Author: Molly Grace Watkins

Molly Grace Watkins is the Content Creator for the Office for Marketing and Public Relations at the University of Mobile. She is a full-time student in the College of Arts and Sciences, where she is pursuing a degree in Communication with a concentration in Journalism and Broadcasting. A published author, Molly Grace loves writing and being in front of the camera. She is an active member and volunteer at Cottage Hill Baptist Church. She also enjoys listening to music, going on long walks and driving her friends around in her blue MINI Cooper.

Family Nurse Practitioner White Coat Ceremony held at UM’s College Woods Center

by Molly Grace Watkins

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile held a White Coat Ceremony for students in the Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program on Oct. 20. School of Nursing faculty presented students with white coats bearing the University of Mobile logo as family and friends gathered in College Woods Auditorium to celebrate the moment.

Graduate Dean of the School of Nursing Jessica Garner and UM President Lonnie Burnett welcomed participants. Bailey Mosley, president of the Bay Area Nurse Practitioner Association, gave the keynote address and congratulated students on reaching this milestone.

This event signifies the students’ entrance into the clinical portion of their training.

White Coat recipients were:

Kellie Carney
Myriya Collins
John Blake Endris
Akeria King
Jennifer Langley
Ananya Pathak
Brittany Pettway
Rachel Redding
Erika Samuels
Danielle Smith
Shelby Van Sickler
Jasmine Wicks
Natalie Williams
Courtlyn Winston
Jasma Wright

The 15 students completed their first semester in the university’s MSN-FNP program and will begin clinical rotations in the spring.

“The White Coat Ceremony, first held in 1993 at Columbia University, serves to symbolize the student commitment to integrity, excellence, collaboration and compassion, altruism, respect, resilience, empathy, and service in health care,” said Dr. Jessica Garner, graduate dean.

The online MSN-FNP program at the University of Mobile is a faith-based Family Nurse Practitioner program that prepares nurses at the master’s level as advanced practice nurses. The accelerated online program offers nurses a fast track to become Family Nurse Practitioners with a program that can be completed in just four semesters. 

A part-time track is also available, which allows students to continue working as they pursue the MSN-FNP degree. UM’s online MSN-FNP degree programs include three on-campus intensives, including orientation and one intensive each fall semester.

Applicants must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a regionally accredited educational institution. Visit umobile.edu/fnp for more information and to apply for admission. 

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 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.

University of Mobile Invites Community to RamFest 2023 

by Molly Grace Watkins

MOBILE, Ala. – Mark your calendar for RamFest 2023 at the University of Mobile on Oct. 12-15, a fun family event for students, faculty, staff, alumni and the community!

RamFest is an action-packed weekend of Rams soccer and volleyball, concerts, Miss University of Mobile competition, alumni events, tailgating at The Jungle and a fireworks show. The weekend wraps up with a worship service at Cottage Hill Baptist Church featuring UM President Lonnie Burnett and UM’s Ignite Worship ensemble.

Some RamFest events are free while others require purchasing a ticket. Details and ticket information is at umobile.edu/ramfest.

Some RamFest highlights to look forward to include:

Thursday, Oct. 12 is Spirit Day!

5 p.m. – UM Women’s Soccer vs. Dalton State College at The Jungle

6 p.m. – UM Volleyball vs Faulkner University in Pharr Gymnasium

7 p.m. – Jazz Band Concert, “What a Wonderful World” in Ram Hall

7:30 p.m. – UM Men’s Soccer vs. Dalton State College at The Jungle

Friday, Oct. 13

7 p.m. – Miss University of Mobile in College Woods Auditorium

Saturday, Oct. 14

10:30 a.m. – Solar Eclipse Viewing at Great Commission Lawn

11:30 a.m. – Men’s Alumni Soccer Game at The Jungle

RamFest Tailgate Events (Must purchase ticket for entry at umobile.edu/ramfest)

1 p.m. – Food Truck Open for Alumni Lunch at The Jungle

1:15 p.m. – Live Music by Working Hour at The Jungle

1:30 p.m. – Gates Open for Game at The Jungle

2:30 p.m. – UM Women’s Soccer vs Life University at The Jungle

4:30 p.m. – Dinner at The Jungle

5 p.m. – UM Men’s Soccer vs. Life University at The Jungle

7 p.m. – Fireworks at The Jungle

Sunday, Oct. 15

10:30 a.m. – UM President Lonnie Burnett with Ignite Worship at Cottage Hill Baptist Church

Plan to be at the University of Mobile for one of the biggest weekends this fall! Experience the community and joy that comes from gathering with friends and family at the University of Mobile. For tickets and more information, visit umobile.edu/ramfest.

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.

Stories Worth Sharing: Ashlyn Nichols Mitchell

by Molly Grace Watkins

Ashlyn Nichols Mitchell
Multimedia Journalist, FOX10 News
Bachelor of Arts in Communication ’22
Miss University of Mobile 2022

I love that each day is different- no day is the same, and the fact that I get to share people’s stories is something that I am extremely grateful for.

-Ashlyn Nichols Mitchell ’22

“The idea of meeting new people daily and getting to share their stories is the driving factor behind my career,” says Ashlyn Nichols Mitchell, multimedia journalist at FOX10 News. 

The Communication major went straight from the classroom to the newsroom upon graduating from the University of Mobile in May of 2022. Her time at UM shaped her into the journalist she is today.

A typical day for Ashlyn is never the same, however, the bulk of her tasks are very similar. As a multimedia journalist, she shoots, edits, writes, voices and fronts her news stories. She is responsible for setting up interviews and coordinating every part of her day. Most people don’t realize she actually films and edits most of her stories!

Ashlyn attributes her love for stories and her love for people to her time at UM. She found a family here, and a group of people that would support her and lift her up when she needed it most.

“Ever since I touched the Great Commission Globe on graduation day, I have felt sent, supported and loved by my UM family,” Ashlyn says.

Q. What have you been up to since graduation? 

work

A.  Since leaving UM, I’ve been growing as a journalist at FOX10 News. I’ve held the hands of parents who’ve lost children to gun violence, reported on industrial developments, informed viewers about severe weather, told stories of families who’ve lost everything in house fires and had to start over, and even set up a bear trap for a biological black bear study in Mobile County. Those are just a few of the amazing things that I have gotten to be a part of since starting my career here!

Q. What do you love about your work? 

A.   People! There are stories I’ve cried tears of grief over, and stories I’ve cried tears of happiness over. I could be covering breaking news on a house fire and sharing ways to help the victims, or I could be going live from a petting zoo. It just depends on the day, and every day is different.

battleship

Q. What is a typical day like? 

A.  I’m multimedia journalist which means there is rarely a typical day in the newsroom! Yet, the structure usually goes something like this: first, we meet during a morning meeting to pitch story ideas. We are then assigned to our stories and have the rest of the day to make them happen. We must be ready by at least 4 or 5 p.m. each day for our live shots! Live shots can happen in our studio or pretty much anywhere our stories take place. I’ve gone live in water up to my shins in flooded areas and have even gone live from the Blue Angels base. 

Q. How would you say your time at UM helped prepare you for this? 

A. UM gave me the biblical foundation I needed in a secular world. Working in news media is far from easy – we truly see so much. Knowing who I am in Christ and knowing I have hope in eternity gives me peace in a busy, often high-stress environment. I am thankful for the intentionality and discipleship I received.

Q. What did you like most about UM? 

A. Community! I know that’s a common answer, but it’s true. I am originally from Missouri, a 14-hour drive from Mobile. On Move-In Day, I didn’t know a soul. I quickly found a family in the University of Mobile, and I will always treasure that. 

My biggest word of advice to prospective students is to take advantage of everything UM has to offer. There will truly only be one season like this during your lifetime ­– getting to be surrounded by mentors, professors and friends that love you is a blessing. Lean into the resources UM has to offer, and you’ll discover not only a close relationship with others, but an even closer relationship to our Savior.

Alabama School of the Arts Reveals 2023-2024 Performing Arts Series

by Molly Grace Watkins

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile is pleased to announce its upcoming Performing Arts Series for the 2023-2024 year.

This season holds a range of performances from opera and jazz to musical theater and more. The series opens with an extraordinary theatrical experience of “These Shining Lives.” This production will be held at UM’s new College Woods Auditorium in the College Woods Center. General admission is $20 and $10 for students. 

For more information regarding the upcoming 2023-2024 season, including a full schedule of performances and where to purchase tickets, visit umobile.edu/pas. Unless otherwise noted, events will take place in College Woods Auditorium on campus.

Along with the Performing Arts Series, the university’s 7th annual Piano Festival includes a full slate of free recitals and workshops. For more information regarding the festival, click here.

The Alabama School of the Arts 2023-2024 season includes:

These Shining Lives – Sept. 28 through Sept. 30, 7 p.m. and Oct. 1, 3 p.m. Step back in time to the 1920s and delve into the lives of a group of extraordinary women who faced incredible challenges with unwavering determination. This poignant play takes you on a heartfelt journey as these courageous factory workers fight for justice, solidarity and the pursuit of a better future.

What A Wonderful World – Oct. 12, 7 p.m. Join ASOTA’s Jazz Band for an enchanting evening of musical exploration as they take you on a captivating journey around the globe. This event will take place in Ram Hall. 

Fall Symphonic Winds Concert – Oct. 16, 7 p.m. The Symphonic Winds presents an unforgettable musical journey through an expertly curated repertoire that transcends time and space, stirring emotions and leaving you spellbound.

Dancing With Pianos – Oct. 26, 7 p.m. A collaboration between the Piano Ensemble and the Ballet class, watch in awe as UM students showcase their extraordinary talents, fusing various dance styles with timeless and contemporary piano masterpieces. This performance will take place in Moorer Auditorium in Thomas T. Martin Hall. 

Pirates of Penzance – Nov. 2 through Nov. 4, 7 p.m. and Nov. 5, 3 p.m. Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas with ASOTA’s production of “The Pirates of Penzance” by Gilbert and Sullivan! Enjoy an unforgettable evening of music, laughter and merriment as ASOTA brings this beloved comic operetta to life.

Christmas Spectacular – Nov. 16 through Nov. 18, 7 p.m. and Nov. 18, 2 p.m. and Nov. 19, 4 p.m. Embrace the holiday season at the University of Mobile’s Christmas Spectacular! This exceptional event brings together classic carols and modern favorites that will fill your heart with holiday cheer and leave you with treasured moments that will last a lifetime. Christmas Spectacular will be presented at Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

Letters to Sala – Jan. 25 through Jan. 27, 7 p.m. and Jan. 28, 3 p.m. Discover the poignant and compelling story of “Letters to Sala” by Arlene Hutton. This gripping play takes you on an unforgettable journey through history, as it unravels the hidden tale of a young girl named Sala, who courageously navigates the complexities of World War II.

Night of the Classical Masters – March 12, 7 p.m. Join the University Singers, Chorale, and Orchestra as they present an evening of classical music. Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies from various eras that will feature all three ensembles together in harmony.

Spring Spectacular – March 22, 7 p.m. Featuring Alabama School of the Arts ensembles and choir, enjoy an evening of musical celebration on the Great Commission Lawn beneath the University of Mobile’s beautiful Eichold Oaks.

Symphonic Winds Spring Concert – April 4, 7 p.m. Welcome the vibrant season of spring at ASOTA’s Spring 2024 Symphonic Winds concert! Revel in the mesmerizing melodies that gracefully fill the air, as the talented musicians showcase their passion and dedication to their craft. This concert will take place at Shiloh Baptist Church in Saraland, AL. 

Funny Girl – April 11 through April 13, 7 p.m. and April 14, 3 p.m. With laughter, love, and a generous dose of humor, “Funny Girl” will leave you eager to discover where fate will lead Fanny Brice next. Don’t miss this unforgettable musical experience, sure to bring smiles and joy to audiences of all ages.

Pianos at an Exhibition – April 18, 7 p.m. A collaboration between ASOTA’s Piano Ensemble and UM’s Art Department, witness original piano compositions as well as breathtaking displays of original artwork that complement the musical experience. This extraordinary celebration of creativity promises an unforgettable evening of inspiration and wonder. This collaboration will be presented in Moorer Auditorium in Thomas T. Martin Hall. 

The Wonderful World of Disney – April 23, 7 p.m. Get ready for a magical journey as ASOTA’s talented Jazz Band takes the stage to deliver soulful jazz arrangements of your favorite and timeless Disney songs.

Footloose – June. 7 through June 8, 7 p.m., June 9, 3 p.m., June 14 through June 15, 7 p.m. and June 16, 3 p.m.  The Alabama School of the Arts concludes its season with a wonderful musical, “Footloose!” Get ready to cut loose and dance the night away as ASOTA presents the musical that’s set to ignite the stage with its electrifying energy and catchy tunes.

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.

Alabama School of the Arts Invites Voice Teachers to ‘The Voice Collective’

by Molly Grace Watkins

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile invites area voice educators to campus for “The Voice Collective,” a day of learning and collaborating. 

All voice educators, including choral teachers and private voice instructors and coaches, are invited to attend a one-day intensive to learn practical ways to teach across styles and stay up to date on current trends.

This event will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23 in Thomas T. Martin Hall. It is $50 per person and includes workshops, a Masterclass, and lunch as well as an ASOTA Student Showcase to end the day. Tickets can be purchased at asota.umobile.edu/voicecollective.

Professional Development hours may be earned for area teachers in the public and private sectors. 

Workshop sessions include:

Technical Prowess Across Styles

Wholistic Teaching in an Age of Quick “Fixes”

Exploring Effective Teaching Language and its Implications

Pop Thoughts & Mic Technique

Hit Refresh on your Warm-ups

The day will be full of learning, collaborating, and growing together with a community of like-minded educators who have a passion to remain current in an ever-changing field. 

To learn more about the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile, please visit umobile.edu/asota.

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.

For Others: Avery Wilhite

by Molly Grace Watkins

Avery Wilhite
Digital Media Producer, UMS-Wright Preparatory School
Media Specialist, East Pointe Baptist Church
Bachelor of Science in Digital Media & Advertising ’22

I have a passion for people. Throughout my years in college and now out of college, I have learned that serving people can be one of life’s greatest joys. I want people to know that someone is rooting for them, and I want to be known for being there. Whether in business, ministry, or a local coffee shop on Saturday morning, I want to be known for being FOR people.

-Avery Wilhite ’22

“One of the biggest lessons I learned from the University of Mobile was the ability to work with a team. Being on a team allows you to be for people and to help everyone reach their full potential,” says Avery Wilhite, digital media producer and media specialist at UMS-Wright Preparatory School. 

Throughout his college career, this 2022 UM graduate had many opportunities to work with teams, whether it was in a strategic management class with Dr. Kathy Dunning, dean of the Grace Pilot School of Business; in a global business class with Dr. Sevints Nuriyeva; working with RamCorps ensemble in the Alabama School of the Arts or during his internship in UM’s Office for Marketing and Public Relations. 

“Being able to work on a team is vital to the success of my position at UMS-Wright. I work with our marketing director, advancement department, technology department, football staff and many others to produce excellent products. Plus, seeing the fruits of hard work from a team is incredibly fulfilling,” Avery says. 

Avery likes to say he has the best job at UMS-Wright Preparatory School. He knows that school can be a tough time for children, so anything that he can do to brighten their day he finds worth doing. 

“There’s nothing like seeing the smiles on students’ faces when they see themselves in the latest football hype video or on the TV as they walk down the hall to their next class,” Avery says.

Q. What have you been up to since leaving UM? 

A. Since leaving UM, I joined a great team at UMS-Wright Preparatory School in Mobile, Alabama. I work alongside our marketing director to produce fun and meaningful content for students, faculty, staff, and families of UMS-Wright. I also serve on staff at East Pointe Baptist Church, where I am the media specialist. Working with our new senior pastor, worship pastor, and youth pastor is an incredible opportunity to grow and learn from some of the best. In June, I began working toward a Master of Divinity.

job

Q. Tell us about your job. 

A.  As the digital media producer, most of my job involves taking photos of various campus activities throughout the year. This could include different athletic events, weekly assemblies, fundraising events, or even fun classroom activities that teachers tell me about. In addition to sending them to our marketing director to post on our various social media pages, we have several screens around campus where I load the pictures for the students to see themselves. Also, I work on various video projects throughout the school year and manage and update our website. Our mission as a school focuses on developing students to their highest potential in mind, body, spirit and character. My job pertains mainly to the spirit of our students.

Q. What did you like most about UM? What advice would you give to prospective UM students?

A. The University of Mobile gave me numerous opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. First, it allowed me to learn from professors who are passionate about what they teach. People like Dr. Rusty Roberts, Dr. Dunning, Dr. Nuriyeva, and many other professors in the Grace Pilot School of Business greatly impacted my learning. Next, it allowed me to grow as a person and a follower of Christ. As any college experience gives, being away from home helps one self-reflect and self-evaluate, ultimately allowing for growth. UM, however, took that to the next level by creating opportunities to grow as a follower of Christ by emphasizing the need to be involved in a local church, providing on-campus worship and teaching experiences, and more. Lastly, the University of Mobile allowed me to connect with incredible people. It connected me with life-long friends in and outside of ministry. I have also made connections with business and faith professionals all over the country. 

Q. Any final thoughts?

A.   One of the best books I’ve read is “Know What You’re For” by Jeff Henderson. Jeff, the former pastor of Gwinnett Church in Georgia, summed up the book’s premise in this line: In a world known more for what we’re against, let’s be known for what we’re FOR. I’ve taken that to heart. I am FOR people. Many times, Christians are characterized more for what they’re against rather than what (or whom) they are for. With this, one of my life goals is to be FOR others. 

Alabama School of the Arts Presents Faculty Recital

by Molly Grace Watkins
kadisha

MOBILE, Ala. – World-renowned pianist Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva and trombonist Kenn Hughes will perform a faculty recital on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. at the University of Mobile as part of the 7th annual Alabama School of the Arts Piano Festival.

The Piano Festival is a year-long series of master classes and workshops, recitals by guest artists and faculty, and special performances by university students and Elite 88, UM’s piano ensemble. The recital will be held on campus in Moorer Auditorium, Thomas T. Martin Hall.

Presenting the collaborative concert will be Hughes, associate professor of music and associate dean of UM’s Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts and Steinway Artist Onalbayeva, professor of music. 

ken

The concert will present a variety of musical styles such as ragtime, jazz and contemporary music. It will also include world premieres of works by Onalbayeva and a ragtime piece by Michael Coleman. Other composers on the program are Dewhurst, Kapustin, Mancini, Malotte, Moss, Newsome and Sieg.

Hughes said, “Finding excellent material for trombone and piano in popular styles can sometimes be difficult, but we have found musical arrangements that are challenging but enjoyable for the performer and listener alike.”

Hughes and Onalbayeva will also perform “Prayer” by Onalbayeva at Pensacola ComposerFest XVIII on Sunday, Sept. 24 at 2:30 p.m. at the Ashmore Fine Arts Auditorium at Pensacola.

For more information on this and other upcoming events, visit the University of Mobile calendar at umobile.edu/calendar. 

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.

Alabama School of the Arts Announces 7th Annual Piano Festival

by Molly Grace Watkins

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile announces the 7th annual Alabama School of the Arts Piano Festival, a year-long series of master classes and workshops, recitals by guest artists and faculty, and special performances by university students and UM’s piano ensemble.

The ASOTA Piano Festival was started by Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, UM’s Steinway Artist and director of piano studies. Along with retired music professor Becky Fox, Onalbayeva was instrumental in leading the university to gain the prestigious status of All-Steinway School.

dr kadisha onalbayeva


“The annual Piano Festival combines educational and performance variety, not just for pianists, but also for other instrumentalists and vocalists. We also collaborate with UM’s Art Department and ASOTA dance students. Our students who study composition have performances of their original works,” said Onalbayeva.

Gaukhar Kenessova, a master’s student in piano performance, said, “My favorite part of ASOTA’s piano festival is working together and sharing ideas, as well as the excellent feedback from our professors who are always ready to help us. Master classes and concerts are in a special place in my heart!” 

This year, there are workshops and master classes with international artists and educators from Israel, Costa Rica and several other countries.

“My favorite part of ASOTA’s Piano Festival is meeting and being mentored by world-class artists. Since UM is a smaller school, all students can participate in masterclasses instead of just watching the guest artist,” said Christopher Conger, sophomore music performance major.

All Piano Festival events are free and open to the public and are held on campus in Moorer Auditorium. The full schedule is below and can be found on the university calendar at umobile.edu/calendar, or call the Alabama School of the Arts at 251.442.2383.

All-Steinway School Piano Festival

The university’s 7th annual Alabama School of the Arts Piano Festival includes an annual celebration of the university’s status as an All-Steinway School. Events include:

Master Classes will be held every Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. at Moorer Auditorium in Thomas T. Martin Hall on UM’s campus.

August 23, 3:30 p.m. – “Finding the Balance: Alexander Technique and Alignment for Pianists” Workshop with Dr. Kathryn Hedlund, chair of graduate studies, director of vocal studies and professor of music at the University of Mobile, Mobile, Alabama.

September 6, 3:30 p.m. – “Music Production Using Virtual Instruments and MIDI” Workshop with Chris Springer, producer and arranger at the University of Mobile, Mobile, Alabama.

September 26, 7 p.m. – “Ragtime and Other Riches” with Bobby van Deusen, three-time world champion of the Old Time Piano Competition, from Pensacola, Florida.

October 26, 7 p.m. – UM’s Piano Ensemble “Dancing with Pianos.”

November 1, 3:30 p.m. – “Piano and Chamber Works by Kazakh Composers” Workshop with Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva and students from the National University of Coast Rica and the University of Mobile.

November 29, 3:30 p.m. – Master Class with Dr. Uriel Tsachor, Steinway artist and professor emeritus of music at the University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa. 

January 18, 7 p.m. – All-Steinway Seventh Annual Celebration piano department concert.

January 23, 7 p.m. – Guest Artist Recital with Faina Lushtak, Steinway artist associate and professor of music at Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisianna. 

January 24, 3:30 p.m. – Master Class with Faina Lushtak. 

February 10, 9 a.m. – Gulf Coast Steinway Society Music Competition IX

February 14, 3:30 p.m. – “Latin American Piano works by Living Composers” online workshop with Dr. Rebeca Ordonez Rodriguez, associate professor of piano at Escuela de Musica.

February 20, 7 p.m. – “From America to Kazakhstan” ASOTA Piano Duet with Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva and Greg Wiggins. 

April 2, 7 p.m. – “Music from Baroque until Today” chamber music concert by ASOTA students.

April 3, 3:30 p.m. – Master Class and Workshop with Dr. Marian Lee, associate professor of music and head of piano department at St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa.

April 18, 7 p.m. ­– “Pianos at an Exhibition” concert by ASOTA’s Piano Ensemble

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.

Standing Tall: Amanda Carmichael

by Molly Grace Watkins

Amanda Carmichael
Private Music Instructor
Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance ’19

I was challenged by my teachers, and instructed by the Lord, to pursue Vocal Performance as my major. After my surgeries, when I did not know what was next, the Lord reminded me of my time at UM. The encouragement and support I received pushed me then, and it has pushed me now.

– Amanda Carmichael ’19

“I never thought that this would be what the Lord had planned for me. No one plans on having double below-knee amputations, but I am blessed beyond measure. I am thankful that the Lord has allowed me to stand tall during it all,” says private music instructor Amanda Carmichael, a 2019 graduate of the University of Mobile.

Since graduating from UM in 2019, Amanda experienced many life changes. In July of 2019, she had double below-knee amputations due to issues from a congenital deformity. Yet, all that Amanda accomplished during her recovery was truly remarkable. 

Due to a lack of practical resources while trying to prep for the operation, she authored a book, “Standing Tall,” which offers useful tips and advice from amputees for those entering the amputee community.

“Standing Tall” is filled with the stories and tips from 14 amputees across the world, explains how prosthetics are made, offers advice for those supporting an amputee in their journey, and is concluded with amputee-focused charities in the US, UK, and Australia.

Amanda also started her own music studio. 

“Because of the support shown to me in ASOTA, I have ventured into private music teaching. I incorporate what style of teachings I received from UM into my own teaching and have seen the fruit of it,” Amanda says.

She offers more than 25 voice and piano lessons weekly with her student’s aging between 6 and 35 years old. 

“When someone is passionate about a subject it naturally translates into their teaching. I witnessed at UM that this plays a large role into effective learning. I enjoy teaching as it serves as a mentoring platform in congruency with building a musical education,” Amanda says.

Currently, Amanda is still pursuing opera and music by attending graduate school in York, England. The program will conclude September 2023, and she intends on staying in the UK for the foreseeable future to pursue music-related ventures.

Q. What are some of the most important things you gained from your UM experience? 

A. When I look at my time at UM, the first thing that grips my attention is the relationships that were formed there. Most of my closest friendships were born through my time at UM. Additionally, the professional friendships grown between teacher and student have had a lasting impact on me. My teachers were not only high caliber in credentials, talent, and teaching capabilities, but also genuine in their concerns, kind in their words, and encouraging and challenging in their assigned tasks. I highly respect the teachers I had and am thankful the Lord put them in my life.  

Q. How did studying at UM lead you to where you are now?

A. Attending the University of Mobile truly changed the trajectory of my entire life. My plan was to attend college and study international business; however, during my time at UM it became evident that I could sing opera, a talent so hidden even I had no idea I was capable of it! 

Q. What have you been up to since leaving UM? List some career highlights or accomplishments.

A.  In addition to having my own music studio and writing my own book, I performed with Birmingham Opera’s “Opera Shots,” which was the first time singing publicly with my prosthetic legs. Also, I was asked to sing in a pre-concert for Irish soprano Ailish Tynan, and did so with Grammy award-winning pianist and accompanist, Christopher Glynn. Currently, my main focus and priority has been my graduate studies.

Q. What did you like most about UM? What advice would you give to UM students?

A. As a freshman there is pressure to know exactly what your strengths and passions are and what vocational options you have as a result. It is okay not to know. I remember coming to a cross-roads about which pathway to study during my freshman year. I spoke with multiple faculty members from different departments, and each was generous with their time and guidance. Your professors desire to see you not just succeed, but truly flourish. They help you to find the right fit. UM offers a wide selection of focused-study options. Within each option is an academic track designed to equip you with the knowledge and skill required to take on a job in that field with confidence.

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