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 is accepting applications for a new Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program, the first and only DNAP program in a four-state region including Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Georgia.
The 36-month doctoral degree program is designed for students on a path to becoming Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists. The curriculum is offered in a blended format, combining on-site and online learning. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and more than one full year of critical care nursing experience.
Students earning the DNAP are eligible to take the National Certification Examination required to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.
The new doctoral program provides more career options for healthcare professionals, and is a response to the increasing demand nationwide for nurse anesthetist practitioners. The specialty is expected to grow by more than 30 percent in the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
University of Mobile President Lonnie Burnett said the Christian university is uniquely positioned to meet that need.
“The University of Mobile has a solid reputation for graduating highly-trained, compassionate healthcare professionals who are providing exceptional care in our community and beyond,” Burnett said.
“Students in our new Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program will benefit from the university’s longstanding relationships with all of the major hospitals in our area, and our state-of-the-art Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice,” he said.
The university’s culture of caring, with faculty who are focused on building mentoring relationships with students, is also an advantage, Burnett said.
The Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice in UM’s new School of Nurse Anesthesia will begin in August 2021, pending initial accreditation and approval by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs this summer. Applications may be accepted now, but students may not enroll until initial accreditation is granted.
To learn more or apply for admission to classes beginning August 2021, visit umobile.edu/dnap. For more information, 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.
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. – University of Mobile graduate Sarah Thomas, who shattered glass ceilings in the world of sports and became the first female official to work a Super Bowl, will deliver the commencement address at her alma mater on May 8.
A 1995 graduate, Thomas played basketball at the University of Mobile from 1992 to 1995. During that time, the Rams won 61 games, including two seasons with a 13-3 record in Gulf Coast Athletic Conference action. Thomas helped guide the 1992-93 team to a District 30 Championship and a berth in the NAIA National Championship.
She was a two-time GCAC All-Academic selection and a Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete in 1995. For her career, she totaled 779 points, 411 rebounds, 108 assists and 192 steals, currently sitting at fifth all-time in steals
She decided to become an official in the 1990s after attending a coaching meeting with her brother. Then, in 1996, she became the first female to officiate a Division 1-A high school football game in Mississippi. In 2007, she became the first female to officiate college football games, and in 2009, she became the first female to officiate a bowl game.
In 2015, she became the NFL’s first full-time female game official. On Feb. 7, 2021, she served as a down judge for Super Bowl 55.
Commencement will begin at 10 a.m. on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn in front of Weaver Hall on the University of Mobile campus.
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.
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 is hosting in-person campus visit day events and private campus tours this spring, 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.
“We have been able to provide the full array of campus tours,” said Faith Baker, assistant director of admissions. “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.”
Private tours are available Mondays through Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. In-person UM Days are set for Feb. 5 and March 19. Upcoming virtual UM Days are Feb. 10 and March 25. Students who attend a UM Day or campus tour, apply and enroll may earn a $2,000 visit scholarship.
RSVP for private tours, UM Days and virtual UM Days at umobile.edu/visit. For more information or to speak with an admissions counselor, call 251.442.2222.
Hali Givens, assistant vice president for enrollment, said students attending a UM Day will hear from UM President Lonnie Burnett and a panel of current students during an opening session, then tour campus in small groups led by UM Ambassadors. They will meet with their academic area of interest and meet faculty.
Givens said there are some differences in current campus visits compared to pre-pandemic visits. The opening session is set up to accommodate social distancing guidelines. UM has reduced the number of guests who can attend UM Days. Masks are required, and all guests are symptom checked and temperature checked. Instead of seeing dorm rooms of current students, visitors tour dorm show rooms.
Spring is a traditional time for high school juniors and seniors to visit college campuses, which can be a deciding factor as students consider where to spend their college years, according to Baker.
“The thing to remember when choosing a school is the next four-plus years of development are very intense ones. A lot of times, college is the place spouses are found, some of the most influential friendships are formed, and values and beliefs are solidified,” Baker said.
“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.”
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.
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.
The Alabama School of the Arts offers University of Mobile students a world-class education taught by the best in their field. UM Ballet Master Barbara Haines is a prime example. She has taught ballet throughout the world, with students including the Hungarian Olympic Rhythmic Sport Gymnastic Team.
This internationally experienced ballerina and ballet master has performed as principal dancer for productions in The National Opera House of Hungary, the Hungarian Festival Ballet, Richard – Wagner Festspielhaus, Germany and in the Phantom of the Opera, an Andrew Lloyd Webber’s production touring through Denmark, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Austria, and Switzerland.
We talked with Haines about her professional dance career, research in alternative physical therapy, and passion for teaching UM students.
Q. The Beginning and Advanced Ballet courses you teach in the Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA) are part of the theatre and musical theatre majors, and students majoring in other areas can take them as electives. What do students learn in your courses?
A. Beginning and Advanced Ballet courses are both very complex courses with hands-on, practical learning experiences. Students learn classical ballet methodology that they translate immediately in a special practical setting with the assistance of PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique) and Gyrokinesis foundation (alternative movement technique). Past years’ experience shows that by implementing PBT and Gyrokinesis, students have faster progress to master classical ballet skills. Beginning Ballet class breaks down in their weekly settings for Methodology, PBT & Gyrokinesis, and Classical Ballet practice at the barre, center stage and allegro exercises. The Advanced Ballet classes include dance history, modern ballet technique practice (Graham Technique) and choreography practice. At the end of our dance history journey, students create a short dance theatre choreography that unifies their work in voice, music, and movement.
Q. You have vast international experience that you bring to your teaching. What are some highlights of your background?
A. I have performed as a principle and chorus dancer in classical, neo-classical and contemporary ballet productions that were produced by prominent, world renowned choreographers and ballet masters, such as Ivan Markó and Maurice Béjart. That experience has influenced my 20-plus years in teaching and broadened my developmental research on alternative therapy, which I successfully applied at various ballet institutions. In addition to numerous certifications, I have a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and pedagogy from the Eotvos Lorand Academy of Science in Budapest, Hungary, and a Master of Arts in classical ballet pedagogy and cultural arts from the Hungarian Dance Conservatory in Budapest. Furthermore, I am currently pursuing my M.A./Professional Award Diploma in Choreology (dance notation) at the Royal Academy of Dance, London.
Q. You mentioned an interest in movement research.
A. I have spent the last 15 years focusing on an extensive practice to identify and rehabilitate chronic dysfunctional movement in dancers and athletes. I introduced an alternative physical therapy method of Gyrokinesis to dancers from the Washington D.C. Ballet and students at the University of Mobile. Gyrokinesis exercises simultaneously stretch and strengthen muscle groups in a way that is identical to the range of motion needed in dance class, increasing flexibility in a usable way. In addition, I have had the opportunity to work alongside rehabilitation cases which required an orthopedic approach for full recovery.
Q. Recently, you were invited by the Hungarian Academy of Arts, Institute of Art Theory and Methodology to participate in an international conference.
A. The topic of discussion was “How the Vaslay Nijinsky Tradition has reflected on the history of Classical Ballet.” I joined to this conference my felt art pieces that reflect Nijinsky’s most iconic figurines in his ballets. Why felt? Our modern world is based on global network information exchange, in particular using graphic forms or written communication. There are three main type of communication: spoken, gestural and graphic. Graphic communication is the only type of communication that is capable of transmitting, translating and preserving a message. Studying ancient rock arts, dance notation, tribal dance cultures, and archaic folk tale figurines through the art of felt provided an essential connection to understand Nijinsky’s primitive yet modern choreography. This dramaturgy gave me the answer to the long-awaited OPEN question regarding Nijinsky’s ballet. Where did his grotesque steps come from? I am constantly seeking inherited forms through contemporary rhythm – rhythm of the materials that helps students contrasting vertical and horizontal movements to extend their inner emotions via organic body movements. Felting is part of my ongoing dance anthropology research, and one of my pieces, “Movement and Metaphor” – Nijinsky’s Jeux has received a finalist award in an international juried art exhibition.
Q. Why do you choose to teach at the University of Mobile?
A. I chose to teach at the University of Mobile to be able to provide an environment of the highest caliber in both practice and preparing students to enter musical theatre as a profession. Our current ballet curriculum supports development of diverse skills in classical and contemporary dance techniques, dance science, historical perspectives, musical inquiry, as well as technical and artistic integration of dance-specific projects with other departments within the Alabama School of the Arts.
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.
If there’s one thing we’ve all learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is the importance of connections – from dependable internet service to a dependable support group. That’s particularly true for college students, according to the University of Mobile Student Success Center.
Whether you’ve chosen to take an online course for the entire semester, or are going online temporarily while in quarantine after being in close contact with an infected individual, there are specific things you can do to make online learning work for you.
The Student Success Center offers free support to help UM students make the transition from high school to college to graduation. The SSC mission is to provide students with concrete strategies to follow their calling and reach their academic and professional goals. (You can learn more about the University of Mobile’s resources for students at umobile.edu.)
Anna Meherg, student support services coordinator, and Shanoa Reed, student success coordinator in charge of first and second year programs, say staying connected to classmates and faculty is a key to being successful with online learning. The Christian university’s small class size and reputation for personal attention gives UM students a distinct advantage during the pandemic, in both on-ground and online courses.
Here are their Top 10 Tips that will keep you on track for success.
Set up a designated study space
Create a distraction-free area to participate in synchronous classes and complete asynchronous assignments. Develop a system to let your family/roommates know you are “in class” and cannot be disturbed.
Evaluate and confirm internet access
Make sure you have adequate internet service. If not, develop a plan to complete coursework using other available network connections. Always have a backup plan to use in the event of an outage.
Stay connected
Stay connected to your classmates and peers. Develop study groups and plan time to socialize. Be creative. Use a virtual meeting platform to host study sessions and connect to other students.
Have the appropriate tools
Ensure that you have access to equipment necessary to participate in online classes. Although it will vary for each course, you should have a working laptop, webcam, microphone and headphones.
Become a self-advocate
Speak up if problems arise or something isn’t clear. Be proactive. Seek help early and often. Utilize campus resources.
Be organized
Establish a routine. Outline your entire semester when classes begin and go through course requirements at the beginning of the week for all of your classes. Check your calendar each day for daily assignments.
Manage time effectively
Do not procrastinate. Plan to spend 8-10 hours each week per course. Break down large assignments into manageable chunks rather than attempting to complete everything at one time.
Communicate with your professors
Developing a relationship with your professor in an online course if just as important as when you are in the classroom. They want to help you be successful. Send an email or make a virtual appointment during their office hours.
Remember to give yourself downtime.
Allow yourself time for breaks during long study sessions. Spend time with your friends and family. Identify campus resources available for mental health.
Be on time for class.
If you are enrolled in a class with a synchronous meeting time, make sure you are logged in before the course begins. Allow time for connection or technology issues. Professors will notice anyone who is habitually late.
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.
Whether it’s yelling “Go Rams!” or singing at a Christmas production, University of Mobile graduates across the generations have shared experiences that bring them together. Here’s a look at some of the traditions that connect the University of Mobile family.
The Rams The first freshman class at the University of Mobile, then Mobile College, was responsible for choosing the school’s mascot in 1963. They considered pioneers, bucks, elephants, falcons, saints and knights before agreeing on a ram – a powerful animal mentioned frequently in the Bible. Four rams, each named Ramses, served as live mascots from 1963 to the late 1970s. When the intercollegiate athletics program started in 1985, the first costumed mascot appeared. MC Ram became Mac the Ram by 1995, when the school changed its name to the University of Mobile. Mac’s girlfriend, Molly, made her debut in 2005. Today, Mac and Molly proudly represent the University of Mobile both on and off campus, and “Go Rams!” is a familiar cheer.
Boar’s Head Festival & Christmas Spectacular The Christmas season brings to mind different memories to generations of alumni, but the common theme is an over-the-top professional musical extravaganza the community looks forward to each year. From 1971 to 2000 it was The Boar’s Head Festival, a medieval-era celebration that included a banquet for the audience. In 2003, the university launched Christmas Spectacular, a multi-night performance attended by nearly 10,000, with highlights broadcast internationally.
Ram Rush When new students and their families step onto the University of Mobile campus for the first time, there is an infectious excitement in the air. Returning students and staff members warmly greet families with open hands, assisting with moving in belongings. It’s the start of Ram Rush, a week-long welcome to college life that includes activities, athletic events, concerts, giveaways, games and massive amounts of free food. Started in 1994, Ram Rush has grown from a week of new student orientation to an experience that involves the entire campus community. Through the years, the first night of Ram Rush has featured fire-breathers, a carnival, a petting zoo, aerial artists, concerts and even a life giraffe in Ram Hall. By the time Ram Rush ends, new students are fully immersed in campus life with new friends who will become lifelong friends.
Covers, Goodwill Gala, Up All Night Student life at the University of Mobile is filled with traditions. Covers allows students to battle it out on stage performing their favorite songs in front of their peers. Goodwill Gala starts with a trip to thrift stores. Up All Night has been helping students prepare for finals for over 12 years, with an all-night study session put on by faculty for students.
Great Commission Tradition A new tradition that has deep meaning for University of Mobile students is the Great Commission Tradition. It includes two ceremonies: President’s Commissioning that marks the beginning of a new student’s college experience, and Commencement that signals the beginning of a new graduate’s impact on the world. Its centerpiece is the Great Commission Globe, located at the heart of campus on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn. New students touch the globe as they start their college journey, and again during graduation as they receive their degree and start on a new journey.
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’s “Christmas Spectacular” was cancelled this year due to COVID-19, but the 2019 “Christmas Spectacular” will air on multiple TV channels.
“Christmas Spectacular” tells the story of Christmas through performances by the Alabama School of the Arts. The popular event consists of choirs, orchestras and ensembles performing a combination of classical and contemporary Christmas music. The event has been a tradition in Mobile for the past 20 years, bringing in thousands of visitors annually.
In addition to airing on television, the Alabama School of the Arts will premiere a “Best of Christmas Spectacular” program on Friday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. CST., featuring favored moments captured from the last decade. The premiere can be streamed at umobile.edu/Christmas or by visiting the Alabama School of the Arts’ YouTube channel.
“Christmas Spectacular” will be aired on the following TV stations:
Daystar: Wednesday, Dec. 23 at 11 a.m., 8 p.m., and 12 a.m. CST
WHBR, Pensacola: Monday, Dec. 21 at 9:30 p.m.; Thursday, Dec. 24 at 10:30 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 25 at 10 a.m.
Visit umobile.edu/Christmas for videos of Christmas Spectacular special performances over the years, and to order a DVD of the 2019 Christmas Spectacular. For more information, call the Alabama School of the Arts at 251.442.2383.
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.
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. – When the pandemic forced spring graduation ceremonies across the nation to be cancelled earlier this year, University of Mobile President Lonnie Burnett made a promise to the Class of 2020. They would have their graduation ceremony.
That promise was kept Saturday, Dec. 5, when the Class of 2020 – both spring and fall semester graduates – celebrated commencement under sunny skies at the University of Mobile. A total of 284 graduates were honored, including 92 fall and 192 spring graduates, at the ceremony held in front of Weaver Hall on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn. After receiving their diplomas, students participated in the Great Commission Tradition and touched the Great Commission Globe to represent going out into the world to make an impact.
The university presented awards usually announced in the spring, including the Weaver Awards for the top two graduates. The complete list of spring and fall graduates with academic honors and awards is below. Former UM President Mark Foley carried the ceremonial mace and led the procession of faculty and graduating students. Foley served as president of the Christian university for 18 years.
UM alumnus the Rev. Chris Bell, lead pastor of 3Circle Church in Baldwin and Mobile counties, delivered the commencement address. The 2000 graduate said he thought his class was one of the most unique, having graduated during the Millennium with the specter of Y2K and a computer programming shortcut that was expected to cause widespread turmoil as the year changed from 1999 to 2000. While that fear for the year 2000 was never realized, the year 2020 is marked by a worldwide pandemic that has significantly impacted the Class of 2020.
“You win the contest,” Bell said. “This is the most unique of years. I commend you for being here and completing what you began.”
Speaking from the book of Ecclesiastes, Bell said there is a worldview that will lead to emptiness, which King Solomon referenced in the passage “vanity of vanities…all is vanity.”
“You were made for more than that,” Bell said. “This university has taught you that whether you are a nurse, or a doctor, or a lawyer, or a musician, or a preacher or a teacher – whatever you do, you are made to do it not just for money or success but to the glory of God.
“And when your viewpoint is that life is not just ‘under the sun’ but it is so much more than that, then you will begin to, as King Solomon says, love what you do. You will take great joy in what you do. It will matter.
Aaron James “A.J.” Nipper
“That is the message of the Bible. You were made for more than simply an ‘under the sun’ existence. You are to point to God, and glorify God, in everything that you do,” Bell said.
He added, “The University of Mobile has a mission and it has not changed. I am proud to watch from afar as the university has held fast to its mission – to give you a new lens to see the world, a biblical worldview.”
UM Board of Trustees Chair Fred Wilson presented the Weaver Awards to the top male and female graduates for excellence in exemplifying the mission of the university. Selection is made by a secret vote of the faculty based on scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service.
Erica Burleson Lyn
The William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award was presented to Aaron James “A.J.” Nipper. Nipper graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in biology. He also received the President’s Scholastic Achievement Award.
The Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award was presented to Erica Burleson Lyn. Lyn graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Music in piano performance. She also received the President’s Scholastic Achievement Award and the Area Award in Piano Performance.
Graduates are:
Alabama School of the Arts, Master of Arts and Master of Music
Huntsville, Alabama – Demi Alexandra Vanderwerff, M.M., Vocal Performance, Area Award: Vocal Performance, Spring 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Mark Renardo Moore, M.A., Worship Leadership and Theology, Area Award: Worship Leadership and Theology, Spring 2020
Semmes, Alabama – Yuliya Ugay Brown, M.M., Piano Performance, Area Award: Piano Performance, Spring 2020
Albany, Georgia – Mark Aaron Willard, M.A., Worship Leadership and Theology, Fall 2020
Aberdeen, Mississippi – Corinne Davis Reece, M.M., Vocal Performance, Fall 2020
Houston, Texas – Eric Ryan Botto, M.M., Vocal Performance, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award, Spring 2020
College of Health Professions, School of Allied Health, Master of Arts
Coden, Alabama – Henry Emanuel Patronas, Marriage and Family Counseling, Spring 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Katherine Becerly Rogers, Marriage and Family Counseling, School of Allied Health Achievement Award, Spring 2020
Saraland, Alabama – Amy Leigh Goff, Marriage and Family Counseling, Summer 2020
College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing
Auburn, Alabama – Vanna Maddox Johnson, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Bay Minette, Alabama – Jacia Mickala Adams, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020; Hayley Jones Brooks, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020; Ashley Jones Smith, Master of Science in Nursing, Nursing Education, Fall 2020
Butler, Alabama – Angelia Danielle Anderson, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Chickasaw, Alabama – Amy Kilgore Taylor, Master of Science in Nursing, Fall 2020
Chunchula, Alabama – Bethany Kate Veal Vickrey, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Fairhope, Alabama – Kelsey Ann Goldie Dutton, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020; Chelsea Noelle Montgomery, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Gadsden, Alabama – William Tyler Trotter, Master of Science in Nursing, Fall 2020
Mobile, Alabama – India A. Aggery, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020; Lisa Marie Allsup, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020; Debrinia Nicole Barron, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020; Miranda Jacqueline Carr, Master of Science in Nursing, Spring 2020; RaShunda LaMonica Chambers, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020; Beverly Danielle Collier, Master of Science in Nursing, Nursing Education, Fall 2020; Mitzi Lynn Davis, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020; Elizabeth Irene Naman, Master of Science in Nursing, Spring 2020; Jana Renee Carter Sims, Master of Science in Nursing, Summer 2020; Thomas Alphonse Hays Zieman Jr., Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Montgomery, Alabama – Deirdra Vandiver Martin, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Pike Road, Alabama – Edward Ryan Moore, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Saraland, Alabama – Alisha LeShae Hudson Adams, Master of Science in Nursing, Spring 2020; Rachel B. Mizell, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020; April Waltman Reed, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Semmes, Alabama – Tameka Jackson Bolden, Master of Science in Nursing, Spring 2020
Spanish Fort, Alabama – Katherine Lee Castello, Master of Science in Nursing, Fall 2020
Theodore, Alabama – Courtney Brooke Moreland, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Peyton, Colorado – Lady Love Roncales Kaltenhauser, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
North Lauderdale, Florida – Maria G. Rodriguez, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Las Vegas, Nevada – Yejin Nam, Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
School of Business, Master of Business Administration
Birmingham, Alabama – Daniell Womack, Spring 2020
Daphne, Alabama – Heather Renee Halla, Spring 2020; Evelynn Annette Wren, Spring 2020
Dothan, Alabama – Caleb Alan Cox, Spring 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Gerald D. Drakeford, Spring 2020; Amerisha Mixon McCord, Fall 2020
Satsuma, Alabama – Leith Allen Rawson, Spring 2020
Bruce, Florida – Rebecca Lynn Whaley, School of Business Achievement Award, Spring 2020
New Port Richey, Florida – Leah Marie Ford, Spring 2020
Pensacola, Florida – LaTonya Jackson Perkins, Spring 2020
Almaty, Kazakhstan – Bauyrzhan Doszhanov, Fall 2020
School of Christian Studies, Master of Arts
Atmore, Alabama – Bobby Aaron Montgomery, Biblical/Theological Studies, Fall 2020
Saraland, Alabama – Gerald Rawshaun Kelly, Biblical/Theological Studies, Fall 2020
Tallahassee, Florida – Justin Daniel Dillenschneider, Biblical/Theological Studies, School of Christian Studies Achievement Award, Spring 2020
School of Education, Master of Arts and Master of Education
Calvert, Alabama – Dasha Witherspoon, M.E., Higher Education Leadership and Policy, Fall 2020
Jackson, Alabama – Erica S. Law, M.E., Early Child Development Non-Certification, Fall 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Kristen Rae Key, M.A., Early Childhood Education, Fall 2020; Betty Williams Patterson, M.E., Early Child Development Non-Certification, Fall 2020; Heather Yolanda Turner, M.E., Early Child Development Non-Certification, Summer 2020; Erica Renee White, M.E., Higher Education Leadership and Policy, Fall 2020
College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Post-Master’s Certificate
Jackson, Alabama – Yolanda Faye Turner, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Certificate, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Ashlee Nicole Fountain-Jones, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Certificate, Family Nurse Practitioner, Fall 2020
Alabama School of the Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Science
Axis, Alabama – Kaitlyn Michell Goram, B.A., Art, Area Award: Art, Cum Laude, Summer 2020
Creola, Alabama – Parker Brandon Gallups, B.S., Worship Technologies, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Daphne, Alabama – Vannie Bohlen, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Area Award: Graphic Design, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Travis Ward Higginbotham, B.S., Worship Technologies, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Fort Payne, Alabama – Julianna Nacole Roberts, B.S., Worship Leadership, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Leeds, Alabama – Austin Daniel Glass, B.S., Production Technologies, Fall 2020
Magnolia Springs, Alabama – Grace Elizabeth Mattox, B.A., Music, Area Award: Music, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Abigail Joy Brock, B.S., Worship Technologies, Area Award: Worship Technologies, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Jacob Adam Burkhardt, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Kaitlin Nicole Finch, B.S., Worship Leadership, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Grayson LaDon Holt, B.S., Worship Leadership, Spring 2020; Andrew Charles Franklin Paxton, B.S., Worship Technologies, Spring 2020; Brady Shaw Romine, B.S., Worship Leadership, Spring 2020
Opp, Alabama – John Calvin Adams, B.S., Worship Leadership, Area Award: Worship Leadership, Fall 2020
Pinson, Alabama – Nathan Andrew Lewis, B.S., Music, Area Award: Music Education, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Satsuma, Alabama – Erica Burleson Lyn, B.M., Piano Performance, Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Piano Performance, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Theodore, Alabama – Cheyenne Elizabeth Cumbie, B.S., Worship Leadership, Cum Laude, Summer 2020
Thomasville, Alabama – Mallory Hanni Broadus, B.M., Musical Theatre, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Gulfport, Mississippi – Olivia Ann Russell, B.M., Musical Theatre, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Musical Theatre, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Southaven, Mississippi – Allyson McKenzie Judkins, B.S., Production Technologies, Magna Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Carrollton, Texas – Jordan Christine Vandiver, B.A., Theatre, Area Award: Theatre, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science
Bay Minette, Alabama – Kenneth Cody Floyd, B.S., Public History, Area Award: History, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Philessa Thompson, B.S., Biology, Spring 2020
Birmingham, Alabama – Darius Jamal Curry, B.S., General Studies, Fall 2020; Maggie Katherine Jones, B.S., Communication, Area Award: Communication, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Kendra Patrice Langham, B.S., Biology, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; LaJayveus M. Leonard, B.S., Sociology, Summer 2020
Coden, Alabama – Katie Michelle Clark, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Cullman, Alabama – Charis Olivia Brown, B.S., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Caitlyn Marie Hall, B.S., Biology, Spring 2020
Dadeville, Alabama – Katelin Shay Lynn, B.S., Psychology, Spring 2020
Dauphin Island, Alabama – Anthony Lester Ray Edwards, B.S., Biology, Spring 2020
Evergreen, Alabama – Noah Vinson Whittington, B.S., Mathematics, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award, Area Award: Mathematics, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Fairhope, Alabama – Ethan Louis Lafont, B.S., History, Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Megan Bossard Thomas, B.S., General Studies, Cum, Laude, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Fall 2020
Foley, Alabama – Jonathan Andrew McLain, B.S., Psychology, Spring 2020
Grand Bay, Alabama – Lauren Danille Dolbare, B.S., History, Cum Laude, Fall 2020; Matthew Douglas Taylor, B.S., Psychology, Spring 2020
Hartselle, Alabama – Hope Danielle Cain, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Biology, Scholar Athlete Award, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Jackson, Alabama – Jessica A. Pickens, B.S., General Studies, Fall 2020
Jasper, Alabama – Anna Claire Harris, B.S., Communication, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Millry, Alabama – Daisy Breanna Steiner, B.S., Communication, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Shiana Aselyn Braxton, B.S., Organizational Leadership, Fall 2020; April Dawn Craft, B.S., General Studies, Cum Laude, Fall 2020; Hailey Ann Hodges, B.A., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude, Fall 2020; JyWeslon Denise Howze-Perine, B.S., Biology, Spring 2020; Brittney Miller-Rand, B.S., Psychology, Fall 2020; Alena Denise Oger, B.S., Criminology, Area Award; Criminology, Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Christian William Poche, B.S., History, Fall 2020; Mansi Rawat, B.S., Mathematics, Fall 2020; Makayla Nakyia Skinner, B.S., Psychology, Summer 2020; Elizabeth Moriah Smith, B.S., History, Fall 2020; Christian Lee Springer, B.S., Mathematics, Spring 2020; Zachary Dillon Taylor, B.S., General Studies, Fall 2020; Abriana Hope Wright, B.S., History, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Amy Marie Wight, B.S., Psychology, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Opelika, Alabama – Henry Allen Torbert IV, B.S., History, Fall 2020
Oxford, Alabama – Elisabeth C. Twilley, B.S., Psychology, Fall 2020
Prattville, Alabama – Kaylee Grace Pullin, B.S., Criminology, B.S., Psychology, Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Saraland, Alabama – Austin David Henson, B.S., History, Spring 2020; Shawndell-Lorenzo Lisondra Hope, B.S., Communication, Spring 2020; Kathryn Nicole Wheidi, B.S., Organizational Leadership, Fall 2020; Savannah Grace Woodruff, B.S., Criminology, B.S., Government and Law, Area Award: Government and Law, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Satsuma, Alabama – Alexandria Lynne Sutherland, B.S., Mathematics, Spring 2020
Semmes, Alabama – Tyra Aneal Ezekiel, B.S., Psychology, Fall 2020; Dunkin Ann DeMouy Friedlander, B.S., Biology, Spring 2020
Silverhill, Alabama – Olivia Marlene Finley, B.S., Mathematics, Spring 2020
Spanish Fort, Alabama – Hannah E. Colbert, B.S., Psychology, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Fall 2020; Presley Keegan Ready, B.S., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Theodore, Alabama – Callie Marie Edwards, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Maranda Leigh Kirk, B.S., Organizational Leadership, UM Global Achievement Award, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Noah Mcdade Palframan, B.S., Mathematics, B.S., Theological Studies, Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate, Spring 2020
Trussville, Alabama – Trinity Roper Whitton, B.S., Sociology, Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Wilmer, Alabama – Elizabeth Marie Laster, B.S., Psychology, B.S., History, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Jacksonville, Florida – Avery Denise Wasdin, B.S., Psychology, B.S., Sociology, Area Award: Psychology, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Navarre, Florida – Jordyn Nicole York, B.S., Psychology, Spring 2020
Niceville, Florida – Jacqueline Olivia Beauchamp, B.S., Psychology, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Ormond Beach, Florida – Aaron James Nipperm, B.S., Biology, William K. Weaver, Jr. Excellence Award, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Palm Bay, Florida – Amanda Denise Pittman, B.S., Psychology, Fall 2020
Panama City, Florida – Steven Kenneth Grothman, B.S., Communication, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Tallahassee, Florida – Briana Naomi Huff, B.S., General Studies, Fall 2020
Roswell, Georgia – Alexandra Celeste Morse, B.S., Marine Science, Fall 2020
Herrick, Illinois – Hannah Christine Senteney, B.S., Biology, Spring 2020
West Chicago, Illinois – Emily Kathryn Ruff, B.S., Psychology, B.S., Criminology, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Saint Bernard, Louisiana – Payton Alexandra Adams, B.S., Psychology, B.S., Criminology, Fall 2020
Columbus, Mississippi – Tyler Andrew Whitley, B.S., Psychology, Spring 2020
Jackson, Mississippi – Kora Robinson Thompson, B.S., General Studies, Summer 2020
Lincoln, Nebraska – Rachel Erin Garbe, B.S., Marine Science, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina – James Andrew Upshaw, B.S., Communication, Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Magnolia, Texas – Emily Ann Kelleher, B.S., Government and Law, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Oshkosh, Wisconsin – Adam Jay Olszewski, B.S., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
College of Health Professions, School of Health and Sports Science, Bachelor of Science
Chelsea, Alabama – Chelsea Brooke Acton, B.S., Kinesiology, Fall 2020
Dothan, Alabama – Chrislyn Alexandra Whaley, B.S., Kinesiology, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
East Brewton, Alabama – Dalton James Shell, B.S., Kinesiology, Spring 2020
Irvington, Alabama – Jordan Kevin-Wayne Taylor, B.S., Kinesiology, Fall 2019
Midland City, Alabama – Maegan Mikaela Walding, B.S., Kinesiology, School of Health and Sports Science Achievement Award, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Dalton Timothy Becker, B.S., Kinesiology, Spring 2020; Ryon Douglass Depinet, B.S., Kinesiology, B.S., Mathematics, Cum Laude, Spring 2020; George Harrison Harvell III, B.S., Kinesiology, Spring 2020; Brittney Maria Williams, B.S., Kinesiology, Spring 2020
Saraland, Alabama – Jordan O’Neal Hall, B.S., Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Semmes, Alabama – Jacob Glenn Warren, B.S., Kinesiology, Summer 2020
Orange, California – Kianna Rae Snow, B.S., Kinesiology, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Jacksonville, Florida – Genelle Kay Boyer, B.S., Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Las Vegas, Nevada – Janae Nichoelle Tyree Strode, B.S., Kinesiology, Spring 2020
Cypress, Texas – Samantha Lynn Nichols, B.S., Kinesiology, Spring 2020
College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Axis, Alabama – Kaleigh Faith Chisholm, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Bay Minette, Alabama – Christine Bernadette Eleogo, Spring 2020
Cullman, Alabama – Savannah Elizabeth Moss, Spring 2020
Daphne, Alabama – Madison Conrad Taylor, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Huntsville, Alabama – Chelsea Michelle Kendall, Spring 2020; Kirstie Michelle Ruff, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Irvington, Alabama – Ashton Shainae Shepherd, Spring 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Jennifer Nicole Bosarge, Spring 2020; Matthew Gary Cooper, Spring 2020; Shelby Nicole Davison, Spring 2020; Ginger Graf Dunaway, Spring 2020; Charon Lashea Farmer, Spring 2020; Christina Pippins French, Spring 2020; Shelby Caroline Eiland-Galmiche, Spring 2020; Dwanna Rena Graham, Spring 2020; Demetrice Z’Jahmal Jones, Spring 2020; Shantavia Monique McCants, Spring 2020; Holley Lavenia McCarroll, Spring 2020; Darion LaRay Mickles, Spring 2020; Jessica Anne Morie, Spring 2020; Morgan Elaine Walley, Spring 2020; Courtlyn Carlissa Winston, Spring 2020
Montgomery, Alabama – Ashley Tatum Barrentine, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Saraland, Alabama – Ashley Lauren Scott, Spring 2020
Satsuma, Alabama – Brelee Nichole Yarber, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Spanish Fort, Alabama – Shelby Ray Van Sickler, Spring 2020
Troy, Alabama – Lindsay Corrine Lee, Spring 2020
Wilmer, Alabama – Ashley Rae Kurth, Spring 2020; Heather Danielle Partin, Spring 2020
Gulf Breeze, Florida – Shelby G. Roberts, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Pensacola, Florida – Hannah Elizabeth Goalen, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
New Orleans, Louisiana – Shan’te Aurora Johnson, Spring 2020
Crystal Springs, Mississippi – Tori Marie Clement, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Moss Point, Mississippi – Kristen Cameon Williams, Spring 2020
Midlothian, Texas – Casey Ann Lunceford, School of Nursing Achievement Award, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
School of Business, Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science
Chatom, Alabama – Colby James Lucas, B.S., Business Administration, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Daphne, Alabama – Evelynn Annette Wren, B.S., Business Administration, Area Award: Finance, Spring 2020
Dothan, Alabama – Caleb Alan Cox, B.S., Accounting, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Elberta, Alabama – Kenneth Joseph Kaiser III, B.S., Business Administration, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, School of Business Post-Traditional Award, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
McIntosh, Alabama – Lazarus O’Neal Lang, B.S., Computer Information Systems, Spring 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Hunter M. Avery, B.S., Accounting, Summer 2020; Bailey Powell Bannon, B.S., Business Administration, Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Heather Annette Chastain, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020; Devin Deondrae Curry, B.S., Business Administration, Summer 2020; Laura M. Foots, B.S., Business Administration, Cum Laude, Summer 2020; Brooke Nychelle Freeman, B.S., Management, Spring 2020; Dajha Janae Harper, B.S., Management, Fall 2020; Martrisse Holliza Bernice Haynes, B.S., Business Administration, Summer 2020; Matthew Ryan Hockman, Bachelor of Busines Administration, Fall 2020; Sushil Lamsal, B.S., Management, Summer 2020; Rebecca Magdalena Leim, B.S., Business Administration, School of Business Achievement Award, Area Award: Management, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Joseph Alexander Puckett, B.S., Computer Information Systems, Area Award: Computer Information Systems, Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Reese Dominic Ruffin III, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020; Sally Gayle Shoemaker, B.S., Business Administration, Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Christine Evelyn Skipper, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020; Elizabeth Caroline Smith, B.S., Business Administration, Area Award: Marketing, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Saraland, Alabama – Brandon Michael Bozeman, B.S., Business Administration, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Satsuma, Alabama – Morgan Leigh Bryant, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020; Cody Aaron Clifton, B.S., Business Administration, Fall 2020; Carson Patrick Ludt, B.S., Accounting, Spring 2020; Leith Allen Rawson, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020; Rachel Frolik Schemmer, B.S., Business Administration, Fall 2020
Semmes, Alabama – Samantha Joanne Walker, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020
Spanish Fort, Alabama – Gunner Wade Hendrix, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020
Castanhal, Pará, Brazil – Mayron Victor Pimentel, B.S., Management, Summer 2020
Mogi Das Cruzes, São Paulo, Brazil – Emily Chang, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020
Clive, Alberta, Canada – Heidi Samaja Giles, B.S., Accounting, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Accounting, Scholar Athlete Award, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Sacramento, California – Christian Matthew Chastain, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020
Santiago, Chile – Guido Alessandro Evangelista Tapia, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020
Dade City, Florida – Turner Michael Imhoff, B.S., Management, Spring 2020
Saint-Francois, Guadeloupe, France – Ayrton Philippe Nubret, B.S., Business Administration, Fall 2020
New Port Richey, Florida – Leah Marie Ford, B.S., Accounting, Spring 2020
Pensacola, Florida – Miranda Clarrisa Sprick, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020
Hattiesburg, Mississippi – Brandon Thomas Williams, B.S., Business Administration, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Paradise, Texas – Colton Levi Wells, B.S., Business Administration, Spring 2020
Hampshire, United Kingdom – Lukas F. Burt, B.S., Accounting, Magna Cum Laude, Summer 2020
Ringwood, Hampshire, United Kingdom – Sam Jake Chilman, B.S., Business Administration, Summer 2020
School of Christian Studies, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science
Clanton, Alabama – Dallas Kent Dodson, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Daphne, Alabama – Chynna Love Cochran, B.S., Christian Leadership and Ministry, Fall 2020
Eclectic, Alabama – Isabella Camille Sanders, B.A., Biblical/Theological Studies, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, School of Christian Studies Achievement Award, Area Award: Biblical/Theological Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Gadsden, Alabama – Marcus Chad Talley, B.S., Christian Leadership and Ministry, Area Award: Christian Leadership and Ministry, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Grove Hill, Alabama – Emma Kathryn Schlehuber, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Spring 2020
Gulf Shores, Alabama – Madelynn Nicole Loette Coleman, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Madison, Alabama – Ragan Jillann Bledsoe, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Victoria Lynn Taylor, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Fall 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Michael Angelo Parks II, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Spring 2020; Joshua Caleb Stroud, B.S., Christian Leadership and Ministry, Summer 2020
Pelham, Alabama – Hannah Atkins Dodson, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Saint Stephens, Alabama – Josie Shelby Busby, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Spring 2020
Saraland, Alabama – George Edmund Ewing II, B.A., Intercultural Studies, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Satsuma, Alabama – Troy James McDonnell, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Spring 2020
Destin, Florida – Maya RosaLee Lewellyn, B.A., Intercultural Studies, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Intercultural Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Pensacola, Florida – Jonathan Scott White, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Spring 2020
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi – Paul Charles Burdic, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Magna Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Hannibal, Missouri – Laiken Danielle Gendregske, B.S., Biblical/Theological Studies, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
School of Education, Bachelor of Science
Bay Minette, Alabama – D’natia R. Kennedy, B.S., Elementary Education, B.S., Early Childhood Education, Fall 2020
Daphne, Alabama – Melyssa K. Hughes, B.S., Elementary Education, B.S., Early Childhood Education, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Fairhope, Alabama – Hannah Faith Ellis, B.S., Elementary Education, B.S., Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Elementary and Early Childhood Education, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Leon Bell, B.S., Child and Social Development, Summer 2020; Victoria Lowe Bolton, B.S., Child and Social Development, Spring 2020; Trinishia James Clausell, B.S., Child and Social Development, Spring 2020; Kalyn Seamone Pettway, B.S., Child and Social Development, Fall 2020; Natalie Michelle Powe, B.S., Child and Social Development, Summer 2020; Jennifer Monique Todd, B.S., Child and Social Development, Cum Laude, Fall 2020; Leah Olivia Walker, B.S., Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Tanika Lasha Woodard, B.S., Elementary Education, B.S., Early Childhood Education, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Montgomery, Alabama – Lindsey Brooke McDaniel, B.S., Early Childhood Education, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Sydney Michele Taylor, B.S., Child and Social Development, Spring 2020
Perdido, Alabama – Kylie Arean Boutwell, B.S., Child and Social Development, Spring 2020
Satsuma, Alabama – Samantha Brooke Sanderson, B.S., Child and Social Development, Summer 2020
Semmes, Alabama – Allicyn Paige Holderfield, B.S., Early Childhood Education, Spring 2020
Silverhill, Alabama – Jordan Alaine Johnson, B.S., Elementary Education, B.S., Early Childhood Education, Magna Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Summerdale, Alabama – Merissa Lee Harris, B.S., Early Childhood Education, Magna Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Robertsdale, Alabama – Alana Hope Atkins, B.S., Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Thorsby, Alabama – Abby Rebecca Garrison, B.S., Early Childhood Education, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Wagarville, Alabama – Christian Bailey Vice, B.S., Elementary Education, B.S., Early Childhood Education, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude, Fall 2020
Wetumpka, Alabama – Jennifer Michelle Meredith, B.S., Early Childhood Education, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude, Spring 2020
Ingleside, Texas – Beverly Anna Carnahan, B.S., Child and Social Development, Summer 2020
Smyrna, Texas – Lauren Renee Coleman, B.S., Elementary Education, B.S., Early Childhood Education, School of Education Achievement Award, Cum Laude, Spring 2020
College of Arts and Sciences, Associate of Science
Auburn, Alabama – Nisreen M. Kanaan, General Studies, Fall 2020
Mobile, Alabama – Jennifer Appling Amacker, General Studies, Cum Laude, Spring 2020; Kinley Brooke Gilmore, General Studies, Fall 2020
Satsuma, Alabama – Brandon Mills, General Studies, Spring 2020
Semmes, Alabama – Rosemary McElroy Westry, General Studies, Fall 2020
Trussville, Alabama – Ryan Sterling Landwehr, General Studies, Fall 2020
Pace, Florida – Alexis Marie Miiller, General Studies, Fall 2020
Tampa, Florida – Jamel Henry Clark, General Studies, Spring 2020
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.
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 host a Drive-Thru College Fair with over 25 colleges on hand to give information on academics, financial aid and campus life to students searching for their college home.
Students and families are invited to the University of Mobile campus for the event on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. College representatives will be stationed behind Weaver Hall with proper social distancing. As students and families drive through the parking lot, each school will hand out information and answer questions, all without the need for participants to leave their vehicles.
Students are encouraged to RSVP at umobile.edu/drivethru. The University of Mobile is located off Exit 13 on I-65, at 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, AL 36613. For information, call 251.442.2222 or visit umobile.edu/drivethru.
The Drive-Thru College Fair is for any student interested in learning about their options for higher education. Organizers expect the event will draw students and families from throughout south Alabama, the Florida panhandle and Mississippi coast.
The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed the college search process for both students and colleges, according to Nick Hampton, enrollment counselor at the University of Mobile.
High schools have canceled college fairs that normally provide face-to-face interaction between prospective students and college enrollment counselors. Much of the college search process has moved to online visit days. The University of Mobile has been able to continue holding in-person visit days and scheduling private campus visits while also following CDC guidelines, but many universities have eliminated or reduced campus visit days.
The pandemic is making it more difficult for potential students to learn about their many options for higher education, Hampton said.
“Last year during fall semester, our enrollment counselors traveled over 10,000 miles across nine states, averaging 30 events a month. We saw around 500 students per event, and up to 6,000 at the larger college fairs. As a smaller university, we don’t even travel as much as our SEC-size counterparts,” he said.
Hampton and UM Assistant Director of Admissions Faith Baker organized the Drive-Thru College Fair, which is drawing colleges from Alabama and surrounding states.
Baker said, “All of us in the college admissions realm have been desperately missing face-to-face interactions with potential students. Events like this make it possible for students to have the opportunity to connect with colleges and universities that they otherwise may not be aware of.”
The following colleges, universities and armed forces organizations will be represented, and more are being added. For the most recent list, go to umobile.edu/drivethru.
Currently attending are: Coastal Alabama Community College, The University of Southern Mississippi, Troy University, The University of West Alabama, University of South Alabama, UAB School of Health Professions, The University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, University of Montevallo, Spring Hill College, Samford University, Stillman College, Pensacola State College, Jacksonville State University, The University of Alabama, University of West Florida, Army National Guard, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, William Carey University, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Loyola New Orleans, Auburn University at Montgomery, Mississippi University for Women, Judson College, Miles College and Alabama A&M.
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.
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. – University of Mobile graduate Sarah Thomas, who shattered glass ceilings in the world of sports and became the first female official to work a Super Bowl, will deliver the commencement address at her alma mater on May 8.
