Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and "playing with words" to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the University of Mobile unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.
MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is not just a beautiful, special and sacred place – it is a place that will change you, said UM’s new president, Dr. Charles Smith, during President’s Commissioning on Aug. 16.
UM President Charles Smith
“For decades now, thousands of men and women have driven up the drive behind you and left changed,” Smith told nearly 300 incoming students and their families gathered for President’s Commissioning on the university’s Great Commission Lawn. The event is the first of a two-part Great Commission Tradition that bookends each student’s college journey.
At President’s Commissioning, new students touch the Great Commission Globe in the center of the Great Commission Lawn to symbolize the start of their college career. Years later at commencement, they touch the globe again as new graduates to signify the next step in their journey, entering a world-wide mission field to pursue their calling for the glory of God and the good of the world.
Your First Mission Field
Following a time of worship led by UM’s “Worship Collective” student ensemble, Smith called on new students to embrace the journey ahead and make the most of their time at college – to lean in, try hard, make friends, serve, learn and lead.
With Matthew 28:18-20 – the Great Commission – as his theme, Smith said the University of Mobile calls students to serve others and share the hope of the gospel with them – “but only if that is truly your hope.”
“Your first mission field may be your own heart. How might God be calling you to trust and follow Him? How might this season serve to strengthen your faith?” he asked.
God’s Ambassadors
Smith said the University of Mobile prepares graduates for meaningful careers while also challenging them to see the world as it really is, through a biblical world view.
“It is a world that God created. A world filled with men and women who bear his image and are called to steward their God-given gifts. A world broken by our sin, filled with people who walk in darkness and need God’s truth, love and restoration.
“It is a world that God loves, where He sent His Son to us to live the life we couldn’t and die the death we deserve, so that in Him we might be reconciled to God and received into heaven and released into the world as His ambassadors.
“One of the most remarkable things about the Christian faith is that God not only saves us, He invites us into His family, and commissions us – the redeemed – to join him in the redeeming,” Smith said.
Classes started Aug. 19 for students enrolled in over 75 academic programs at the Baptist university leading to associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. For more information about the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.
Pictured above: The University of Mobile welcomes new students for Fall Semester 2024.
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. – It takes a lot of hard work and organization to make the first few days of a new school year successful, says University of Mobile alumna Stephanie Dial, assistant principal at Saraland Elementary. Now, a new partnership between Saraland Elementary and the University of Mobile School of Education – the “Beginning of School Experience” – is giving student teachers at UM an opportunity to work side-by-side with veteran teachers during those crucial first days.
“The administration of Saraland Elementary invited us to participate in the Beginning of School Experience because they understand and realize how challenging the start of school can be for brand new teachers,” says Dr. Ashley Milner, dean of the UM School of Education. “Our students have extensive experiences in various schools, grade levels and school systems starting in their sophomore year – over 200 hours in the field. But because the college semester starts after k-12 schools have already been in session a few weeks, pre-service student teachers don’t often have the opportunity to experience those early days.”
UM students participating in the Beginning of School Experience are not getting class credit for their three days of service – but they are gaining a priceless experience with Saraland teachers who become mentors.
“We’ve had classes already about classroom management, and so we’ve done plans like first day of school scripts and how to set up a classroom and things like that. But it’s really neat to be in a classroom and see how that works hands-on,” says senior Bethany Kilgore.
How It Started
Assistant Principal Dial says the idea for the Beginning of School Experience was born last spring as Saraland Elementary administrators were interviewing and hiring new teachers.
“We started talking about the challenges that they would come in to, and the fact that most of them had done their student teaching last spring and never saw the opening of school modeled for them. How can you be good at something that you’ve never seen done?”
So this year when school was about to start, Dial reached out to her alma mater with the idea of the Beginning of School Experience.
“We want these student teachers to have this opportunity so that when they get their own classroom, they come in feeling more confident. They’ll have something to pull from,” says Dial.
Why It’s Important
UM School of Education senior Blakely Norris
Veteran teachers like Allison Nelson, a 2006 UM graduate, say what happens on that pivotal first day sets the tone for the rest of the school year.
“You are establishing the community ‘family’ you wish to have for the year. Explaining procedures, demonstrating how your room operates and setting clear routines are essential,” says Nelson, who is beginning her 9th year as a 5th grade teacher at Saraland, with a total of 15 years of teaching experience. Knowing what to do when they walk in class every morning, where to turn in homework, test procedures, and what to expect from the start of the school day to dismissal gives students a sense of stability.
“For parents, we are establishing ways of communication, reassuring them that their child will be loved and accepted for who they are and that their child will receive the best education and be pushed to be their best self, both socially and academically,” she continues.
On the first day of school, “the students are deciding if they will feel loved, safe and comfortable in your room. What will be expected of them? Will they have a cheerleader for a teacher, cheering them on to do their best, or a dictator telling them this is the only way? For me, I want to set my students’ minds at ease from Day 1 on all those questions they have running through their minds. I pray that most of those questions are answered and felt as they enter my room for the first time by how I greet the student and their parents at the door, seeing a warm smile, feeling a comforting hug, experience a bright and cheerful classroom,” says Nelson.
A Sense of Community
UM senior Allie Kelley says she is using the Beginning of School Experience to take note of effective first-day-of-school procedures she can use in her future classroom. It’s one of many opportunities she has experienced through the University of Mobile School of Education, and one of the many lessons she is learning.
“The university encourages education majors to get plugged into their community and lean on others so that they are being the best version of themselves for their students each and every day,” Kelley says.
“One way that UM has prepared me, in particular, is by instilling a sense of community. As an educator, you will wear many hats and will be expected to accomplish many goals in one day. This can take a toll on an individual if you are trying to accomplish everything on your own. Being a teacher requires working with one another and taking advantage of the resources around you” like the Beginning of School Experience.
Photo: UM student Allie Kelley, left, with UM alumna and Saraland Elementary 5th grade teacher Allison Nelson
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. – Think you waited too late to start college this fall? Good news! It’s not too late to enroll for Fall Semester 2024 at the University of Mobile! Applications are still being accepted and scholarships are still available. Over 75 academic programs offer a variety of degree options ranging from associate and bachelor’s degrees to master’s and doctorates.
Want to earn an extra scholarship? UM offers a $2,000 scholarship to traditional undergraduate students who visit campus, apply and enroll. RSVP for a campus visit at umobile.edu/visit.
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. – Thinking about earning a master’s degree to advance your career? There is still time to enroll at the University of Mobile and take the first step toward increased earning potential and career opportunities. Over 20 master’s and doctoral programs offer a variety of options for adults to advance in their current career or make the switch to a new career field.
Applications are still being accepted for Fall Semester 2024. Apply at umobile.edu/apply or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222 to speak with an enrollment counselor. Classes begin Aug. 19.
Flexible Schedules
At the University of Mobile, online and blended programs offer adult students the flexibility to continue working while earning master’s or doctoral degrees. Small classes, individual attention, and UM’s faith-based approach ensure that academic and personal growth are grounded in Christian values.
Master’s and doctoral degrees are offered in a variety of areas, including business, nursing, education, music, worship leadership, theology, athletic training, leadership and communication, history, English, creative arts and more. View a list of graduate programs at umobile.edu/areasofstudy.
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 announces its schedule of chapel speakers for the Fall 2024 semester. Speakers include the university’s newly elected president, Dr. Charles Smith; Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions Executive Director Dr. Rick Lance; North American Mission Board National Next Gen Director Shane Pruitt; and Lifeway Christian Resources President & CEO Dr. Ben Mandrell; among other distinguished faith leaders.
“Our students are in for a real treat this fall,” said President Smith. “Each of our chapel guests are godly and gifted communicators who are passionate about investing in the next generation. I can’t wait to see how God uses them for His glory and the good of our students.”
Weekly chapel services are a central part of the University of Mobile’s culture of discipleship and leadership development.
“Once a week, the university’s residential student body gathers to pray, worship and engage the Word of God. Though this usually takes the form of a sermon, chapel services occasionally feature lectures and panel discussions on pressing issues. In every case, we seek to expose our students to God’s Word and equip them to be Kingdom leaders,” Smith said.
Fall 2024 Chapel Schedule
Chapel is held Wednesdays at 2 p.m. in Ram Hall. Chapel speakers for Fall Semester 2024 are:
Aug. 21: Dr. Charles W. Smith Jr., president, University of Mobile
Aug. 28: Shane Pruitt, national director of next-gen evangelism, North American Mission Board
Sept. 4: Jared Baria, campus pastor, University of Mobile
Sept. 11: Dr. Rick Lance, executive director, Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions
Sept. 18: Dewayne Rembert, lead pastor, Flatline Church; church planting strategist, Montgomery Baptist Association
Sept. 25: Dr. Ed Litton, senior pastor, Redemption Church
Oct. 2: Nick Murray, associate pastor, Christ Fellowship Church
Oct. 16: Matt Mason, senior pastor, The Church at Brook Hills
Oct. 23: Dean Inserra, founding and lead pastor, City Church Tallahassee
Oct. 30: Dr. Jason Dees, senior pastor, Christ Covenant Church
Nov. 6: Dr. Ben Mandrell, president & CEO, Lifeway Christian Resources.
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 Alabama State Council on the Arts presented a highly coveted Artist Fellowship to the University of Mobile’s Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, distinguished Steinway Artist, professor of music and director of piano studies in the Alabama School of the Arts.
Onalbayeva was the only recipient of a music fellowship among the 23 artists awarded grants during summer 2024. The $5,000 grants are awarded to outstanding Alabama artists to support the growth and development of their artistic careers.
Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, said, “Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva has an unwavering dedication and genuine love for her students. This is evident in the countless hours she invests in their growth as musicians and followers of Christ. Being the recipient of this music fellowship is a testament to Dr. O’s extraordinary talent. I am proud to have her as a part of UM’s faculty.”
Over the course of her career, Onalbayeva has garnered international recognition and accolades as a composer, performer and competition organizer. In addition to teaching and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile, Onalbayeva serves as founder and president of The Gulf Coast Steinway Society. The Society encourages the development of piano students of all ages and sponsors competitions that result in Carnegie Hall appearances for the regions’ top students.
She holds two Master of Musical Arts degrees from the University of New Orleans and a Doctor of Musical Arts from Louisiana State University. A native of Kazakhstan, Onalbayeva began her musical training at the age of five and has won numerous awards throughout her career. An internationally known pianist and composer, she was commissioned to write a symphonic poem titled “Zherym” (My Motherland) by the Kazakhstan National Orchestra. The Minister of Culture of the Republic of Kazakhstan filmed a documentary on her life and musical career titled “Independent National’s Heritage” which was released in both Kazakh and in Russian.
She recently returned from Kazakhstan where she was an adjudicator in the International Competition “Rotary Starts” and performed on recitals in the National Kazakh Philharmony. She is participating in the Golden Key Music Festival in Vienna, Austria from July 28-Aug. 5 where she will perform in Vienna’s historic Ehrbar Hall.
Artist Fellowship applications undergo a rigorous review process, including evaluations by staff, panels of arts professionals, the Council’s Grants Review Committee, and the full Council on the Arts. The recognition is a testament to Onalbayeva’s significant contributions to the cultural landscape of Alabama and dedication to advancing the arts through her exemplary work.
Dr. Elliot A. Knight, executive director of the Alabama State Council on the Arts, conveyed his congratulations, stating, “We are deeply appreciative of your contributions to the cultural environment of Alabama. It is very gratifying to know that we can support your work through this fellowship.”
Expressing her gratitude, Onalbayeva said the grant will provide her with the resources and opportunities to pursue new creative projects and further her influence in the field of music. This is the second Artist Fellowship she has received from the Alabama Council on the Arts.
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. – Even before they had completed the University of Mobile’s new Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program this summer, every member of the first graduating class had received job offers in a field that U.S. News & World Report ranks #5 on its 2024 Best Jobs List.
Dr. Todd Hicks, executive dean of the College of Health Professions and professor of nurse anesthesiology, congratulated the 12-member inaugural class and noted their many accomplishments during an awards ceremony held July 13 on campus.
By the Numbers
“You have been diligent. You have persevered – and look how far you made it!” said Hicks, founding dean of UM’s DNAP program.
Throughout the 36-month program, the dozen students:
Delivered 10,735 anesthetics among six clinical sites
Experienced 32,157 hours and 30 minutes of anesthesia time
Cared for 1,136 pediatric patients, including 304 infants and 31 neonates
Provided care for 482 emergencies
Handled 864 obstetric cases, including performing 393 epidurals for labor analgesia and more than 300 spinal anesthetics for 382 Cesarean sections
Performed 7,539 endotracheal intubations, 1,243 regional anesthetics, 913 arterial lines and 182 central lines.
Participated in 165 open heart anesthetics and 210 lung surgeries.
Produced three high-quality evidence-based practice doctoral projects and conducted at least 6,000 hours of research and inquiry.
Outstanding Student Awards
During the awards ceremony held at the Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center, students received a variety of awards highlighting their achievements in various categories.
The Agatha Hodgins Award for Student Excellence was presented to Molly Miljus Lane. Named for the founder and first president of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists and founder of the first CRNA training program, the Agatha Hodgins Award is presented to the student from each graduating class who exudes excellence in didactic and clinical training as well as in scholarship or research inquiry – displaying strength in all academic and clinical areas.
Academic Achievement Awards were presented to two students who earned 4.0 GPAs, Evan Brock and Joel Hicks. Brock also received the Outstanding Clinical Student Award, for proficiency in all areas including general, regional, airway management, crisis management, teamwork and teaching.
Two special awards were presented in recognition of the Cindy and John Bruns family.
The Cindy Bruns Scholarship Award, presented to a rising senior, was awarded to James Easter. The award honors the late Cindy Bruns, a beloved, longtime University of Mobile employee described as “someone with a heart full of gratitude and a willingness to help anyone with anything.” Cindy was particularly known for her support and encouragement of students majoring in health care fields at the Christ-centered university.
The John Bruns Spirit of Mobile Award was named in honor of Cindy’s husband, John Bruns, who started the family’s UM legacy when he graduated in 1978 with an Associate Degree in Nursing. Following in his footsteps, members of the Bruns family also graduated from UM in health care fields, with a total of five serving as CRNAs in the Mobile area. The UM Alumni Association named John Bruns the Alumnus of the Decade for the 1970s, and he has continued to be a strong supporter of the university.
The John Bruns Spirit of Mobile Award is presented to a student who has the utmost work ethic, is a caring servant leader, works diligently with a smile in the face of extreme challenges, is respected by their class and colleagues and most exemplifies the spirit of the University of Mobile. Receiving the award was James Tyler Downs.
First DNAP Class
Members of the inaugural class of UM’s DNAP program, including their award recognitions, are:
Evan Brock, Outstanding Clinical Student, 4.0 Certificate, program completion certificate
Alexandra Brock, Most Emergency Cases, program completion certificate
Olivia Branning, Most Clinical Cases, program completion certificate
Alec Cunningham, Most Clinical Cases, program completion certificate
Tyler Downs, The John Bruns Spirit of Mobile Award, program completion certificate
Anna Caroline Gaines, Most Neuro Cases, program completion certificate
Joel Hicks, 4.0 Certificate, Most Regional Management Cases, program completion certificate.
Morgan Harlan, Most Open Heart Cases, program completion certificate
Molly Miljus Lane, Agatha Hodgins Award for Student Excellence, program completion certificate
Heath McGrew, Most Peripheral Regional Anesthetics, program completion award
Olivia Partin, Most OB Cases, program completion certificate
Meredith Perry, Advocacy Award, program completion certificate
UM’s Highly Competitive Program
UM offers the first and only DNAP program in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Georgia. The 36-month program consists of nine consecutive semesters with blended learning environments. Students train locally in the Mobile metropolitan area. DNAP graduates are eligible to take the National Certification Examination required to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.
The DNAP program accepted the first class of 12 students in August 2021. The highly competitive program has expanded and now accepts 15 new students annually. Deadline for applications is Oct. 1, 2024. Program information and applications are available at umobile.edu/dnap.
The University of Mobile DNAP program is accredited and approved by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA), Alabama Board of Nursing and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
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.
Photo above: From left: Anna Caroline Gaines, Olivia Branning, Molly Lane, Meredith Perry, Alexandra Brock, Tyler Downs, Morgan Harlan, Alec Cunningham, Olivia Partin, Heath McGrew, Joel Hicks, Evan Brock
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.
“Super Summer was where the Lord began to reveal Himself to me in a way that had never happened before. It was three years later at Super Summer where the Lord called me into full-time ministry,” says Hixon.
This week the student ministry associate at Valleydale Church in Birmingham is part of a team of over 100 Alabama Baptist ministry leaders from across the state gathered on the University of Mobile campus July 8-12 for Super Summer Alabama 2024.
Their focus – to create a unique experience that challenges and motivates students in grades 8-12 to dig deeper into the Word of God and be the leader God has called them to be.
‘Hearts Burning for Christ’
Dr. Daniel Atkins, senior pastor at Taylor Road Baptist Church in Montgomery and a 2007 alumnus of the University of Mobile, serves as camp pastor for Super Summer Alabama 2024.
“My prayer for students this week is that they would love the Word of God and love the Son of God,” Atkins says. Along with Josh Meadows, student ministry strategist for the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions and Super Summer camp director, Atkins has planned and prayed for the 225 students from 32 churches across the state – including one church from Louisiana – converging on the Alabama Baptist university campus.
“Daniel and I have been praying for months now that the students’ hearts would burn for Christ, that they would love Jesus and His Word in a way they never have before,” says Meadows.
Each morning, students take classes on topics ranging from apologetics to discipleship. They learn how Christians should lead in the marketplace and in faith-based ministries. They study the doctrine of the church, the doctrine of the holy spirit, the doctrine of the trinity, the doctrine of salvation.
Morning and evening worship is led by college students in UM’s Ignite Worship ensemble, and campers’ days include Bible studies, prayer time and fun events like spikeball tournaments. They live in college residence halls and experience a taste of college life on the Christian campus.
At one morning session, UM President Charles Smith spoke from John 6 and shared his prayers for campers during their Super Summer experience and beyond.
“We are delighted to have each and every one of you on our campus,” Smith said. “This is a sacred place. God has used this university to challenge and equip countless kingdom leaders; I pray that is your experience this week.
“Specifically, I am praying three things: 1) That you would grasp the depths of God’s love for you. 2) That you would commit to walking with him 3) And that you would consider joining us here at the University of Mobile.”
College Credit, Scholarships
While Super Summer Alabama has operated since 2008, this is the second year it has been held on the University of Mobile campus in a partnership that offers college scholarships and college credit to students.
Recognizing the intensity of the program, the university offers three hours of college credit to students who attend at least four years of Super Summer Alabama. Plus, all students who attend the camp on the university campus, then later enroll at the University of Mobile, are eligible for a $2,000 UM visit scholarship.
Super Summer Alabama is “more than a summer youth camp – it is a highly academic, intense biblical studies course,” says Dr. Steve Bowersox, director of special projects and ministry relations in the university’s Office for Advancement. Through the partnership, “We’re investing in the future of Alabama Baptists. Wherever they go, we want these students to have an impact and an encounter with the Lord.”
‘Authentic Worship, Intentional Relationship’
One aspect of the partnership is the role the university’s college students play in mentoring Super Summer campers. Ignite Worship, a college student ensemble in the university’s Alabama School of the Arts, leads worship services throughout the week. UM students lead Bible studies and mentor campers.
The University of Mobile ensemble Ignite Worship, pictured with UM student Savanna Adams at center, leads worship at Super Summer Alabama.
Savanna Adams, a senior majoring in worship leadership, says the Ignite Worship team aims “to accomplish genuine and authentic worship, but also intentional relationship with students. The best possible way to do this is to be present and to be real, not to put up a façade, but to love and reach out to them from a place of humble confidence in the Lord.”
It is a privilege to lead campers, she says, just as it is a privilege to worship God here in a broken world.
“To be able to understand this as a blessing and then to be able to lead kids to that is so awesome to witness,” Adams says.
Caris Snider, author of the Anxiety Elephants series and Car Line Mom Devotional, is leading an adult leader Bible study and devotional on biblical coping skills for anxiety. She noted the interaction between college students and the middle and high school student campers.
“This is my first time ever coming to Super Summer. It is incredible to see students coming to draw near to God and go deeper into His Word. Seeing college students leading in these groups is a beautiful reminder of how God is using Gen Z to change the world,” says Snider.
Lives Changed for Eternity
Other states have Super Summer camps, but none are like Alabama’s, said Denis Tanner, associate pastor at Shades Crest Baptist Church in Hoover.
Students return year after year to Super Summer, progressing in their studies, deepening their faith, and building a network of like-minded friends across the state who share the desire to grow in their walk with the Lord while learning to lead and disciple others.
Student ministry leaders, pastors and college students who serve as mentors and teachers throughout the week also return year after year, developing their own network of colleagues throughout the state who can encourage and support one another.
“The reason I love Super Summer is I have seen kids’ and adults’ lives changed not just for a week or two but, it seems like, for eternity,” Tanner says.
Coleman Windle, student and young adult minister at First Baptist Hazel Green in Hazel Green, Alabama, said he has seen students from all over the state give their lives to Christ at Super Summer. Along with his wife, former Miss University of Mobile 2011 Cierra Windle, who has also served at the camp, Coleman sees the impact that Super Summer has on students and their relationship with the Lord.
“I have witnessed numerous students answer the call to ministry through their involvement in Super Summer Alabama,” he says. Many return to serve in leadership roles, continuing the legacy of leadership and spiritual growth.
Valleydale Church students at Super Summer Alabama; Claudia Nixon pictured front row, third from right
Claudia Hixon agrees. When she made her decision at Super Summer to answer the call to ministry, “I was able to talk with ministers and pastors at Super Summer about next steps and how to honor God in that.
“Almost 10 years later, I have the privilege and honor to serve at Valleydale Church and, each summer, we bring students to Super Summer. It has been such a blessing to watch the Lord work in the lives of students the same way He began such a work in my life many years ago.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today in ministry had it not been for the many leaders God has raised up who make Super Summer happen each and every year,” she says.
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.
For over 2,800 students and adults attending week-long MFUGE camps during June and July on the University of Mobile campus, the mission field extends to over 30 locations throughout Mobile, Alabama. At sites such as Light of the Village, Mulherin Home and Hillsdale Community Center, church youth groups from 11 Southeastern states are working with local children, serving with special needs ministries and evangelism efforts, and helping with light construction, painting and yardwork. It’s just the start of what camp leaders pray will spark a lifetime of ministry service among the middle and high school students.
Mollie Kay Grubbs, site director for MFUGE camps at the University of Mobile, said the experience is aimed at helping middle and high school students understand that wherever they are – wherever their feet are planted – they have the ability and the responsibility to serve others for the glory of God.
“I hope all students and participants come away with an understanding of what local missions looks like,” Grubbs said. “I think a lot of the times, the church focuses on global missions, which is good, but I hope every student comes in and leaves camp realizing that if they can serve in Mobile, then they can serve in their hometowns and communities as well. They can better understand what our Great Commission calling is and have a more tangible understanding of what it means to fulfill the command in Matthew 28:19-20 to ‘GO.’”
MFUGE & the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile has served as a site for Lifeway’s MFUGE or Centrifuge camps since 1981. FUGE officials have said the University of Mobile is the first and longest-running MFUGE location.
Churches send their youth groups and leaders to the 880-acre campus in north Mobile County where they get a taste of college life – staying in residence halls and enjoying campus amenities such as sand volleyball courts, outdoor pool, tennis and pickleball. In Ram Hall, they play games and join together in worship.
During the day, campers spread out into the Mobile area to serve others. Afternoons and evenings they walk across the Baptist university campus, finding quiet spots for prayer and Bible study, making friends and sharing the stories of how their mission experience impacted others – and themselves.
“Every moment spent at FUGE Camps is intentional. Camp programming is designed to take students out of their normal routine and place them into an environment that is focused on life-change through relationship with Christ,” according to Lifeway. (Learn more about FUGE camps here.)
From Camper to College Student
For some campers, the experience sparks a desire to return to the University of Mobile as a college student. In 2013, Grace Whittington Blankenship attended MFUGE on the UM campus and worked at Light of the Village, painting a classroom and doing yard work. She says it was on the UM campus where she began to understand what it truly meant to be a follower of Christ. Later, she enrolled at the university, graduated in 2022, and now is an enrollment counselor in the university’s admissions office.
“FUGE camp and the University of Mobile are two monumental parts of my testimony. I am so thankful that the Lord allowed me to attend FUGE multiple times as a student and that He led me to the University of Mobile,” said Whittington.
UM Campus Pastor Jared Baria ’09 &’24 said the FUGE camp experience can be “monumental” in the lives of students – and is an example of the life change that happens to students of all ages at the Christ-centered university.
“God has transformed many lives through the gospel at camps such as this, and on this very campus. We are a Christ-centered university that has a deep concern not only for them as students, but also for their souls. It is such a joy to spend time at a university where you have seen God’s mighty hand at work,” Baria said.
University of Mobile students have served as MFUGE staffers, and UM alumni often bring their church youth groups back to their alma mater for MFUGE camps.
Baria said alumni involvement in MFUGE is a testament to the university’s faithfulness to the Word.
“People who have gone to school here or even spent a week or two here can clearly see what makes UM so special,” Baria said. “The university’s unwavering commitment to God and His Word stands out and will stand the test of time. Those who return here with their students or return to work here show wonderful evidence of that truth.”
‘Where the Lord has Brought You’
For two University of Mobile alumni, a week of MFUGE camp was the perfect opportunity for youth from Journey Community Church in Lucedale, Mississippi, to step out of their comfort zones. Joey Cochran ’07 serves as an elder at Journey, a Southern Baptist church, while Vanessa Wallace ’02 is Journey Kids Minister.
Cochran said he knew from the first time he drove on campus that the University of Mobile “was God’s place for me.” Returning to campus with the church’s youth for MFUGE was “a blast.”
“It is always a blast to remember where you came from in order to see where the Lord has brought you,” he said.
The youth group includes three of Wallace’s four children, making the opportunity to return to her alma mater all the sweeter.
“It was a lot of fun to be able to share stories from our time at the University of Mobile with our students, and it’s always wonderful to be able to hug the necks of some of my favorite people that are still at UM serving and loving others,” Wallace said.
She added, “One thing that stood out to me while serving at Hillsdale is watching our students stepping outside their comfort zones and shining their lights so bright. This generation gets a bad rap lots of the time, but I watched students engaging with the children they were serving, asking about their families and interests while doing crafts or playing games.”
During their week at MFUGE, Journey students served halfway house ministries, assisted living, backyard Bible clubs and did manual labor. Since their community of Lucedale is near Mobile, they plan to return to some of the sites and serve again in the near future – fulfilling the goal of MFUGE to spark a missions-minded generation.
“It’s always an honor and pleasure to be the hands and feet of Jesus,” said Cochran.
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.
