Author: Kathy Dean

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

University of Mobile Dean Named to Translation Committee for New Tyndale Version Bible

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – University of Mobile professor Dr. Douglas Wilson will serve on the Old Testament translation committee for the “New Tyndale Version”, named for the earliest printed translation of the Bible into English.

The dean of UM’s Center for Christian Calling will translate three books and serve as a sectional editor for a portion of the Old Testament during the multi-year project. The Tyndale Bible is named for William Tyndale, who was martyred in 1536 after being charged with heresy for translating the Bible into English, an action that was punishable by death at that time.

Wilson said the new translation matters because “we are going back to the beginning.”

“The purpose is to preserve the legacy of the original Tyndale Bible, the first translation of the Bible printed in English in 1526, and the first English Bible translation from the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek. Our new translation will honor that legacy,”

The professor said the new translation bridges the past with the present.

“We honor Tyndale’s legacy, while utilizing documents which were unknown 500 years ago,” Wilson said. “These discoveries include texts from Codex Sinaiticus (1844), Codex Leningradensis (1863), the Cairo Geniza (1896) and the Dead Sea Scrolls (1947), among others.”

Wilson studied Old Testament languages and literature, including several Ancient Near East languages, with long-time NIV Bible translator Dr. Larry Walker. For the past 25 years, Wilson has taught biblical languages, biblical studies and intercultural coursework.

He brings his experiences as a Bible translator into the classroom, giving University of Mobile students a behind-the-scenes look at the process of translating the Bible from its original languages into modern ones.

“It is my desire that God will call University of Mobile students to translate the Bible into languages that have never had a Bible. That is a continual prayer of mine,” Wilson said.

Learning from experts who are doing the work students aspire to is key to the Center for Christian Calling’s focus on practical ministry experience. Leading pastors in Alabama Baptist churches and across the Southern Baptist Convention serve as visiting professors or adjunct instructors for university courses and conferences. Students gain hands-on ministry experience through ministry teams and internships, and international and domestic missions and service opportunities.

“In the Center for Christian Calling, pastors train students for pastoral ministry, former cross-cultural workers train students in intercultural studies, pastor-theologians train students to teach Bible and theology, and a Bible translator trains them in Hebrew and Aramaic,” Wilson said.

To learn more about the Center for Christian Calling at the University of Mobile, go to umobile.edu/christiancalling or call 251.442.2222 or 800.WIN.RAMS.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers 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 more information about the University of Mobile, visit the website at www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Give Day is April 6!

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – University of Mobile Give Day 2021 is April 6, and the Christian university is calling on UM family and friends to support “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose” with a donation to the Annual Fund.

UM Give Day is a 36-hour online event that begins Tuesday, April 6 and will be celebrated across University of Mobile social media platforms. UM alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends of the university can make a tax-deductible gift in a variety of ways: online, by text, phone or mail.

Updates, videos and news about UM Give Day will be posted throughout the day on the university’s social media channels. Those who give and support the university are encouraged to invite others through their own social media to be part of the event.

Gifts received during the UM Give Day campaign will go toward the Annual Fund to support the areas of greatest need. Gifts can be made before April 6 and still count toward the total raised for Give Day.

Gifts may be made in the following ways:

  • Online at umobile.edu/giveday
  • Text umgiveday to 243725
  • Call the Advancement Office at 251.442.2585
  • Mail a check to University of Mobile Advancement Office, 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, AL 36613.

“Every gift, big or small, can make a substantial difference in the lives of students and empower the next generation of leaders to fulfill their Great Commission calling,” said Dr. Bruce Earnest, vice president for advancement.

UM Give Day 2021 kicks off as the University of Mobile is celebrating its 60th Diamond Anniversary throughout the year. Founded by Alabama Baptists, the Christian university has been named the #1 Best Small College in Alabama with the #1 Best College Dorms in Alabama by the ranking site Niche.com.

U.S. News and World Report lists UM among the Best Value Regional Colleges in the South, Best Regional Colleges in the South, and Best Regional Colleges in the South for Veterans.

And, the University of Mobile is one of America’s Best Christian Colleges and America’s 100 Best College Buys.

The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.

For more information about the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu. 

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers 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 more information about the University of Mobile, visit the website at www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Q&A with Doug Wilson, UM Center for Christian Calling

by Kathy Dean

The University of Mobile’s mission as a Christ-centered academic community is to prepare graduates to fulfill their professional calling with a Great Commission mindset. The School of Christian Studies is the academic training ground for students called to vocational ministry, and The Center for Christian Calling (CCC) is key to accomplishing that mission. As executive director of the CCC, Dr. Doug Wilson follows his calling to mentor the next generation of ministry leaders so they will be known for impacting the world for Jesus Christ.

We asked Wilson to tell us more about the Center for Christian Calling.

Q: The Center for Christian Calling connects students with ministry partners to provide hands-on experience in church & community ministries, as well as cross-cultural missions. What is your role in making that happen?

A: We interact with Christian Studies alumni whom we have taught during the last 20 years, and who serve in ministry locally, regionally and domestically. We’ve also built relationships over the years with graduates who have gone on to serve internationally as short-term and career intercultural specialists. We look for ways to partner with alumni, as well as other evangelical Christians, to develop ministry team experiences, internships, and residencies that prepare our students for vocational ministry.

Q: What is your favorite course to teach?

A: Currently, I would say Biblical Hebrew. I love seeing eyes light up as students begin reading the Old Testament in the original languages, and watching them learn from surveying our Torah Scroll. In the classroom, I’m passionate about teaching students to build bridges across cultural barriers and to learn the content of the Bible. In particular, I want students to grow to love the Old Testament. Through the years, my favorite classes to teach have been Old Testament, Biblical Hebrew and intercultural courses. The dynamics of the students in the classroom often make the difference. I see these disciplines as being interconnected (like puzzle pieces), so it’s hard to choose only one.

Q: What do you want your students to learn through your classes?

A: I begin each semester by telling my students that my goals for them are to complete my course with a deeper love for God, a deeper love for His Word, a deeper commitment to the Great Commission and the Great Commandments. “Study to show yourself approved unto God.” Those are my goals for our students.

Q: You have taught at UM for 20 years and served as dean [for 10 years]. What is your background?

A: I have a Bachelor of Science in church music from Toccoa Falls College, a Master of Divinity from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary, and PhD in Old Testament Languages & Literature. I was married in 1982, licensed to preach in 1983, ordained into ministry in 1984, and I’m the father of six children and “Granddaddy” to a growing number. I have served in pastoral ministry, theological education and denominational leadership. I’ve taken UM students on 15 international mission trips, taught for two years in Nicaragua, and have overseen UM’s semester abroad program. Currently, I serve as an Old Testament Bible translator for the New Tyndale Version and as teaching pastor at Moffett Road Baptist Church.

 Q: What do you enjoy outside of class?

A: Every once in a while, I’ll perform in an Alabama School of the Arts production — Merry Widow, Magic Flute, and The Consul. My favorite role was the Bishop in Les Miserables. I would love for my acts of Christian compassion to impact lives the way Bishop Bienvenu’s impacted Jean Valjean.

Another thing I enjoy is to travel with my wife, Kim, and children when possible. I walk for health and for stress relief. I relax by putting jigsaw puzzles together with Kim during vacation breaks. That hobby is sort of my metaphor for life. God doesn’t show us everything at once, and we often don’t know where a single piece fits into the big picture until we get closer to the end.

Q&A with UM Economics Professor Shannon Brown

by Kathy Dean

If you want to understand the world around you, study economics. Economics is the language of the decisions we make, why we make them, and the consequences of those decisions, both intended and unintended, says Shannon Brown, assistant professor of economics and finance in the University of Mobile’s School of Business. We talked with Brown about the study of economics and personal finance, her goals for students, and how she came to know Christ on the University of Mobile campus.

Q:  Why should someone choose to study Economics?

A: Most people believe economics is about money, but it’s really about the choices governments, companies and individuals make. The study of economics will make you a better citizen, a savvy consumer and an astute professional. Economics is one of the tracks in our Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, along with finance and supply chain management.

Q:  What is your favorite course to teach?  

A: I love to teach Personal Finance. I am on a mission to teach every student I can to be a good steward of their finances. My goal is to equip them to be wise with their money, avoid the pitfalls of too much debt, and encourage them to save early and consistently, so they are free to live generously and productively, making the most of their God-given talents.

Q:  You say UM is “home.” What do you mean?

A: I was blessed to grow up here; my church held services on campus when I was a young girl. I attended Sunday school in Weaver Hall and gave my life to Christ in the fall of 1980 in Weaver Auditorium (now Dorsett Auditorium). Every time I turn up the drive and see Weaver Hall, it feels like coming home. I can’t imagine teaching anywhere else.

Q:  What does “Know and Be Known” mean to you?

A: For every student I teach, I have two goals: Do the best job I can to teach you all I can, and learn all I can about you – your goals and ambitions, your struggles and your fears, that thing that makes you uniquely you.

Often, the best part of the day is the few minutes before or after class when students stop to share a bit about what is going on in their lives. That’s the good stuff!

University of Mobile Announces Center for Christian Calling

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is preparing students for ministry with an emphasis on practical skills through the new Center for Christian Calling, formerly the School of Christian Studies.

The new name is part of an initiative to expand the university’s solid foundation of biblical, theological and historical studies with an increased focus on practical, hands-on skills.

Dr. Douglas Wilson, dean of the Center for Christian Calling, said experienced leading pastors in Alabama Baptist churches and across the Southern Baptist Convention, including University of Mobile and Christian Studies alumni, will serve as visiting faculty members or adjunct instructors for university courses and conferences.

The name change includes a change in structure. Beginning in July 2021 when the changes go into effect, the Center for Christian Calling will be composed of four programs:

  • Theology – For students called to a teaching ministry. Program director is Dr. Jay Robertson, associate professor of Christian Studies and pastor of Crawford Baptist Church in Mobile.
  • Intercultural Studies – For students called to domestic and international cross-cultural ministry. Program director is Dr. Robert Olsen, associate professor of Christian Studies.
  • Christian Ministry – For students called to pastoral and staff-related church ministry. Program director is Dr. Blake Newsom, senior pastor of Dauphin Way Baptist Church in Mobile.
  • Graduate Studies – For students pursuing master’s and advanced degrees and training in the areas of biblical studies, theological studies and worship leadership (in collaboration with UM’s Alabama School of the Arts). In addition to serving as dean, Wilson is program director for graduate studies.

Visiting assistant professor Dr. Benjamin Stubblefield, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Jackson, continues his role as New Testament and Greek specialist. Other current visiting faculty and adjuncts may also continue to serve.

The growing list of adjunct instructors pulls from a variety of areas of Baptist life, with currently over a dozen pastors, missionaries, association directors and various ministry leaders. They will teach topics ranging from student ministry and church planting to women’s ministry and ministry teaching English as a Second Language.

Degrees offered include Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry, Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Studies, Bachelor of Arts in Theological Studies, Master of Arts in Biblical & Theological Studies, and Master of Arts in Worship Leadership & Theology.

For more information about the University of Mobile Center for Christian Calling, go to umobile.edu/christiancalling or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers 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 more information about the University of Mobile, visit the website at www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Q&A with UM Graphic Arts Professor Megan Cary

by Kathy Dean

Megan Cary believes in the power of art and design. The associate professor of graphic arts empowers University of Mobile students to use their God-given talents to visually influence our culture through art and design. She’s also interested in science fiction – you might get bonus points for answering a Star Trek-related question on a quiz. We asked Cary to tell us about the graphic arts program in UM’s Alabama School of the Arts, how she prepares students to impact the world through their art, and what it means to “be known.”

Q: Why should someone choose to study graphic design at the University of Mobile?

A: I believe that UM’s graphic design program prepares students for future careers in a way that many traditional design programs do not. My curriculum emphasizes new and emerging design methods, user experience, multiple internship opportunities and portfolio building. It’s resulted in a higher-than-average employment rate for our graduates.

Q: What courses do you typically teach?

 A: I teach a wide variety of courses included print, user experience, web and portfolio design. I enjoy classes where we get to do hands-on activities, whether it is paper prototyping app designs, building out books or restaurant packaging by hand, or illustrating/painting.

 Q: We say UM is a Christ-centered academic community where students can “Know and Be Known.” What does that mean to you?

 A: We are a community that cares about one another. I know all of my students and care deeply about them. This doesn’t stop after graduation – I’ve attended their weddings, met up for coffee check-ins and mentored them about their career transitions.

Q: What is your background?

 A: I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of South Alabama with concentrations in graphic design and painting. I earned my Master of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in 2013. I’ve served in senior-level corporate design positions, run my own design and marketing business, and have been teaching design and studio art courses at UM for the past seven years.

 Q: Your dissertation focused on interactive design. What drew your interest to that area of study?

A: I’ve always been interested in interaction design and how user experiences play a significant role in our lives. My graduate research examined how internet culture has created a cognitive shift in the way we interact and learn. While many educational institutions, like universities, have adapted to this change, many have not. Museums have particularly suffered from a lack of attendance and inability to deliver interactive design exhibits that stimulate and engage an audience. My thesis revolved around how we could utilize interaction design principles and methods to increase their attendance and engagement.

Q: What are some of your interests or hobbies?

A: My husband would say my hobby is work, and he’s not wrong! I’m always working on classes, curriculum, design projects and the design non-profit I am on the board of. I enjoy anything art-related like drawing, printmaking and sewing. But primarily, I’m a big nerd and enjoy science fiction and playing Dungeons and Dragons. If you have taken one of my classes, you’ve probably seen a Star Trek-related bonus question on a test!

Advice for Christians on Choosing a College

by Kathy Dean

The decision on which college to attend is important, and the first step that Christian students and parents should take is the most important.

“As a Christian, the decision on colleges should be like any other big life choice we make, namely that we pray for guidance throughout the process,” said Faith Baker. It’s what she did before choosing to enroll at the University of Mobile, a Christian college in Alabama where she now serves as assistant director of admissions.

She said every family is different and the things they are looking for in higher education vary dramatically. With over 5,300 higher education institutions in the United States, the possibilities can be overwhelming.

“The thing to remember when choosing a school is the next four-plus years of development are very intense ones. A lot of the time, college is the place spouses are found, some of the most influential friendships are formed, and values and beliefs are solidified.

“Because of the significance in this stage of life, finding a school that feels like home and encourages positive growth is an extremely important decision. Ask the questions that matter to you and your family the most.

“Whichever way the decision is made, one thing is certain, the chosen school will send ripple effects through the rest of the student’s life,” Baker said.

With so much depending on making the best decision for you, choosing a college can be scary. Having a personal enrollment counselor dedicated to helping each family and working with their individual situation can help alleviate that fear. At the University of Mobile, enrollment counselors serve as advocates for families, helping them navigate the decision-making process and personalize a financial aid package.

“These counselors will help navigate the confusion of the application process and truly work to help each student determine if UM is the place they are being called. We do everything we can to assist families through that process, and their final decision, no matter the decision, is one we celebrate with the families,” she said.

Baker said the perception is that private Christian higher education is expensive, but families should question that perception.

“The interesting thing from our perspective is that, generally, we can get the cost comparable to a lot of the public secular schools’ out-of-pocket. Because we are a smaller school, we are able to thoroughly review each student and try to find options to make it financially possible for them all,” Baker said.

One of the best ways to determine if a college is the right fit is to visit campus, take a tour, and meet faculty and students. The University of Mobile is hosting in-person campus visit day events (UM Days) and private campus tours, as high school students across the nation are making their college decision.

Prospective students and families can have a college visit experience that follows CDC guidelines and still allows students to set foot on campus for an in-person visit, instead of limiting students to virtual campus tours. RSVP for a campus visit at umobile.edu/visit.

“We have been able to provide the full array of campus tours,” said Baker. “While some adjustments have been made to comply with state requirements and to give alternate options for our guests, this past year we have hosted families in all formats. Private individual family tours, traditional UM Days, and virtual campus visits have all been options.”

University of Mobile Plans Normal Fall Semester Schedule, Enrolling Now

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is preparing for a return to normal for fall semester 2021, with face-to-face, in-person classes and a full schedule of student activities, said UM President Lonnie Burnett.

“We will continue to follow CDC guidelines, and we are confident in our ability to make the necessary adjustments if safety concerns arise during fall semester,” Burnett said.

The university has continued holding in-person, face-to-face classes during the pandemic, with some limitations. The greatest impact in a return to normal will be the ability to offer a wide range of full capacity student activities, including athletic events and Ram Rush student orientation week, Burnett said.

During fall 2020 and spring 2021 semesters, the university capped classroom size to follow CDC distancing guidelines, with students alternating between Zoom/synchronous learning and on-ground classes.

“Because of our small size and ability to adjust quickly, the University of Mobile has been able to continue holding in-person classes this past fall semester and during the current spring semester. Our fall semester graduation was held in-person on campus in December, and we are planning for an in-person outdoor graduation ceremony on May 8,” Burnett said.

The number of COVID-19 cases has been on the decline since peaking at 21 positive cases in the third week of October. Currently, there are no cases on campus, with only three commuter students and one faculty member in isolation or quarantine.

Registration for fall semester is underway, and the university continues to host in-person campus visits, including the upcoming March 19 UM Day. Schedule a campus visit or RSVP for UM Day at umobile.edu/visit.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers 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 more information about the University of Mobile, visit the website at www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

UM Alumna Dr. Tracey Henry Named 2021 Boykin Award Honoree

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Dr. Tracey Henry, a physician and professor with Emory Healthcare in Atlanta, was awarded the 2021 Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence by her alma mater, the University of Mobile.

“We are so proud that you are a graduate of the University of Mobile,” said UM President Lonnie Burnett, announcing the honor in a virtual ceremony on Feb. 26 that can be viewed at https://youtu.be/LtN1NimUKK8.

“On behalf of all of us at the University of Mobile, I would like to thank you, Dr. Henry, for your sacrificial and tireless service to others, for being an advocate for students and patients, and for living out your Christian faith on a daily basis,” Burnett said.

The Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence was established in 2019 to honor the life of the late Samuel M. Boykin, the first African American graduate of the University of Mobile. The award recognizes outstanding African American graduates of the Christian university who reflect the ideals of virtuosity, faith and charity that Boykin exemplified throughout his career, family and community.

Dr. Henry is a 2002 graduate of the University of Mobile with a degree in psychology. She attended medical school at Georgetown University and earned her Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University. Now a practicing physician and professor with Emory Healthcare in Atlanta, in 2017 she was chosen as one of 60 U.S. Presidential Leadership Scholars.

Long an advocate for relieving the burden of student loan debt on the medical profession, Henry has testified before the U.S. Congress about the average student loan debt that hampers students in healthcare fields.

A profile in the university’s Fall 2020 TorchLight alumni magazine said Henry enjoys helping people achieve wellness, and part of that wellness is spiritual wellness. In addition to her medical expertise, she is eager and willing to share scripture and the Gospel with those around her.

Henry is the first recipient of the award, which was established in 2019. Due to the pandemic, the award was not presented in 2020.

Samuel Boykin, second from right

UM Board of Trustees Chairman Fred Wilson presented the first medallion to Boykin’s widow, Ellen Hardiman Boykin, during a Chapel service Feb. 27, 2019, on the university campus. Mrs. Boykin traveled from California for the ceremony that honored her late husband, as family, friends and hundreds of university students looked on. Boykin died Dec. 11, 2018.

In a 2011 interview for the university’s TorchLight alumni magazine, Boykin said he took pride in graduating from Mobile College, and in being the first African American to do so.

He was a graduate of Mattie T. Blount High School in the Mobile County Public School System and earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1969 from Mobile College, now University of Mobile. He served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army, moved to California, graduated with a Master of Business Administration from Golden Gate University in San Francisco, and worked in accounting and administration.

“He grew up to become a good, hard-working man,” reads his obituary.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers 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 more information about the University of Mobile, visit the website at www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

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