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 Announces Deans’ List for Fall 2024

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is proud to announce the Deans’ List for Fall Semester 2024. The Dean’s List consists of students who earned a 3.50 GPA or higher with at least 12 credit hours. The students who received this honor are listed below.

Alex Abernathy, Rachel Allen, Isabelle Allred, Salman Almandeel, Miguel-Abdiel Alonzo, Rayan Amison, Bryson Anderson, Camryn Anderson, Natalie Armour, Jacob Arnold, Luke Arnold, Mallory Atchison

Bethany Baldwin, Jaileb Ballard, Ella Barber, Trinity Barden, Skyler Barnes, Cleveland Bass, Anna Katherine Bell, Gianmarco Bertolini, Bailee Best, Connor Bishop, Jonah Blackwell, Ian Blair, Jesse Blow, Gabriel Boone, Renee Born, Carleigh Bowden, Cameron Brock, Abby Brooks, Madison Bruner, Gabriel Bryars, Blake Burris, Natalie Burt, Benjamin Buxton, Reilli Byrd, Adam Byzdra

Isabella Cameron, Ashtyn  Cammon, Claire Campbell, Branden Canas, Brayen Canas, Jahi Cannon, Kathryn Cantey, Brianna Carmichael, Camila Castro, Savannah Catrett, Camryn Cellon, Emma Champagne, Elijah Cherolis, Alyssa Cherry, Mattie Chestang, Roman Chiosa, Grace Chisholm, Alejandro Chumacero Navarro, Evan Clymer, Laiken Coaker, Samuel Colbert, Windell Comer, Lillie Conner, Ryan Cooke, Anna Coon, Erin Cooper, Jennifer Cope, Molena Copeland, Matthew Cornelius, Christopher Cosper, Micah Coxwell, Antonio Crews, Jaxson Crisler, Cameron Crumpton

Gabrielle Davis, Alison Dearmon, Brayden Deaton, Kadence Dedeaux, Landon Dedeaux, Wyatt Dickson, Samuel Dippel, James Doherty, , Camryn Dorilma, Ella Downing, Jaci Drinnon, Connor Duckett, Tristan Durflinger, Hannah Edge, MacKensey Edmond, Illyes El Yansli, Makenzie Ellison, Linda Ethridge

Loralee Faulkner, Madelynn Fleming, Leah Foster, Kendel Lee Frazer, Peyton Frazer, Caroline Frederick, Tionna Frieson, Carlie    Funchess, Joao Gago, Luke Galey, Lauren Garcia, Karsen Gates, Anna            Geter, Collin Gibbons, Isabella Gibbons, Hayleigh Gideons, Gracie Giles, Thiago Giri Rodrigues Mello, Katherine Glass, Alexandria  Godwin, Nolin Godwin, Kelsey Goler, Abigail Gorum, Jake Graves, Kiersten Gray, Cody Green, Bryleigh Greene, Hunter Griffin, Tyler Grondin, Surely Gutierrez

Caleb   Hadley, Madison Hager, Yonan Hanna, Will Harris, Dawson Harrison, Shelby Harvison, Jayden Hayes, Emalyn Heathershaw, Noah Henderson, Brianna Hendricks, Andrew Henley, Jake Henley, Clara Hicks, Dyamond Hicks, James Higdon Nathan Higginson, Quinn Hipple, Victoria Holewka, MaKala Holland, Kaylea Holmes, Hayleigh Hopper, Madeline Houk, Micaela Howze, Jaxson Hughes, Lameshia Hunt, Makenzie Ingram, Taylor Ingram

Abigayle Jackson, Erica Jackson, Lyndsey Jackson, Amy Jernigan, Jonathan Jesse, Jenna Jiles, Caroline          Johnson, Jordan Johnson, Haley Jones, Zoe Jones, Katelynn Kempton, Ninah Kerr, Macey Kidder, Anna King, Michael Kitchen, Heather Knowles, Jeremy Knox, Kylie Koster, Adele   Kuhn, Sophia  Kuhn, Avery Kyzar, Brooklyn  Kyzar, Kensley Lambert, Samantha Landaiche, Zachary Landrum, Caitlin Lanham, Amy Lankford, Lindsey Lantis, Alyssa Lavelle, Lucca Leal, Addison Lentz, Reagan Lentz, Celestine Lett, Claire Lewis, Madalyn Lewis, Shellie Littlefield, Kamirra Logan, Caleb Logerwell, Judah Lokey, Alexandria Lopez, Porsha Lynch, Jada Lynd, Jennah Lyons

Sam MacDonald, William Manwaring, Marc Marquis, Aubrey Martin, Gracyn Martin, Jocelyn Martin, Rylee Martin, Chloe  Martinez, Malorie Martinez, Sean Mason, Lais Tammy Masuda, Kristyn Maten, Dalton Mathis, Alexander May, Evelyn May, Gabriel May, Janae McCall, Sarah McGonegal, Travis McKenzie, Lane McLaughlin, Lauren McLean, Joseph McMahon, Rachel McMullan, Emma McPherson, Henrique Mendes, Kristi Merritt, Lindsey Meza, Jaylee Miracle, Logan Mitchell, Grace Morgan, Matthew Morgan, Jalecia Morrissette, Robert Moulthrop, Trenton Moye, Karolina Mrowiecova, Sophie Mulkey, Samuel Mutiri, Annsley Myers

Joshua Naman, Christian Nelson, Campbell Newell, April Nicholson, Joshua Norris, Brady Northam, Caraline Olson, Emily Osborne, Kinsey Otzenberger, Emma Owen, Luke Owers, Latifha Pascall , Emma Kate     Patterson, Liam Patterson, Matthew Patterson, Haley Pauley, Latonya Payne, Meredith Peacock, Tyler Peters, Abby Peterson, Destiny Pettway, Elizabeth Posey, Claire Powell, Ellie Powell, Eve Powell, McCory Powell, Taylor Prestridge, Alexandria Price Emma Price

Jhanya Quinones, Olivia Quiroz, Allison Ramey, Rebekah Ramirez, Elizabeth Ranew, Kirsha Rankin, Enrico Recchia Racheal Reeves, Jacob Rehbine, Joevonie Reid, Jessica Ricchiuti, Waelyn Richardson, Joaquin Rivera, Alexis Rodríguez Ruiz, William Roley, Sergio Ruiz Ramiro, Clayton Russell, Cassie Ryals

Carla Saborido, Adrian Salas, Katlyn Sampson, Steven Sandlin, Jeb Scarbrough, Allie Schachle, Lorelei Seas, Davide Sedini, Avery Seitz, Gabrielle Sheffield, Madilyn Sheffield, Macon Sherer, Emilee Shuler, Benjamin Sims, Kaitlyn Skrove, Cecil Smith, Cohen Smith, Lillian Smith, Rodney Smith, Fatoumata Sonko, Emily Spann, Leiyah Spears, Ryleigh Stanford, Joseph Stevens, Jonathan Stewart, Isabella Stracener, Brooklyn Strevel, McKenna Stringfellow, Alison Strunk, Claire Suter, Jailyn Swink

Austin  Taylor, Lauren Taylor, Mateo Tempon, Kendall Thomas, Emily Thullesen, Grace Tillman, Emma Todd, Joshua Trimble, Anna Trinh, Jaycie   Tungett, Ian Turner, Marleigh Turner, Presleigh Turner, Thomas Turner, Tyler Turner

Alex Valenzuela, Gabriella Vasko, Juliana Vasko, Diana Vazquez, Angela Viator, Keon Walker, Peyton Walker, Rachel Walker, Hannah Victoria Walters, Jordan Ward, Arthur Watson, Karlie Welch, Erika              West, MacKenzie White, Kaylee Whitson, Alaina Whitten, Adalyn Wiggins, Kylie Wilkerson, Emma Wilkins, Madison Williams, Chloe Wilson, Kristen Wright, Giavana Zarella

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Announces President’s List for Fall 2024

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is proud to announce the President’s List for Fall Semester 2024. The President’s List consists of students who earned a 4.0 GPA with at least 15 credit hours. The students who received this honor are listed below.

Cristian Acosta, Savanna Adams, Mary Katherine Alums, Sebastian Arze, Claire Atkins

Mia Bailey, Elizabeth Barber, Madison Barnes, Hanna Barnett, Tatum Beech, Laura Belk, Thomas Bell, Skylar Bennett, Kathleen Bowden, Kennedy Bradford, Amanda Bream, Olivia Brentlinger, Harrison Bridges, Bailey Bronner, Ashlyn Broussard, Grace Bryant, Grace Burchell

Nina Carpenter, Hunter Chapuis, Autumn Chestang, Meredith Cole, Kimberlyn Colyer, Christopher Conger, Madison Cooley, Breyton Cornelius, Jamie Criswell, Natalie Criswell

Bryline Dailey, MacKenzie Danzey, Allana Davis, Bethany Dean, Dazsha Dean, Lilie Dickerson, Emily Dietz, Claire Dodson, Daniel Doherty, Louis Dolcini, Alanna Donaldson, Sophie Dorris, James Driver, Rachel Dunaway, Rebecca Duncan

Abigail Eddins, Camille Edgar, Anna Elliott, Kayden Ellis, Ebba Elweroth, Mattie Evans, Gracelon Fell, Leonardo Fiorotti Da Silva, Honor Fluker, Michael Ford, Leonardo Fuentes, Fisher Fuller

Peter Gardner, Joshua Giles, Alexis Gillette, William Givens, Michael Gould, Madison Grace, Luke Graham, Taylor Greene, Nicole Griswold

Abdullah Hamid, Emma Hampton, Brea Harris, Taylor Harris, Regan Hickman, Rebecca Hii, Madison Hill, Goodwin Holley, Andrea Hughes

Jake Jaye, Landon Jessee, Allie Kelley, Maggie Kenyon, Bethany Kilgore, Sierra Knight, Kaden Kugler, Elisabeth Langley, Raegan Latiolais, Logan Lipke, Madison Lipke, Katelyn Lippold

Amanda Majors, Katelyn Maten, Megan McCartney, Braylee McMath, Bai-Lee McNair, Marina Mellado Baron, Elyssa Messick, William Mims, Alexcia Min, Stephen Mixon, Marlee Montalvo, Andrew Moore, Lacee Moore, Esmeralda Morataya, Katie Murphree, Kelly Murphree, Lexi Myers

Lydia Nicholson, Blakeley Norris, Joao Okano, Anna Olsen, Peter Olsen, Johan Ong, Emily Otts, Erin Parker, Jocelyn Phillips, Sarah Polk, Lott Putnam, Santiago Reina Mendivelso, Victoria Richardson, Zoe Richardson, Jillian Robinson, Brooklyn Rowell

Taylor Sasser, Brooke Schachle, Greta Schneider, Hayden Seale, Courtney Sides, Merrin Simmons, Jacylin Smith, Guido Solaro, Nicholas Spears, Lillian Steiner. Kylee Stewart, Bryna Stokes, Lyla Kae Stokes, Bryant Story, Faith Taylor, Dallas Trehern, Sabrina Turner, Sarah Tyler

Melissa Umanzor, Layne Vidich, William Wayne, Samuel Werry, Macayla Wiggins, Luana Wild, Lora Williams, Zorey Williams, Joy Wilson, Carlee Wyatt

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Gospel Ensemble ‘Dunamis’ Presents Powerful Night of Worship on Feb. 25

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile’s new gospel ensemble, Dunamis, welcomes the community to an unforgettable night of worship and praise with “Lift Every Voice and Sing: The Journey Continues.” 

students

The free event begins at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at Mt. Hebron Church Ministries, 2531 Berkely Avenue in Mobile.

This dynamic celebration of gospel music will feature a mass choir and surprise performances from some of the region’s most gifted gospel vocalists. Dunamis and guests will present powerful classics by legendary artists such as the Mississippi Mass Choir, Thompson Community Choir, Kurt Carr & the Kurt Carr Singers, Richard Smallwood and Donald Lawrence. 

Power and Strength

Dunamis is an auditioned ensemble from UM’s Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA) consisting of talented student vocalists and six mentor vocalists who serve as faculty, staff or leaders. The name, derived from the Greek word for “power” or “strength,” reflects the group’s mission to share the message of Acts 1:8 – receiving power through the Holy Spirit to impact lives through gospel music. 

students

The ensemble is under the direction of Kenneth Brandon, UM worship leadership major and minister of music at Mt. Hebron Church Ministries, and Cory Anderson, UM alumnus and ASOTA coordinator of academic services.

The upcoming concert is a continuation of the powerful journey that began with Dunamis’ inaugural concert in February 2024, “From Dorsey to Dillard: An Evolutionary Journey through Gospel Music.” That event, which traced the rich history and evolution of gospel music, was the spark that led to the official formation of Dunamis. 

A Clear Mission

Since its debut, Dunamis has quickly become a force in the Mobile gospel music community, captivating audiences with artistry, passion and commitment to honoring gospel’s deep cultural and spiritual roots. In just this first year, Dunamis has shared the stage with some of gospel music’s most influential artists, from singing background for gospel artist Maurette Brown-Clarke to opening for gospel legend John P. Kee.

Kenneth

Ensemble director Brandon says, “This year’s concert represents a full-circle moment for us. What started as a single event last year has now grown into a dedicated ensemble with a clear mission — to celebrate Christ’s nature through a powerful demonstration of culture. This is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to share this next chapter with you.”

Learn more about Dunamis and the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Starts New Year with Key Updates to Senior Leadership Team

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile starts the new year with three key updates to its senior leadership team. UM President Charles Smith announced the hiring of Lynn Smith as vice president for business affairs, the appointment of Brian Boyle to the newly created role of special assistant to the president, and the appointment of Dr. Nathan Harris as vice president for institutional relations.

Additional members of UM’s senior leadership team include Dr. Pamela Buchanan Miller, vice president for academic affairs; Lesa Moore, vice president for marketing and public relations; and Charity Wittner, vice president for student affairs.

“Together, these leaders are poised to accomplish historic things for the University of Mobile,” said President Smith.

Lynn Smith

Lynn Smith, Vice President for Business Affairs, Chief Financial Officer

UM’s new chief financial officer and vice president for business affairs is Lynn Smith, formerly director of fiscal planning and analysis at The University of Southern Mississippi. Over Smith’s 18 years at Southern Miss, he also served as director of budget and tax compliance, senior budget analyst and adjunct instructor in the School of Accounting. He was president of the Covington County School Board and has over seven years of experience as a high school economics and government teacher while also coaching baseball, softball and football.

At the University of Mobile, Smith will oversee the university’s annual budget and endowments, provide fiscal analysis and strategic direction, and manage a variety of departments including business affairs, human resources, information technology, plant operations and food services.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration in accounting from The University of Southern Mississippi, a Master of Business Administration from William Carey University, and a Master of Arts in theology and biblical studies from Belhaven University.

Brian

Brian Boyle, Special Assistant to the President & Executive Director for Estates, Grants and Government Relations

A University of Mobile alumnus, Brian Boyle has served his alma mater in a variety of leadership roles for more than 25 years, most recently as vice president for advancement. President Smith cited Boyle’s unique passion, experience and training as vital to the development of the new position of special assistant to the president and executive director for estates, grants and government relations.

Boyle will lead a comprehensive planned-giving program, manage and grow legacy giving, oversee government relations and work closely with the president and vice president for institutional relations to engage government officials, policymakers and other key stakeholders to advocate for the university.

In addition, Boyle teaches in UM’s School of Christian Studies. Previously, he enjoyed a successful career in retail and commercial banking. He holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and a Master of Arts in theology, both from UM.

Nathan

Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations

Harris assumes the new title of vice president for institutional relations after joining the University of Mobile in June 2024 as vice president for strategic initiatives. In addition to directing the university’s fundraising and strategic initiatives, Harris will oversee the areas of alumni relations, donor engagements and career development.

Harris is the author of the book “Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace.” Previously, he served as vice president of advancement at Grace College & Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana. He has taught courses on the New Testament, hermeneutics and theology.

Harris holds a Bachelor of Arts in youth ministry from Malone University. He earned a Master of Theology, Master of Divinity Doctor of Philosophy in biblical studies, each from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. 

Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Integrates AI, 3D Tech and Global Collaboration into Dance Education

by Kathy Dean
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MOBILE, Ala.– Students in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile will experience a revolutionary approach to dance education spring semester, made possible through the international collaboration of Barbara Haines, adjunct dance instructor at the University of Mobile.

Haines participated in project development for higher education in dance as part of “Dance and Method” by the Hungarian Academy of Arts, Research Institute of Art Theory and Methodology. The focus was on benefits of virtual reality in art and pilot preparations research for 3D dance curriculum.

Drawing from her recent presentation at the AI Transformation & Innovation Summit in Budapest, Hungary, Haines is bringing 3D dance educational material that integrates artificial intelligence (AI), Benesh Movement Notation (BMN), and motion capture technology into the classroom. 

Haines presented “Mapping Motion: 3D Dance & Method with Benesh in Action” at the summit, exploring how AI can be used to enhance dance literacy, a foundational skill in dance education. Working with experts, Haines contributed to a prototype that combines 3D animations by Rhonda Ryman-Kane, FIChor, professor emerita, University of Waterloo, Canada, and  technical support by Sang May, Credo Interactive, Vancouver, Canada, along with Haines’s in-depth knowledge of Benesh Movement Notation to help students understand movement, choreography and spatial relationships in dance.

What UM Students Will Learn

As part of this innovative program, Ballet II courses in the Alabama School of the Arts will test the preparatory 3D pilot material in a scientific and experimental setting. Students will use the applied BMN scores to interpret folk dance variations recorded with PhaseSpace Impulse X2 motion capture technology at the CYENS, Center of Excellence, University of Cyprus, and compare them with animated sequences created with DanceForms software. This method will allow students to enhance their cognitive understanding of body positions, timing, and stage presence.

“Students will be immersed in a unique blend of traditional dance training and cutting-edge technology,” said Haines. “They’ll be able to interact with and analyze movement in ways that have never been possible before.”

In addition to the 3D technology, students will explore original dance variations notated in BMN from the Vaganova Choreographic School of Leningrad and the Mariinsky Theatre, offering them the opportunity to study unpublished dance excerpts preserved in the prestigious dance archives of the Royal Academy of Dance, London, UK and The Conservatoire de Paris, Paris, France.

The Future of Dance Education

Haines’ work at the AI Transformation & Innovation Summit also involved developing a new model for integrating AI into dance education. Her presentation highlighted the growing importance of dance literacy, which enables students to read and understand, and apply dance notation both to traditional and contemporary choreography.

“AI is transforming the way we think about dance education, and we’re at the forefront of that change,” said Haines. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn in an environment that embraces both the art and the science of dance.”

Students at the University of Mobile are set to gain valuable skills that bridge the gap between dance tradition and technological advancement. The collaboration between dance notators, animators and AI experts holds great promise for the future of higher education in the arts.

Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva Honors Composer Lawrence K. Moss with New Album Recorded at University of Mobile

by Kathy Dean
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MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile’s Fisher-Brewer Recording Studio played a central role in the creation of “Unseen Paths: A Tribute to Lawrence K. Moss,” with the majority of the album recorded on campus. 

Featuring Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, an internationally renowned pianist and professor of music at the University of Mobile, the collection celebrates the legacy of the celebrated American composer.

Released by Navona Records, Unseen Paths includes “A Life (Variations on an Elusive Theme), a series of 12 evocative piano pieces Moss dedicated to Onalbayeva. The album reflects Moss’s boundless creativity, blending vibrant textures, spiritual themes and adventurous tonal landscapes. 

Fisher-Brewer Recording Studio

The majority of the recordings were produced in July 2021 at the Fisher-Brewer Recording Studio in UM’s Alabama School of the Arts under the direction of Alabama School of the Arts adjunct faculty member and session engineer Chris Springer of iNov8, Inc. The studio provides students professional-level experience collaborating with musicians and producers in the state-of-the-art recording studio.

A Long-Standing Collaboration

Onalbayeva’s long-standing collaboration with Moss began in 2018 with her performance of his work “Ligeti Light” at Carnegie Hall, later recorded at the University of Maryland. Their partnership deepened through the development of “Unseen Paths,” a project that Moss devoted the last years of his life to completing.

Gramophone Magazine Review

Gramophone magazine, in its August 2024 issue, praised Onalbayeva’s contributions, stating:

“’A Life’ finds an intrepid pianist (the vibrant Kadisha Onalbayeva) traversing 12 movements of haunting and colourful substance, complete with subtle percussion effects. It is a prime example of a curious composer keen to explore as many musical paths as possible.” – Donald Rosenberg

An Extraordinary Experience

Onalbayeva expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to bring Moss’s vision to life.

“I am deeply honored that Lawrence K. Moss entrusted me with ‘A Life,’ Collaborating with him on this project has been an extraordinary journey and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

“His music, filled with vibrant colors, profound emotion, and innovative ideas, continues to inspire me. I am grateful for the privilege of preserving his remarkable legacy through this recording,” said Onalbayeva, Steinway artist and director of piano studies at the University of Mobile, an All-Steinway School

About Lawrence Moss

Lawrence K. Moss (1927–2022) was a trailblazer in contemporary classical music, known for his compositions that spanned genres and pushed boundaries. His illustrious career included faculty positions at Mills College, Yale University and the University of Maryland, as well as numerous accolades, including two Guggenheim Fellowships and a Fulbright Scholarship.

UM Commitment to Excellence

“Unseen Paths” not only celebrates Moss’s prolific career but also highlights the University of Mobile’s commitment to excellence in the arts. By supporting projects of this caliber, the university reinforces its role as a hub for innovation, creativity, and the preservation of artistic legacies.

“Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, known around our halls as ‘Dr. O,’ embodies a deep commitment to excellence, innovation and Christian higher education as she leads our piano department as our resident Steinway Artist and director of piano studies,” said Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts.

“Her passion for cultivating the next generation of Christian musicians, combined with her inspiring leadership, continues to elevate our entire music department. She is a beloved professor, and I am profoundly grateful for her dedication to our students and the mission of the Alabama School of the Arts.”

‘Unseen Paths’ Available Now

“Unseen Paths: A Tribute to Lawrence K. Moss” is available now on digital platforms through Navona Records.

For more information about Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva and the University of Mobile’s Fisher-Brewer Recording Studio in the Alabama School of the Arts, visit umobile.edu.

Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

University of Mobile Spring 2025 Chapel Speakers Include Seminary Presidents, Leading Authors, Prominent Pastors and Missions Leaders

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – From seminary presidents and leaders in Southern Baptist life to prominent pastors, leading authors and global missions innovators, the University of Mobile’s Spring 2025 Chapel speaker lineup promises to inspire and challenge students in their faith journey.

The weekly Chapel program is part of the Christian university’s emphasis on faith development and spiritual growth. Along with an active campus ministries program designed to supplement students’ involvement in their local church, the university’s academic program integrates faith and learning across all areas of study.

“At the University of Mobile, our Chapel program reflects our mission to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world,” said UM President Charles Smith.

“This semester’s lineup of speakers brings a wealth of wisdom and experience that will inspire our students to embrace their calling with purpose, in whatever field of study they are pursuing. Each speaker embodies the heart of servant leadership, equipping and challenging our campus community to grow in faith and boldly impact the world for Christ,” Smith said.

Spring 2025 Chapel Speakers are:

January 15 – Mat Alexander, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Gadsden, Alabama. Alexander has served as pastor of FBC Gadsden since 2012.He is an alumnus of the University of Mobile, having graduated in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts in Theology and Humanities. He holds a Master of Divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary where he currently is pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Expository Preaching. 

January 22 – Paul Davis, President of ABWE (Association of Baptists for World Evangelism). Davis leads a global missions organization that partners with about 400 churches and thousands of supporting groups to fulfill the Great Commission. Its core mission is to help missionaries go and empower the local church to send missionaries to more than 84 countries, serving in teams committed to evangelism, discipleship, church planting and national leadership development among the lost and unreached.

January 29 – Dr. Andrew Walker, Associate Dean of the School of Theology and Associate Professor of Christian Ethics and Public Theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. A prolific author whose work has been published in outlets including National Review, The Gospel Coalition and Newsweek, Walker writes about the intersection of Christian ethics, public theology and the common good. He serves as managing editor of WORLD Opinions and is director of the Carl. F.H. Henry Institute for Evangelical Engagement. 

February 5 – Dr. Ted Traylor, Head Pastor at Olive Baptist Church in Pensacola, Florida. Traylor is passionate about mentoring and training young ministers. He is a leader in Southern Baptist life, having served as president of the Florida Baptist Convention, president of the Southern Baptist Convention Pastors’ Conference, and first vice president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

February 12 – Dr. Jamie Dew, President of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Professor of Christian Philosophy. Dew holds two PhDs: a Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Philosophy in Philosophy from the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK. He has published extensively and served as a senior pastor and in a variety of church ministry positions.

February 19 – Mark Bethea, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Montgomery, Alabama. Bethea holds a Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He was named head pastor at First Baptist Montgomery in 2020, after serving the church as associate pastor for outreach and evangelism. He served as a student intern at FBC for two summers, during which time he was called to the ministry.

February 26 – Dr. Danny Akin, President of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Akin has served as SBTS president since 2004. He is known as an advocate for international missions and expository preaching and is the author of several books on theology as well as “Raising Kids with a Heart for Mission” and co-author of “40 Questions About the Great Commission.”

March 12 – Craig Carlisle, President of the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Carlisle is serving his second term as Alabama’s state convention leader and is the first director of missions/associational mission strategist to serve in this role. He has served the Etowah Baptist Association since 2017. Carlisle was instrumental in the launch of a new emphasis in bi-vocational ministry: Calling Out the Called Alabama. 

March 19 – Jeff Medders, Director of Theology and Content for Send Network. Medders is an author, preacher and podcaster, and general editor for New Churches. He is pursuing doctorate in biblical spirituality at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he is studying Charles Spurgeon and the Song of Songs. 

March 26 – Dr. Patrick Schreiner, Associate Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Schreiner is director of the residency PhD program and holds the Gene and Jo Downing Endowed Chair of Biblical Studies. He is the author of numerous books including a textbook on the Gospels titled “The Four Gospels: Jesus, the Hope of the World.” He writes for academic journals as well as popular publications such as Christianity Today and The Gospel Coalition.

April 2 – H.B. Charles Jr., Pastor-Teacher of Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church of Jacksonville and Orange Park, Florida. Charles started pastoring at age 17 as a senior in high school, succeeding his father at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church of Los Angeles. He has served at Shiloh since 2008. Charles is the author/contributing author of  several books and is host of The On Preaching Podcast dedicating to helping pastors preach faithfully, clearly and better. 

Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Enjoy University of Mobile’s Christmas Spectacular on FOX10 Christmas Day

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – This Christmas Day, viewers will have the chance to experience the magic of the University of Mobile’s annual Christmas Spectacular from the comfort of their homes, as WALA FOX10 teams up with the university to air special hour-long highlights. 

The broadcast will air at 7 a.m. and again at 4 p.m. on Christmas Day, bringing the joy and artistry of one of the region’s most beloved holiday performances to a wider audience.

Features UM’s Talented Students

Christmas Spectacular is a musical extravaganza that tells the story of Christmas through performances by students in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile. The popular event features a variety of vocal and instrumental ensembles, orchestra and the University Singers performing a combination of classical and contemporary Christmas music. The university’s production technologies students handled lights, sound, recording and editing as part of their hands-on learning experiences.

The Christian university has presented Christmas Spectacular each November since 2003, kicking off the Christmas season along the Gulf Coast. The show is performed over four days and attracts capacity crowds of more than 8,000, with additional audiences streaming the presentation and watching satellite broadcasts.

The hour-long special being aired this year on FOX10 will include highlights of the 2023 Christmas Spectacular performance at Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

A Christmas Present for the Community

This collaboration between UM and FOX10 marks a momentous opportunity to share the festive celebration with the community and beyond.

“We are proud to partner with the University of Mobile to share the Christmas Spectacular with our viewers,” said Tad Frank, FOX10 director of creative services. “Local community involvement is at the heart of our serving our viewers and residents. This show brings a beloved heartwarming holiday spirit to families all around the Gulf Coast. We are excited to be part of this festive tradition.”

Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, expressed his excitement for the collaboration, noting the significance of sharing the talents of the students with a larger audience.

“Christmas Spectacular is a highlight of the year for our students and faculty, and we are so grateful to FOX10 for helping us bring this performance to even more people this holiday season,” said Goodwin. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas while showcasing the hard work and dedication of our students.”

Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

About WALA FOX10

FOX10 is the Gulf Coast’s news leader serving the Mobile/Pensacola market with more local news and weather than any other local station on more platforms including on-air, the FOX10 Gulf Stream (available on TV streaming devices including Roku, FireTV, Android, Apple and YouTube), online at fox10tv.com, and social media including Facebook, Instagram, X and Tik Tok. As part of Gray Media Group, FOX10 strives to engage and inform our community through innovative programming and partnerships.

Award-Winning UM Professor Shares Gift of Music at Christmas

by Kathy Dean
dunn

MOBILE, Ala. – Ready to add a unique touch to your Christmas music playlist this year? 

University of Mobile Associate Professor of Music Steve Dunn has a special gift for music lovers. His website, SDunnMusic.com, features nearly an hour of original compositions and arrangements of Christmas music, free to enjoy. To listen, visit his website and click on the music player at the bottom of any page.

“My tradition for many years has been to move all of my available Christmas recordings on my website to the site-wide audio player,” said Dunn, chair of the Department of Music and director of instrumental music at the Alabama School of the Arts.

“Most of these are recordings of pieces available in print for orchestra, choir, string quartet and small, mixed ensemble. Some of the pieces are not available for purchase, but everything is available for listening,” he said.

“I do hope you enjoy it, and I hope you’ll share it with others. Merry Christmas!” 

In addition to new arrangements of familiar titles like “Joy To the World” and “Sleigh Ride” are original compositions like “Hush-A-Bye” and new music for the much-loved text “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”

Over 300 Published Works

More than 300 of Dunn’s published works – which represent only a fraction of all he has written – are found in the catalogs of numerous publishing houses. He is in demand as a choral and instrumental guest conductor and has contributed as an author on the subject of church instrumental music for various print and online periodicals.

At UM’s Alabama School of the Arts, Dunn directs several instrumental ensembles including Symphonic Winds and Welsh Revival, while continuing to write music and teach students to create music.

New Students Invited to Apply

The University of Mobile is now accepting applications for new students interested in pursuing bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs in the Alabama School of the Arts.

To learn more about ASOTA and any of the more than 75 academic programs at the Christian university, visit umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

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