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.

Daughters Break Softball Win-Streak Record Set by Moms in 1997 at University of Mobile

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – When the undefeated University of Mobile Rams softball team beat Talladega College 8-0 in the first game of a conference double-header in March, outfielders Katie Head and Carleigh Bowden weren’t thinking about breaking records.

But their mothers were.

Lesley Head and Jennifer Bowden sat in the stands watching their daughters and teammates break a 28-win-streak all-time program record the moms had helped set as outfielders on the 1997 Rams softball team. Members of the 1997 team were also on hand to watch their 25-year record fall and cheer on the next generation of Rams softball standouts.

It was a proud moment for the mothers who had passed on to their daughters a love of the game – and a love for their alma mater.

“In 1997 when we set the win streak, I knew it would be very hard to break. Little did I know that my daughter would be a part of the team that would eventually tie, and then shatter, that record,” said Jennifer. “It was a very emotional day for me when I watched Carleigh and her teammates walk off the field that day with a new record. It brought back so many awesome memories of my years as a Ram.”

Lesley said it was “an awesome feeling and honorable moment for my very own daughter, and my best friend’s daughter who is like my own, to be on the team that broke the record. There’s not many, if any at all, mothers and daughters who can actually tell and share this type of story, but the four of us can and that’s something that can never be taken away.”

The 2022 team goes to the regional championship tournament Monday in Gulf Shores, Alabama as the No. 1 overall seed in the National Association of Intercollege Athletics (NAIA) world series – with an impressive 46-2 season and a new all-time program record of 34 consecutive wins.

SSAC Coach of the Year Alison Sellers-Cook said the 2022 team has a special chemistry that brings them together to win – and to love, support and encourage one another.

“They truly want each other to do well. I can’t tell you how many times my starters have come and said ‘put that kid in for me.’ The thing about college athletics – the bond you make in that college experience is something that lasts a lifetime,” Sellers-Cook said.

Carleigh said following in her mother’s footsteps hasn’t always been easy – Jennifer’s name is listed on the dugout “wall of awards” as All-Conference in 1997 and 1999. That’s where Carleigh wants to see her name, as well. Both Carleigh and Katie were named to the 2022 SSAC Softball Second Team All-Conference, and Carleigh was named to the All-Freshman team.

“Carleigh is a little fireball. She’s just gritty. She makes things happen. She does what she’s supposed to do and does it well,” said Sellers-Cook. “Katie is an absolute goofball. She keeps us entertained and keeps everything light.

“Both of them want to win. Both are a lot like their moms. They know what it takes to win; they know the drive and the heart and desire it takes to do it.”

Katie said she had always been told her mom was a pretty good ball player and outfielder and “naturally, I always felt that I had to be better, because we’re both so competitive.” When she learned her team had broken her mom’s 1997 team record, “my first thought about it was, ‘Oh cool, y’all aren’t the cool ones anymore; we are!’”

Both Lesley and Jennifer said they were thankful for their own experience as student-athletes at the University of Mobile and were overjoyed when their daughters chose UM.

Katie Head, Coach Alison Sellers-Cook, Carleigh Bowden

“It’s a pretty awesome feeling as a mom to have her daughter, who has worked so hard for so long, live out her dreams of being a college softball player – and see it all come to fruition at the same college that I went to,” Lesley said.

Katie agreed. “I love being able to say that I’m going to the same school that my mom went to, play on the same field she played on, and go to school playing the sport I love, like she did. There aren’t very many people that can say that, and I feel blessed to even be able to say those things.”

Katie is a junior majoring in kinesiology and plans to pursue a career in speech pathology or speech therapy. Carleigh is a freshman majoring in kinesiology with a pre-physical therapy concentration.

Carleigh said she chose UM because “when I went on a tour, it felt like home. The atmosphere and the people are amazing. Your professors get to know you on a personal level, which can come in handy if you are struggling with something in the classroom.”

Although she has just completed her freshman year, Carleigh said she has already built friendships that will last a lifetime.

“The girls on this team will always be there to help you when you need it. No matter what you’re going through, there will always be someone there beside you picking you up and cheering you on,” Carleigh said.

Carleigh’s mother said she treasures the friendships she made as a UM student, and she values the education she received as well.

“Having the experience to play at the University of Mobile had a huge impact on my life. I now use my physical education degree to teach and make an impact on the lives of students every day,” said Jennifer, who is a physical education teacher and softball coach at Saraland Middle School.

Meanwhile, the competitive spirit lives on.

When their daughters’ team broke the record, “I did make the comment that I thought our ’97 team could probably beat them,” said Jennifer. “They all, of course laughed. I really do think it would be a great game between two amazing teams.”

 

Watch an interview with the record-breaking moms and daughters here.

Banner picture from left: Jennifer and Carleigh Bowden, Katie and Lesley Head

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.

University of Mobile Welcomes 3 Alumni to Board of Trustees

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. –  The University of Mobile welcomed three alumni to its Board of Trustees during its spring meeting.

New trustees include former Alabama Baptist State Convention President Tim Cox, pastor of Liberty Baptist Church in Chelsea, Alabama; Alabama Power Co. Project Manager Ron Moore; and Paul Carter, president and owner of The Paul Carter Agency Inc. of Mobile.

Tim Cox

Former Alabama Baptist State Convention President Tim Cox is a 1988 graduate of UM with a Bachelor of Arts in religion. In 2019 he was awarded the Doctor of Humane Letters from the university in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments in service to Alabama Baptists.

Cox hold both a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He has served in ministry in Alabama since 1986 and has been senior pastor of Liberty Baptist Church in Chelsea, Alabama, since August of 1998. He and his wife, Dawn, live in Chelsea.

Ron Moore

Moore serves as project manager, existing industry economic & community development for Alabama Power Co. He graduated from the University of Mobile in 2003 with a Master of Business Administration. He holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Talladega College.

A member of Dauphin Way Baptist Church in Mobile, Moore and his wife, Shay, live in Theodore, Alabama.

Paul Carter is a 1982 UM graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. His daughter, Jami Carter Brannon, followed in his footsteps, graduating with the same degree in 2012.

 Paul Carter

Carter founded The Paul Carter Agency, a full-service insurance and real estate company in Mobile. He and wife, Missy, are members of Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

The University of Mobile Board of Trustees includes 18 members and one Life Trustee. Members are recommended by the university and appointed by the Alabama Baptist State Convention. 

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.

University of Mobile Announces Top Faculty and Staff Awards and Promotions

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile’s highest faculty and staff honors, the Megginson Awards and Faculty Engagement Award, were announced May 3. The university also announced promotions and noted years of service during the awards event at the annual faculty and staff spring luncheon on campus.

Following the announcement of the prestigious awards for 2022, UM President Lonnie Burnett and College of Arts and Sciences Associate Dean Ted Mashburn emceed the lighthearted “Rammy Awards” where employees voted for peers to receive awards ranging from the Chaos Corraller Award, for the person who routinely turns everyone’s craziest ideas into workable plans, to the Air Fryer Award for the person who gets good work accomplished faster than most others.

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

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

The 2022 William A. Megginson Teaching Award was presented to Tammy Brown, assistant professor of nursing and chair of the undergraduate program in the School of Nursing, College of Health Professions.

The nomination cited Brown’s excitement and enthusiasm about teaching. A student wrote, “She adequately prepares us for our nursing role and explains the material in ways that we can understand. Mrs. Brown is compassionate, helpful and pushes you to do your best. She is always encouraging and full of motivation. Her classes helped fuel me for the rest of the nursing program.”

The 2022 Mitford Ray Megginson Research Award was presented to Dr. Gyro Newman, associate professor of communication in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Newman collaborated with research partners from colleges in Connecticut and Massachusetts to investigate the relationship between the use of social media and narcissistic personality traits. The research was published last year in “The Pennsylvania Communication Annual” under the title “An Exploration of the Effects of Media Use throughout Development and Adulthood on Narcissism.”

The 2021 Emma Frances Megginson Service Award was presented to Jeremy Harford, director of media and production, director of the Production Technologies program, and instructor in the Alabama School of the Arts.

“He cares about the needs and concerns of his students and fellow employees – constantly advocating for, mentoring and serving them. He is dedicated to growing students in the things that will help them in their careers but, more importantly, to growing them as people and followers of Christ,” his nomination read.

The 2022 Faculty Engagement Award was presented to Dr. Lori DeLong, dean of the School of Health and Sports Science in the College of Health Professions.

The associate professor of kinesiology was cited for dynamic teaching and work with the university’s Kinesiology Club. She leads the department in organizing an annual health fair that is open to the public. Her nomination praised her for speaking of her faith, adding that, “Most important is her testimony in the classroom, and she often speaks of integrity in her discipline. You can see students coming to talk to her and she is aware of the special situations of her students.”

Promotions and faculty receiving tenure were announced.

  • Pam Buchanan-Miller was promoted to vice president for academic affairs.
  • Glenn Hollingsworth was promoted to associate professor of marriage and family counseling in the College of Arts and Sciences.
  • Cassidy Cooper, associate professor of sociology in the College of Arts and Sciences, received tenure.
  • Sarah Barnes-Witherspoon, dean of the School of Nursing in the College of Health Professions, received tenure.
  • Larkisha Winbush was promoted to Chief Information Officer.

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

30-Year Service Award: Barbara Greene, Uwe Tittl

25-Year Service Award: Dr. Katherine Abernathy, Debra Adams, Freda Jemison

20-Year Service Award: Eileen Gardner, Cindy Godwin, Lesa Moore, Brian Person, Dr. Jay Robertson, Kristie Sanders

15-Year Service Award: Phillip Counselman, Dr. Troy Henderson, Sally Shouppe, Darlene Smith, Dr. Amy Taylor

10-Year Service Award: Dana Allen, Dr. Matthew Downs, Steve Dunn, Jeremy Harford, Dr. Kathryn Hedlund, Paige Hill, Dr. Gyro Newman

5-Year Service Award: Dr. Steven Bowersox, Tammy Brown, Collin Clardy, Andrew Goodwin, Abbie Henderlight, Aprle James, Dr. Curtis Mathis, Michael Rands, Alison Sellers-Cook, JaRaven Todd, Heath Vester, Alison Wilks

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.

University of Mobile Class of 2022 Urged to Live by God’s Definition of Greatness

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Southern Baptist Convention President Ed Litton challenged the University of Mobile Class of 2022 to pursue greatness – not as the world defines it, but as God does.

The senior pastor of Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama, delivered the commencement address at the Baptist-affiliated university on May 7. More than 3,500 family and friends gathered on campus at the Lackey Great Commission Lawn to celebrate 320 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral graduates.

Dr. Ted Mashburn, associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and currently the university’s longest-serving faculty member, carried the ceremonial mace and led the procession of faculty and graduates. The university presented its prestigious Weaver Awards to the top two graduates, Avery Wilhite and Grace Whittington. The complete list of Spring 2022 graduates with academic honors and awards is below.

After receiving diplomas, UM’s newest alumni participated in the university’s Great Commission Tradition and touched the Great Commission Globe to represent going out into the world to make an impact for Christ. Watch the full graduation ceremony here.

UM President Lonnie Burnett introduced commencement speaker Dr. Litton as his pastor and friend for 28 years.

“He officiated at my daughter’s wedding, but also at my father’s funeral. I was in Nashville when he was elected president of the SBC, and at the hospital the night his wife Tammy died. He is my friend and our speaker because I have seen this man on the mountaintop and in the valley – and he has served the same God in both places,” Burnett said.

Litton urged graduates to live by God’s definition of greatness – greatness that is self-forgetful, serves others, and is found in redemption.

“The problem comes when we desire greatness apart from God, or we define greatness apart from God,” he said.

He said graduates are entering “a world where people want you to self-define, where people want to define you…You must have a definition that’s based on the truth of God’s word.”

“Who does God say you are? He says you are precious, He says you are His creation, He says you are beloved. He says I sent my Son to die for you, I’ve given my Spirit to infill you. That your life might have meaning and purpose beyond recognitions, beyond achievements, beyond greatness in any human definition.”

Litton told graduates that all service to God is redemptive in nature.

“God uses us to serve others that we might remind them, tell them or even instruct them that God loves them, and that God wants to save them. No matter what your career may be, God wants you to play a part in His redemptive plan for others,” he said.

“My challenge to you today is to take up your cross and follow Christ. Greatness is before you. Live by His definition of greatness, and you will see the hand of God answer prayer, move in your lives, and this can be a better world because of it,” Litton concluded.

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.

Following are degrees and honors awarded.

Alabama School of the Arts
Doctor of Musical Arts

Little Rock, Arkansas­—Kara Michelle Claybrook, Vocal Performance, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award, Area Award: Vocal Performance

College of Health Professions
School of Nursing
Doctor of Nursing Practice

Gulf Breeze, Florida— Amanda Danielle Davis

Mobile, Alabama— Cameka Funches Evans

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

Boynton Beach, Florida—Taylor Anne Kroop, M.A., Musical Theatre

Cut Off, Louisiana—Carley Teresa Duet, M.M., Vocal Performance, Area Award: Vocal Performance

Ellisville, Mississippi—Austin Allen Perkins, M.M., Music Education (Non-Certification)

Hattiesburg, Mississippi—John Michael Lopinto, M.A., Musical Theatre

Houston, Texas—Paulina Virginia Guerra, M.M., Vocal Performance

Mobile, Alabama—Cindy Michelle McCormick, M.M., Music Education (Non-Certification)

Niceville, Florida—Elisabeth Jean Olson, M.M., Music Education (Non-Certification)

Pittsburg, Texas—Elizabeth Noel Griffin, M.A., Musical Theatre, Area Award: Musical Theatre

San Antonio, Texas—Dustin Joplin Gonzales, M.M, Vocal Performance

Satsuma, Alabama—Christie Marie Breland, M.M., Music Education (Non-Certification), Area Award: Music Education (Non-Certification)

Center for Christian Calling
Master of Arts

Alabaster, Alabama—Meagan Nichole Hall, Biblical/Theological Studies

Eight Mile, Alabama—David Martin Denton, Worship Leadership and Theology, Area Award: Worship Leadership and Theology

Saraland, Alabama—Michael Dewayne Smith, Biblical/Theological Studies

Spanish Fort, Alabama—Julie McCall Thompson, Biblical/Theological Studies, Center for Christian Calling Achievement Award

Theodore, Alabama—Byron Andre White, Biblical/Theological Studies

College of Arts and Sciences
Master of Arts

Ascutney, Vermont—Cortni Lynn Rochon, Marriage and Family Counseling, Area Award: Marriage and Family Counseling

Mobile, Alabama—Chirsti Leigh Bone, Marriage and Family Counseling; Linda Pugh, Marriage and Family Counseling

Panama City, Florida—Ali Nicole Taylor, Marriage and Family Counseling, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award

Tallahassee, Florida—Jessica Eunice Weeks, Marriage and Family Counseling

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

Brookhaven, Mississipp—Michael Brooks Foster, Family Nurse Practitioner

Gulfport, Mississippi—Olympia Nicole Horne, Family Nurse Practitioner; Jenny Rebecca Tomson, Family Nurse Practitioner

Pensacola, Florida—Brandy Michelle Nicholson, Family Nurse Practitioner

Pflugerville, Texas—Angela Nneamaka Acha, Family Nurse Practitioner

Mobile, Alabama—Mary Michael Andrus, Family Nurse Practitioner; Evan Bradlee Brewer, Family Nurse Practitioner; Aimee Hogan Castillow, Family Nurse Practitioner; Wanda Kristin Craft, Family Nurse Practitioner; Kristan Fresolone Evans, Family Nurse Practitioner; Katherine Trawick Smith, Family Nurse Practitioner

Moss Point, Mississippi—Ashley Nicole Thompson, Family Nurse Practitioner

Saraland, Alabama—Kendall Elaine Bruns, Family Nurse Practitioner

Semmes, Alabama—Kayla Catherine Byrd, Family Nurse Practitioner, Area Award: Master of Science in Nursing

Spanish Fort, Alabama—Lauren Catherine Taylor, Family Nurse Practitioner

Vancleave, Mississippi—Gina Marie Guillotte, Family Nurse Practitioner

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

Asuncion, Paraguay—Paulo Rodrigo Paredes Acosta, Master of Business Administration

Atmore, Alabama—Timothy Ramer, Master of Business Administration

Barcelona, Spain—Alejandro Lozano Vilarroya, Master of Business Administration

Chatom, Alabama—Christian Faith Baker, M.S., Leadership and Communication, Area Award: Leadership and Communication

Conroe, Texas—Emily Ann Kelleher, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Cumberland, Virginia—Annesha Doris Harris, Master of Business Administration

Daphne, Alabama—Ansley Claire Hardyman, Master of Business Administration

Excel, Alabama—Haley Mashell Ikner Haney, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Fairhope, Alabama—Tessa Noelle Crane, Master of Business Administration, School of Business Achievement Award

Grand Bay, Alabama—Bailey Marie Davis, Master of Business Administration

Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany—Emily John, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Ile de France, Paris, France—Antoine Bedos, Master of Business Administration, Area Award: Master of Business Administration

Jackson, Tennessee—Caleb Guthrie Croom, Master of Business Administration

Kenner, Louisiana—Ethan C. Simmons, Master of Business Administration

Lecher a, Venezuela—Ayax Alejandro Armas Guzman, Master of Business Administration

Millry, Alabama—Daisy B. Steiner, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Mobile, Alabama—Kimberly Michelle Bruce, Master of Business Administration; Cameron J. Cranton, Master of Business Administration; Martrisse Holliza Bernice  Haynes, Master of Business Administration; Sunny Kumar Jamullamudi, Master of Business Administration; Tye Collins Jordan, Master of Business Administration; Tyra Mae Jones, M.S., Leadership and Communication; Brittany Danielle Long, Master of Business Administration; Ava Michelle Pierce, Master of Business Administration; Christian William Poche, M.S., Leadership and Communication; Amanda Turner Pritchard, M.S., Leadership and Communication; Miguel Martin Valdovinos, Master of Business Administration

Opp, Alabama—Nicholas Sean Hampton, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Peachtree City, Georgia—Lauren Graham Stroud, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Pensacola, Florida—La Tonya J. Perkins, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Prattville, Alabama—Kaylee Grace Pullin, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Saraland, Alabama—Heather Kyser Blackwell, Master of Business Administration; Jennifer S. Fulton, Master of Business Administration; Robert Spencer Kahalley, Master of Business Administration; Ashley Nicole Taylor, Master of Business Administration; Heath Raymond Vester, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Santiago, Chile—Andres Graterol Lillo, Master of Business Administration; Matias Horacio Le Fort Solari, Master of Business Administration

Santiago, RM, Chile—Guido Alessandro Evangelista Tapia, Master of Business Administration

Semmes, Alabama—Blake Patrick Roberts, Master of Business Administration; Christian Waltman, Master of Business Administration

Theodore, Alabama—Maranda Leigh Kirk, M.S., Leadership and Communication; Dalton Allen Rone, Master of Business Administration

Tucson, Arizona—Michael Blaine Lee, Master of Business Administration

Zvornik, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia—Nikola Rajkovic, Master of Business Administration

School of Education
Master of Arts and Master of Education

Bay Minette, Alabama—D’natia Runita Ann Kennedy, M.A., Elementary Education

Brantley, Alabama—Stefan Xavier King, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy, Area Award: Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Eight Mile, Alabama—Anna Louise Morris, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Grove Hill, Alabama—Jon Logan Horton, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom—Jordan Stewart Sinclair, M.Ed., Early Child Development (Non-Certification)

Ile de France, Paris, France—Maxime Benoit, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Jackson, Alabama—Maggie Ruth Jackson, M.A., Elementary Education

Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghana—Obed Asare, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Louin, Mississippi—Laromeo Isiah McKee, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Mobile, Alabama—Victoria Lowe Bolton, M.Ed., Early Child Development (Non-Certification), Area Award: Early Child Development (Non-Certification); Trinishia James Clausell, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Alternative Early Childhood Education; Dawn Domonique Davis, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology; Tamara Eubanks Gurley, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology, Area Award: Instructional Design and Technology; Harry Jewitt, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy; Desira Bolden Keith, M.Ed., Early Child Development (Non-Certification); Delissa Kelley, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education; Catherine Mary Mayfield, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education; Lindsey  Morgan, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education, Area Award: Alternative Elementary Education; Iris Renae Oliver, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy; Leah Olivia Walker, M.A., Elementary Education; LaDanika Johnson York—M.Ed., Early Child Development (Non-Certification)

Montgomery, Alabama—Lindsey Brooke McDaniel, M.A., Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Early Childhood Education

Mount Vernon, Alabama—Misty Lee Weaver-Byrd, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education

Natchez, Mississippi—Teri Allise Edwards, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education

Perdido, Alabama—Kylie Arean Boutwell, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education

Semmes, Alabama—Hannah Rome Williams, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology

Saraland, Alabama—Laney Andrews, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology; Lisa Pugh Rogers, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology

Satsuma, Alabama—Hannah Elizabeth Clardy, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy, Bridgett J. Dortch, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy

Summerdale, Alabama—Merissa Lee Harris, M.A., Early Childhood Education

Wagarville, Alabama—Christian Bailey Vice, M.A., Elementary Education, School of Education Achievement Award, Area Award: Elementary Education

College of Health Professions
School of Nursing
Post-Master’s Certificate

Mobile, Alabama—Elizabeth Irene Naman, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Family Nurse Practitioner

Pensacola, Florida—LaVonna Anne Gardner, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Family Nurse Practitioner

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

Athens, Alabama—Bryley Elizabeth Clemmons, B.F.A., Studio Art, Area Award: Studio Art, Summa Cum Laude

Belle Chase, Louisiana—Alexandria Layne Summers, B.A., Art

Clermont, Florida—Holly Christine Herren, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Cum Laude

Daphne, Alabama—Phillip Anthony Baggins Jr., B.A., Music

Fairhope, Alabama—Melissa Caroline Bass, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Cum Laude

Florala, Alabama—Adam Ray Bundy, B.S., Production Technologies, Magna Cum Laude

Foley, Alabama—Rayburn Osten Belew, B.S., Worship Leadership, Cum Laude

Gordo, Alabama—Morgan Faith Patrick, B.S., Music, Area Award: Music Education, Summa Cum Laude

Havana, Florida—Conrad Allan Erskine, B.M., Piano Performance, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award, Area Award: Piano Performance, Summa Cum Laude

Lake Charles, Louisiana—Carina Presley Veillon, B.S., Worship Leadership, Area Award: Worship Leadership, Summa Cum Laude

Leeds, Alabama—Zane Howell Crumpton Duke, B.S., Production Technologies, Cum Laude

Long Beach, Mississippi—Sabina Isabelle Mana-ay, B.F.A., Performance, Musical Theatre, Area Award: Performance, Musical Theatre

Navarre, Florida—Kathan Quidam Brannon, B.A., Theatre

Mascot, Tennessee—Matthew Hunter Cleveland, B.S., Production Technologies

Milton, Florida—Sophie Mai-Lan Eberhard, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Area Award: Graphic Design, Magna Cum Laude

Mobile, Alabama—Dylan Steen Farnell, B.A., Theatre; Dylan Steen Farnell, B.A., Theatre; Tabitha L. Robinson, B.A., Theatre, Area Award: Theatre; Vivian K. West, B.S., Production Technologies, Magna Cum Laude; Raven Denise Young-Casey, B.S., Worship Leadership

Munford, Alabama—JoAnna Joyce Garrett, B.S., Worship Leadership

Perkasie, Pennsylvania—Katie Marie Detweiler, B.S., Production Technologies, Area Award: Production Technologies, Magna Cum Laude

Saraland, Alabama—Gunnar Thomas Jones, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Magna Cum Laude

Satsuma, Alabama—Jacob Dalton Howard, B.S., Music, Magna Cum Laude

Semmes, Alabama—Makayla Leeann Smith, B.F.A., Graphic Design

Summerdale, Alabama—James William Scruggs, B.S., Worship Leadership, Magna Cum Laude

Toronto, Ontario, Canada—Brooks Leslie Hunter, B.M., Musical Theatre, Area Award: Musical Theatre, Cum Laude

Wilmer, Alabama—Abigale Marie Wincel, B.F.A., Graphic Design

Center for Christian Calling
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science

Cantonment, Florida—Devin Amanda Monasterio, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Cum Laude

Dothan, Alabama—Cade Alan Wood, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Honors with Thesis Graduate

Guayaquil, Ecuador—Eliana R. Tate, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Magna Cum Laude

Jasper, Alabama—Braxton Will Blankenship, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Magna Cum Laude

Milton, Florida—Nathan Evan Bell, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Cum Laude

Monroeville, Alabama—Joshua Daniel Evers, B.A., Biblical/Theological Studies, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Biblical/Theological Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Honors with Thesis Graduate

Prattville, Alabama—Madison Nicole Flowers, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Magna Cum Laude

Tallahassee, Florida—James David Clark, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Magna Cum Laude

Thomasville, Alabama—Moriah Ruth Nelson, B.A., Intercultural Studies, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Intercultural Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate

Tuscaloosa, Alabama—Nathan Ross McKnight, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Center for Christian Calling Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude

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

Albany, Georgia—Hannah Grace Kavanaugh, B.S., Strategic Communication

Athens, Greece—Andreas Koutsougeras, B.S., Mathematics, Cum Laude

Bay Minette, Alabama—Cortney Marisa Presley, B.S., Sociology

Birmingham, Alabama—Melissa Niven Sherer, B.S., Organizational Leadership, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude

Brookside, Alabama—Taylor A. Watwood, B.S., Psychology, B.S., Communication

Clanton, Alabama—Elise Nicole Johnson, B.A., Strategic Communication, B.A., English, Magna Cum Laude

Chunchula, Alabama—Mitchell Dale Robinson, B.A., English

Citronelle, Alabama—Amber Keralee Naquin, B.S., Communication

Daphne, Alabama—Sarah Elizabeth Songer, B.S., General Studies

Evergreen, Alabama—Grace Elizabeth Whittington, B.S., Sociology, Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, Summa Cum Laude

Fairhope, Alabama—Eliza Jane Colbert, B.A., History, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: History, Summa Cum Laude, Honors with Thesis Graduate; Grace A. Parrish, B.S., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude

Freeport, Florida—Rhiannon Brook Cherith Combs, B.S., Psychology, Summa Cum Laude

Foley, Alabama—Rebecca Noelle Belew, B.S., Sociology, B.S., Psychology, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Sociology, Area Award: Psychology, Summa Cum Laude; Madisen Elizabeth Ulrich, B.A., English

Fresno, California—Kalea Nichole Ashley, B.S., General Studies

Fort Deposit, Alabama—Morgan Louise Phillips, B.S., Psychology, B.S., History

Gaborone, Botswana—Ronaldo Picasso Fortune, B.S., Psychology

Gibsonton, Florida—Elyssa Calandra Paulding, B.A., Journalism and Broadcasting Media

Guatemala, Guatemala—Maria Alejandra Diaz Linde, B.A., Strategic Communication, Cum Laude

Hannibal, Missouri—Ashlyn Elisabeth Nichols, B.A., Communication Studies, Summa Cum Laude

Huntsville, Alabama—Karlie McKnight Ruff, B.A., Philosophy, Area Award: Philosophy, Magna Cum Laude

Jackson, Alabama—Tyler Cox Sullivan, B.S., Communication; Amber Faith Weide, B.S., Criminology

Jackson, Mississippi—Natalie Claire Jones, B.S., Psychology, Cum Laude

Linn, Missouri—Hailey Rene’ McKim, B.S., Marine Science, Cum Laude

Linden, Alabama—Hutson Moore Breckenridge, B.S., Government and Law, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award, Area Award: Government and Law, Summa Cum Laude

McIntosh, Alabama—Sydney Breanna Snow, B.A., English, B.A., Strategic Communication, Summa Cum Laude

Mobile, Alabama—Kayla Christine Brooks, B.S., Criminology; Cameron Bryce Connell, B.S., Criminology; Ian Joseph Copeland, B.S., Government and Law; Maddison Christine Hill, B.S., Biology, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude

Memphis, Tennessee—Jared Evan Burress, B.S., Organizational Leadership; Emily Claire Keith, B.S., Strategic Communication, Magna Cum Laude; Ezra Ronald Kennedy, B.F.A., Creative Writing, Area Award: English; Alexis E. Knott, B.A., English; Jillian LeeAnne Parker, B.S., Psychology; Zsakira Trenay Robinson, B.S., Psychology; Brandon Layne Ryan, B.S., History; Lindsey Christine Vise, B.A., Psychology, B.A., World Languages, Summa Cum Laude; Ayanna T. Whittaker, B.S., Biology

Mount Vernon, Alabama—Katrina R. Bohannon, B.S., Psychology, Cum Laude, College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Science

Munford, Alabama—Chloee RayBeth Garrard, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

New Orleans, Louisiana—Kelsey Christina Pinera, B.S., Biology; Gabrielle Makaela Strahan, B.S., Communication

Niceville, Florida—Payton Mackenzie Lewis, B.S., History

Oxford, Alabama—Ashlyn Nikole Miller, B.S., Communication Studies, Magna Cum Laude

Panama City, Florida—Abigail Grace Kyle, B.A., English

Pearland, Texas—Hailey Lynn Morgan, B.A., Communication, B.A., English, Area Award: Communication, Summa Cum Laude, Honors with Thesis Graduate

Petal, Mississippi—Jada Nicole Arrington, B.S., Criminology

Piedmont, Alabama—Katelyn Ann Lawler, B.S., Criminology, B.S., Psychology, Area Award: Criminology

Powell, Tennessee—Lauren R. Hickey, B.S., Biology, Magna Cum Laude

Repton, Alabama—Carmen Lee Knowles, B.S., Sociology

Satsuma, Alabama—Emily Belle Henderson, B.S., Mathematics, Magna Cum Laude

Semmes, Alabama—Amanda Marie Graham, B.S., Psychology; Summer Delanie Smith, B.S., Communication

Spanish Fort, Alabama—Katelyn Elizabeth Garrison, B.S., Psychology

Saraland, Alabama—Hunter Shane Hayes, B.S., Communication, Cum Laude; Hope Elizabeth Mann, B.S., Mathematics, Area Award: Mathematics, Cum Laude; Lexington Earl Singleton, B.S., Mathematics

Tulsa, Oklahoma—Cassidy Faith Cannedy, B.S., Marine Science, Area Award: Natural Sciences, Magna Cum Laude

Whistler, Alabama—Briana Venetta Bell, B.S., Organizational Leadership

Williamson, Georgia—Jessica Nicole Jones, B.S., Communication Studies

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

Chalmette, Louisiana—Danielle Elizabeth Williams, Kinesiology, Cum Laude

Chunchula, Alabama—Shawn David Collins, Kinesiology

Creola, Alabama—Ashton Cheyenne Black, Kinesiology

Cullman, Alabama—Grant Howard, Kinesiology, Cum Laude

Daphne, Alabama—Wesley Stephen Perrigin, Kinesiology, Cum Laude

Fairhope, Alabama—Jaden Olivia Morace, Kinesiology, School of Health and Sports Science Achievement Award, Scholar Athlete Award, Summa Cum Laude; Michael Arch Wenzel, Kinesiology, Area Award: Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude

Huntsville, Alabama—Anthony Maurice Anderson, Kinesiology

Jacksonville, Florida—Melea Paige Meadows, Kinesiology, Cum Laude

Maracay, Aragua, Venezuela—Luis Alberto Salazar Bohorquez, Exercise Science, Area Award: Exercise Science, Summa Cum Laude

Miramar Beach, Florida—Elaina Joy Davies, Kinesiology

Mobile, Alabama—Anna McKenzie Canton, Exercise Science

Norwich, England—Archie John Bean, Exercise Science

Panama City Beach, Florida—Gabriella Joanne Looker, Kinesiology

Prichard, Alabama—Ian Lea Ferguson, Kinesiology

Saraland, Alabama—Jaivasha Chantrice Bryant, Exercise Science

Titusville, Florida—Rachel Ashley Hart, Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude

Theodore, Alabama—Joseph Colton Greene, Kinesiology, Cum Laude

Thibodaux, Louisiana—Lindsie A. Sanders, Kinesiology, Cum Laude

Thomasville, Alabama—Mary Elizabeth Hoyt, Kinesiology

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

Axis, Alabama—Chandler B. Knapp; Katie Clearman Smith

Bay Minette, Alabama—Shelandra Myrtice Nichols

Birmingham, Alabama—Justin Michael Weaver

Calvert, Alabama—Jasmine Thomas Franklin

Chattanooga, Tennessee—Kadin Bassem Toma

Creola, Alabama—Mechaela Elise Andry, Cum Laude

Hoover, Alabama—Brittany Caitlin Hood

Little Rock, Arkansas—Katherine Blake Breeding

Mobile, Alabama—Ajah Keyuna Blackmon; Treasure Mone’t Fluker; Alexandra Michelle Forsman Bolt; Paula Gibson; Taylor Olivia Gunter; Mariah Eubie Young; Shacora Sam’Mese Malone; Rebecca R. Shorrosh; James Franklin Springs IV; Ja’Nae Gabrielle Williams

New Orleans, Louisiana—Isabella Hannalee Yavneh Shattenkirk

Pell City, Alabama—Jared Baker, Cum Laude

Pensacola, Florida—Alexandra Carroll Wright

Phoenix, Arizona—Zacharie S. Taylor

Saraland, Alabama—Sydney Elizabeth Brown, Magna Cum Laude; Maggie Lauren Copeland

Satsuma, Alabama— Mary-Paige Cooley; Paulette D. Whetsel, School of Nursing Achievement Award, Cum Laude

Semmes, Alabama—Hannah Grace Maddox; Macey Ann Weaver, Cum Laude

Silverhill, Alabama—Taylor Marie Fortner, Area Award: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Cum Laude

Spanish Fort, Alabama—Madison Emily Scharles

Theodore, Alabama—Antonio Marcelino Alvidrez; Ginger Leigh Stewart

Thomasville, Alabama—Kayla Elizabeth Gill, Cum Laude

Grace Pilot School of Business
Bachelor of Science

Bay Minette, Alabama—Brett Caylor Buck, Management; Ashley Jane Conrad, Management, Summa Cum Laude

Calvert, Alabama—Mary Kate Howard, Accounting, Magna Cum Laude

Covington, Georgia—Darvin Eric Jones, Business Administration

Daphne, Alabama—Ansley Claire Hardyman, Management, Cum Laude; Brittney Paige Johnson, Integrated Marketing Communications

Destin, Florida—Sarah Catherine McDorman, Management, School of Business Achievement Award

Eight Mile, Alabama—Raven Navosha Rocker, Accounting

Foley, Alabama—Aleigh Claire Herndon, Integrated Marketing Communications

Grand Bay, Alabama—Bailey Marie Davis, Accounting

Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany—Emily John, Management

Holtville, Alabama—Pearson A. Shaw, Nonprofit Leadership, Summa Cum Laude

Hoover, Alabama—Tucker Lee Hill, Integrated Marketing Communications

Jackson, Tennessee—Caleb Guthrie Croom, Accounting

Kenner, Louisiana—Ethan C. Simmons, B.S., Accounting, B.A., English, Magna Cum Laude

Milton, Florida—Reagan Aubry Hyde, Management

Mobile, Alabama—Trent Avery, Management; Kimberly Michelle Bruce, Accounting; Cameron J. Cranton, Management; Kelsi Renae Huggins, Management; Tye Collins Jordan, Management, Cum Laude; Jillian E. Lane, Accounting, Business Administration, Area Award: Accounting; Brittany Danielle Long, Accounting, Magna Cum Laude; Noah S. Martino, Business Administration; Victor Hugh Mitchell, Business Administration, Area Award: Finance, Cum Laude; Kaliea Shamone Niles, Computer Information Systems, Area Award: Computer Information Systems; Tyleria Lenai Reed, Management

Fairhope, Alabama—Tessa Noelle Crane, Accounting, Business Administration, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude

Monroeville, Alabama—Dana Michelle Welch, Management

Nepalgunj-20, Banke, Nepal—Bivek Verma, Management

Semmes, Alabama—Blake Patrick Roberts, Management; Christian Waltman, Management, Area Award: Management, Cum Laude

Saraland, Alabama—Robert Spencer Kahalley, Business Administration; Brandon Troy Mills, Business Administration; Mikayla Rose Xin-Guang Persons, Accounting; Ashley Nicole Taylor, Accounting, Business Administration

Satsuma, Alabama—Camryn Paige Rice, Integrated Marketing Communications, Area Award: Integrated Marketing Communications, Cum Laude

Spanish Fort, Alabama—Avery Todd Wilhite, Digital Media and Advertising, William K Weaver, Jr. Excellence Award, Area Award: Digital Media and Advertising, Magna Cum Laude

Theodore, Alabama—Janet Renee O’Bryant, Management; Dalton Allen Rone, Accounting

Wetumpka, Alabama—Phillip William Maddox Jr., Management

School of Education
Bachelor of Science

Ashville, Alabama—William Kell Spears, Collaborative Special Education, Cum Laude

Bay Minette, Alabama—Amber Leigh Blackmon, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude

Citronelle, Alabama—Savannah Danielle Vigor, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Area Award: Early Childhood and Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude

Cordova, Alabama—Kassie Grace Salors, Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude

Deer Park, Alabama–Breanna R. Englebert, Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Early Childhood Education

Ellisville, Mississippi—Lexus Tyeshia Peppers, Early Childhood Education

Excel, Alabama—Emma Grace McCrory, Collaborative Special Education, Cum Laude

Fairhope, Alabama—Maggie Elizabeth Diehl, Elementary Education, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Magna Cum Laude

Freeport, Florida—Layton Suzanne Warren, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Cum Laude

Fruitdale, Alabama—Mikaela Danielle Dees, Early Childhood Education

Grand Bay, Alabama—Macy Rae Mareno, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education

Helena, Alabama—Kalynn Ruth Hall, Child and Social Development; Briley Teague Freeman, Collaborative Special Education, Area Award: Collaborative Special Education, Magna Cum Laude

Satsuma, Alabama—Lydia Chelsea Evans, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude

Semmes, Alabama—Erin Leigh Smith, Elementary Education, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, School of Education Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude

Spanish Fort, Alabama—Carley Hamric Tomlinson, Early Childhood Education, Cum Laude

Stow, Massachusetts—Caitlyn Faith Sahlberg, Elementary Education, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude

College of Arts and Sciences
Associate of Science

Mobile, Alabama—Tiffany Dawn Head, General Studies, Cum Laude

Saraland, Alabama—Christopher Elwin Beaver, General Studies; Saireate Tremon Cunningham, General Studies

Satsuma, Alabama—David C. Miller, General Studies

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.

University of Mobile Presents 2022 Weaver Awards to Avery Wilhite and Grace Whittington

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 Avery Todd Wilhite of Spanish Fort, Alabama, and Grace Elizabeth Whittington of Evergreen, Alabama.

The awards were presented during graduation ceremonies May 7, 2022.

The William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award is presented to the most outstanding graduating male 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 Avery Todd Wilhite, is named for the university’s founding president and is considered the highest recognition possible for a University of Mobile male senior.

Avery Wilhite is described by his professors in the Grace Pilot School of Business as a model student who takes the most challenging classes, goes above and beyond what is required, and is a confident leader willing to help anyone in need.

He maintained a 3.89 grade point average with a major in digital media and advertising while serving as director of the Good Work Agency, a student-led marketing agency for churches and non-profits. He has taken lessons from the classroom and applied them for the betterment of the university as social media manager for RamCorps and, most recently, as communications assistant in the Office for Marketing and Public Relations, where he managed UM’s flagship social media accounts.

For the past two years, he has served as media specialist at East Pointe Baptist Church in Spanish Fort, producing and managing content for the church’s social media and leading a team on Sunday mornings to produce live-stream services. At the same time,
he launched a small business start-up, serving as a video producer and photographer for special events and weddings.

Wilhite graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in digital media and advertising and received the undergraduate area award in digital media and advertising.

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 Grace Elizabeth Whittington, 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.

Grace Whittington is described by her professors in the College of Arts and Sciences as “the kind of student we all dream of having in a classroom – thoughtful, humble, articulate, well-reasoned, joyful and organized.”

She maintained a 3.97 grade point average with a major in sociology and a double minor in music and psychology. She has represented the university as a University of Mobile Ambassador, served her fellow students as a peer leader, provided leadership as president and vice president of Alpha Chi honor society, and shared the gospel as a member of Sofree vocal ensemble.

She has a servant’s heart and takes joy in heling her community, having volunteered with UM’s Project Serve, at the Joseph Project Food Pantry in the Dumas Wesley Community Center, and at Council Elementary. She has interned at Housing First as well as Redemption Church, where she serves in worship ministry. This summer she will be assistant director for Fuge Camps organized by LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention.

Grace Whittington graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in sociology.

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.

RamLegacy Celebrates Graduation of University of Mobile First-Gen Students

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – When Barbara Brousseau started RamLegacy at the University of Mobile five years ago, the associate professor of French had students like Morgan Phillips in mind.

A first-generation-to-college student, Phillips struggled at times to balance the demands of academia and life responsibilities. Through RamLegacy, she found a community of first-gen students, faculty and staff at the Christian university that encouraged and supported her.

On May 7, Phillips will become the first generation in her family to graduate from college when she walks across the stage to receive her diploma and the congratulations of UM President Lonnie Burnett – who also was the first generation in his family to earn a college degree. She will have earned two degrees – a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a Bachelor of Science in history, with a minor in theology.

Among those celebrating her accomplishments – and those of other first-generation UM students – will be the university’s RamLegacy community.

“RamLegacy was founded to help first-generation-to-college students not just survive the college journey, but to thrive, walk across that stage for their diplomas, and leave the University of Mobile with added tools, resources and attitudes to help them throughout their adult life,” Brousseau said. “We want to do everything we can to make our first-gen students feel seen, heard and guided along their college journeys.”

The University of Mobile’s Christ-centered culture already emphasizes personal attention and mentoring. With a 13-to-1 student/faculty ratio, the university offers small classes where students are known by their professors. A robust Student Success Center program provides free tutoring, skills development and peer leader mentoring.

RamLegacy offers an additional layer of support for first-gen students. The program introduces resources to help first-generation students establish friendships, strengthen interpersonal skills, improve study skills, access networking opportunities, and develop mentorships with first-generation alumni, faculty and staff.

RamLegacy events feature speakers from the university and the local community who share life lessons aimed at guiding and in spiring UM’s first-gen students.

“We want to make sure first-gens here don’t just ‘attend’ UM, but also complete their academic programs and graduate with a UM degree – becoming part of the alumni legacy of UM, our RamLegacy,” Brousseau said.

A pinning ceremony held in April honored first-gen graduates in the Class of 2022. In addition to Phillips of Fort Deposit, Alabama, the ceremony honored Hailey Morgan of Pearland, Texas, and Zsakira Robinson of Mobile, Alabama. Morgan graduates summa cum laude with two degrees – a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Bachelor of Arts in English. An Honors with thesis graduate, she received the area award in communication. Robinson graduates with a Bachelor of Science in psychology.

Danny Chancey, director of UM’s Chora Godwin Writing Center and a co-sponsor of RamLegacy, said students whose parents went to college have the advantage of an experienced voice to give them support. RamLegacy offers an opportunity for students who have no experienced voice in their lives to hear from people who have traveled a similar path.

“Through RamLegacy, students find possible mentors through professors and speakers, as well as potential friends from among other students with whom they share a common ground,” said Chancey, who is also a first-gen graduate of UM.

Phillips said professors throughout her entire UM experience, along with the support of RamLegacy, made a difference. “They helped me academically through times of my life where everything was changing and there was no solid ground,” Phillips said.

“They made it where I felt like if I needed help, I could ask,” she added. “They reminded me what it felt like to be alive in the pursuit of knowledge, which was a light that helped me to make it through truly dark periods. Their scholastic instruction permeated every area of my life. They have no idea how truly impactful they are.”

Top photo from left: RamLegacy students, faculty and staff.
Insert Photo: Morgan Phillips, Hailey Morgan and Zsakira Robinson.

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.

University of Mobile Presents President’s Scholastic Awards & Academic Achievement Awards to Class of 2022

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile presented academic awards to outstanding graduating seniors of the Class of 2022 during an awards convocation April 27 in Dorsett Auditorium.

The Present’s Scholastic Achievement Award was presented to baccalaureate students who have attained the highest grade point average while complete a four-year degree at the University of Mobile. This year, 11 graduates earned a perfect 4.0 grade point average during academic careers that included three semesters at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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

The university’s two top student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, will be announced during graduation ceremonies on May 7. Approximately 315 students will receive degrees at commencement, which will be held on campus.

The graduation ceremony begins at 10 a.m. on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn.

Receiving President’s Scholastic Achievement Awards were:

Rebecca Noelle Belew of Foley, Alabama – College of Arts and Sciences, B.S. in sociology, B.S. in psychology.

Eliza Jane Colbert of Fairhope, Alabama – College of Arts and Sciences, B.A. in history.

Tessa Noelle Crane of Fairhope, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, B.S. in accounting/M.B.A.

Maggie Elizabeth Diehl of Fairhope, Alabama – School of Education, B.S. in Elementary Education.

Joshua Daniel Evers of Monroeville, Alabama – Center for Christian Calling, B.A. in biblical/theological studies.

Maddison Christine Hill of Mobile, Alabama – College of Arts and Sciences, B.S. in biology.

Nathan Ross McKnight of Tuscaloosa, Alabama – Center for Christian Calling, B.S. in biblical/theological studies.

Moriah Ruth Nelson of Thomasville, Alabama – Center for Christian Calling, B.A. in intercultural studies.

Caitlyn Faith Sahlberg of Stow, Massachusetts – School of Education, B.S. in elementary education.

Melissa Niven Sherer of Birmingham, Alabama – College of Arts and Sciences, B.S. in organizational leadership.

Erin Leigh Smith of Semmes, Alabama – School of Education, B.S. in elementary education.

Receiving Academic Achievement Awards were:

Conrad Allan Erskine of Havana, Florida – Alabama School of the Arts, undergraduate.

Kara Michelle Claybrook of Little Rock, Arkansas – Alabama School of the Arts, graduate.

Nathan Ross McKnight of Tuscaloosa, Alabama – Center for Christian Calling, undergraduate.

Julie McCall Thompson of Spanish Fort, Alabama – Center for Christian Calling, graduate.

Hutson Moore Brekenridge of Linden, Alabama – College of Arts and Sciences, undergraduate.

Ali Nicole Taylor of Panama City, Florida – College of Arts and Sciences, graduate.

Sarah  Catherine McDorman of Destin, Florida – Grace Pilot School of Business, undergraduate.

Tessa Noelle Crane of Fairhope, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, graduate.

Erin Leigh Smith of Semmes, Alabama – School of Education, undergraduate.

Christian Bailey Vice of Wagarville, Alabama – School of Education, graduate.

Jaden Olivia Morace of Fairhope, Alabama – School of Health and Sports Science, undergraduate.

Ja’Nae Gabrielle Williams of Mobile, Alabama – School of Nursing, undergraduate.

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.

Q&A with UM Biology Professor Ashley Lindsey

by Kathy Dean

University of Mobile Biology Professor Ashley Lindsey wants her students to understand the impact scientific innovation can have in society as a whole – and in their own lives.

Her interest in the study of infectious disease is a prime example.

“It is an area of medicine and research that really focuses on discoveries that directly change the way patients are treated in the clinic,” she says. “Scientists can focus on illnesses that are completely unknown, but greatly affect global health, and, through substantial work, gain an understanding of how to prevent and treat these illnesses.”

We asked the professor in UM’s College of Arts & Sciences about her own scientific journey.

Q: You have taught at UM since 2021. What is your background?

A: I graduated with a Ph.D. in basic medical science from the University of South Alabama in 2014. I completed two post-doctoral fellowships: one at the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute focusing on lung cancer therapeutic development and one at the USA Laboratory for Infectious Diseases focusing on viral vaccine and therapeutic development.

I am interested in the development and application of biotechnology in medicine, which led me to work as the marketing and licensing associate for the Department of Research at the University of South Alabama. During my post-doctoral fellowships, I was also an adjunct college professor and discovered a passion for helping students achieve their career goals. I currently serve on a variety of biotechnology boards. I really strive to be a cheerleader for innovation and education.

Q: What drew your interest to the study of pulmonary vascular repair following bacterial pneumonia?

A: In the case of bacterial and viral pneumonia, it can develop into Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome or ARDS, which is one of the leading causes of death in ICU patients. About 200,000 Americans are diagnosed with ARDS each year, and this number has increased with the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Forty to sixty percent of individuals that acquire ARDS die, and therapeutics to treat this condition are poorly understood.

This is just an example of how infectious diseases are always changing and how the study of these diseases can provide a significant global impact.

Q: What courses do you typically teach?

A: General Biology, Microbiology, Nutrition, and Immunology. Micro has been my favorite so far! It is one of the first higher level courses that science majors take and it is a fun experience to watch students directly apply the information to their chosen careers. It also allows me to focus on a subject that I have studied for years and love – infectious disease!

Q: What do you like most about the University of Mobile?

A: The people! Fellow faculty members, students, administration, staff. Everyone is so cheerful, personable and genuine. It makes for both an enjoyable and productive environment.

Southern Baptist Convention President Ed Litton to Speak at University of Mobile Graduation

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Dr. Ed Litton, president of the Southern Baptist Convention and senior pastor of Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama, will deliver the commencement address at the University of Mobile on Saturday, May 7.

More than 300 graduates will be awarded bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in an outdoor ceremony on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn. The ceremony will begin promptly at 10 a.m., and the audience is encouraged to arrive early.

For graduation details and to watch a live-stream of the ceremony, go to umobile.edu/graduation. In case of inclement weather, the graduation venue is Cottage Hill Baptist Church, 4255 Cottage Hill Road. Weather updates will be made on official University of Mobile social media accounts and on umobile.edu/graduation.

Dr. Ed Litton was born in Kingsport, Tennessee.  He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona; a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas; and a Doctor of Ministry from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.

He served as a home missionary appointed to work in the evangelism office of the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention.  From there, he and his wife, Tammy, moved to Tucson and founded Mountain View Baptist Church.  In 1994, almost seven years after that work had been established, God led Dr. Litton to First Baptist North Mobile, now Redemption Church. 

In 2007, Ed and his family, as well as the entire church family, suffered a devastating loss when Tammy was suddenly killed in an automobile accident. Several years later, he married Kathy Ferguson, a pastor’s wife who had also lost her spouse in a similar accident. Kathy serves as director of planter spouse development at the North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention. The couple each has three children from their first marriages.

Dr. Litton had come to a church in Alabama with a great vision. That vision continued to expand with a mission of reaching more people and making disciples through church planting and the expansion of multiple locations.  In September of 2015, the church relaunched as a new congregation called Redemption Church.  

Today, Redemption is one church in two locations, both in North and West Mobile.  Redemption has helped plant churches in New York City; Cleveland, Ohio; Denver, Colorado; Tucson, Arizona; Leesburg, Virginia; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Northern Virginia, and Las Vegas.  In responding to the Great Commission, Redemption Church is looking to plant more gospel-believing churches in North America.

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.

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