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. – Outstanding students in the Grace Pilot School of Business at the University of Mobile were inducted into Delta Mu Delta, an international honor society for business. The top 20% of each class of junior, senior and Master of Business Administration students are invited to join this professional honor society.
Honorees, their year and major are:
Aspen Marie Adams, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting
Jackson Childs Breal, master’s, 5-year MBA program, management
Isabella Rose Cameron, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting
Brady Patrick Clarke, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting
Emory Blaine Cooper, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting
Dazsha Dean, junior, management
Joshua Kyle Harris, senior, 5-year MBA program, accounting
Manisha K C, master’s, Master of Business Administration
Alexis Grace Lambert, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting
Ayanna N. Malone, senior, software development
Michael Andrew McCrary, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting
Joao Pedro Okano, senior, management
Emily Morgan Silbernagel, junior, healthcare management
Braylan T. Stringfellow, senior, 5-year MBA program, accounting
Haley Vanderford, senior, management
Taylor Faye Vice, junior, 5-year MBA program, accounting
Whitney Kay Wallace, senior, business administration management
Jordan Nicole Wood, senior, healthcare management
Luana Seyboth Wild, senior, management
Jacob Alan Wright, senior, 5-year MBA program, management
For information about academic programs in the Grace Pilot School of Business or to apply for admission to the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu.
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.
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 elite vocal ensemble Voices of Mobile begins a summer 2024 tour that has members singing the national anthem at a Houston Astros game, performing on the Huckabee talk show hosted by former governor of Arkansas Mike Huckabee, and presenting a devotional message to more than 1,200 employees at Ramsey Solutions.
“This is a great opportunity to share the gospel and tell our University of Mobile story,” said Dr. Roger Breland, executive director of the Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts and dean emeritus of the Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA).
The tour also includes a cruise to Mexico and ministry at churches across the southeast. The summer tour follows a spring break tour that saw the ASOTA ensemble join a 200-voice choir at Carnegie Hall in New York City to present a 30thanniversary concert of Saviour, a modern oratorio telling the story of God’s passion for His people.
Houston Astros and Voices of Mobile
Voices of Mobile will sing the national anthem on May 16 at Minute Maid Park in Houston when the Astros host the Oakland Athletics. Houston Astros Manager Joe Espada was a standout on the UM Rams baseball team and recently was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters from his alma mater. Read more about Joe Espada, the Houston Astros and the University of Mobile connection here.
Voices of Mobile on The Huckabee Show
Huckabee is a nationwide talk show hosted by former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee that airs Saturday evenings on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN). The ensemble is scheduled to tape two songs on June 20 in Hendersonville, Tennessee. The show will air Saturday, June 22. Breland, founder of Voices and the university’s Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts, will chat with Huckabee during the show.
This isn’t the first time the former presidential candidate has heard Voices of Mobile. Huckabee was a featured speaker at UM’s annual Leadership Banquet in 2008, where Voices of Mobile performed.
University of Mobile and Ramsey Solutions
On June 26, the last day of summer tour, Voices of Mobile will lead over 1,200 employees of Ramsey Solutions in a morning devotional gathering in Franklin, Tennessee. Among those is likely to be Ramsey Personality, No. 1 best-selling author, co-host of The Ramsey Show & Smart Money – and 2012 UM alumnus – George Kamel.
Kamel holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication from UM. A profile in the university’s TorchLight alumni magazine quotes Kamel: “My time at the University of Mobile was a season I’ll always cherish – from the friends I made, the skills I learned, the professors that poured into me, and the opportunities that were given to me.”
Other UM connections at Ramsey Solutions include UM alumni and former Voices of Mobile members Abigail Butler, administrative assistant to the senior executive vice president, and Drew Fitzgerald, speaker relations manager. Kyle Patton, also a UM alumnus, serves as associate director of finance.
About Voices of Mobile
Voices of Mobile is a highly versatile, auditioned vocal ensemble that presents over 125 concerts every year through regional and international tours, offering students opportunities to perform at significant venues such as the White House. Over the past 21 years, Voices has toured 12 nations and presented 2,000 concerts in the United States and across the world.
Voices of Mobile is among more than 15 ensembles in UM’s Alabama School of the Arts, described as “a different kind of performing arts school.”
About the Alabama School of the Arts
“The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile provides quality, world-class academics with unique and memorable performance opportunities in a Christian environment,” said Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean and assistant professor of music.
The Christian university located in Mobile, Alabama, is enrolling students now for fall semester 2024. Scholarships are still available for prospective students pursuing associate through doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Apply for admission at umobile.edu/apply.
Audition scholarships are available in the Alabama School of the Arts, an All-Steinway School offering degrees in music, worship leadership, theatre and production technologies. Schedule an audition at umobile.edu/audition.
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.
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 Class of 2024 celebrated graduation on the Great Commission Lawn with fireworks, cheers from family and friends, and a UM tradition – touching the Great Commission Globe to signify being sent into the world to pursue God’s calling for their lives.
Many of the 300 members of the Class of 2024 graduated from high school during the pandemic and did not experience a traditional high school graduation ceremony. To make their UM graduation extra special, each graduate received a brightly wrapped present to open at the ceremony’s end. Each present – a University of Mobile Alumni picture frame – was wrapped by members of the 55+ life group at Cottage Hill Baptist Church as part of their “Love Where You Live” community service program.
Joe Espada Honored
The Doctor of Humane Letters was awarded to Joe Espada, manager of Major League Baseball’s Houston Astros and former UM Rams baseball standout. The presentation was announced via video, as the Astros were scheduled to host the Seattle Mariners later that afternoon at Minute Made Park in Houston, Texas. Read more about Joe Espada and watch the video here.
Weaver Awards Presented
The university presented its two top student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, to Randall Luke Killam of Semmes, Alabama, and Brinkley Madison Hearn of Mobile, Alabama. Read more about the Weaver Awards here.
Burnett Delivers Commencement Address
The commencement ceremony also marked Dr. Lonnie Burnett’s last day as president of his alma mater, and he delivered the commencement address. UM’s 6th president, Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr., begins his tenure on May 6.
The outgoing president retires from 20 years of service to the university as professor and administrator, including five years as president. Prior to joining UM, the 1979 graduate of then-Mobile College taught history at the high school level in Mobile County Public Schools for 25 years.
In his final address as UM president, Burnett urged graduates to dream big, love what they do, and pursue God’s purpose for their lives.
“I pray that you are persistent when the world says ‘just give up.’ I pray that you have passion when the world says ‘just get by.’ I pray you seek and follow God’s purpose when the world says ‘get in line,’” Burnett said.
The Class of 2024 includes the first 12 graduates of the university’s new Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program, as well as the first Associate Degree in Nursing graduates since that program was reinstated.
Lisa Cristina Rosado Rivera – San Juan, Puerto Rico, M.M., Vocal Performance
College of Arts and Sciences, Master of Arts
Taylor Alexander Atwell – Dothan, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling, Area Award: Marriage and Family Counseling
Cosette Justine Balmy – Martinique, Marriage and Family Counseling
Christal Johnson – Eight Mile, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling
Ashlynn Sophia Jones – Pickerington, Ohio, Marriage and Family Counseling
Elizabeth Raygan Salors – Mobile, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling
Warunyaporn Sumrittikul – Bangkok, Thailand, Marriage and Family Counseling
College of Arts and Sciences, School of Christian Studies, Master of Arts
Jared L. Baria – Semmes, Alabama, Biblical and Theological Studies, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award, Area Award: Biblical and Theological Studies
Irving Boykin – Mobile, Alabama, Biblical and Theological Studies
Jason R. Breland – Hendersonville, Tennessee, Worship Leadership and Theology
Melvin Dunn – Mobile, Alabama, Worship Leadership and Theology
Conrad A. Erskine – Havana, Florida, Worship Leadership and Theology
Mark Goff – Orlando, Florida, Worship Leadership and Theology, Area Award: Worship Leadership and Theology
Ellis L. Harper, Jr. – Mobile, Alabama, Biblical and Theological Studies
Aaron G. Pouncey – Mobile, Alabama, Worship Leadership and Theology
College of Health Professions, School of Health and Sports Science, Master of Athletic Training
Paolo Gabriel Gorme – Atmore, Alabama
Madilyn H. Peters – Northport, Alabama
Hailee A. Richard – Gretna, Louisiana, Area Award: Master of Athletic Training
College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing
Mary Margaret Endris – Jackson, Mississippi, Family Nurse Practitioner
Connor Elizabeth Frost – Silas, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Victoria Powell Gibson – Monroeville, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Aundrea Sheree Hales – Heidelberg, Mississippi, Family Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Palmer Maddox – Mobile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Grace B. Mason – Mobile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Katherine Anne Oberman – Birmingham, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Brieanne Nicole Ragas – Pace, Florida, Family Nurse Practitioner
Logan Thompson – Toxey, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Grace Pilot School of Business, Master of Business Administration and Master of Science
Abdulmajeed Sulaiman Alsalmi – Mobile, Alabama, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Archie J. Bean – Norwich, England, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Diego Benegas – Villarrica, Paraguay, Master of Business Administration
Jackson Childs Breal – Spanish Fort, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Benjamin W. Bryant – Louisville, Kentucky, Master of Business Administration
Tom Carles – Paris, France, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Jarnay Shantel Collins – Loxley, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Mike Keita Conneh – Sheffield, England, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Leon Finke – Brunswick, Germany, Master of Business Administration
Gonzalo J. Godoy – Viña Del Mar, Chile, Master of Business Administration
Mikayla L. Hintz – Baltimore, Ohio, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Reagan A. Hyde – Milton, Florida, Master of Business Administration
Angelo Yasuro Ito Tost – São Paulo, Brazil, Master of Business Administration
Manisha K C – Austin, Texas, Master of Business Administration
Randall Luke Killam – Semmes, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Mindup Lama – Kathmandu, Nepal, Master of Business Administration
Brendon M. Lanham – Bay Minette, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Dani Leone – Putignano, Italy, Master of Business Administration
Carly McKeithen McCulloch – Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Madison Grace McGuff – Satsuma, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Sage McKenna – Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Master of Business Administration, School of Business Achievement Award
Frederick Lee Moons – Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Narjis Mzibri – Rabat, Morocco, Master of Business Administration
Stephen N. Poche – Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Anna-Kathryn Rolin – Atmore, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Tiago Sarmento – Vila Real, Portugal, Master of Business Administration
Julisa D. Theodore – Gulfport, Mississippi, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Caroline Belle Tucker – Headland, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Alex Verdu – Barcelona, Spain, Master of Business Administration
Anna Verdu Cobo – Valencia, Spain, Master of Business Administration
Thierry Zabarel – Paris, France, Master of Business Administration
School of Education, Master of Arts, and Master of Education
Raven Denise Casey – Mobile, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education
Destinee E. Cole – Birmingham, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education
Amber Brooks Davis – Saraland, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education, School of Education Achievement Award
Victoria Andrea Gonzalez Moya – Santiago, Chile, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy, Area Award: Higher Education Leadership and Policy
Margaret M. Lee – Mobile, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education, Area Award: Alternative Elementary Education
Jahlia S. McNealy – Louisville, Kentucky, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education
Kassidy Mills – Saraland, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Alternative Early Childhood Education
Angela D. Morris – Loxley, Alabama, M.A., Elementary Education
Robyn W. Nail – Saraland, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education
Kyra Cheyenne Plotner – Rio Rancho, New Mexico, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy
Shamika W. Williamson – Mobile, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education
Shyla Briggs Wilson – Mobile, Alabama, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology, Area Award: Instructional Design and Technology
Susan L. Wright – Daphne, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education
Alabama School of the Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Science
Ethan Chase Andrews – Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Benjamin Micah Barnett – Huntsville, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies Magna Cum Laude
David I. Beasley – Cameron, Missouri, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Worship Leadership, Summa Cum Laude
Nathan A. Blake – Tuscaloosa, Alabama B.S., Music, Magna Cum Laude
Sarah L. Bransom – Pearland, Texas, B.F.A., Performance, Musical Theatre, Cum Laude
Cedric S. Burrell – Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Music, Education (Non-Certification), Area Award: Music Education (Non-Certification)
Joshua T. Clackler – Prattville, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies
Dylan Joseph Colburn – Moundville, Alabama, B.A., Music, Area Award: Music
Randall Luke Killam – Semmes, Alabama, B.M., Piano Performance, William K. Weaver, Jr. Excellence Award, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award, Area Award: Piano Performance, Summa Cum Laude
James M. Loggins – Horton, Alabama, B.S., Music, Education (Non-Certification)
James Gregory Naman – Mobile, Alabama, B.F.A., Performance, Acting, Area Award: Performance, Acting, Magna Cum Laude
Tabitha Marie Ott – Arnold, Missouri, B.F.A., Performance, Acting, Magna Cum Laude
Brenden Tyler Pearson – Dothan, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies, Area Award: Production Technologies, Cum Laude
Jordan D. Pinkston – Spanish Fort, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
William C. Rivers – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies
Claire K. Strong – Mobile, Alabama, B.M., Musical Theatre, Area Award: Musical Theatre
Benjamin Cade Whittington – Fort Worth, Texas, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Madeline R. Woodall – Gulfport, Mississippi, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Science
Hanna K. Alexander – Semmes, Alabama, B.S., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude
Alexia P. Barnett- Saraland, Alabama, B.S., History
Abigale C. Bell – Talladega, Alabama B.F.A., Studio Art, Area Award: Art, Summa Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate
Christian Bishop – Daphne, Alabama, B.A., Philosophy
Sydney Madison Bodiford – Semmes, Alabama, B.S., Marine Science, Summa Cum Laude
Alyssa K. Brashier – Crowley, Texas, B.S., Criminology, B.S., Psychology
Aryany M. Breek – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Magna Cum Laude
Kayley Betsy Burgess – Atmore, Alabama, B.S., Biology, Area Award: Natural Sciences, Magna Cum Laude
John Mark Butler – Anniston, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology
Emily Butts – Gulf Shores, Alabama, B.S., Strategic Communication
Kathryn V. Byars – Auburn, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology
Lily Celeste Caswell – Baker, Florida, B.A., Public History, Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate
Jamel H. Clark – Tampa, Florida, B.S., Organizational Leadership
Jessica Mae Clements – Nashville, Tennessee, B.S., Psychology, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Psychology, Summa Cum Laude
AnnaLaura Elizabeth Colbert – Bay Minette, Alabama, B.A., English, Summa Cum Laude
Emma Noelle Landry – Gautier, Mississippi, B.A., World Languages and Studies, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: World Languages and Studies, Summa Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate
Elijah D. Mahn – Dauphin Island, Alabama, B.S., Marine Science
Samuel McMurray Malone – Fairhope, Alabama, B.S., Communication
Emily M. Martin – Eight Mile, Alabama, B.S., Criminology, B.S., History, Area Award: Criminology Area Award: History, Magna Cum Laude
Caitlin Annette McRee – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Biology, Area Award: Secondary Education, Summa Cum Laude
Savannah Yokel Morgan – Fairhope, Alabama, B.S., Organizational Leadership
Joseph C. Moses III – Baton Rouge, Lousiana, B.S., General Studies
Jordyn L. Myles – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Biology, Magna Cum Laude
James Gregory Naman – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Communication, Magna Cum Laude
Joshua J. Naqvi – Central, Louisiana, B.A., Philosophy, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award, Area, Award: Philosophy, Summa Cum Laude, Honors Program with Thesis Graduate
Jammie D. Oliver – Irvington, Alabama, B.S., History
Jessica L. Parker – Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Psychology, Cum Laude
Samuel R. Phelps – Franklinton, Louisiana, B.S., Marine Science
Madalyn B. Dillard – Dothan, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate
Cameryn O. Edwards – Silverhill, Alabama, Exercise Science
Shawnessy G. Edwards – Fairhope, Alabama, Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude
Jared Harbin – Mobile, Alabama, Exercise Science
Lacy D. Hawthorne-Abrams – Daphne, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude
Katie S. Head – Saraland, Alabama, Kinesiology
Tabitha L. Jordan – Moss Point, Mississippi, Kinesiology, Cum Laude
Miya N. Kimber – Hoover, Alabama, Kinesiology
Jack Thomas Lastorka – Mobile, Alabama, Sport Administration
Jessica M. McCovery-Williams – St. Elmo, Alabama, Kinesiology
Landon R. Moore – Helena, Alabama, Kinesiology
Cooper E. Oman – Lynn Haven, Florida, Sport Administration, Area Award: Sport Administration, Magna Cum Laude
Matthew James Payne – Mobile, Alabama, Kinesiology, School of Health and Sports Science, Achievement Award, Magna Cum Laude
William Thomas Pruitt IV – Prattville, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude
Sophie Alannah Roberts – Swindon, England, Exercise Science
Meagan Elizabeth Sellers – Semmes, Alabama, Kinesiology, Area Award: Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude
Faye N. Sherer-Ward – Citronelle, Alabama, Kinesiology, Summa Cum Laude
TaNaja Rachét Williams – LaPlace, Louisiana, Kinesiology
College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Kaitlyn Armstrong – Mobile, Alabama
Pavel Bakun – Mobile, Alabama
Julie Anna Barwick – Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Area Award: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Magna Cum Laude
Hailey Davina Bice – Clanton, Alabama
Kayla Bridgmon – Birmingham, Alabama
Cathelen Coleman-Dancer – Cleveland, Mississippi
Myla A. Edwards – Brusly, Louisiana
Lillie Zhanè Hawthorne-Abrams – Daphne, Alabama
Ellisse Christine Herrera – Long Beach, California
Maloree C. Kendrick – Saraland, Alabama
Thomas Lapyem – Mobile, Alabama
Margaret Ann Leatherwood – Silverhill, Alabama
Maricela Candelaria Lucas Juan – Wilmer, Alabama, Cum Laude
Veronica Makovey – Roseville, California
Stephanie W. Owens – Mobile, Alabama
Courtney Jarman Phillips – Chunchula, Alabama
Adriano Pintado – Mobile, Alabama
Jessica R. Presley – Perdido, Alabama
Faith Julianne Sanderson – Satsuma, Alabama
Kassidy S. Stringfellow – Mobile, Alabama
Jaila Marie Tillman – Mobile, Alabama
Emily J. Underwood – Spanish Wells, Bahamas
Kaylie Sayasane Verkouille – Saraland, Alabama
Damien C. Williams – Chunchula, Alabama
Haileigh H. Wolfe – Mobile, Alabama
Shelby Layne Wolfe – Wilmer, Alabama
Ziyue Yu – Jilin, Yanji, China, Area Award: Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Magna Cum Laude
Dorothy L. Zimmer – Saraland, Alabama
Grace Pilot School of Business, Bachelor of Science
Jerrilyn R. Barnes – Axis, Alabama, Business Administration, Post-Traditional Area Award
Joshua Bell – Fairhope, Alabama, Management
Jackson Childs Breal – Spanish Fort, Alabama, Management, President’s Scholastic Award, Magna Cum Laude
Benjamin W. Bryant – Louisville, Kentucky, Business Administration, Cum Laude
Emily A. Creamer – Brewton, Alabama, Management
Jacob Hales deLange – Mobile, Alabama, Accounting
Baleigh A. Essary – Mobile, Alabama, Management, Summa Cum Laude
Nicole Elizabeth Everman – Danville, Kentucky, Integrated Marketing Communications, Cum Laude
Gonzalo J. Godoy – Viña Del Mar, Chile, Management
Zacharia Hasler – Vasteras, Sweden, Business Administration
Tempest Makalya Hebert – Semmes, Alabama, Software Development
Mikayla L. Hintz – Baltimore, Ohio, Management
Jasmine D. Howze – Mobile, Alabama, Business Administration
Gary Jaleel Jefferson – Baltimore, Maryland, Computer Information Systems
Ivan Jolivet – Paris, France, Management, Magna Cum Laude
Maximus C. Keebaugh – Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Management
Randall Luke Killam – Semmes, Alabama, Management, William K. Weaver, Jr. Excellence Award, School of Business Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude
Brendon M. Lanham – Bay Minette, Alabama, Accounting, Area Award: Accounting, Magna Cum Laude
Robert Terrell Letterman – New Orleans, Louisiana, Healthcare Management, Area Award: Healthcare Management
Guilherme Canas Lopes – Lisboa, Portugal, Management, Magna Cum Laude
Fernando J. Lopez – Dothan, Alabama, Integrated Marketing Communications
Ayanna N. Malone – Mobile, Alabama, Software Development, Cum Laude
Guillermo Pena Martinez – Cuernavaca, Mexico, Business Administration, Area Award: Finance
Madison Grace McGuff – Satsuma, Alabama, Software Development, Area Award: Software Development, Magna Cum Laude
Sage McKenna – Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Accounting
Amy Annette Milam – Mobile, Alabama, Management
Andrew Brian Naugher – Guntersville, Alabama, Computer Information Systems
Savanna Harris Naugher – Huntsville, Alabama, Accounting, Cum Laude
Miguel Martins Pereira – Lisboa, Portugal, Computer Information Systems, Area Award: Computer Information Systems, Summa Cum Laude
Ethan C. Phan – Belle Chasse, Louisiana, Healthcare Management
Stephen N. Poche – Mobile, Alabama, Management
Joi De’Andra Robinson – Theodore, Alabama, Business Administration
Anna-Kathryn Rolin – Atmore, Alabama, Management
Davis M. Ruffin – Biloxi, Mississippi, Management
Cy A. Smith – Lucedale, Mississippi, Management
Haylee A. Springer – Eight Mile, Alabama, Management, Magna Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate
Abigail C. Thibodaux – Satsuma, Alabama, Accounting, President’s Scholastic Award, Summa Cum Laude
Caroline Belle Tucker – Headland, Alabama, Accounting, President’s Scholastic Award, Summa Cum Laude
Haley Grace Vanderford – Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Management, President’s Scholastic Award , Area Award: Management, Summa Cum Laude
Morgan Hill Wallace – Pinson, Alabama, Management, Magna Cum Laude
Whitney Kay Wallace – Mobile, Alabama, Business Administration
Dasha Janae Wimbley – Mobile, Alabama, Management
School of Education, Bachelor of Science
Gabrielle C. Adams – Mobile, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Cum Laude
Morgan E. Atchison – Semmes, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude
Georgette D. Byrd – Mount Vernon, Alabama, Child and Social Development, Area Award: Child and Social Development, Cum Laude
Kaylee B. Creekmore – Saraland, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Tayler E. Drinkard – Perdido, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Precious L. Florence – Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Kimberly Breanne Foster – Satsuma, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education ,President’s Scholastic Award, Magna Cum Laude
Morgan A. Franklin – Foley, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Early Childhood Education, Summa Cum Laude
Mary Catherine Gipson – Theodore, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Brinkley Madison Hearn – Mobile, Alabama, Elementary Education, Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, President’s Scholastic Award, School of Education Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude
Jessica L. Herrington – Saraland, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education
Emma R. Hollingsworth – Meridianville, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education
Hannah Elizabeth Hopkins – Mount Vernon, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Brianna T. Kitt – Mobile, Alabama Elementary Education Magna Cum Laude
Ruthie P. Knight – Knoxville, Tennessee, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude
Karen Alday Lathan – Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development, Cum Laude
Abbie R. McLaney – Theodore, Alabama, Early Childhood Education
Emaleigh S. Poiroux – Saraland, Alabama, Early Childhood Education
Erin Laffitte Ray – Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Jamecia Jontrel Robbins – Bayou La Batre, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Madilyn R. Robertson – Satsuma, Alabama, Elementary Education, Area Award: Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude
Tiffany T. Spencer-Eldridge – Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Rebekah C. Waldo – Semmes, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Area Award: Early Childhood and Elementary Education
Ansleigh S. Weston – Irvington, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education
Allison Marie Windham – Saraland, Alabama, Early Childhood Education
College of Health Professionals, School of Nursing, Associate Degree in Nursing
Michelle DuBose Adams – Mobile, Alabama
Sadie C. Bell Pritchett – Mobile, Alabama
Bethany K. Byrd – Mount Vernon, Alabama
Tina Ha Coleman – Mobile, Alabama, Area Award: Associate Degree in Nursing
Marla Marie Foster – Mobile, Alabama
Skylar G. Jones – Chunchula, Alabama
Courtney Danielle Lang – McIntosh, Alabama
Crystal Denise Loper – Mobile, Alabama
Kennedi Trenae’ Martin – Jackson, Alabama
Joseph McAdams – Saraland, Alabama, President’s Scholastic Award, School of Nursing Achievement Award, Magna Cum Laude
Mary Leanne Nelson – Citronelle, Alabama
Abigail Naomi Persson – Mobile, Alabama
Jalicia Venice Scott – Mobile, Alabama
Jennifer Faith Soneboulam – Mobile, Alabama, Cum Laude
Ethan E. Steed – Saraland, Alabama
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.
Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.
MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile presented its two top student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, to Randall Luke Killam of Semmes, Alabama, and Brinkley Madison Hearn of Mobile, Alabama.
The awards were presented during graduation ceremonies held on the university campus May 4, 2024.
The William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award is presented to the most outstanding graduating male senior for excellence in exemplifying the mission of the University of Mobile. Selection is made by a secret vote of the faculty based on scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service. The award presented to Randall Luke Killam is named for the university’s founding president and is considered the highest recognition possible for a University of Mobile male senior.
Luke Killam simultaneously pursued a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master of Business Administration, all of which he was awarded on May 4. He plans to complete a Master of Music in Piano Performance in 2025. He is described by his professors in the Alabama School of the Arts and the Grace Pilot School of Business as “an exemplary University of Mobile student who embodies a holistic approach to education, combining scholarly achievements with a deep sense of Christian values, leadership skills and a dedication to service within the university and his church.”
He is a small business owner, operating Luke Killam Piano Academy where he tutors children in piano. As an administrative intern at 3Circle Church, he manages church community processes and events. His extensive involvement at Redemption Church, West Campus as the music director and musician underscores both his leadership capabilities and Christian service in preparing and directing teams for service and events.
He served in the University of Mobile Ambassador program and assisted UM’s director of piano studies with the ASOTA Piano Festival, Gulf Coast Steinway Society Competition and Mobile Music Teachers Association events. He was a standout piano student, a leader in the ASOTA piano ensemble, and was called upon to play keys in some of the largest ASOTA events such as Christmas Spectacular.
Luke graduated summa cum laude and received the ASOTA Achievement Award, Area Award in Piano Performance, and Grace Pilot School of Business Achievement Award.
The Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award is presented to the most outstanding graduating female senior for excellence in exemplifying the mission of the University of Mobile. Selection is made by a secret vote of the faculty based on scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service. The award presented to Brinkley Madison Hearn is named for B Weaver, the university’s first “First Lady,” and is considered the highest recognition possible for a University of Mobile female senior.
Brinkley Hearn successfully balanced her academic, professional and personal responsibilities while achieving the President’s List every semester as a student athlete, in addition to serving as a childcare provider for multiple families in our community. Her professors describe her as a leader who demonstrates a serving heart, kindness, compassion and generosity in all situations.
As a member throughout her college career of both the indoor volleyball team and the inaugural beach volleyball team, Brinkley served as a leader, mentor and role model to her teammates and classmates, encouraging involvement in the university’s extracurricular activities, events and service opportunities. She volunteered for multiple education-related events to help support current and future teachers, and to recruit future teachers and UM students, such as the annual Early Childhood Conference in Mobile.
Teachers and administrators who have worked with Brinkley during field experiences say she demonstrates the characteristics of a dedicated, dynamic and influential teacher. She served as a mentor to new students entering the Teacher Education Program, was co-president of the SSAC Student Leadership Council and was a member of the University of Mobile Literacy Council. She was inducted into the Upsilon Chi Chapter of the prestigious honor society, Kappa Delta Pi, as a junior. To enhance her educational pedagogy, she acquired certification in AMSTI for both math and science, LETRS, and completed Dyslexia, MTSS and ARI training.
Brinkley graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and received the President’s Scholastic Award and School of Education Achievement Award.
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.
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.
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. – Major League Baseball’s Houston Astros Manager Joe Espada was awarded the Doctor of Humane Letters by his alma mater, the University of Mobile, in an announcement made during commencement ceremonies May 4 at the Christian university.
More than 300 graduates who were being awarded associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees and their families watched a video of Espada receiving the honor a month earlier when he was on campus for his induction into the university’s athletic Hall of Fame. Espada was unable to attend UM’s May 4 graduation ceremony as the Astros were scheduled to host the Seattle Mariners later that afternoon at Minute Made Park in Houston, Texas. (Watch the video presentation here https://youtu.be/abKaRnHrs6Y.)
A native of Puerto Rico, Espada attended the University of Mobile in the mid-1990s as a middle infielder for the UM baseball program, being named a three-time Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) First-Team All-Conference selection and a two-time GCAC Baseball Player of the Year. Additionally, Espada was selected as an NAIA Baseball Second-Team All-American following the 1995 and 1996 seasons. During the 1996 season for the Rams, Espada hit a program-best .442 on the year with 13 home runs and 38 stolen bases. Following that same season, he was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the second round with the 45th overall pick.
From there, Espada played 10 seasons of minor league ball across seven MLB organizations, five of those seasons being played in Triple-A. He began his professional coaching career as a member of the Miami Marlins coaching staff from 2006-2013. He served as the third-base coach for the New York Yankees before joining the Astros in 2018 as bench coach. He was named manager on Nov. 12, 2023.
In Fall 2019, Espada returned to Mike Jacobs Field at UM for a reunion of former UM Baseball members and saw his No. 6 Mobile jersey retired. In April 2024 he again returned to his alma mater and was inducted into the Hall of Fame Class of 2024 by the University of Mobile Athletic Department.
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.
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 scholars were recognized for their hard work, determination and commitment to pursue God’s calling for their lives during the Class of 2024 Honors Convocation held April 24 at Dorsett Auditorium on campus.
The President’s Scholastic Award was presented to baccalaureate students who have attained the highest grade point average while completing a four-year degree at the University of Mobile. This year, 12 graduates earned a perfect 4.0 grade point average during their academic careers at UM.
Academic Achievement Awards were presented to outstanding graduates in each college and school who were recognized for academic accomplishment, service, scholarship and Christian character.
The university’s two top student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, will be announced during commencement on May 4. Approximately 300 students will receive degrees ranging from associate to doctoral at the event on campus. Commencement begins at 9 a.m. on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn.
Subhed – President’s Scholastic Awards
Receiving President’s Scholastic Awards were:
David I. Beasley of Cameron, Missouri – Alabama School of the Arts, Bachelor of Science in Worship Leadership and Music
Jessica Mae Clements of Nashville, Tennessee – College of Arts & Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Emma Noelle Landry of Gautier, Mississippi – College of Arts & Sciences, Bachelor of Arts in World Languages and Studies
Dallas P. Renzi of Daphne, Alabama – College of Arts & Sciences, Bachelor of Arts in Communication
Rose Lee Wallace of Prattville, Alabama – College of Arts & Sciences, Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics
Jackson Childs Breal of Spanish Fort, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, Master of Business Administration
Abigail C. Thibodaux of Satsuma, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Caroline Belle Tucker of Headland, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, Master of Business Administration
Haley Grace Vanderford of Tuscaloosa, Alabama – Grace Pilot School of Business, Bachelor of Science in Management
Kimberly Breanne Foster of Satsuma, Alabama – School of Education, Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education
Brinkley Madison Hearn of Mobile, Alabama – School of Education, Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Joseph McAdams of Saraland, Alabama – School of Nursing, Associate Degree in Nursing
Subhed – Academic Achievement Awards
Receiving Academic Achievement Awards were:
Randall Luke Killam of Semmes, Alabama – Alabama School of the Arts, undergraduate and Grace Pilot School of Business, undergraduate
Kara Gail Friesen of Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada – Alabama School of the Arts, graduate
Joshua J. Naqvi of Central, Louisiana – College of Arts and Sciences, undergraduate
Jared L. Baria of Semmes, Alabama – College of Arts and Sciences, graduate
Sage McKenna of Fort Walton Beach, Florida – Grace Pilot School of Business, graduate
Brinkley Madison Hearn of Mobile, Alabama – School of Education, undergraduate
Amber Brooks Davis of Saraland, Alabama – School of Education, graduate
Matthew James Payne of Mobile, Alabama – School of Health and Sports Science, undergraduate
Joseph McAdams of Saraland, Alabama – School of Nursing, undergraduate
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.
Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.
MOBILE, Ala. – A comprehensive, multi-faceted “Experience the Difference” marketing campaign coupled with an internal “Exceptional Hospitality” initiative earned the University of Mobile a grand prize award for exceptional achievement in public relations and development from the Baptist Communicators Association.
The Arthur S. Davenport Award grand prize was among multiple honors earned by the Baptist university’s Office for Marketing and Public Relations at the 60th annual Wilmer C. Fields Awards ceremony held April 24 in Richmond, Virginia. The Experience the Difference Campaign/Exceptional Hospitality Initiative also won first place for Public Relations & Development – Communication and/or Marketing Strategy.
“We are thrilled to receive this prestigious honor from the Baptist Communicators Association, recognizing the significance of effective communication in our profession,” said Lesa Moore, vice president for marketing and public relations at the University of Mobile.
“Leveraging our ‘Experience the Difference’ campaign and ‘Exceptional Hospitality’ initiative not only showcases what sets the University of Mobile apart, but also exemplifies the commitment to excellence across campus. It’s a testament to the creativity and dedication of our marketing team and faculty and staff, as well as the vision and mission of the University of Mobile,” Moore said.
Over the course of three months, the marketing team initiated and developed the Experience the Difference campaign to communicate the distinctives that make the university different from other universities and a worthwhile investment for students and families. The campaign was launched during the spring and summer of 2023 and is ongoing.
Supporting the overall Experience the Difference campaign was a robust, scripture-based internal customer service framework titled “Exceptional Hospitality.” The university-wide initiative put UM’s Christ-centered focus into action with practical strategies aimed to redefine hospitality in an academic context, creating individual experiences that are distinctive to the University of Mobile.
The university also earned honors in photography, videography and magazine divisions.
First Place Presidential Portrait
A portrait of retiring university president Lonnie Burnett at work in his office earned first place in Photography/Portrait – Field for Rovy Lopez, director of visual media, and Heath Vester, associate vice president for creative services.
TorchLight Magazine
The presidential portrait accompanied a feature story in the Spring 2023 issue of TorchLight magazine, which also earned honors. The university’s annual alumni magazine placed second in the Print Publication – Magazine category in the Overall Publication division.
Videos Earn Honors
The university earned second place honors in two different categories for videography in the Audio-Visual Communications division.
“Rammy Rock Stars” won second place in the Event category for more than three minutes. The playful video was created for the university’s spring faculty/staff luncheon and featured various university employees in the spotlight as rock stars.
“Dear UM” won second place in Video Storytelling – more than three minutes. The poignant video was created for the university’s annual Leadership Banquet and featured students reading letters they wrote to the university about their UM experience.
The UM Marketing Team
The University of Mobile Office for Marketing and Public Relations includes:
Lesa Moore, vice president for marketing and public relations
Kathy Dean, associate vice president for university communications
Heath Vester, associate vice president for creative services
Noah Walters, project manager and digital marketing specialist
Emily Deal, graphic designer
Rovy Lopez, director of visual media
Camden Jewell, photographer and videographer
Molly Grace Watkins, content creator
Kellie Cavallaro, assistant to the vice president for marketing
Baptist Communicators Association
The Baptist Communicators Association is a professional organization of communicators who serve in editorial, public relations, electronic media, photography, management, marketing and graphic design positions principally within Baptist agencies and institutions.
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.
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 celebrate the accomplishments of over 300 candidates for graduation during commencement on Saturday, May 4. The ceremony begins promptly at 9 a.m. on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn on campus.
In his final act as University of Mobile president prior to retirement, Dr. Lonnie Burnett will deliver the commencement address. Burnett is a 1979 graduate of UM – then known as Mobile College. He served as president for the past five years, leading the university through the pandemic while expanding academic programs and facilities, among many accomplishments. His retirement concludes a distinguished career as a history professor, author, and administrator at UM following a successful career as an educator in the Mobile County Public School System.
This graduation ceremony is particularly meaningful for those receiving bachelor’s degrees in the Class of 2024, as many in this class were not able to experience a high school graduation ceremony due to the COVID pandemic.
The UM Class of 2024 also includes the first 12 graduates of the university’s new Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program, as well as the first Associate Degree in Nursing graduates since that program was reinstated.
The audience is encouraged to arrive early to allow for parking and seating prior to the start of the ceremony at 9 a.m.
For graduation details and to watch a live-stream of the ceremony, go to umobile.edu/graduation. In case of inclement weather, the graduation venue is Cottage Hill Baptist Church, 4255 Cottage Hill Road. Weather updates will be made on official University of Mobile social media accounts and on umobile.edu/graduation.
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.
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.
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 faculty, staff, trustees and special guests gathered April 16 at College Woods Center on campus for an evening filled with laughter and remembrances honoring outgoing president and first lady Dr. Lonnie and Lynne Burnett.
UM Board of Trustees Chair Terry Harbin announced that College Woods Center will now be renamed the Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center, in honor of the couple who worked side-by-side to refurbish the facility that now provides performance space for the Alabama School of the Arts, as well as meeting and banquet space for university, community and corporate events.
Dr. Daven Watkins, senior pastor of First Baptist Church Pelham, Alabama, and father of a graduating student, spoke about the impact Burnett and the university had in his daughter’s life. Harbin and former Trustee Chair Fred Wilson recalled highlights and challenges of the past five years during Burnett’s tenure as president of his alma mater. Among those challenges was a global pandemic that started four months after the history professor and university administrator took the helm of the Christian university.
Under Burnett’s leadership, the University of Mobile did more than survive – the university thrived. Now, as Burnett delivers his final commencement address to the Class of 2024 on May 4, he hands over to incoming president Dr. Charles Smith a university positioned for future growth.
“It has been my honor to be your president for the last five years and, more importantly, to be your friend and colleague for many years before that,” Burnett told those gathered at the Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center.
The theme throughout the evening was: Through it all, God is faithful.
Burnett referred to Noah in the Old Testament. “When times were at their lowest, God promised to deliver Noah. But he made him build that boat…We have done that together. We are still building that boat…It’s a good boat. It’s heading in the right direction. And its captain is way bigger than me or you.
“May God bless you all. And may God continue to richly bless the University of Mobile,” Burnett said.
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.
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.
