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.

Annual All-Steinway Concert on Dec. 3 Showcases University of Mobile Piano Students

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – As an All-Steinway School, the University of Mobile provides its talented students the opportunity to learn and perform on pianos widely considered to be among the best in the world. Those talents will be on display Tuesday, Dec. 3, when UM’s Alabama School of the Arts presents its annual All-Steinway School Celebration Concert. 

Undergraduate and graduate students will perform original compositions along with works by Claude Debussy, Thelonious Monk, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Franz Liszt and more. 

The concert begins at 7 p.m. at Moorer Auditorium in Thomas T. Martin Hall on campus. Tickets are $11 at the door or in advance at umobile.edu/pianofestival. Admission is free for University of Mobile students.

Excellence in Music Education

“Our All-Steinway Concert is a tribute to our talented students and a heartfelt thank you to the donors whose generosity has enabled the University of Mobile to achieve the prestigious All-Steinway School designation,” said Steinway Artist Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, director of piano studies and professor of music. “Their support enriches our students’ educational experiences and upholds our commitment to excellence in music education.”

The University of Mobile earned the All-Steinway designation in 2016 after the “All Steinway, All Together” campaign raised funds to update the university’s inventory of pianos.

Embracing the Challenge

The All-Steinway School designation was a factor in Alison Strunk’s decision to enroll in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile. The senior is double majoring in Piano Performance and English.

“Being an All-Steinway School means that the student body is blessed with the most brilliant, captivating and receptive instruments. This factor alone drew my intrigue because it meant that the university desired to give its students the best chance possible for nurturing their art,” Strunk said.

She hopes the audience will take this message away from the upcoming concert: Never stop achieving your dreams.

“Passion takes discipline for turning a dream into reality,” Strunk said. “The young artists on stage representing the University of Mobile for the All-Steinway School Celebration Concert have fully embraced the challenge of dedication, discipline and dream achieving. I hope our impact will influence others to do the same.”

Zarina Akeyeva, an international graduate student from Kazakhstan, said she is learning not only how to improve her piano skills, but also how to master performing on stage.

“My favorite composer, Sergei Rachmaninoff said, ‘Music should come from the heart and reach other’s heart…’ I think it is the main idea of music, to give feelings to listeners. Music should touch people’s souls and immerse listeners in an absolutely beautiful world,” Akeyeva said. “I am happy to be a part of this amazing musical world and bring joy to my listeners!”

Featured Composers

Students performing their original compositions, hometowns, year, major and title of piece are:

Marabella Wilmoth of Theodore, AL, freshman, Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, original composition titled “Eudaemonia.”

Benjamin Naman of Mobile, AL, junior, Bachelor of Arts in Composition, original composition titled “karul eid almilad – Carrol of Christmas.”

Trenton McGuff of Mobile, AL, sophomore, Bachelor of Arts in Composition, original composition titled “Cycle de la Maree.”

Logan Lipke of Orange Beach, AL, senior, Bachelor of Arts in Music Composition with Studio Production minor, original composition titled “Rend the Kingdom.”

Featured Pianists

Anna Elliot of Gadsden, AL, freshman, Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, “Ballade No. 1” by Claude Debussy.

Christopher Conger of Daphne, AL, junior, Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, “El Puerto” by Isaac Albeniz.

Luke Graham of Ocean Springs, MS, junior, Business Management major with Piano minor, “Ask me now” by Thelonious Monk, arrangement by Jullian Pollack.

Marc Marquis of Mobile, AL, senior, Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, “Etude-Tableau Op.36 No.5 in Eb minor” by Sergei Rachmaninoff.

Alison Strunk of Panama City, FL, senior, English major with Piano Performance minor, “Paganini Etude No. 6 in A Minor” by Franz Liszt.

Eli Whitehead of Seminary, MS, Master of Music in Piano Performance, “Tres Piezas, No. 3 Criola” by Alberto Ginastera.

Rebecca M. Reed of Chickasaw, AL, Master of Music in Piano Performance, “Soiree dans Grenade, No. 2 of Estampes” by Claude Debussy.

Nicholas Lewis of Troy, AL, Master of Music in Piano Performance, “Two Poemes, Op. 32, No. 1 and 2” by Alexander Scriabin.

Zarina Akayeva of Astana, Kazakhstan, Master of Music in Piano Performance, “Momentes Musicaux Op. 16, No. IV Presto” by Sergei Rachmaninoff.

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’s Travis McKenzie Named Army ROTC Outstanding Cadet of the Year 

by Kathy Dean
head shot

MOBILE, Ala. – Travis McKenzie joined the Army ROTC program for the college scholarship it offered, but what he gained was something far greater – a calling to leadership, service and excellence.

Now, the University of Mobile senior psychology major has been named the 2024 Army ROTC Outstanding Cadet of the Year by the Mobile Bay Veterans Commission. 

“I made up my mind that I wanted to be part of the one percent and be the best I can be in everything I do,” McKenzie said, referring to the select group of individuals who serve in the U.S. military, representing just one percent of the nation’s population and embodying dedication, discipline and leadership.

Through his involvement in ROTC, he has developed into a leader who inspires others.

“Iron sharpens iron,” he said, quoting Proverbs 27:17. “My peers and I mold each other every day to be part of that one percent. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am.”

Ranked #1 Cadet

award
Travis McKenzie, left, with LTC Jared Sunsdahl at awards ceremony.

McKenzie is ranked #1 among 70 cadets in the Army ROTC program that includes students from the University of Mobile and University of South Alabama. 

His commander, LTC Jared Sunsdahl, professor of military science at the University of South Alabama, describes McKenzie as “the epitome of a future Army Officer” who will excel in the U.S. Army as a future leader.

McKenzie’s achievements include graduation from the U.S. Army Air Assault School, captaining the Ranger Challenge Team and completing the Cadet Troop Leader Training program in Hawaii. He is a student-athlete on the UM track team and is active in the UM Psychology Club and Officer Christian Fellowship Group, while also volunteering locally.

A Foundation of Faith and Academics

McKenzie credits his time at the University of Mobile, a Christian university, for shaping his character and deepening his faith. 

“UM offered me not just an education but an approach to spiritual growth,” he said. “My faith has become my backbone.” This foundation has helped him excel both in and out of the classroom, where he maintains a 3.25 GPA.

McKenzie’s professors at UM have played a key role in his success. 

“My professors had a huge impact on my success here at UM, working with me not only in the classroom, but checking on me outside of the classroom to keep up with my college career and how I’m developing as an individual,” he said. “They pushed me to be better than I was and constantly told me how much they believed in me.”

A Vision for the Future

The son of Tamika McKenzie and Travis McKenzie Sr. was born and raised in Maplesville, Alabama, and graduated from Bibb County High School. He will be commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in May 2025, as he graduates from the University of Mobile with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

After commissioning, McKenzie plans to lead soldiers in a combat branch of the Army and hopes to join the Army’s psychological operations unit. Long-term, he dreams of joining the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team, combining his psychology background with his leadership experience.

Reflecting on his path, Travis finds strength in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” He believes that every challenge he faces prepares him for the great plans God has in store.

Learn More About UM

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.

‘Boar’s Head Festival’ Returns to University of Mobile December 6 & 7

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announces the return of a UM tradition – The Boar’s Head Festival – with two performances of the medieval-themed Christmas celebration set for Dec. 6 and 7.

Tickets are on sale now for the two-night event held at the Lonnie and Lynne Burnett Event Center on the UM campus. Reserved seats are $55 each and include dinner and a musical and theatrical performance that begins at 6 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit umobile.edu/boars-head.

Kenneth
Dr. Kenneth Bergdolt, center, and students are pictured prior to a Boar’s Head Festival performance in the 1990s.

A Beloved Tradition Returns

The Boar’s Head Festival recreates an era of grandeur and tradition with a themed dinner and entertainment from the Alabama School of the Arts. Students dressed in medieval costumes will sing madrigal songs and present a short performance of “The Second Shepherd’s Play” as the audience enjoys dinner. 

The Boar’s Head Festival was performed annually from 1971 to 2000 under the direction of music professor Dr. Kenneth Bergdolt. Since then, alumni have gathered for Boar’s Head reunions and to remember the beloved professor who brought the celebration to UM, then called Mobile College.

A Medieval Tale

The Boar’s Head ceremony is associated with the 14th-century myth of an Oxford student who was attacked by a wild boar. The student killed the boar by choking it with a book of philosophy and took the boar’s head back to the college that evening for a feast, symbolizing the death of sin and the coming of the Christ child.

“The Boar’s Head Festival was such a beloved tradition here for so many years; we are thrilled to be bringing it back for a one-year celebration,” said Jenna Goodwin, artistic director and executive director of administration and production for the Alabama School of the Arts. “What a joy to be looking back on programs from the 1980s and 1990s as we build and craft this year’s festival to mimic tradition and offer a fresh approach to the evening.”

“The Alabama School of the Arts continues to grow and flourish because of the many musicians who paved the way many years ago under Dr. Kenneth Bergdolt, followed by Dr. Roger Breland and Dr. Al Miller’s leadership,” she added.

Coming Soon

Learn more about upcoming performances by the Alabama School of the Arts and purchase tickets at umobile.edu/asotaseason. 

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 Welcomes Lifeway CEO to Final Chapel of Fall Semester

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Both religious and non-religious people can have a calling – but there’s a difference in discovering you have talent and giving that talent to God, said Dr. Ben Mandrell, president and CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources at the final chapel program for fall semester at the University of Mobile.

“Far more important than your talent, your skill or your degree is the purity of your heart before God. If you have talent and heart, God can do incredible things through you,” he said at the Nov. 6 chapel program in Ram Hall.

Mandrell urged students to take time apart from the busyness of college life to tend to their heart and soul.

“College is one of the most difficult periods of life, because there’s so much work and fun,” he said. “Take time for yourself; keep your relationship with Jesus alive. Take time to be filled with the Holy Spirit.”

He encouraged students: “Take care of your heart and make sure it’s right before God.” 

At UM’s first chapel of the semester, about 500 students received new Christian Standard Bibles, thanks to a generous gift from Lifeway Christian Resources. UM President Charles Smith, opened the Fall Semester chapel series in August with a message on Psalm 23. 

Weekly chapel services are a central part of the University of Mobile’s culture of discipleship and leadership development. The hour-long chapel services feature sermons, lectures or panel discussions on pressing issues. Each chapel begins with prayer and a time of praise and worship led by UM’s Worship Collective student ensemble.

Speakers throughout the semester included pastors and ministry leaders from across Southern Baptist life, including Dr. Charles Smith, president of the University of Mobile, Shane Pruitt, national director of next-gen evangelism with the North American Mission Board and Dr. Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.

Learn more about the University of Mobile and what makes it an award-winning, Christ-centered institution 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 Family Nurse Practitioner Students Celebrate Success with White Coat Ceremony

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Nineteen aspiring Family Nurse Practitioners in the University of Mobile School of Nursing recently donned their white coats, marking a pivotal step in their journey toward advanced practice. In a powerful moment unique to the Christian university, each student took a pledge that set them apart, affirming their commitment not only to excellence in patient care but also to a calling shaped by faith and compassion.

“I will endeavor to be a good steward of my knowledge and skills and of all those resources granted to me by God, understanding that my call to this vocation is for the glory of His Kingdom,” they pledged.

As they recited the Advanced Practice Nurse Pledge, these future practitioners affirmed a commitment to lifelong learning, community leadership and person-centered health care.

A Calling that Honors God

Dr. Jessica Garner, graduate dean of the School of Nursing in the university’s Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, said the original pledge was written two years ago by faculty.

“Our goal in creating this pledge was to instill a sense of purpose and responsibility that goes beyond clinical skill,” Garner said. “We want our students to see their role as advanced practice nurses as a calling – one rooted in compassion, integrity and a commitment to serve others with humility.

“This pledge reflects the values we hold dear at UM, encouraging our students to approach each patient with empathy and to view their vocation as a way to honor God’s work through them.”

White Coat Recipients for 2024

The White Coat Ceremony, held Oct. 25 at the Lonnie and Lynne Burnett Event Center, marks the students’ transition to the next portion of their training, which will include clinical rotations. Students will complete more than 600 clinical hours and receive additional course training necessary to assume the Family Nurse Practitioner role.

The ceremony featured remarks from UM President Charles Smith and Campus Pastor Jared Baria, with a musical presentation from the UM ensemble Sofree. Dr. Melinda McGaughy, associate professor of nursing, joined Garner in delivering additional remarks and presenting the white coats.

group photo

White Coat recipients are: Chelsey Alwell, Alexandra Audie, Allison Cole, Treasure Fluker, Vantrell Fox, Bailey Garriga, Ashley Hall, Courtney Hall, Ashley Hardee, Aaron Haycraft, Jennifer Huynh, Jeri Jordan, Sonia Pierce, Michaela Reynolds, Madison Robinson, Lashanda Rudolf, Peyton Scott Jernigan, Jacinta Whitt and Dorothy Zimmer.

Accelerated Online Program

The MSN-FNP program at the University of Mobile is a faith-based Family Nurse Practitioner program that prepares nurses at the master’s level as advanced practice nurses. The accelerated online program offers nurses a fast track to becoming Family Nurse Practitioners with a program that can be completed in just four semesters, or students may choose to attend part-time for seven semesters. UM’s program includes three on-campus intensives, including orientation and one intensive each fall semester.

Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a regionally accredited educational institution. A minimum of one year of clinical experience is preferred for applicants. First priority deadline for applications for fall semester 2025 is April 1, 2025. For information on the University of Mobile Family Nurse Practitioner Program or other programs in the Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, visit umobile.edu/um-info.

University of Mobile Advanced Practice Nurse Pledge

The University of Mobile’s Advanced Practice Nurse Pledge follows:

I publicly acknowledge and accept the privileges and responsibilities given to me today as an advanced practice nurse in training and dedicate myself to this pledge:

I will respect the scientific work of those practitioners, scientists, and researchers in whose steps I walk, and I will gladly share knowledge with others. 

I will recognize my responsibility as a leader and advocate in my community to support and participate in actions to improve high-quality, person-centered health care for all. 

I will respect the autonomy, privacy, diversity, culture, and past experiences of my patients, and serve with empathy and kindness.

Knowing my own limitations and those of medicine, I commit myself to a lifelong journey of learning to cure, relieve, and comfort with humility and compassion.

I will endeavor to be a good steward of my knowledge and skills and of all those resources granted to me by God, understanding that my call to this vocation is for the glory of His Kingdom.

I make these promises solemnly, freely, and upon my honor.

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.

Daphne High School, UMS-Wright Earn Honors at UM Brain Battle 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile campus was the site of an epic intellectual battle Sept. 26 when students from Mobile and Baldwin counties competed in the fifth UM Brain Battle Tournament. At the end of the day, Daphne High School students held the coveted trophy, along with the title of UM Brain Battle Champions. 

ums

UMS-Wright earned second place honors at the event. More than 80 students from 11 high schools gathered on the UM campus to compete in the scholars’ bowl tournament. The UM Brain Battle is a qualifier for NAQT’s High School National Championship Tournament.

Participating schools also included Saraland High School, Alma Bryant High School, Gulf Shores High School, Elberta High School, Baker High School, McGill-Toolen Catholic High School, Bayside Academy, Satsuma High School, and Cottage Hill Christian Academy.

Tournament coordinator Amy Burdette said the University of Mobile Brain Battle brings together some of the best and brightest students from the community for a day of mind-stretching fun.

“At the University of Mobile, we are committed to shaping the future by serving our community and empowering the next generation of scholars to make a lasting impact,” said the English instructor in UM’s College of Arts & Sciences.

University faculty served as moderators for the event. 

“An extraordinary tournament relies on outstanding moderators,” Burdette said. “Our faculty infused the event with enthusiasm, flair, confidence and exceptional communication skills!”

UM students volunteered to serve as scorekeepers and timekeepers.

“This event had the largest turnout of student volunteers ever, with over 60 readying their talents. Their help was key to the tournament’s success. Our UM students not only showed their commitment to service but also built great connections with high school competitors, which is important for showing support and encouragement,” Burdette said.

Chick-fil-A joined the tournament as a corporate sponsor, along with Joe Bullard and Pharos Land Development

“We have seen tremendous growth in our sponsorships this year, and we are incredibly grateful for the support. It not only enhances our events but also strengthens our commitment to serving the community,” Burdette said. “We are so blessed that our tournament is becoming more successful every semester.”

For more information about the University of Mobile Brain Battle, visit umobile.edu/brainbattle.

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. To learn more about UM, visit umobile.edu/um-info.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university offering on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.

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

University of Mobile Dedicates Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, Honors Longtime Supporter and Healthcare Leader

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile dedicated the Celia Wallace College of Health Professions during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 17 that honored Ms. Celia Wallace, a long-time supporter of the Christian university and a visionary leader in the healthcare industry.

Celia Wallace

The newly named Celia Wallace College of Health Professions at the University of Mobile encompasses the School of Nursing, School of Nurse Anesthesia, School of Health and Sports Science, and Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice.

‘A Tireless Advocate for Quality Healthcare’

A healthcare leader for over 50 years, Wallace’s contributions have shaped the medical field in Alabama and beyond. An inductee into the Alabama Healthcare Hall of Fame, her career began in radiology technology, fueling her passion for healthcare. She has since created nearly 2,000 jobs and co-founded Southern Medical Health Systems which owns Springhill Medical Center – the largest solely owned hospital in the U.S. She is chairman of the board of the corporation that also owns and operates Springhill Rehabilitation and Senior Residence, Springhill Physician Practices, The SSI Group, and several other organizations. 

Celia Wallace

“Celia Wallace is a tireless advocate for quality, caring and compassionate healthcare, and a strong supporter of Christian higher education,” said Dr. Charles Smith, president of the University of Mobile.

“Her longstanding relationship with the University of Mobile has profoundly shaped our ability to prepare students for careers in healthcare. Naming our College of Health Professions in her honor is a fitting recognition of her immense contributions to our campus and community,” Smith added.

In addition to her leadership and support of the 2018 Weaver Hall Renovation Project which resulted in the university’s state-of-the-art healthcare training facility, Wallace has served on the UM Board of Trustees, established the Gerald L. Wallace Tennis Center on campus, and created endowed student scholarships. 

Celia Wallace

‘A Drive to Excel’

“I’m definitely honored by this recognition,” said Wallace. “We all know how much I love healthcare, and we’re encouraged by the University of Mobile’s drive to excel in this area.

“They have done so much to be proud of.  We’ve noticed the capabilities of those who are participating in the nursing program and how they perform on their boards.  It’s indicative of the good nurses that these students are going to be.  It’s a very good school of nursing, no two ways about it,” Wallace added.

The University of Mobile School of Nursing has earned a 100% NCLEX pass rate for two consecutive years in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and has a 100% job placement rate. UM has been named the #1 BSN program in the Best Nursing Schools in Alabama ranking by Nursingeducation.org.

Also recently, UM’s first graduating class in the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) program achieved a 100% first-time pass rate for the National Certification Exam, the highest pass rate in Alabama for 2024. The inaugural class in the new School of Nurse Anesthesia also had 100% job placement.

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, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Every Student Matters, So Every Gift Matters on University of Mobile Day of Giving Oct. 25 

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is calling on alumni, friends and the community to come together and make a lasting impact in the lives of students by participating in UM’s Fall Day of Giving on Friday, Oct. 25.

It’s the university’s biggest fundraising event of the 2024 year. Every dollar given is a dollar that directly impacts students through scholarships, academic programs and opportunities for spiritual growth. Gifts are tax-deductible and can be made online now at umobile.edu/dayofgiving or call the Office for Advancement at 251.442.2913.

“Our Fall Day of Giving offers an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in the life of a student. Every student matters – and because of that, every gift matters,” said UM President Charles Smith. 

“This is more than just a day of donations; it’s a day to unite around our mission of equipping our students to make an impact for the glory of God and the good of the world,” Smith added.

Every Vocation is a Calling from God

Since 1961, the University of Mobile has existed to train men and women to serve the Lord through the vocations to which God has called them, from mathematics to ministry, accounting to health care, education to English, the arts to the sciences, and more. 

The university offers associate to doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs and is one of the top small colleges in Alabama. UM recently was recognized as having the #1 Best Dorms and #1 Safest College Campus in the state.

Every Gift Makes a Difference

Brian Boyle, vice president for advancement, said every gift received during the Day of Giving is important.

“With every gift, no matter the size, you can play a vital role not only in helping students achieve their dreams, but in preparing them to be courageous and committed leaders in our community and beyond,” Boyle says.

On Oct. 25, University of Mobile’s social media will feature stories from students and alumni, give updates throughout the day from campus and at a companion event, the University of Mobile Golf Classic. 

In addition to contributing, supporters are encouraged to share social media posts and invite others to join the effort.

Join the University of Mobile Day of Giving and make your tax-deductible donation, at umobile.edu/dayofgiving.

If you would like to learn more about the University of Mobile, click here to request more information.

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.

 

University of Mobile Partners with Pine Grove Elementary for Robotics Training Initiative

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. – Teachers at Pine Grove Elementary in Bay Minette, Alabama, soon will be using robots to bring computer science and digital literacy lessons to life, thanks to a unique partnership with the University of Mobile School of Education. 

Dr. Jessica Freeland, assistant professor of education at UM, will conduct a hands-on training session for teachers at Pine Grove Elementary on Wednesday, Oct. 16, from 12-3 p.m., where she will demonstrate how the robots can be used to enhance lessons in math, science, social studies, reading, and even physical education. Her goal is to build teacher confidence in using technology by making coding and robotics more accessible and relatable. 

robots

“Too often, teachers shy away from technology like robotics because they find terms like ‘coding’ intimidating,” said Freeland. “Through this project, I want to demystify those concepts and show how robots can be seamlessly integrated into everyday lessons. By empowering educators, we’re ensuring that students will be exposed to critical 21st-century skills in a fun and engaging way.”

Educational Robots Provided Through Grant

A key feature of the project is its dual impact: both Pine Grove Elementary and the University of Mobile will benefit. Half of the robots will remain with Pine Grove Elementary, while the other half will be used by Freeland to train UM’s pre-service teachers in her Education & Technology courses in the School of Education.

“This initiative allows us to not only support a high-needs school but also equip future teachers with hands-on experience in robotics and coding,” Freeland explained. 

bee

As the UM School of Education instructional design and technology graduate program coordinator, Freeland is passionate about empowering classroom teachers with the knowledge and skills to provide the computer science and digital literacy instruction required for elementary schools by the Alabama State Department of Education. She envisions her TE 405 students at UM partnering with Pine Grove teachers to co-teach robotics lessons, further reinforcing the collaboration between the two institutions and enhancing the educational experience for students on both ends.

Dr. Pam Moorer, principal of Pine Grove Elementary, said, “We are so grateful to the University of Mobile and to the North Baldwin Community Foundation. The more opportunities we can offer our students, the more their horizons are broadened. You never know when you are going to spark something in a child, something that could lead to what they do in the future. We hope this inspires our students and creates curiosity they want to explore.”

The project was made possible by a grant from the North Baldwin Community Foundation, an affiliate of The Community Foundation of South Alabama.

Robots in Action

The robots provided through the grant are designed to introduce elementary students to early coding and problem-solving skills in engaging, age-appropriate ways. Below are brief descriptions of the robots that both Pine Grove Elementary and the University of Mobile will receive:

education
  • 4 Sphero Indi Robots: These small, car-like robots can be programmed to follow paths by placing color-coded mats on the floor. Indi responds to commands such as “Speed Up” or “Turn Right,” helping students grasp basic coding concepts and practice computational thinking.
  • 6 Bee Bots and 6 Bee Bot Mats: These robots allow students to input a sequence of directional commands to navigate obstacles or reach designated points on a mat. They teach students programming logic through fun, interactive challenges and foster critical thinking and debugging skills.
  • 4 Ozobot Evo Robots: These small robots follow black lines and respond to color-coded markers, allowing students to create custom paths and commands. For more advanced learners, Ozobots can also be programmed using block coding through an app, offering a deeper dive into coding.

Empowering Students Through Technology

Freeland says introducing young students to robotics and coding will prepare them for future learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. 

“Robotics isn’t just about learning to code; it’s about problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity,” said Freeland. “These are the skills that will help today’s students become tomorrow’s innovators. My hope is that by making robotics accessible, students will develop confidence in their abilities and discover how much fun learning can be.”

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, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

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