Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
MOBILE, Ala. – University of Mobile marketing students created a comprehensive marketing plan for Women’s Resource Center to help reach the next generation. The involvement in the project will provide students with experience for their future careers.
Students in UM’s Marketing and Communications class created their own marketing agency to present marketing suggestions to the Women’s Resource center. They compared the WRC to competitors to find ways to improve graphics, advertisements, events and ways to reach men and women in need.
The Women’s Resource Center is a faith-based ministry that provides medically accurate information about pregnancy, fetal development, lifestyle issues and other related services. The WRC also offers pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, counseling, STI testing and more for expecting women.
Students used information they have been taught at the University of Mobile to create traditional, digital and alternative advertising, as well as marketing suggestions for social media, website, events and more.
Avery Wilhite, junior at the University of Mobile, said the teaching in the School of Business and the Good Work Agency, a student-run marketing agency at UM that helps local business and non-profits, helped prepare him for the presentations to the WRC.
“This class has equipped me with a well-rounded knowledge base and practical skills to use in my career. When the Women’s Resource Center asked questions about our presentation, I felt well-prepared to confidently answer those questions,” said Wilhite.
The strategies UM students presented will help improve the communication to the next generation, said Marty Carrell, CEO of the Women’s Resource Center.
“I’m very impressed with all of the students. Lesa Moore, vice president of marketing and communications and marketing instructor, approached us about this project, and marketing was something I was praying about for the WRC. We had some ideas, and we knew that UM would be able to help us make it happen. What we saw during presentations is very relevant to our organization, and the ideas that these students had and ways to improve the WRC can help us out a lot,” said Carrell.
Students will be able to use the experience of working with clients and creating marketing materials in their future careers.
“I want to work with non-profits, so being able to work with a non-profit has been very helpful. I’ve seen how they work and how marketing works within non-profits and healthcare fields,” said Noah Walters, a senior at UM.
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.
Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile’s highest faculty and staff honors, the Megginson Awards and Faculty Engagement Award, were announced May 4. The university also announced promotions and noted years of service during the awards event at the annual faculty and staff spring luncheon on campus.
Following the announcement of the prestigious awards, UM President Lonnie Burnett and College of Arts and Sciences Dean Ted Mashburn emceed the lighthearted “Rammy Awards,” where employees voted for peers to receive awards ranging from the Top Chef Award for bringing food for colleagues to the Megaphone Award for the person most likely to forget they are not muted in Zoom meetings.
The Megginson Awards recognize outstanding contributions to the university in the areas of teaching, research and service. Recipients are chosen by committees of peers from among nominations sent by students, faculty and staff. The recipients are honored for their character, ethics, accomplishments, and contributions to the university.
The Faculty Engagement Award honors a faculty member who demonstrates excellence in student engagement inside and outside the standard classroom setting and intentionally fostering community among students. Recipients of this award are nominated by faculty and selected by a committee of peers.
The 2021 William A. Megginson Teaching Award was presented to Dr. Salomon Itza, professor of physics in the College of Arts and Sciences. “Dr. Itza has passion for education, dedication to students, and a caring nature. He demonstrates an uplifting spirit that continues to motivate students to find the silver lining in each situation. He doesn’t just educate students to understand a particular procedure, but explains the purpose for doing each task. He not only cares about his students understanding the material, but he also cares about them as the people God has made them to be,” his nomination reads.
The 2021 Mitford Ray Megginson Research Award was presented to Dr. Matthew Downs, associate professor of history and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Downs’ research was conducted both digitally and at the Alabama state archives. The topic is the Reform Movement that sought to enact alcohol prohibition in early 20th century Alabama, and the methods by which the state and federal government attempted to enforce Prohibition. The resulting research paper was accepted for presentation at the Alabama Historical Association. It has also been included as an entry in the online Encyclopedia of Alabama.
The 2021 Emma Frances Megginson Service Award was presented to Brenda Hinson, coordinator of international recruitment. “She is a regular at sporting events for students, hosts holiday dinners in her home and is a comforting voice in the face of anxieties. She goes above and beyond to help our international students navigate the oftentimes complex process of becoming a student in the United States. We are thankful for her the example her enthusiasm and hard work set for all of us,” her nomination read.
The 2021 Faculty Engagement Award was presented to Dr. Karen Dennis, associate professor of education in the School of Education, and co-director of the Center for Collaborative Teaching and Learning. The award is presented to a faculty member who demonstrates excellence in student engagement inside and outside the classroom. “She intentionally fosters community among students and promotes the relevance of her discipline in their lives. She embodies the University of Mobile’s Core Values of being Christ-centered and Student-devoted,” her nomination reads.
Faculty promotions were announced. Faculty promoted to full professor receive a university medallion that is worn at graduation and official university ceremonies. Promoted to full professor was Dr. Katherine Abernathy, professor of English, College of Arts and Sciences.
Additional faculty promotions include Dr. Charlotte Hester, associate professor of music, Alabama School of the Arts; Dr. Christopher Lovely, associate professor of music, Alabama School of the Arts; Dr. Aimee Var, associate professor of psychology, College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Robert Olsen, associate professor of Christian studies, Center for Christian Calling; Dr. Jay Robertson, associate professor of Christian studies, Center for Christian Calling; Dr. Ashley Milner, associate professor of education, School of Education; Andrew Goodwin, assistant professor of music, Alabama School of the Arts; Karon Bishop, assistant professor of education, School of Education.
Faculty gaining tenure include Dr. Julie Biskner, associate professor of political science, College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Randy Craig, professor of biology, College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Salomon Itza, professor of physics, College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, professor of music, Alabama School of the Arts; Dr. Michael Robinson, associate professor of history, College of Arts and Sciences.
Service awards were presented to faculty and staff for years of service. Employees are honored at five-year marks.
35-Year Service Award: Carol Camp.
30-Year Service Award: Mattie Easter, Rebecca Rocker (MMI).
25-Year Service Award: Nick Cillo, Kimberly Howell, Juanita Porter (National Plant Services).
20-Year Service Award: Curtis O’Cain (National), Lucy Pettway (MMI), Donna Ramer, Dr. Melissa Thomas, Dr. Doug Wilson, Dr. Sarah Barnes-Witherspoon.
15-Year Service Award: Dr. Debra Chancey, Joyce Sigler (MMI), Charity Wittner, Bernidette Yates (MMI).
10-Year Service Award: Marie Lourdes Baumer, Barbara Brousseau, Shannon Mason, Kimberly Setser, Daniel Whelan.
5-Year Service Award: Shelby Bristow, Dr. Glenn Holllingsworth, Dr. Salomon Itza, Dr. Ashley Milner, Janice Richardson (National), Morgan Snellgrove, Erika Stuckman, Shaneka Thomas (signall88 Security), Latollen Todd (MMI), Kami Whiteis.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.
Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile will host “Brain Battle,” a quiz bowl tournament for varsity division teams, on Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021. Interested teams should sign up now at umobile.edu/scholars-bowl.
The free event will allow high school scholars bowl and quiz bowl teams to compete in a qualifier for National Academic Quiz Tournaments’ high school national championship tournament.
The UM Brain Battle tournament will begin at 9 a.m. and last until 1 p.m. Welcome goodies, morning refreshments and lunch will be provided.
All teams will be guaranteed at least seven rounds of play, with further specifications sent closer to the tournament. A list of teams registered, and other logistical details, will be updated through the University of Mobile website.
“This is a free event for our community. As a Christian university, we focus on ways to serve others, and we think this is a wonderful opportunity for young scholars,” said Amy Burdette, an English instructor at the University of Mobile.
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.
Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile celebrated the inauguration of its 5th president, Dr. Lonnie Burnett, on May 7 after a year-long delay from a global pandemic.
Burnett was selected unanimously by the Board of Trustees on Nov. 22, 2019, after serving six months as interim president. Just four months later, in March 2020, the Alabama Baptist-affiliated university moved to remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Little did Dr. Burnett know then that right out of the gate, he would lead this university through a global pandemic, two hurricanes and nationwide unrest. But, through it all, we have seen the highest enrollment in the last five years, the first doctoral degrees awarded, the addition of the J.L. Bedsole Sports Performance Center and the beginning of a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program,” said Fred Wilson, chair of the Board of Trustees.
Faculty, staff and trustees gathered on the Great Commission Lawn on campus for a dinner to celebrate Burnett. A formal inauguration ceremony was planned in 2020 but had to be canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Presentations were given by President Emeritus Dr. Mark Foley, former trustee chair Deborah Nelson, Wilson, university faculty, and the Voices of Mobile ensemble from UM’s Alabama School of the Arts.
Wilson also presented a gift to Burnett from the Board of Trustees as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to the university.
“As a small token of our appreciation, I would like to present to you this Bible. Thank you, Lonnie, for your hard work, dedication and love for this university,” said Wilson.
Burnett celebrated the presidents who have come before him, the Board of Trustees, Alabama churches and congregations that founded and continue to support the school, faculty and staff, students, and his wife Lynne and daughter Lauren, both of whom are UM graduates. He spoke about his journey and vision for the future.
“Through the decades, two things have remained constant. First, we have remained true to the mission, and second, the faithfulness of God. It is a great honor to be the fifth president of this University,” said Burnett.
Burnett elaborated on the university’s theme, “Know and Be Known,” backing it with scripture and describing his goals. He said “Know” refers to:
Know Yourself – Personal Knowledge (2 Corinthians 13:5)
Know your Field – Professional Knowledge (Proverbs 1:5)
Know your Calling – Purposeful Knowledge (2 Timothy 2:20-210)
Know your God – Providential Knowledge (Proverbs 9:10)
“Be Known” refers to:
Be Known for your Excellence (Colossians 3:23)
Be Known for your Faith (1 Thessalonians 1:8)
Be Known for your Love (John 13:35)
Be Known for your Devotion (1 Corinthians 8:3)
Ed Litton, pastor of Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama, prayed over Burnett while Board of Trustee members and university vice presidents laid hands on the new president and his wife. Former president Foley said Burnett possessed the best tools for a successful presidency, and offered his encouragement.
“Each man who has occupied the chair at the president’s desk is overwhelmingly aware of both the potential of the university and challenges in attaining it. Now, Lonnie and Lynne Burnett have grasped the challenge,” said Foley.
“There will come a day sometime in the future when someone will stand as I do now to introduce a new president. That person will recall the past and will dwell upon the season of the Burnett presidency and say: ‘Were those not the best years? Did we ever see such favor from God? Was he not the best of all before him?’
“He is the right man, in the right place, at the right time, doing it the right way. May God cast His blessing upon him,” Foley said.
Burnett has a long association with the University of Mobile since graduating from then-Mobile College in 1979. He began a 25-year teaching career with the Mobile County Public School System, and along the way, earned a Master of Arts in history from the University of South Alabama and Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Southern Mississippi. He served as an adjunct history instructor at UM and, upon his retirement from MCPSS, accepted a full-time position in 2005.
Over the next decade, Burnett served as chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and vice provost for the University of Mobile.
He is the author of two books published by the University of Alabama Press and has contributed chapters to several other projects. He is an active participant in numerous historical organizations and served as president of the Alabama Historical Association in 2014-2015. He received the Mitford Ray Megginson Research Award from UM in 2006 and has been named “Teacher of the Year” at different institutions at the middle school, high school, undergraduate and graduate levels.
He is an active member of Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama, where he taught an adult Bible study class for over 20 years. He and his wife, Lynne, have been married for 40 years. They have a daughter, Lauren Wetzel (a two-time UM grad), son-in-law Cody and grandson, Alexander.
For more information on the University of Mobile, please visit umobile.edu or call 251.442.2222.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.
Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
MOBILE, Ala. – On May 8, 2021, the University of Mobile graduated its first doctoral students in Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Musical Arts in vocal performance.
A total of 265 graduates were honored at the ceremony held in front of Weaver Hall on the Dr. Fred and Sue Lackey Great Commission Lawn. After receiving diplomas, new graduates participated in the Great Commission Tradition and touched the Great Commission Globe to represent going out into the world to make an impact.
The university presented the Weaver Awards to the top two graduates. The complete list of fall graduates with academic honors and awards is below. President Emeritus Mark Foley carried the ceremonial mace and led the procession of faculty and graduating students. Foley served as president of the Christian university for 18 years.
UM Board of Trustees Chair Fred Wilson presented the Weaver Awards to the top male and female graduates for excellence in exemplifying the mission of the university. Selection is made by a secret vote of the faculty based on scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service.
Travis James Hudson
The William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award was presented to Travis James Hudson. Hudson graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in biology. He has maintained a 3.79 GPA in all of his classes at UM, while serving as a teaching assistant in general biology labs, microbiology labs and gross anatomy labs. Hudson represented the university as student government president, senator, Academic Integrity Council student chairman and Ram Rush leader. He additionally volunteered over 200 hours of service with Hickory Hammock Baptist Church as a worship and youth intern, and he frequently leads worship at Dauphin Way Baptist Church.
Zelda Elizabeth Peach
The Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award was presented to Zelda Elizabeth Peach. Peach graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in sociology. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA in the Honor’s Program and is the first student to undertake UM’s 5-year Bachelor of Science in sociology and Master of Social Work with Samford University. She was president of the Alpha Chi honor society, president of the Honor’s Program Council and vice president of UM Ambassadors. She has interned with Housing First and Women’s Resource Center in Mobile, where she has been entrusted with case management and client services with some of the community’s most at-risk populations.
Mobile, Alabama — David Harrison Greenwood Campbell; Marwah abd Karwi; Jennifer C. Phillips; Paula Marie Redd; Jessica Marie Richerson; Caryn Rainey Scott; Tiffany Nichole Williams
Muscle Shoals, Alabama — Tori D. Smith
Saraland, Alabama — Brunetta Thomas Banda
Selma, Alabama — Jane McKenzie Strother
Tallassee, Alabama — Brantley Morris Chandler
Quispamis, New Brunswick, Canada — Rachel Angèle Esquibel, School of Business Achievement Award
Mobile, Alabama — Carmen Joretta Franks, Biblical/Theological Studies; Joseph Robert McDonald, Biblical/Theological Studies, School of Christian Studies Achievement Award
Tuscaloosa, Alabama — Nicholas Matthew Dunkin, Worship Leadership and Theology
Gulf Breeze, Florida — Brent Edward Allen, Biblical/Theological Studies
Havana, Florida — Cody Alexander Erskine, Worship Leadership and Theology
Mobile, Alabama — Frederick Rondell Holmes, Worship Leadership; Richard Perry Stone, Cum Laude, Production Technologies, Area Award: Production Technologies; Anhtai Phillip Vo, Worship Leadership
Pell City, Alabama — William Loyd Haynes, Summa Cum Laude, Worship Leadership
Semmes, Alabama — Howard Lee Smith, Cum Laude, Worship Leadership, Area Award: Worship Leadership
Thomasville, Alabama — Morgan Faith Brasell, Magna Cum Laude, Worship Leadership
Satsuma, Alabama — Michael Lee Jolly, Worship Technologies
Chipley, Florida — Haylee Nicole Patton, Magna Cum Laude, Worship Leadershi
Milton, Florida — Logan S. Mathews, Worship Leadership,
Panama City Beach, Florida — Anna Leigh Griffin, Summa Cum Laude, Worship Leadership, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award
Pensacola, Florida — Briana La’Shea Webb, Magna Cum Laude, Worship Leadership, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award
Griffin, Georgia — Luke Conley Sisson, Worship Leadership
Clarksville, Tennessee — Corali Jiménez, Cum Laude, Worship Leadership
Knoxville, Tennessee — Jordan Christopher Williams, Magna Cum Laude, Production Technologies
Grand Bay, Alabama — Brenna Lee Stringfellow, English, Area Award: English, Honors Program Graduate
Mobile, Alabama — Michael Brantton Greene, History; Hannah Agapé Lynn Love, Magna Cum Laude, Philosophy, Area Award: Philosophy; Zelda Elizabeth Peach, Summa Cum Laude, Sociology, Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Execllence Award, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, Area Award: Sociology, Honors Program Graduate; Govan M. Trenier III, Psychology
Chunchula, Alabama — Lydia Noel Smith, Cum Laude, Strategic Communication
Citronelle, Alabama — Amber K. Naquin, Strategic Communication
Daphne, Alabama — Sydney Victoria Bishop, Sociology; Ashley Lynn Ivy, Psychology
Danville, Alabama — Tara N. Tuck, Biology
Eight Mile, Alabama — Heather Nicole Williamson, Cum Laude, History, Area Award: History
Fairhope, Alabama — Aaron James Haycraft, Cum Laude, Biology
Grand Bay, Alabama — Ethan Lee Williams, Psychology
Mobile, Alabama — Nellie Brown Amey, Organizational Leadership; Doris Joan Johnson, Cum Laude, Psychology; Nicholas Elijah Knight, Government and Law; Danielle Nicole London, Organizational Leadership; Olivia Jayne Moore, Magna Cum Laude, Pre-Health Biology; Bang Le Nguyen, Psychology; Mansi Rawat, Mathematics; Julius Michael Riley, Magna Cum Laude, General Studies
Prattville, Alabama — Derek Scott Lacy Jr., Cum Laude, Government and Law, Area Award: Government and Law
Robertsdale, Alabama — Hailee Elizabeth Powell, Magna Cum Laude, Mathematics, Area Award: Mathematics,
Semmes, Alabama — Dylan B. Fisher, Biology
Saraland, Alabama — Megan N. Hart, Cum Laude, Mathematics; Hallie M. Rowell, Cum Laude, Biology, Area Award: Biology
Satsuma, Alabama — Zachary Keith Presnall, History
Miami, Florida — Stephanie Ann Bruce-Torres, General Studies
Milton, Florida — Travis James Hudson, Magna Cum Laude, Biology, William K. Weaver, Jr. Exellence Award
Pensacola, Florida — Michael Fredrick McCrory, Psychology
Dormagen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany — Antonia Sophie Bauer, Summa Cum Laude, B.S., Biology, Area Award: Pre-Health Biology, Academic Achievement Award
River Ridge, Louisiana — Lauren Chase Bodino, Magna Cum Laude, Pre-Health Biology
Slidell, Louisiana — Josie Marie Headrick, Magna Cum Laude, Communication, Area Award: Communication
Pueblo, Mexico — Sofia Mazza Villarreal, Marine Science
Lucedale, Mississippi — Charity Gem Mills, Communication
Pascagoula, Mississippi — Cheryl Hamilton Vaughan, Psychology
St. Louis, Missouri — Faith Noel Hezel, General Studies, Area Award: General Studies
Dayton, Ohio — Jenna Joselle Dittman, Communication Studies
Fairhope, Alabama — Morgan Taylor Ledrew, Kinesiology; Natalie Paige Seay, Cum Laude, Kinesiology
Hartselle, Alabama — Kaitlyn Marie Spangler, Summa Cum Laude, Kinesiology, Area Award: Kinesiology
Hayden, Alabama — Carson Luke Southwell, Kinesiology
Irvington, Alabama — Valerie Lynn Elzora Ainsworth, Summa Cum Laude, Kinesiology, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, School of Health and Sports Science Achievement Award
Bay Minette, Alabama — Sierra Nicole Williams, Cum Laude
Bayou La Batre, Alabama — Ashlynn Noel Bosarge
Chickasaw, Alabama — DeJaih Daniels
Citronelle, Alabama — Cameron Paige Tutor, Cum Laude
Cleveland, Alabama — Jessica Jimenez Chacon
Daphne, Alabama — Maya Kolb Jowers
Dothan, Alabama — Amalia J.M. Martin, Cum Laude
Fairhope, Alabama — Sophia Anne Colbert, Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate; Yvonne Alexis Soncerra Lindsey
Grand Bay, Alabama — Traci P. Fleming
Huntsville, Alabama — Sarah Elizabeth Christopherson
Irvington, Alabama — Tessa Vivian Lowery
Mobile, Alabama — Courtney Nickole Blake; Joel Scott Griffith; Ashley Elizabeth Hamm; Grace Bradley Howard, Cum Laude, Area Award: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Alexandria L. King; Amanda Curtis McClain; Katelynn Ann Miller; Vania E. Muniz, Magna Cum Laude; Raven Symon People; Livonise Sirisnor; Amber Clauzell Thomas; Linh Tran, Cum Laude; Tracey Lynne Marsh Williams
Monroeville, Alabama — Victoria Morgan Powell
Robertsdale, Alabama — Madelyn Claire Wells, Magna Cum Laude
Saraland, Alabama — Amber Nichole Armistead; Nguyen Sonny Le
Satsuma, Alabama — Katelyn Marie Pierce
Semmes, Alabama — Mary Wheeler Hall; Mark Nicholas Leousis Jr., Cum Laude; Anh Duy Vu
Silverhill, Alabama — Hannah Ashley Guthrie, Summa Cum Laude, School of Nursing Achievement Award
Spanish Fort, Alabama — Joseph Allen Estes
Tuscaloosa, Alabama — Adriana Elise DeCubellis
Kodiak, Alaska — Mariah Kristeen Arndt
Centennial, Colorado — Anna Lynne Klouser
Jacksonville, Florida — Shelby Lynne Wright, Cum Laude
Jay, Florida — Amy Estrella Fredericks
Pace, Florida — Kinsey Louise Carlson
Pensacola, Florida — Julia Rose Morano
Columbus, Georgia — Austin Todd McMickle
Pine Mountain, Georgia — Trenton Cole Burns
Covington, Louisiana — Cassidy Dianne Arcement
New Orleans, Louisiana — Elizabeth Nabwire Wandera
Grand Rapids, Michigan — Madilyn Elyse Gosselin, Cum Laude
Burnsville, Minnesota — Steven George Hoostal
Monticello, Mississippi — Charles William Stanback Jr.
Camp Hill, Alabama — Laren McCall Smith, Summa Cum Laude, Integrated Marketing Communications, Area Award: Marketing
Columbia, Alabama — Paul A. Holmes, Magna Cum Laude, Software Development, Area Award: Software Development
Duncanville, Alabama — Jacob Douglas Henry, Accounting
Flomaton, Alabama — Michael Jacob Chandler, Accounting
Grand Bay, Alabama — Abbie Elizabeth Williams, Business Administration
Hartselle, Alabama — Ethan Scott Cowart, Cum Laude, B.S., Accounting, Area Award: Accounting
Madison, Alabama — Anfernee O. Jones, Business Administration
Magnolia Springs, Alabama — Kirsten Marie Leynes, Accounting
McIntosh, Alabama — Robyn Hunter Reed, Summa Cum Laude, Business Administration, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, School of Business Achievement Award, Area Award: Management
Mobile, Alabama — Elmer Francis Caimol Colubio III, Magna Cum Laude, Business Administration, Area Award: Finance; Emily Jean Phillips, Accounting; Jennifer C. Phillips, Cum Laude, Accounting; Kyley Elizabeth Rone, Management; Madilyn Aleyse Seymour, Management; Shaun Bryant Toomey, Business Administration
Saraland, Alabama — Zachary Jordan Jones, Cum Laude, Accounting
Silverhill, Alabama — Abigail Elaine McCully, Summa Cum Laude, B.S., Digital Media and Advertising, Area Award: Digital Media and Advertising
Silverhill, Alabama — Michael Allan Zona II, Cum Laude, Business Administration
Tallassee, Alabama — Brantley Morris Chandler, Magna Cum Laude, Accounting
Theodore, Alabama — Andrew Scott Roberts, Accounting
Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina — Alejo Binaghi, Management
Biloxi, Mississippi — Jared Austin Creel, Management
Kiln, Mississippi — Brandi Nicole Diket, Business Administration
Lenoir City, Tennessee — Jonathan Lowell Harding, Intergrated Marketing Communications
Dallas, Texas — Timothy Miguel Collins, Management
Mobile, Alabama — William Conner Floyd, Biblical/Theological Studies; Joseph McKinley Mohr, Biblical/Theological Studies; Jacob E. Musgrove, Biblical/Theological Studies
Opp , Alabama — Cameron Drake Ballard, Cum Laude, Biblical/Theological Studies
Pensacola, Florida — Bryce Michael Cox, Christian Leadership and Ministry, Area Award: Christian Leadership and Ministry
Mobile, Alabama — Donald William Brady, Summa Cum Laude, Biblical/Theological Studies, President’s Scholastic Achievement Award, School of Christian Studies Achievement Award, Honors Program Graduate; Ali Elizabeth Gardner, Intercultural Studies
Opp , Alabama — Charles Austyn Gessner, Cum Laude, Intercultural Studies, Area Award: Intercultural Studies
Pensacola, Florida — Myles Lowell Herren, Summa Cum Laude, Biblical/Theological Studies, Area Award: Biblical/Theological Studies
Alabaster, Alabama — Brandy Morgan Segreto, Cum Laude, Elementary Education, Area Award: Elementary Education
Athens, Alabama — Jessie Macon Jones, Early Childhood Education
Birmingham, Alabama — Lydia Ruth Diegel, Early Childhood Educatio
Chelsea, Alabama — Kayla Marie Wood, Magna Cum Laude, Child and Social Development
Mobile, Alabama — Ashlynn Denae Henderson, Magna Cum Laude, Early Childhood Education; Morgan Lashaun Smoots, Child and Social Development; Claire Travis Taylor, Magna Cum Laude, Early Childhood Education; Sherea Lynn White, Child and Social Development, Area Award: Child and Social Development; Shamika Williams Williamson, Cum Laude, Child and Social Development
Saraland, Alabama — Dynasty Victoria Wittner, Cum Laude, Early Childhood Education
Satsuma, Alabama — Valerie Michelle Dickson, Magna Cum Laude, Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Early Childhood and Elementary Education
Silverhill, Alabama — Whitney Rae Dillard, Magna Cum Laude, Early Childhood Education
Theodore, Alabama — Brianna Rachel Huber, Summa Cum Laude, Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Early Childhood Education
Navarre, Florida — Ashleigh Elizabeth Crumpler, Cum Laude, Early Childhood Education
Swainboro, Georgia — Kalen Allayah Wadley, Child and Social Development
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.
Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
MOBILE, Ala. –Danielle Hughes started working as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Lac Courte Oreilles Health Center in Hayward, Wisconsin in June 2020. She saw the lack of access to care, lack of resources, and need for increased health literacy in the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians.
While completing her online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Mobile, Hughes collaborated with her leadership team and the Lac Courte Oreilles grant writer to secure a grant totaling $500,000 over the next three years. This grant will aid in facilitating a comprehensive, culturally appropriate public health service for the Native Community for which she serves and where she lives.
The $500,000 grant from Indian Health Services aims to decrease the impact of opioid addiction in the community and enable primary and behavioral health care providers to offer early and multiple types of interventions.
Hughes received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Mobile over 20 years ago. She earned her Master of Business Administration in 2008 from Texas Woman’s University and Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner from the University of Mobile in 2019. She will be a member of the first graduating class from the Christian university’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program on May 8, 2021. In addition to receiving her DNP, she was awarded the Academic Achievement Award for the School of Nursing. The Doctor of Nursing Practice is offered as an online program with three on-campus intensives interspersed throughout the curriculum. The university will also graduate its first doctoral students in the Doctor of Musical Arts in vocal performance at the May 8 ceremony.
“It is an absolute honor to be in the first graduating class of DNP students at UM. It is so important as a minority student and Christian to push yourself, with the support of God and family, to the highest level possible. The environment provided by the nursing faculty is so supportive and conducive to learning. I believe that was a key factor to my success in this program,” said Hughes.
Dr. Sarah Barnes-Witherspoon, dean of the School of Nursing at the University of Mobile, said, “I am so proud, honored and humbled by Danielle. The Lord’s hand is on the University of Mobile to enable her to receive this grant to help an underserved population. She will be dynamic in delivering the healthcare needs to the tribe, and it’s amazing that she was able to secure this grant through her research done at UM.”
Hughes lived in the diverse, metropolitan area of Houston, Texas, but her passion to help more rural underserved communities receive the care they deserve led her to Lac Courte Oreilles Health Center.
For UM’s DNP program, Hughes wrote her dissertation on “Evidence-Based Approach to Advancing Integration within Primary Care.” Her research laid the groundwork for the grant proposal.
“My dissertation for the University of Mobile and the grant application went hand in hand. This grant will bring in the funding to support both physical health and behavioral health for opioid abuse,” she said.
“First, the tribe that I work for connects with nature, so we’re now able to reach out the community from an early age to discourage opioid use in children by bringing them closer to their culture and beliefs.
“Second, were able to increase the number of providers at the clinic to directly work with adults in the community that have opioid use disorder and give them the treatment they need.
“Third, it will decrease the number of patients who are inadvertently incarcerated for behavioral health reasons like anxiety or depression. They’re trying to numb pain by using illicit drugs, so we’re working to connect with the community and send out more counselors and social workers to bring reform,” said Hughes.
The University of Mobile offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice BSN to DNP Nurse Practitioner program as well as a Doctor of Nursing Practice Post-Master’s program. In the fall semester of 2021, the University of Mobile will begin offering the first and only Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Georgia.
“Our first graduating class of Doctor of Nursing Practice speaks volumes about the University of Mobile. We have such a dynamic group of students that will go on to make a difference in the world. The new Doctor of Nursing Anesthesia Practice helps put us on the map worldwide. We are the only local program in the area, and it will be very monumental to the School of Nursing and for future graduates,” said Witherspoon.
On May 8, 2021, the first Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates from the University of Mobile will walk across the stage.
The Doctor of Nursing Practice students and their dissertations are:
Wendy Clark, Thomasville, Ala. – Evaluation of The Palliative Care Screening Tool
Danielle Hughes, Houston, Texas – Evidence-Based Approach to Advancing Integration in Primary Care
Paula Matthews, Mobile, Ala. – Burnout to Bedside: Evaluation of a Partners in Care Model
Terri Moore, Citronelle, Ala. – Decreasing Patient Falls in Medical-Surgical Patients by Providing an Assistive Device
Sallyanna Silveria, St. Stephens, Ala. – Managing Newly Diagnosed Hypertension with Lifestyle Modifications
Anganatte Williams, Prichard, Ala. – Decreasing the Rate of Return to Hospital in Skilled Nursing Facility Within 30-Days
For more information on the University of Mobile’s Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice programs, please visit umobile.edu/nursing.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.
Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
With finals week finally upon us, you might be thinking to yourself how you’re going to make it through. You have lots of big tests in only a few days, so it’s no wonder most college students get overwhelmed. So, before you load up on coffee and pull an all-nighter, check out these steps to help you survive the dreaded finals week.
Check out the University of Mobile Blogs. There are multiple study tips, tricks, and helpful hints to help you make it through finals week. You don’t even have to go searching for them, some are linked right here!
Knowing your finals schedule can help you prepare for the week. Know when you have time to give your brain a break, when you need to study hard and make sure you don’t oversleep.
Making a plan for how and when you’re going to study will help you prepare for your finals and be less stressed. Break your studying down into sections so you don’t get bored of one subject, and make sure you cut out some time just to relax.
Fueling your body with healthy foods gives you more energy and helps your brain fire on all cylinders. Stay away from the Cheetos, Pizza Rolls, and donuts and instead try out some nuts, yogurt, or apples and peanut butter.
Make a plan to celebrate after your last final; you deserve it. Go out to eat with some friends, play some disc golf on campus or head to the pool for some much-needed sunshine. Giving yourself something to look forward to after your tests can help get you through this week!
Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
Registration has already started for students who are interested in enrolling in summer online courses. The program is designed for people who have earned baccalaureate and/or graduate degrees in non-education programs and wish to obtain Class A-level certification in either Early Childhood or Elementary Education. Classes are offered in a blended format with some evening classes on campus, some online classes, and a semester of student teaching.
The Alternative Master of Arts in Education program provides a great alternative route for those already holding a degree and considering teaching as a career, says Debra Chancey, dean of the School of Education at the University of Mobile.
“This is a great opportunity for professionals who are looking to enter the education field. Classes are held either online or in the evenings for students with full-time jobs. Students are taught by highly qualified professors with experience in the education field. The small class sizes allow professors to build strong relationships with students, while making sure the students receive the best education possible. Teachers are currently in high demand; therefore, this is the perfect opportunity to move into a rewarding career field,” said Chancey.
For more information or to apply to the Alternative Master of Arts in Education program or other UM graduate program, please visit umobile.edu/graduateprograms or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences institution with a vision of higher education for a higher purpose, founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions through rigorous academic preparation and spiritual transformation. Core values are: Christ-Centered, Academically-Focused, Student-Devoted and Distinctively-Driven. The university offers on-campus and online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Founded in 1961, the University of Mobile is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention and is located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama on a campus of over 880 acres.
Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
Preparing for finals is hard enough without stressing out as to where to study. The atmosphere of your study location can have a huge effect on how much information you remember. Some students like complete quiet, while others like a nice ambiance when looking over their notes. Thankfully, the University of Mobile has multiple options for where you can get away and get to studying.
Common Grounds Coffee Shop
Common Grounds provides a great combination of caffeine and atmosphere. While everyone might not be a coffee junkie, we can all admit that caffeine can help you get over a hump when studying.
Bedsole Commons
The Bedsole Commons can be a great spot for students that need breaks when studying. When you need to get away, you can play some ping pong or pool. You’re also in close proximity to Common Grounds for some much-needed caffeine.
Library Silent Rooms
If you’re the kind of student who needs silence when studying, the library silent rooms might be the best spot for you. You can get out of your room for a change of scenery without compromising your ability to focus.
Dorm Study Rooms
Your dorm may have a dedicated study area with couches, tables or desks. These can be a great way to study without going too far from your room.
Head Outside
The beautiful University of Mobile campus is a great spot to spread out and study. There are patios with tables, trees for your hammock and picnic tables and swings scattered around. Sunlight helps boost serotonin, keeping you calm, positive and focused while studying.
Zac Douglas is the marketing communications specialist for the University of Mobile. He graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in integrated marketing and communications. As marketing communications specialist, Zac is responsible for writing and strategizing content about the university, assisting with media relations, and handling other marketing and communications projects. He is an active member at Cottage Hill Baptist Church and enjoys spending his time surfing, skating and climbing.
MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile celebrated the inauguration of its 5th president, Dr. Lonnie Burnett, on May 7 after a year-long delay from a global pandemic.
Presentations were given by President Emeritus Dr. Mark Foley, former trustee chair Deborah Nelson, Wilson, university faculty, and the Voices of Mobile ensemble from UM’s Alabama School of the Arts.
MOBILE, Ala. – On May 8, 2021, the University of Mobile graduated its first doctoral students in Doctor of Nursing Practice and Doctor of Musical Arts in vocal performance.
list of fall graduates with academic honors and awards is below. President Emeritus Mark Foley carried the ceremonial mace and led the procession of faculty and graduating students. Foley served as president of the Christian university for 18 years.
MOBILE, Ala. –Danielle Hughes started working as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Lac Courte Oreilles Health Center in Hayward, Wisconsin in June 2020. She saw the lack of access to care, lack of resources, and need for increased health literacy in the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians.
