Author: Noelle Foster

Noelle Foster is an intern in the Office of 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 along with a minor in History. When she is not studying or researching, Noelle enjoys going on walks, listening to music, and spending time with her family and friends.

Prayer Room: Remembering God’s Faithfulness at the University of Mobile

by Noelle Foster

MOBILE, Ala. – The lights dim as quiet music fills the room. Conversations silence, heads bow, and hands lift as college students stand shoulder-to-shoulder and prepare their hearts and minds in readiness for what is to come.

Then, in unison, a chorus of voices fill the space and lift in praise to the One who has brought them all here tonight – to Prayer Room at the University of Mobile.

A Glimpse of Heaven

What is now a university-wide time of prayer and praise led by students started over 20 years ago in the Alabama School of the Arts. Before each performance, students would gather for a special time of prayer and worship they called “Prayer Room.”

“Prayer Room is the title that was given for the time that we would take to spend in the Lord’s presence and align our hearts before leading worship,” said Emma Heathershaw, a graduating senior and music major. “It has always been a really special time for us, and it was something that we wanted to bring to the entire campus community.”

At the last Prayer Room of spring semester, students – along with faculty and staff – moved freely around the room and prayed over friends and strangers. Embraces were exchanged, tears fell in awe and wonder of the Lord’s goodness. It was amid the sounds of joyful celebration and solemn adoration that a glimpse of what heaven must look like shone through – a crowd of people worshiping a worthy God.

Remembrance & Provision

The theme for this particular Prayer Room was remembrance and God’s provision, based on Joshua 4. In this chapter, God mandates the Israelites, His chosen people, to build an altar of stones as a monument that future generations can look upon and remember the Lord’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to them.

Abbie Maggio, assistant professor of worship leadership in the Alabama School of the Arts, said she encouraged students to look around them and see how the Lord was working in the hearts of their generation.

“This idea of the provision of God is one that multiple students said they had been thinking and praying about,” Maggio said.

Student leaders encouraged their peers to remember how God had provided for them by writing a word on their own stone of remembrance. One by one, individuals approached the tables stationed around the room, took a stone from a basket, and wrote down a testament to how God had provided for them.

Heathershaw said her testament was that “The Lord is my Keeper.”

“I remember when I was praying and believing in God to provide something for my family. I got to witness the Lord answer my request and provide in a really beautiful, special way. This, on top of many other examples, has just been another way the Lord has kept me,” she said.

Heathershaw said her biggest take-away from the night focused on remembrance and provision was this question: Will we remember His Son?

“When we are praying for an answer, when we’re looking at the lost, when we walk out of here, will we remember His Son? When we leave this room and there isn’t any music, will we remember His Son?

“Because that’s what it comes down to – that we remember the biggest way God has been faithful and provided for us is when He demonstrated His love by sending His Son, Jesus,” she said.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at https://umobile.edu/um-info/ and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Q&A with UM Accounting Professor Calee Allday

by Noelle Foster

MOBILE, Ala. – When meeting Calee Allday, assistant professor of accounting in the Grace Pilot School of Business, “softball player” might not be the first thought that comes to mind. However, not only did Allday compete in the sport, but she went on to play as an All-State pitcher her senior year.

Allday’s drive to succeed and her competitive nature has translated off field and helped her obtain her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Mobile, receiving the School of Business Achievement Award and the President’s Scholastic Award, and successfully running her own business, North Mobile Nutrition, for three years. It is this mindset that she passes on to her students to equip them to overcome any challenges they may face.

We talked with Allday about her love for the field of accounting, how it has aided in her business endeavors and her views on the University of Mobile as a former student.

Q: What is your professional background?

A: I am an alumna of the University of Mobile, holding a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration. I then went on to use my management, marketing and accounting skills to become a young entrepreneur and run a successful small business – North Mobile Nutrition. Even though I am no longer the owner, the business is still thriving under new ownership!

Q: Why did you choose to study and teach in this field?

A: I started to study accounting because I loved numbers. However, I quickly fell in love with the analytical, problem-solving and critical thinking side of it. When using these skills, I get to develop and analyze financial statements on my own, which sparks my interest and makes me feel accomplished.

Q: Why should a prospective student choose to study in your program at UM?

A: Accounting is critical to any industry or business. Because it is always in demand, this gives students endless opportunities and chances for career advancements once they graduate. The accounting program, with the help of our amazing professors, prepares each student for these opportunities. In our courses, we combine accounting theories and concepts with real-life scenarios so our students establish a great foundation of knowledge that will aid them both in and out of the classroom.

Q: How do you integrate real-world experiences and examples into your teaching?

A: One tool I use is case studies because they allow students to apply the concepts they have learned to real-life situations. I also incorporate discussion and analysis of current events to help students gain an understanding of what is happening in the industry today. In my entrepreneurship courses, I love to bring in business owners as guest speakers. Through these talks, they get to share their experiences and give students insight into running a business in the current economy.

Q: What do you believe sets UM apart from other institutions?

A: It is such a tight-knit community, which makes you feel like you are with family from the moment you step on campus. As a professor, this leads me to cultivate a friendship with my students, which is one of my favorite parts of my job. 

Students also have the unique opportunity to grow and be shaped both academically and spiritually at UM. As a former student, it was encouraging to know that while you are studying to go into your chosen job field, you are doing it for a higher purpose — to go out into the world and be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Learn More About Accounting at the University of Mobie

Learn more about studying accounting in the Grace Pilot School of Business at the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/umday-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Where Music and Memory Meet: UM’s ‘Pianos Go To The Movies’

by Noelle Foster

MOBILE, Ala. –  From the soaring notes of heartfelt ballads to the sorrowful melodies of a tearful goodbye, music has been the emotional heartbeat of cinema since the earliest days of film. Now, the University of Mobile is celebrating that powerful connection between music and memory with its Spring Piano Ensemble concert, “Pianos Go To The Movies.” 

The concert, set for Tuesday, April 22 at 7 p.m. in the Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Center on campus, will take the audience on a journey through iconic films with dynamic piano performances that capture the spirit and emotion of the silver screen. 

Tickets are $11 at the door or may be purchased in advance at umobile.edu/asotaseason. The concert is part of the 2024-2025 performing arts season of the university’s Alabama School of the Arts.

The Power of Motion Picture Music

Greg Wiggins, a University of Mobile music instructor, said it is music’s unique ability to be remembered by the listener long after the show is over that gives it an enduring quality.

“We want the audience to not only enjoy the music,” said Wiggins, “but to remember the first time they saw the movie and heard that particular theme.”

Among the performers is Rebecca Reed, a master’s student majoring in piano performance, who expressed her excitement for the upcoming concert and her fond memories associated with the pieces selected.

“As a movie nerd myself, who grew up watching the movies these pieces were composed for, this recital represents a nostalgic journey of some of film’s most iconic moments,” said Reed. “I hope that others experience the same nostalgia I do as they are serenaded with these beautiful works.”

Team Effort

To provide the listener with an immersive experience, the ensemble will have three different screens displaying excerpts from various beloved films such as Star Wars, E.T., Home Alone, Indiana Jones, Batman and much more. The set list will include pieces arranged by the university’s own students, adding an original and thrilling element to the event. 

Wiggins, who has directed the Piano Ensemble for over 8 productions, highlights the fun opportunity this is for the performers to combine their talents. He said the piano ensemble is comprised of 14 students undergraduate and graduate students. Multiple students will play simultaneously for several pieces, ranging from one piano played by four hands to two pianos played by eight hands.

“The piano ensemble is a chance for piano majors and non-majors to collaborate together and create an enhanced musical performance, relying on one another for musical flexibility and teamwork throughout the rehearsal period and on through to the performance,” Wiggins said.

A junior who is majoring in piano performance, Christopher Conger, said this teamwork is his favorite part of the event. 

“I love collaborating with other pianists,” said Conger. “There is something really special about sharing the stage and working together.”

Meet the Cast and Crew

The concert will feature a lineup of 14 student piano performers, including:

  • Zarina Akayeva
  • Christopher Conger
  • Anna Elliot
  • Nicholas Lewis
  • Logan Lipke
  • Marc Marquis
  • Benjamin Naman
  • Rebecca Reed
  • Zhanel Salyn-Turubayeva
  • Isabella Smith
  • Alison Strunk
  • Emily Thullesen
  • Eli Whitehead
  • Marabella Wilmoth

Sit Back and Enjoy the Show

“Pianos Go To The Movies” promises to be a concert unlike any other, with music and magic for all ages to enjoy. Nicholas Lewis, a master’s student majoring in piano performance, put it this way: “Whether you love music, movies or popcorn, this concert is the right place to be because it has a little bit of something for everyone.”

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

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Directing My Steps:  My Journey to the University of Mobile

by Noelle Foster

My college journey, like most parts of my life, has been full of unexpected twists and turns. When I started my freshman year, I never imaged that I would be here, at the University of Mobile. 
 
My First Plan
 
The original plan was to complete two years at my community college and then attend a large public university to complete my bachelor’s degree. I made it to that university, but things were not working out like I had planned. I wanted something different.
 
            
During this time, stories that my mom told me about the University of Mobile, her alma mater, started to pop into my mind frequently. One night I received a call from my brother who lived in Texas. He asked me, “If you could go to any school, where would you want to go?” 
 
            
My first thought was the University of Mobile, but I assumed a private Christian school would not be financially feasible. He responded, “Okay. It can’t hurt to try and see if you can.” Next thing I know, it was two weeks later, and my mom and I stood on the campus for a UM Day!
 
 
I remember turning to my mom and saying, “This is where I’m supposed to be. I know it sounds crazy, but I feel at peace here.” I carried that peace which comes with following God’s will through the rest of the transfer process. 
 
My Hope Becomes Reality
 
With the help and determination of my UM admissions and financial aid counselors, I received scholarships and financial aid which made my hope of coming to UM a reality.
 
It was an amazing experience getting to sit back and watch as the Lord moved all the roadblocks that would have prevented me from attending. Because of Him and some great people, I was able to step onto campus in the Spring semester as a University of Mobile transfer student for the first time. 
 
The Lord is Faithful
            
 
I have met many students with stories similar to mine, who have clearly felt and seen the Lord’s faithfulness in leading them to this university. And like them, the heart of my University of Mobile story is this: As long as I follow my God, He promises to lead.
            
 
“The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
 
Schedule a Campus Visit
 
Editor’s Note: Our students tell us that they knew from the first moment they stepped on campus that the University of Mobile would be their college home, just like Noelle experienced. See for yourself and schedule a campus visit or RSVP for a UM Day at umobile.edu/umday-info.
 
 
Pictured at top:  Joeann Sale Foster ’92, and daughter Noelle Foster wearing their University of Mobile sweatshirts. Inset photo was taken on their UM Day visit.

Experiencing the Difference: How the University of Mobile Became My Home

by Noelle Foster

MOBILE, Ala. – When I first visited the University of Mobile, I distinctly recall seeing a billboard sign on the drive in that displayed in large letters, “Experience the Difference at the University of Mobile.” 

I wondered what that meant for me. When it comes to finding a sense of belonging, I felt like I had all the cards stacked against me. I was an introverted transfer student who was dropping in out of nowhere during the spring semester. 

However, to my surprise, within the first month I had already met some of the people who would become my closest friends and encouragers throughout my time at UM.  It was in this time that the realization hit me – my difference was community.  

Finding Community

I found this community through campus-hosted activities such as Karaoke Nights (my personal favorite), Make Much worship nights, dorm events and much more. These events helped me to connect with fellow students while also taking a much-needed break from schoolwork.

Another way was through my work-study position in the Admissions Office. I get to work alongside some amazing people who enjoy spending time with each other. This allowed me to get to know the people who breathe life into the university each day and keep it up and running.

I also found community in my first year with my involvement in worship choir. I remember experiencing days where I would be struggling, and singing in choir would uplift me and give me the strength to get through those times. It became a place where I could worship with other people while having fun.

My Home     

The University of Mobile is truly a place where one does not get lost or forgotten, even if they want to! I had struggled with finding a community in the past, but at UM, that changed for me. This became my home, a place where I was comfortable enough to not only grow but thrive.

A Crown of Glory: Miss University of Mobile 2025

by Noelle Foster

MOBILE, Ala. – It is 30 minutes until the start of the Miss University of Mobile competition, and the dressing rooms are filled with quiet chatter as the contestants prepare. 

In each room, young women can be seen leaning over long mirrors to reapply lipstick or put the finishing touches to their pristinely styled hair. Encouraging words are passed between them as the time grows closer for the ladies to step on stage. Despite the nerves present, there is a sense of fun and camaraderie shared. 

They have been preparing for this moment for two months, and their hard work is evident as each one navigates the stage with grace and poise. At the end of the night, with the winner for Miss UM seconds away from being announced, the audience grows silent in anticipation.

Then, to the backdrop of celebratory shouts and applause, Chesed Turner steps into the spotlight and is crowned Miss University of Mobile 2025.

Turner, a junior musical theater major from Niceville, Florida, will carry on the legacy of serving as a representative for the Christian university in the upcoming year.

“It almost doesn’t feel real,” said Turner the next day. “I woke up this morning and saw the crown in my box and was like, ‘What is that doing there?’”

Created to Create

In her time as Miss University of Mobile, Turner aims to grow the program of Miss UM and her platform, “Created to Create,” which focuses on bringing different outlets of expression and creativity to both the campus and its students. 

Besides the mental and physical benefits that the act of being creative brings, Turner also highlights how interwoven it is into humanity.

“We know that God is our Creator, but we often forget that He is creative,” said Turner. “And to have Him as our Creator, to be created in His image, means that we are creative ourselves. That is a part of His very nature, and therefore, it’s a part of ours.”

Beyond these plans, Turner’s primary goal in life and as Miss UM is to be an example of God’s love to others. 

“The judges asked me what my name means in my interview, and it means ‘God’s eternal lovingkindness,’” said Turner. “My name is literally a testament of who Christ is and my goal in life is to exemplify that and exemplify it well for God’s glory.” 

Award Recipients

Also earning honors at the Miss University of Mobile competition on Jan. 31 were:

  • Jaycie Tungett from Leakesville, Mississippi, who placed first runner-up and won the People’s Choice Award. She received $3,350 in scholarships.
  • Caitlyn Ozee from Bourbonnais, Illinois, placed second runner-up. She received $2,000 in scholarships.
  • Kennedy Bradford from Vernon, Alabama, placed third runner-up. Bradford received $1,000 in scholarships.
  • Allegra Fuller from Mobile, Alabama, was the recipient of the Talent Award and Miss Congeniality. She received $850 in scholarships.

A Fond Farewell

The audience bid a fond farewell to Miss University of Mobile of 2024, AnnaKatherine Bell, with a standing ovation after her humous and heartwarming performance of “Taylor, the Latte Boy” by Kristin Chenoweth. 

Bell will leave the university with one final and visible reminder of her “Growth Project” by planting daylilies in front of Martin Hall.

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.

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

Request Information

weaver hall building