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 presented its top two student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, to Logan Lipke of Orange Beach, Alabama, and Anna Olsen of Semmes, Alabama.
The awards were presented during an outdoor graduation ceremony held May 10, 2025, on the university’s Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn.
Logan Lipke: Talented Composer and Musician
The William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award is presented to the most outstanding graduating male senior for excellence in exemplifying the mission of the University of Mobile. Selection is made by a secret vote of the faculty based on scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service. The award presented to Logan T. Lipke is named for the university’s founding president and is considered the highest recognition possible for a University of Mobile male senior.
An exceptionally talented composer and musician, Lipke is described by faculty as a natural leader who approaches every opportunity with dedication, humility and a servant’s heart. Known as a great encourager, he constantly uplifts his peers and points them toward Christ through his actions and attitude. He is a member of the UM Worship Collective that leads worship each week in Chapel, and he serves on the university’s campus ministries team.
Lipke is generous with his time and talents, tutoring younger musicians in music theory and aural skills, while also arranging music for Christmas Spectacular, performing with the Alabama School of the Arts, and participating in the Young Artists Program and Piano Ensemble.
Lipke graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in music – composition. He received the President’s Scholastic Award and Area Award in Music.
Anna Olsen: Honors Program Servant Leader
The Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award is presented to the most outstanding graduating female senior for excellence in exemplifying the mission of the University of Mobile. Selection is made by a secret vote of the faculty based on scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service. The award presented to Anna McKeever Roeser Olsen 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.
Faculty describe Anna Olsen as passionate, intelligent and humble, with an amazing ability to grasp complex material quickly. She demonstrated this as an Honors Program student while completing her honors thesis one year ahead of schedule. She has served as vice president of the Honors Council and was a UM Ambassador, Ram Rush leader, Peer leader and tutor, and chapter president of two honor societies: Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society and Alphi Chi National College Honor Society.
While in college, she participated in mission trips to Salt Lake City, Guatemala and Montana, and assists with her church’s childcare and youth group. She begins her career after graduation as an educator at Heritage Preparatory School in Atlanta, Georgia.
Olsen graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in education. She is an Honors with Thesis Program graduate and received the President’s Scholastic Award and Area Award in Communication.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 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.
That’s how Dr. John Roger Breland sums up a life dedicated to spreading the Gospel message to people of all nations through word, song and deed. This legendary figure is retiring as executive director of the Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts in the Alabama School of the Arts and will be honored at the university’s 2025 graduation ceremony on May 10.
University of Mobile President Charles Smith said, “It’s difficult to imagine the University of Mobile without Roger and Linda Breland. For over two decades, these dear friends have invested in our university and changed the lives of countless students. Dr. Breland’s contribution to the Christian music industry is unparalleled. Literally hundreds of musicians, artists and worship leaders can trace their roots back to his leadership and investment.”
For 31 years, Breland served as founder and director of TRUTH – one of the first internationally successful contemporary Christian recording groups. For the past 23 years, he played a pivotal role in shaping the University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts. Along the way, Breland mentored generations of young men and women who today are successful leaders in the music industry and churches around the world.
“Despite their years in the spotlight, I would argue Roger and Linda’s greatest impact happened off the stage, where they quietly supported, mentored and prayed for hundreds of students,” said Smith. “Almost every week I hear stories of the Brelands’ caring for others. What a remarkable legacy of faithfulness, and what a privilege to honor them as they step into this new season of ministry.”
Trailblazer and Trendsetter
In 1971, Breland and his wife, Linda, took a leap of faith and founded the Christian music group TRUTH, an acronym for Trust, Receive, Unchangeable, True Happiness (in Jesus).
“He was a trendsetter, a trailblazer,” said son Jason Breland, a UM alumnus who serves as worship leader at First Baptist Church of Hendersonville, Tennessee.
“He was doing things that nobody had ever done, introducing music like Gaither Music, Andre Crouch music, and bringing instruments like drums and guitars and electric keyboards into churches that had never seen or heard anything like that before. Now we stand on his shoulders, and so many of us use all of those components today in our churches,” the younger Breland said.
Focused on their Great Commission mission, Breland and TRUTH traveled the globe, sharing the story of salvation through Jesus Christ and showing His love to the people and communities they touched.
They raised over $500,000 through their tours to establish the TRUTH Leprosy Hospital for children in Ghana, West Africa. TRUTH brought Bibles, medical supplies and the Gospel to Romania following the overthrow of the Communist dictatorship; worked with the Baptist World Alliance to bring food, clothing and the Gospel to Brazil; smuggled hundreds of Bibles into Russia and took hospital and medical supplies to the children of Chernobyl following the nuclear disaster in 1986.
During one of their most memorable tours, over 20,000 people responded to the Gospel message in the Philippines. They worked alongside the pastor of The Cathedral of Praise Manila who had become a Christian at a TRUTH concert while a high school student in Fairhope, Alabama.
Their years as members of TRUTH helped launch the careers of artists such as Avalon, 4Him, Natalie Grant and Steven V. Taylor. In 2000, Breland and TRUTH were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
The Ministry Continues at UM
A former University of Mobile trustee, Breland joined the Christian university’s faculty in 2002 as artist-in-residence.
“My job was to recruit talented students, recommend gifted faculty and provide a platform for them to do what they do so well,” Breland recalls.
Since then, he has held a variety of leadership roles, including as dean of the Alabama School of the Arts. Breland and Dr. Al Miller, now retired, led an expansion of the university’s music program, including establishing its first doctoral degree in musical arts. Along with faculty whose expertise ranges from opera to worship leadership, they prepared thousands of graduates to pursue their professional calling as musicians, educators, worship leaders, missionaries, music industry professionals, music ministers and more.
During Breland’s tenure:
He founded the ensemble VOICES of Mobile. Under his direction, VOICES recorded 20 CDs; traveled to 11 nations; performed at the White House five times and at Carnegie Hall in New York City three times; crisscrossed the United States and traveled to many nations including China, Cuba, Israel, Jordan, the Philippines and Romania, presenting over 2,000 concerts in churches, conventions, civic events and on national television.
Co-founded what is now the Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts, home to the university’s performing ensembles. UM’s choirs, theatre groups, and vocal and instrumental ensembles have performed worldwide.
Launched Christmas Spectacular 22 years ago to showcase students in ASOTA and share the true meaning of Christmas. Today, “Spec” is the largest-attended Christmas event on the gulf coast.
Supported a fundraising effort that resulted in UM’s designation as an All Steinway School.
Secured a donation and support for The Fisher/Brewer Recording Studio, now a $1 million investment.
‘Our Gifted Students’
Breland says the greatest miracle he has seen “has been our gifted students. Observing them growing spiritually, musically and using their gifts to become successful – that is the greatest blessing.”
He and Linda established the Roger and Linda Breland Endowed Scholarship at the University of Mobile to give future generations of student the advantage of a Christ-centered higher education. The endowed scholarship continues to grow, with tax-deductible donations to umobile.edu/give.
In 2019, the University of Mobile awarded Breland the Doctor of Humane Letters, citing “a remarkable career.”
Mentor and Friend
Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts and a UM graduate, said Breland “has been one of the biggest influences in my life – both as a mentor and as a friend.
“His leadership, wisdom and passion for music and ministry have shaped not just the Alabama School of the Arts but also the lives of so many students, including mine. I wouldn’t be where I am today without his encouragement and belief in me.
“Dr. Breland taught me what it means to be a musician, but more importantly, he showed me what it looks like to follow Jesus. He helped me learn that the 23 hours off the stage are more important than the one hour on the stage.
“Although it is good to reflect on the miles traveled and the songs that have been sung, I believe Dr. Breland’s legacy is the impact he has had on the lives of over 6,000 students that have come through the Alabama School of the Arts,” Goodwin said.
The Greatest Miracle
Throughout his career, Breland traveled more than 4 million miles across 50 nations, presented over 12,000 concerts and produced 100 albums. But his greatest accomplishment isn’t found in the number of miles traveled or concerts performed. It’s in the message he has dedicated his life to teaching:
“There’s really only one song to sing, and that is the song that will honor God. We want to do that with excellence.”
It’s not enough, he tells students, to simply believe the words of the song.
“The bottom line for people who live our life on the platform in ministry is not that you believe what you sing,” he says. “The most important thing is that you live what you sing. I want students to know that what they do involves so much more than music.”
The difference between “good” and “great” is usually hard work, he says. “But there’s something even more important. When I ask an aspiring Christian artist, ‘Do you believe what you’re singing?’ the answer is almost always a resounding ‘Yes!’”
Then comes the real challenge.
“Can you live what you’re singing – that is the challenge when you’re singing about Jesus. Because when you sing about Jesus, it’s not just about hitting the right notes – it’s about living a life that reflects the truth of the song,” he says.
A New Calling
Looking ahead, Breland says, “My new calling is to spend quality time with Linda. I started touring full-time when I was 27. Linda and I have three sons, 14 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. I am now 81 – it’s probably time for me to stay home.”
As he takes his final bow from his official role at the University of Mobile, Breland leaves behind a legacy far greater than music. He leaves a call to excellence, to authenticity and to a faith that doesn’t just perform – but transforms.
“I would do it all again,” Breland says.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.
The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and 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. – TheUniversity of Mobile honored faculty and staff with prestigious awards during the annual year-end faculty-staff spring luncheon May 6. The university also announced years-of-service awards, promotions, retirements and special Rammy Awards honoring employees who live out the values of the Christian university.
“Today’s celebration was a testament to UM’s strong culture and gifted community of servant leaders. It was a joy to celebrate so many long tenures and major accomplishments,” said UM President Charles Smith.
Megginson and Faculty Engagement Awards
The Megginson Awards recognize outstanding contributions to the university in the areas of teaching, research and service. Recipients are chosen by committees of peers from among nominations sent by students, faculty and staff. The recipients are honored for their character, ethics, accomplishments and contributions to the university.
The Faculty Engagement Award honors a faculty member who demonstrates excellence in student engagement inside and outside the standard classroom setting and intentionally fosters community among students. Recipients of this award are nominated by faculty and selected by a committee of peers.
The 2024 William A. Megginson Teaching Award was presented to Danny Chancey, assistant professor of English and director of the writing center in the College of Arts & Sciences.
Chancey is described as genuinely caring about students’ interests and well-being. Students who nominated him for the award say he gives good feedback when grading, while also being funny and memorable.
“He loves to keep the classes engaged and interesting. He makes every lesson feel like you’re just having a very interesting conversation while you’re continuing to learn,” a student wrote.
Another wrote,” I truly respect and appreciate Mr. Chancey as a person as a whole. In our professional socialization conferences, he gets to know us and, in a kind way, discusses where we’re at academically in our class and helps us find ways we will succeed.”
The 2025 William A. Megginson Research Award was presented to Dr. Douglas Wilson, professor of Old Testament and Hebrew, and executive director of the Center for Christian Calling in the School of Christian Studies, College of Arts & Sciences.
As part of the New Tyndale Version translation committee, Wilson is involved in creating a new translation of the Bible based on the work of William Tyndale, the 16th-century reformer and translator. The committee aims to provide a more accessible and updated version of Tyndale’s original translation, while remaining faithful to the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek texts.
Wilson has been actively working on a Hebrew-to-English and Hebrew/Aramaic-to-English translation of the Old Testament. He has also worked as an editor on the five books of the Torah for translation. In total, he translated 27 chapters of Leviticus, 10 chapters of Esther and 10 chapters of Ezra, for a total of 1,306 verses. He edited 50 chapters of Genesis, 40 chapters of Exodus, 27 chapters of Leviticus, 36 chapters of Numbers, and 32 chapters of Deuteronomy for a total of 5,852 verses.
The 2025 Emma Frances Megginson Service Awardwas presented to Heath Vester, associate vice president for creative services in the Office for Marketing & Public Relations.
Vester integrates his faith into every element of his work, whether managing UM’s creative services or mentoring students as an adjunct instructor. He leads with humility, always crediting his team for successes. He is always willing to take on additional responsibilities, from serving on committees to stepping in to resolve challenges or supporting university events.
He also played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Student Government Association and restructuring the Good Work Agency, assuring students across all majors have the opportunity to gain valuable experience in photography, video production, social media, content creation, copywriting, project management and more.
The 2025 Faculty Engagement Award was presented to Dr. Robert Olsen, associate professor of church history and historical theology, and director of intercultural studies in the School of Christian Studies, College of Arts & Sciences.
Olsen demonstrates excellence in student engagement both inside and outside the classroom. He was described by the student nominating him as an exceptionally knowledgeable and engaging professor with an unbendable moral backbone who lives out his faith and Christian discipline and inspires his students to pursue excellence.
Outside of the classroom, when not facilitating a student street hockey league or starring in the Student Life film “Olsenheimer,” he can regularly be found engaged in deep philosophical conversation with students. He is devoted to students on campus, not just to those that he frequently encounters, but also to those who sat in the back of his class, or even didn’t have a class with him at all.
University Medallion Recipients
Faculty receiving university medallions marking their faculty rank as professors are:
Dr. Todd Hicks, executive dean, Celia Wallace College of Health Professions and professor of nurse anesthesia
Dr. David Chaplin, professor of economics and finance, Grace Pilot School of Business
Dr. Keith Lindley, professor of French and Spanish, College of Arts & Sciences
Promotions and Accomplishments
Dr. Kelly Lomax, assistant professor of education, School of Education, received the Recruiter of the Year Award, recognizing her embrace of UM’s “everyone is a recruiter” philosophy and celebrating her initiative to represent the university at recruiting events and assist the recruiting office in a variety of ways.
Greg Wiggins was promoted from instructor to assistant professor of music in the Alabama School of the Arts.
Dr. Terry Motley, assistant professor of marketing in the Grace Pilot School of Business, successfully defended his dissertation in March and now holds a Doctor of Philosophy.
Mason Moak, media and production technician and studio manager in the Alabama School of the Arts, earned a Master of Music in music technology with an emphasis in studio technology.
Faculty Council Recognition
Faculty Council officers were recognized. They are:
President – Dr. Megan Harper, assistant professor of kinesiology, coordinator of clinical education in the Master of Athletic Training program, School of Health and Sports Science, Celia Wallace College of Health Professions
Vice President – Megan Cary, associate professor of graphic arts, College of Arts & Sciences
Secretary – Dr. Wanda Jones, associate professor of chemistry, College of Arts
& Sciences
Core Values Rammy Awards
UM president Charles Smith presented five special “Core Value Rammy Awards” recognizing faculty and staff who embody the core values that make the university distinctive.
“Each of our award recipients shows us what it means to live out the mission and values of the University of Mobile – not just with words, but with their lives,” Smith said.
The Great Commission Award honors a person who faithfully mentors and disciples others, investing their time, energy and heart into raising up the next generation of leaders for Christ. The award was presented to Jared Baria, campus pastor, whose consistency, care and Christ-like example is making a lasting difference.
The Hungry Heart Award reflects UM’s value of being “hungry” and passionate about progress – a person who leans in, takes initiative and moves forward with grit and determination. The award was presented to Jessica Garner, graduate dean and assistant professor of nursing in the School of Nursing, Celia Wallace College of Health Professions.
The Humble Spirit Award goes to an employee who exemplifies a servant-heart spirit, consistently puts others first and is willing to serve in whatever way is needed. The award was presented to Barbara Greene, executive administrative assistant to the president, for her grace-filled, team-oriented leadership.
The Smart Moves Award recognizes someone who is wise and intuitive in how they work with both people and projects, sees connections others miss, builds bridges and solve problems. The award was presented to Heath Vester, associate vice president for creative services, for consistently demonstrating wisdom, insight and excellence.
The Happy & Hopeful Award celebrates a joyful spirit and goes to someone who brings encouragement, optimism and positive energy everywhere they go. The recipient, Shaneka Thomas, chief security officer, radiates joy and courage, reminding us that even in challenges, we can still choose joy and lead with hope.
Retirement Recognition
Dr. John Roger Breland was honored as he retires from his role as executive director of the Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts in the Alabama School of the Arts. For over two decades at the University of Mobile—and decades before that through the founding of TRUTH, one of the first contemporary Christian groups—Breland has shaped lives through music, ministry and song.
His legacy includes founding VOICES of Mobile, launching the beloved Christmas Spectacular, expanding the Alabama School of the Arts, securing funding for the Fisher/Brewer Recording Studio, and establishing the Roger and Linda Breland Endowed Scholarship. Most importantly, he has shaped the lives of thousands of students through his mentorship, example, and commitment to excellence.
Years of Service Awards
Service awards were presented to faculty and staff for years of service. Employees are honored at five-year marks.
40 Years of Service: Ted Mashburn
30 Years of Service: Marie Batson, Elaine Kyser, Linda Maloy, Kay Sellers
20 Years of Service: Lona Brown, Jon Campbell, Nancy Gautier, Terri McNellage
15 Years of Service: Amber Campbell, Jenna Goodwin, Kenneth Hughes
10 Years of Service: Thomas Jackson, Michael Snow, Latollen Todd
5 Years of Service: Amy Burdette
Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.
The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and 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 week of celebration at the University of Mobile began with a significant Board of Trustees meeting and culminated in the inauguration of the university’s sixth president, Dr. Charles Smith, followed by the outdoor Spring Spectacular concert with fireworks.
With a clear sense of unity and a mission “For Christ & His Kingdom,” board members gathered on campus April 30 to review progress and map out the next steps in the university’s journey to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.
Support for Vision & Direction
During the meeting, trustees voiced support for the university’s vision and direction, commending the leadership team for its steady progress over the past year. The board specifically reviewed and affirmed the university’s Vision Statement and 2024-2025 Strategic Playbook, noting how they reflect both bold aspirations and practical steps for continued growth. The meeting marked the completion of Smith’s first year as president.
“These are great days at the University of Mobile,” said Smith. “We are profoundly grateful to serve this community, and even more, for God’s continued blessing on this institution.”
Encouraging Enrollment & Fundraising Reports
The board received encouraging enrollment updates, including news of record Fall deposits and a recent record-setting Ram Ready new student orientation. Though the tracking cycle is early and higher education remains unpredictable, the board celebrated these numbers and encouraged UM’s enrollment management staff to continue inviting people to join the UM family.
The board also heard a report on UM’s new fundraising initiative, The Great Commission Fund. Since the fund was announced on April 9, 2025, the university has increased year-to-date giving to provide scholarships, expand spiritual formation opportunities and equip Christ-centered leaders. Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for Institutional Relations underscored the missional significance of the Great Commission Fund.
“As a Christ-centered university, we are called to do everything we can to disciple our students and prepare them for a Great Commission lifestyle. This new fund helps us do just that,” Harris said.
In other action, the board approved the 2025-2026 operating budget and enhancements to the university’s retirement plan. The board also approved several minor program and degree revisions intended to sharpen and strengthen academic offerings.
“UM is home to hundreds of gifted and godly leaders,” President Smith said. “The encouraging reports we were able to share this week are the direct result of their ingenuity and effort.”
Administrative Updates
The board also received updates on several administrative changes designed to better support and advance the university’s mission.
Vice President for Student Development and College Athletics Tim Adams joins the Senior Leadership Team with the charge to strengthen the role of Student Life in shaping culture, spiritual formation and retention.
Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success Charity Wittner has been promoted to this new role that reflects enrollment management’s growing complexity while continuing to expand recruitment, financial aid and retention strategies.
Associate Vice President for Institutional Relations Adam Tait joins the Senior Leadership Team to strengthen fundraising efforts and oversee the new Great Commission Fund, annual Mobile Classic Golf Tournament and regional donor engagement efforts.
A Provost Search is underway to provide strategic academic leadership, support deans and faculty, and lead the university’s pursuit of academic excellence. This new position will complement the role of Dr. Pamela Buchanan Miller who serves as Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.
The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and 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. – Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr. was formally inaugurated as the 6th president of the University of Mobile in a faith-focused ceremony that reaffirmed the university’s foundation in Christ and cast a bold vision for the future.
“Since 1961, the foundation and fuel of the University of Mobile has been none other than our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As we renew our commitment to build our foundation upon His Word – as we commit to existing ‘For Christ & His Kingdom’ – we can expect the Lord’s faithfulness to continue,” Smith said in his presidential address at the Inaugural Celebration held May 1 at Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama.
Dr. Jason Allen, president of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, delivered the keynote address. Distinguished guests from across the Southern Baptist Convention; dignitaries from colleges and universities; civic, community and business leaders; and the university’s Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students and supporters filled the sanctuary for the time-honored academic tradition marking the formal investiture of a university president.
Allen spoke on Proverbs 9:10, the foundational scripture for the University of Mobile: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” The first half of the scripture is on the university’s official seal, along with the phrase “For Christ & His Kingdom.”
Dr. Jason Allen keynote address.
Allen said, “The temptation for every institution, large or small, old or young, is to drift from the founding convictions and mission that the institution once held so dear. In the Southern Baptist world there are 53 Baptist colleges historically associated with the Southern Baptist Convention. The majority of those these days in the 21st century really maintain no true affiliation or connection with, nor oversight of, the Baptist bodies at large.
“But this institution, praise God, continues to be serious about its commitment to serving the churches of the Alabama Baptist Convention, serious about its Christian identity, serious about its Christian convictions, serious about the Bible as the Word of God, and the Great Commission as the urgent task for churches and for Christian believers.”
Smith formally accepted the charge of the presidency during the investiture portion of the ceremony. Trustee Terry Harbin presented the Presidential Medallion, a symbol of leadership and responsibility, while Board Chair Ron Moore presented the Presidential Bible, underscoring the university’s foundation in Scripture.
“In 1963, a Bible was placed in the cornerstone of Weaver Hall as an enduring reminder of the source of truth,” Moore said. “Today, as we present this Bible, we affirm once again that the University of Mobile is founded upon and anchored in God’s Word.”
Smith was asked to affirm his faith in Christ, commitment to the university’s Statement of Christian Affirmation, and his willingness to serve with integrity, excellence, and a Kingdom mindset.
“I do,” he replied, before being formally invested into office.
Smith has served as president of the University of Mobile since May 6, 2024, following his unanimous election by the UM Board of Trustees on March 24, 2024. Previously, he served with Allen in a variety of senior leadership roles at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College.
He and his wife, Ashley, are natives of Montgomery, Alabama, and they have three daughters: Ellie, Annie and Susie.
A Renewed Vision and Mission
In his presidential address based on John 6, Smith warned of the dangers facing Christian institutions that drift from their spiritual foundations.
“There is no shortage of once-faithful Christian universities who have lost their way,” he said, noting that the University of Mobile remains firmly committed to Jesus Christ as the foundation of all true knowledge and the hope of every generation.
Under Smith’s leadership, the renewed vision of the University of Mobile, expressed by the phrase “For Christ & His Kingdom,” is to multiply Kingdom leaders who embrace their callings and live out the Great Commission for the glory of God and the good of the world.
“Our prayers and plans for the future are bold,” Smith said, pointing to a growing list of initiatives aimed at strengthening the university – expanding academic programs, enhancing student life, increasing online offerings, investing in campus facilities, launching workforce development, and many other strategies designed to broaden the university’s impact in the region and beyond.
While these initiatives are important and inspiring, they are not the university’s identity, he said. Rather, they are the result of the university’s identity in Christ.
Dr. Ed Litton prays for Smith family.
Student Voices of Hope and Vision
Two students, Kenneth Brandon and Courtney Sides, represented the student body and expressed hope and confidence in the university’s new chapter under Smith’s leadership.
Sides, a sophomore majoring in nursing, said, “Here at UM, we are more than a campus — we are a family. We believe God is doing something powerful on this campus, and we are so excited to welcome a president who sees that — and who is ready to build upon it.”
Brandon, a graduating senior majoring in worship leadership and music, prayed for the University of Mobile “to continue to shine as a beacon of truth and hope, a place where lives are transformed, where servant leaders are not only equipped for careers, but empowered to fulfill their God-given call.”
The university choir and orchestra led the audience in powerful hymns and songs of praise throughout a two-hour program that included words of encouragement and support for the new president and the University of Mobile family.
The university’s third president Dr. Mark R. Foley and former first lady Marilyn Foley, and UM’s fifth president Dr. Lonnie A. Burnett and former first lady Lynne Burnett, were honored during the ceremony. Nathan Harris, UM vice president for institutional relations, welcomed guests. Dr. Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver, president of Union University, a sister Baptist institution, gave the invocation. Dr. Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, offered a prayer and Scripture reading of Colossians 1:15-18, affirming the strong partnership between the university and Alabama Baptists. Fred Wilson, chair of the Presidential Search Committee, outlined the search committee process and its focus on following God’s lead. Dr. Ben Stubblefield, pastor of Spring Hill Baptist Church, introduced keynote speaker Dr. Jason Allen. Dr. Ed Litton, pastor of Redemption Church, and Kathy Litton, a UM trustee, prayed over the Smith family.
Bringing greetings to the president were Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson; Dr. Jamie Dew, president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary; and Dr. Alan Floyd, pastor of Cottage Hill Baptist Church and a UM alumnus. Delegates included Dr. Mary Van Brunt, president of Spring Hill College, and Dr. Charles Guest, vice provost of the University of South Alabama.
Dr. Ed Litton, pastor of Redemption Church and a past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, and his wife Kathy, a UM trustee, prayed over the Smith family.
Benediction and Celebration
The service concluded with a benediction and blessing from Dr. Roger Breland, retiring executive director of the university’s Alabama School of the Arts and founder of TRUTH, one of the first successful contemporary Christian touring and recording groups.
“Bless this university – every student, every faculty and staff member, every alumnus, and every friend of the Ram Family. May this campus always be a place where truth is pursued, lives are transformed and Christ is glorified,” Breland prayed.
The celebration concluded later in the evening with fireworks and Spring Spectacular, an outdoor concert held on the university’s Great Commission Lawn.
Spring Spectacular 2025.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.
The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and 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 invites alumni, friends and supporters to make an eternal impact in students’ lives and make a tax-deductible donation during UM’s Spring Day of Giving on Wednesday, May 14.
This online fundraising event supports The Great Commission Fund at the Christian university and provides critical resources to equip students to boldly live out their faith and pursue their calling through Christ-centered higher education.
UM President Charles Smith said The Great Commission Fund directly supports the university’s mission of multiplying Kingdom leaders by preparing students for missional leadership in their chosen careers and communities.
“Every vocation is a calling from the Lord, whether it’s mathematics or ministry, accounting or healthcare, education or evangelism. We equip students to pursue their vocations with excellence, disciple them to be missional leaders with a passion for the Lord, then send them out to make a difference in the world for Christ and His Kingdom. Your gifts to The Great Commission Fund make this happen,” Smith said.
Tax-deductible gifts:
Provide Scholarships, helping students afford a Christ-centered education and pursue their callings without financial barriers.
Expand Spiritual Formation, supporting programs that deepen students’ faith and commitment to the Great Commission.
Equip Christ-centered leaders, by investing in the next generation of leaders who will serve, influence, and share the gospel worldwide.
How to Give
Throughout the day on May 14, the university will share student stories on social media and invite supporters to make gifts of any size. Supporters can also amplify their impact by sharing social media posts and encouraging others to participate.
Messages from students and Spring Day of Giving updates will be posted on University of Mobile social media (@univofmobile) throughout the day.
Gifts are tax-deductible and can be made online at umobile.edu/dayofgiving or by calling the Office for Institutional Relations at 251.442.2913.
About the University of Mobile
Since 1961, the University of Mobile has existed to train God-called men and women to leverage their gifts for the glory of God and the good of the world. The Great Commission Fund fuels that mission, helping equip students to know, love and serve the Lord for the rest of their lives.
For more information about the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/um-info.
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. – TheUniversity of Mobile invites the community to campus May 1 for its annual Spring Spectacular outdoor concert and fireworks show. This is a free event, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the show on the Great Commission Lawn.
A pre-show featuring the Saraland Elementary Show Choir will begin at 7 p.m.
Spring Spectacular, featuring students from UM’s Alabama School of the Arts, will start at 7:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with an impressive fireworks show lighting the sky above the university’s iconic Weaver Hall.
Spring Spectacular is the Baptist university’s end-of-year concert showcasing a wide variety of ensembles in the Alabama School of the Arts, from Voices of Mobile to RamCorps. The university is located off I-65 at Exit 13, 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, Alabama, 36613.
Spring Spectacular is the concluding event of the university’s day-long celebration of the inauguration of its 6th president, Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr.
The inaugural celebration will begin at 2:30 p.m. at Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama, with special guests from across the Southern Baptist Convention, delegates from colleges and universities across the nation, local and state leaders, and the university community. Dr. Jason Allen, president of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, will deliver the keynote address, followed by a presidential response from Dr. Smith.
Both Spring Spectacular and the Inaugural Celebration are open to the public.
For Christ & His Kingdom
Dr. Smith was unanimously elected as the sixth president of the University of Mobile on March 21, 2024. Under his leadership, the renewed vision of the University of Mobile is to focus on advancing the mission “For Christ & His Kingdom” by multiplying Kingdom leaders who embrace their callings and live out the Great Commission for the glory of God and the good of the world.
A native of Montgomery, Alabama, Dr. Smith holds a PhD from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Master of Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Over the years, he has served in a variety of leadership roles in theological education, most recently as senior vice president for institutional relations at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College.
He is married to Ashley, his high school sweetheart, and together they have three daughters: Ellie, Annie and Susie.
For more information about President Smith and the inaugural celebration, go to umobile.edu/inauguration.
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.
The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and 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 will formally inaugurate Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr. as its 6th president during a special ceremony on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
The inaugural celebration will begin at 2:30 p.m. at Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama, with special guests from across the Southern Baptist Convention, delegates from colleges and universities across the nation, local and state leaders, and the university community. Dr. Jason Allen, president of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, will deliver the keynote address, followed by a presidential response from Dr. Smith.
Inaugural festivities will continue on the university campus with UM’s Spring Spectacular outdoor concert and fireworks show. A pre-show featuring the Saraland Elementary Show Choir will begin at 7 p.m. and Spring Spectacular, featuring students from UM’s Alabama School of the Arts, will start at 7:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with a fireworks display behind William K. Weaver Hall.
Both the inauguration ceremony and the Spring Spectacular concert and fireworks event are open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to campus to enjoy the concert and fireworks show at the Dr. Fred & Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn.
For Christ & His Kingdom
Dr. Smith was unanimously elected as the sixth president of the University of Mobile on March 21, 2024. Under his leadership, the renewed vision of the University of Mobile is to focus on advancing the mission “For Christ & His Kingdom” by multiplying Kingdom leaders who embrace their callings and live out the Great Commission for the glory of God and the good of the world.
A native of Montgomery, Alabama, Dr. Smith holds a PhD from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Master of Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Over the years, he has served in a variety of leadership roles in theological education, most recently as senior vice president for institutional relations at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College.
He is married to Ashley, his high school sweetheart, and together they have three daughters: Ellie, Annie and Susie.
For more information about President Smith and the inaugural celebration, go to umobile.edu/inauguration.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.
The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and 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 announces The Great Commission Fund, a bold initiative that reaffirms the Baptist university’s Christ-centered mission and equips students to impact the world for the gospel.
Launched April 10, 2025, The Great Commission Funds serves as a vital resource to provide scholarships, strengthen academic and spiritual programs, and empower students to follow God’s call in every profession, community and nation.
For Christ and His Kingdom
“For Christ and His Kingdom — this is the heartbeat of everything we do at the University of Mobile,” said UM President Charles Smith.
“The Great Commission Fund is more than a rebranding of our annual fund; it is a declaration of our mission. Through this initiative, we are calling on believers to join us in raising up a generation of Christ-centered leaders.”
Rooted in the university’s long-standing Great Commission Tradition, The Great Commission Fund reflects the commitment of UM students to pursue their education as a calling from God.
From the moment they step onto campus, new students participate in this tradition by touching the Great Commission Globe during the President’s Commissioning ceremony, symbolizing their commitment to the intellectual and spiritual transformation they will experience in the college journey ahead.
A few years later at commencement, they return to The Great Commission Globe as new graduates – men and women grounded in God’s Word and armed with the knowledge and skills to pursue their professional callings with excellence. They touch the Great Commission Globe again, making a public commitment to pursue God’s calling for their lives – to go out from the University of Mobile as missional leaders making an impact for Christ.
The UM Mission
“We believe transforming lives for Christ is not just an academic pursuit — it’s a mission,” said Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations.
“The Great Commission Fund makes that mission possible by ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder students from receiving a Christ-centered education that prepares them to lead with excellence.”
To learn more or to contribute to The Great Commission Fund, visit umobile.edu/give and follow UM social media @univofmobile.
Pray. Tell. Invest.
The university invites Southern Baptist leaders and believers everywhere to partner in this Kingdom work through three powerful actions:
Pray for UM students and faculty as they prepare to impact the world for Christ.
Tell others the University of Mobile and its Great Commission mission
Invest in The Great Commission Fund to provide scholarships and resources that equip students to live out the gospel in every sphere of influence.
“When you give to The Great Commission Fund, you are practicing God’s call to generosity,” said Harris. “You are investing in a Christ-centered college community where students are known, discipled and sent out to transform the world for the glory of God and the good of the world.”
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ and His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.
The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and 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.