MOBILE, Ala. – A cloud of memories hovers over my head as I prepared to graduate from the University of Mobile with a bachelor’s degree in English. Looking back, I never could have guessed how deeply some professors would shape not just my education, but my life.
Though every instructor I’ve met has had an impact, three specific women built my knowledge of literature, history and philosophy, completely reshaping my worldview.
I offer these words to Dr. Katherine Abernathy, Professor Amy Burdette, and Dr. Elizabeth Gilliland Rands in the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Mobile:
“May the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.” –Ruth 2:12
I suppose this is my last “thank you” to the University of Mobile for blessing me with the mentorship of these intelligent and inspiring Christian women.
- Dr. Katherine Abernathy
I met Dr. Abernathy on the second day of freshman year. She taught my English 101 class, and I remember feeling intimidated as she stared at her students, glasses resting on the tip of her nose.
Once I got into my upper-level literature courses, I realized she wasn’t to be feared. As she guided my classes through complex readings and essay writing, I began viewing her as a source of wisdom. I also found out that she isn’t afraid of cracking a joke or two.
From transcendentalist musings to Russian existentialism, Dr. Abernathy has broadened my taste in novels and reconstructed my view of philosophy and history. She taught me how to think analytically, write professionally and communicate ideas logically.
Most importantly, though, she pushed me to be the very best student I could be – and that is something I will never forget.
So, thank you, Dr. Abernathy, for shaping my skills, sharing so much knowledge, and encouraging me to take on challenges, all while remaining the humble professor who seeks God in everything.
- Professor Amy Burdette
I met Professor Burdette in English 102, and from day one, she was a force of nature. She once interrupted her own lecture to shut the door, saying, “I have to close this because I talk too loudly.” That memory always makes me laugh.
Over time, I came to appreciate her vivacity and storytelling skills. To this day, I find Professor Burdette’s dry humor, blunt honesty and warm kindness incredibly refreshing.
Her headband collection is also impressive.
From her, I learned how to connect the oldest of texts to modern life, how to write scrupulously correct papers and how to collaborate with others.
Most of all, though, she was the first to see my potential as a student, and she quickly became one of the reasons I changed my major to English.
So, thank you, Professor Burdette, for forming my foundational skills and helping me discover my own capabilities.
- Dr. Elizabeth Gilliland Rands
I started taking Dr. Gilliland’s courses last year, and I remember feeling nervous (mostly because I didn’t know how to pronounce her name), but she quickly became one of my favorite professors.
Her investigations into British literature weren’t just academic — they were life-changing. She helped me see how literary history intersects with social change. Her excitement for Jane Austen and Gothic fiction matched my own, and she welcomed my absurd theories.
So, thank you, Dr. Gilliland, for expanding my knowledge of British literature and listening to all of my outlandish commentary.
To My Professors and the University of Mobile
This post is my final thank you to the women who mentored me, challenged me and made me feel seen. And to the University of Mobile, for giving me the space to grow under their guidance.
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.
Learn more about the University of Mobile at https://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.
Editor’s Note: Kylie Stewart is a member of the University of Mobile Class of 2025. She received the Area Award in English and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English.
Kylee Stewart is a senior at the University of Mobile majoring in English with a dedication to classic literature, critical analysis and academic writing. While attending the University of Mobile, she has sharpened her skills in research and communication, equipping her for a career in teaching English at the collegiate level. Kylee is from Daphne, Alabama, and enjoys baking, crocheting and volunteering in her free time.