City as Menelas in Die Ägyptische Helena, and his repertoire ranges from the title role in Lohengrin at Kolobov Novaya Theater in Moscow, Russia, to his portrayals as Don José in Carmen at New York City Opera, in La Coruña, Spain, and in Santander, Spain.
Knowledge, Experience and Faith
Dr. Kathryn Hedlund, director of vocal studies, said Hendrick brings a unique wealth of knowledge and experience.
“Along with his expertise, he brings a strong Christian faith and character, and will contribute beautifully to our culture here at UM,” she said.
Having recently moved from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Hendrick is setting up his studio and preparing for the start of fall semester 2022. Classes begin on Aug. 15. There is still time to enroll, and applications are being accepted now at umobile.edu/apply, 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.
Ties to Mobile, Alabama
Hendrick has family ties to the Mobile area.
“My mother was born in Mobile when my grandfather built ships here,” he said. While that piqued his interest in Mobile, it was the culture of the university community that made his next career move obvious.
“For me, coming to the University of Mobile for a campus visit at the Alabama School of the Arts, and meeting the administration, faculty and students, was the lynchpin. It was evident to me that, at ASOTA, the students come first.”
International Experience
Hendrick’s Metropolitan Opera Debut was followed by other engagements at the Metropolitan Opera including the title role in Peter Grimes, Bacchus in Ariadne auf Naxos, Chairman Mao in Nixon in China by John Adams (conducted by the composer) and the Drum Major in Wozzeck.
In 2013, he sang at the Teatro dell’Opera in Rome, Italy in the title role of Saint-Saëns’ Samson et Dalila. He portrayed the title role in Wagner’s Parsifal at Lyric Opera of Chicago and at the legendary Teatro Amazonas in Brazil. Mr. Other portrayals as Erik in Der Fliegende Holländer were at Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City, Sarasota Opera, South Dakota Symphony, and Festival Internacional Cervantino in Guanajuato, Mexico.
His most recent appearances at Sarasota Opera include Florestan in Fidelio in 2015, and Canio in Pagliacci in 2014. Also, he has portrayed Florestan with Palm Beach Opera, Opera Boston, and at the University of Ohio. His appearances as Herodes in Salome with Oper Wuppertal in Germany were a critical success.
In 2016 he debuted at Lisinski Concert Hall in Zagreb, Croatia as Waldemar in Schoenberg’s Gurre-Lieder with Croatian National Opera and Croatian Radio-Television Orchestra, broadcast live in HD throughout Croatia, and in 2017 returned to Croatian National Theater in Zagreb as the Prince in Prokofiev’s The Love for Three Oranges, performed in Croatian. In 2018 and 2019 he returned to Zagreb as Erik in Der fliegende Holländer.
Hendrick has also appeared as Bacchus in Ariadne auf Naxos with Seattle Opera, Pittsburgh Opera, Opera de Montréal, and the Amazonas Festival. He appeared as Midas in Die Liebe der Danae with Radio Filharmonisch Orkest Holland, performed at the Concertgebow in Amsterdam. Mr. Hendrick has performed as Paul in Korngold’s Die Tote Stadt with Opéra National de Lorraine in Nancy, France, as the title role of Mozart’s La clemenza di Tito with the National Symphony Orchestra at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and as Tamino in Die Zauberflöte with Lyric Opera of Chicago.
His Czech repertoire includes Laca in Janáček’s Jenufa in Málaga, Spain, with ABAO Opera in Bilbao, Spain, with Utah Opera, and Sarasota Opera. Mr. Hendrick has portrayed the role of the composer Živny in Jánáček’s Osud (Fate) at Bard Summerscape and Music Festival, in addition to Glagolitic Mass. In Russian repertoire, Mr. Hendrick appeared as Count Vaudémont in Tchaikovsky’s Iolanta in New York City, as Levko in Rimsky-Korsakov’s May Night at Sarasota Opera, and as Shuisky in Boris Godunow with Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.
Symphonic Concert Performances
In addition to his opera career, Hendrick is at home on concert stages. The tenor has bowed in Verdi’s Requiem with the National Philharmonic, Syracuse Symphony, Huntsville Symphony, and the Amazonas Festival in Manaus, Brazil. He sang Kodaly’s Psalmus Hungaricus with Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and Das klagende Lied with Orquestra Nacional de España, London Philharmonic, Rotterdam Philharmonic, and Philadelphia Orchestra.
Hendrick has appeared in Das Lied von der Erde with Orchestre Symphonique de Mulhouse in France, Teatro Amazonas in Brazil, Brevard Music Festival in North Carolina, Chautauqua Symphony, and Pensacola Symphony.
Record Labels
Hendrick has recorded with the following labels: Telarc (American Symphony Orchestra), Albany (Slovak Philharmonic), DG Concerts / Deutsche Grammophon (Los Angeles Philharmonic) and LPO (London Philharmonic Orchestra).
Degrees Earned
A native of LaGrange, Georgia, Hendrick earned the Bachelor of Music Education (voice) from Berry College near Rome, Georgia. At the University of Cincinnati College – Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati, Ohio, he earned both the Master of Music in Vocal Performance followed by the Artist Diploma in Opera Performance.
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
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.
