Raised in a ministry-centered home, with a father who serves as a pastor and a mother who teaches the Bible, Lana understood both the value of Christian education and the financial realities that often come with it. For her family, the cost of attending the 秋霞福利一区 felt impossible. Over time, Lana closed her heart to the idea of attending 秋霞福利一区, believing it was simply not an option.

That changed through encouragement from her mother, who urged her to attend Scholars Day.

What happened next would mark a defining moment in Lana鈥檚 life. She was awarded the prestigious Weaver Scholarship鈥攏ews she still remembers with vivid clarity. When she received the call, tears filled her eyes. More than financial relief, the moment carried spiritual significance.

Lana describes it as the clearest direction she had ever felt from the Lord.

Through the generosity of 秋霞福利一区 donors, Lana鈥檚 perspective shifted from limitation to possibility. Their support opened the door not only to a college education, but to a community where she could fully belong and flourish.

Today, Lana is part of a thriving campus environment where she is deeply known, consistently encouraged, and continually challenged to grow in her faith. At 秋霞福利一区, she has found a place where learning and discipleship go hand in hand鈥攁nd where she is able to pour the joy of Christ into the lives of others.

For Lana, the 秋霞福利一区 is more than a continuation of family tradition. It is a testament to God鈥檚 provision, the faithfulness of donors, and the life-changing impact of generosity鈥攐ne student at a time.

Heath Vester

Heath Vester is an experienced graphic designer and photographer. He serves as the Associate Vice President for Creative Services for the 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 Office of Marketing & Public Relations. He is an alumnus of the 秋霞福利一区, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art and a Master of Science in Leadership and Communication. Beyond his role at the university, Heath is the owner of Heath Vester Creative, his freelance company where he provides a wide variety of creative services to individuals and organizations.

That began to change during her freshman year.

Surrounded by caring professors and a close-knit community of friends, Lexie encountered a different way of thinking about success鈥攐ne grounded not only in achievement, but in calling. During her first year at 秋霞福利一区, she gave her life to Christ, a decision she says completely transformed her perspective. Through that spiritual growth, Lexie began to understand dentistry not just as a profession, but as a way to serve others.

She realized her desire to become a dentist was deeply connected to helping people experience confidence and joy 鈥� something as simple, yet powerful, as a smile.

For Lexie, the opportunity to attend college did not come without uncertainty. Raised by her mother, the financial reality of higher education, especially with plans for dental school, felt overwhelming. The cost of undergraduate studies combined with the years of education ahead made the dream seem distant.

Through the generosity of the 秋霞福利一区, that burden was lifted.

With the support of the Presidential Scholarship, a Visit Day Scholarship, and additional university-awarded aid, Lexie was able to attend 秋霞福利一区 without tuition costs. That financial freedom allowed her to fully engage in campus life and spiritual formation without constant concern about how she would pay for school.

As a result, Lexie has been able to invest deeply in her faith, get involved in local churches and community food banks, and participate in campus organizations and clubs 鈥� all while pursuing her degree as a Pre-Health Biology major.

Her gratitude, she says, extends far beyond her own experience.

鈥淏ecause of donors’ generosity,鈥� Lexie shares, 鈥渟tudents are being blessed in countless ways. Because of this, lives are being transformed.鈥�

At the 秋霞福利一区, Lexie found more than an education. She found clarity, community and a calling. One that blends faith, service, and science in meaningful ways.

Heath Vester

Heath Vester is an experienced graphic designer and photographer. He serves as the Associate Vice President for Creative Services for the 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 Office of Marketing & Public Relations. He is an alumnus of the 秋霞福利一区, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art and a Master of Science in Leadership and Communication. Beyond his role at the university, Heath is the owner of Heath Vester Creative, his freelance company where he provides a wide variety of creative services to individuals and organizations.

Gifts made on this day to The Great Commission Fund impact 秋霞福利一区 students directly through scholarships and spiritual formation. Thanks to a generous donor, every dollar raised on Giving Tuesday will be matched up to $50,000.

鈥淲hen you give to The Great Commission Fund, you鈥檙e investing in more than a college education. You鈥檙e helping multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world 鈥� graduates who will go into business, healthcare, education, ministry and beyond to serve Christ wherever He leads,鈥� said Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations.

How to Participate

• Give Online: Visit umobile.edu/give on Tuesday, Dec. 2, to make a secure, tax-deductible donation to The Great Commission Fund.
• Spread the Word: Follow 秋霞福利一区 social media for updates throughout the day. Share why you give and encourage others to join using #GivingTuesday and #UniversityofMobile.
• Pray: Pray for the students, faculty and staff of the 秋霞福利一区 as we seek to impact the world For Christ & His Kingdom.

A Great Commission University

Every student at the 秋霞福利一区 is part of the Baptist university鈥檚 Great Commission mission. Every student matters 鈥� so every gift matters, Harris said.

鈥淵our gift on Giving Tuesday helps remove financial barriers and provide opportunities for students to grow spiritually, academically and professionally 鈥� so they can answer God鈥檚 call on their lives,鈥� Harris added.

Founded in 1961 in Mobile, Alabama, the 秋霞福利一区 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence For Christ & His Kingdom. With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥� the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Learn more about the 秋霞福利一区 at umobile.edu/um-info.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the 秋霞福利一区 unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

The 27^th annual tournament raised an historic amount during a fun-filled day at the stunning Magnolia Grove Golf Course, part of Alabama鈥檚 world-renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.

秋霞福利一区 President Charles Smith said golfers and sponsors made an impact that reaches far beyond the fairways.

鈥淓very swing, every sponsorship and every contribution made today represents an investment in the lives of students at the 秋霞福利一区,鈥� Smith said.

鈥淭ogether, we are providing resources for scholarships and programs that equip students to lead, serve and live out their calling in every career field 鈥� becoming Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.鈥�

Celebrating Strong Partnerships

The event also featured opportunities for participants to meet 秋霞福利一区 students, including members of the 秋霞福利一区 golf team and 秋霞福利一区 Ambassadors, who shared stories of how scholarships and campus life have shaped their university experience.

Vice President for Institutional Relations Nathan Harris said the event鈥檚 success reflects the strong partnership between the university and the local business and donor community.

鈥淭he Mobile Classic is more than a golf tournament 鈥� it鈥檚 a celebration of what happens when our community comes together to make a difference,鈥� Harris said. 鈥淏ecause of the sponsors, players and volunteers who gave their time and resources, 秋霞福利一区 students will continue to have access to scholarships and opportunities that prepare them to impact the world for Christ.鈥�

Top Teams

This year鈥檚 top teams were:

• First Place: Redemption Church/North Campus
• Second Place: Roy Lewis Construction
• Third Place: First Baptist Church of Thomasville
• Closest to the Pin: Caldwell Adams, Roy Lewis Construction team
• Longest Drive: Will Hudson, FASTSIGNS team

Top Sponsors

The 秋霞福利一区 thanks the following sponsors for making the 2025 Mobile Classic a success.

• Title Sponsors: The Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, Roy Lewis Construction, Brett/Robinson
• Kingdom Sponsors: Roberts Brothers, C Spire
• Mission Sponsors: The Baptist Foundation of Alabama, Dex Imaging, Redemption Church
• Hole Sponsors: Foosackly鈥檚, Busby Agency, FASTSIGNS of Mobile, Renasant Bank, United Bank, Zest, The Mitchell Company LLC, Aztecas Restaurant & Cantina, Ace Hardware, The Orthopaedic Group P.C., Artcraft Press, Wilkins Miller.

About the 秋霞福利一区

The 秋霞福利一区 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥� With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥� 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, 秋霞福利一区 offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with 秋霞福利一区 on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the 秋霞福利一区 unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

鈥淭he 秋霞福利一区 Classic golf tournament is our biggest fundraiser of the year. Every dollar raised directly impacts students,鈥� said Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for Institutional Relations at the 秋霞福利一区.

The Great Commission Fund

Proceeds go to the university鈥檚 Great Commission Fund 鈥� a powerful and effective way to change lives and transform futures through Christ-centered higher education.

The Great Commission Fund provides resources for spiritual and academic formation and undergirds the Baptist university鈥檚 mission of multiplying Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.

鈥淪piritual formation helps us provide dynamic Chapel services, mission opportunities and a vibrant spiritual life on campus,鈥� Harris said.

鈥淎cademic support comes through scholarships that provide students with much needed financial assistance and helps even more students experience the advantage of a 秋霞福利一区 education.鈥�

秋霞福利一区 offers over 75 academic programs leading to associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees. Over 2,000 students are enrolled at 秋霞福利一区 and 98% receive financial aid.

Putting & Driving Competition + Great Prizes听

Participants will have an opportunity to win some great prizes at the 秋霞福利一区 Golf Classic tournament.

A putting competition will be held before the tournament begins and the winner will receive a new Scottie Cameron putter. A longest drive competition will close out the tournament, with the winner receiving a Ping/Taylormade Driver.

Prizes include:

• Scotty Cameron Putter 鈥� Putting Competition prior to tournament start
• Ping/Taylormade Driver 鈥� Longest Drive Competition at end of tournament
• Edwin Watts Giftcard 鈥� Closest to the Pin on course
• Rangefinder 鈥� Longest Drive on Course
• Custom 秋霞福利一区 Golf Bag 鈥� Raffle
• Prizes for 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd Place Teams

听Prizes will be awarded at the lunch and awards ceremony following the tournament.

Registration Underway Now

Registration is open at umobile.edu/umclassic.

A limited number of sponsorship packages are available. Sponsorship benefits are listed on the website at umobile.edu/umclassic.

Contact the Office for Institutional Relations at 251.442.2913 or email advancement@umobile.edu to learn more about the Mobile Classic and other giving opportunities.

Tournament Schedule听

The 秋霞福利一区 Classic golf tournament will begin Thursday, Oct. 30 with registration at 7 a.m. and a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The day will include lunch and an awards ceremony.

鈥淐ome enjoy a day of friendly competition, great company and unforgettable moments on the course 鈥� all while raising funds for a tremendous cause,鈥� said Harris.

鈥淭he Mobile Classic is a great way to make a Kingdom impact while enjoying a day on the course with friends.鈥�

About the 秋霞福利一区

The 秋霞福利一区 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥� With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥� 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, 秋霞福利一区 offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with 秋霞福利一区 on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the 秋霞福利一区 unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

When I came to the 秋霞福利一区, I saw the perfect place for this vision to flourish. Here, we believe God calls His people to radical generosity, and when we answer that call together, the impact is extraordinary. We see it every day in students preparing to serve the Lord through whatever vocation He has given them 鈥� men and women who will leave 秋霞福利一区 with a Great Commission passion to make a difference for the glory of God and the good of the world.听

A Gospel Foundation听

As Christians, we often think that when we give our lives to Christ, He takes hold of everything except our money. But when God calls us to faith in Christ, the entirety of our lives is given over to God. Not one听aspect of us is left outside of God鈥檚 sovereignty. As we are baptized, every part of us, including our听pocketbooks, is cleansed and finds transformation in听the gospel.听

This gospel of Jesus Christ 鈥� this very gospel that saves, redeems and restores 鈥� is our foundation for living a life of radical generosity.听

Transformed by the Gospel听

Giving is a tangible way we can proclaim to those around us that we have been transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ. It shows a change of heart and听reorientation of resources to be used in honor of God and for His glory. When the gospel is the foundation for generosity, then giving is first and foremost about proclaiming and portraying the saving work of Christ. We proclaim the gospel through generosity because it鈥檚 the gospel that calls us to life radically different from the world (Rom. 12:1-2). Generosity is nothing but a vehicle to proclaim the goodness of God and the saving work of Jesus.听

As we give, we get to be living examples of what Christ has done in our lives.听

Rooted in the Gospel听

Generosity is rooted in the gospel, sprouts from the gospel, and bears fruit because of the gospel. We give generously because of the gospel, and only because of the gospel. If we confess the gospel, then generosity should naturally follow it. As we practice generosity, God is working through us, enabling us to give.听

Giving, above all else, is about the testimony of the gospel.听

Gospel generosity is the Christian鈥檚 joyful awareness of what Christ has done for us and how we are privileged to participate in proclaiming that work through giving and advancing the gospel.听

Go, give generously, and glorify God!听

Nathan W. Harris, PhD, is the author of 鈥淎 Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace,鈥� published by B&H Publishing and available on Amazon.com and through The 秋霞福利一区 Store at听.听

Dr. Nathan Harris

Dr. Nathan Harris holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in youth ministry from Malone University. He earned a Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Theology (ThM) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in biblical studies, each from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has taught courses on the New Testament, hermeneutics and theology. Prior to joining 秋霞福利一区 in June of 2024, he served as vice president of advancement at Grace College & Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana. Previously, he served at Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio, as associate professor of biblical studies and senior director of annual giving and stewardship. At Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (MBTS) in Kansas City, Missouri, he served as director of institutional relations initiatives and worked under the leadership of Dr. Charles Smith, who became the sixth president of the 秋霞福利一区 on March 21, 2024. He and his wife, Kelsey, have three children, Noah, Jude and Ruth.

鈥淪ince 1961, the foundation and fuel of the 秋霞福利一区 has been none other than our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As we renew our commitment to build our foundation upon His Word 鈥� as we commit to existing 鈥楩or Christ & His Kingdom鈥� 鈥� we can expect the Lord鈥檚 faithfulness to continue,鈥� Smith said in his presidential address at the Inaugural Celebration held May 1 at Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama. 

Dr. Jason Allen, president of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, delivered the keynote address. Distinguished guests from across the Southern Baptist Convention; dignitaries from colleges and universities; civic, community and business leaders; and the university鈥檚 Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students and supporters filled the sanctuary for the time-honored academic tradition marking the formal investiture of a university president.

Allen spoke on Proverbs 9:10, the foundational scripture for the 秋霞福利一区: 鈥淭he fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.鈥� The first half of the scripture is on the university鈥檚 official seal, along with the phrase 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥�

Allen said, 鈥淭he temptation for every institution, large or small, old or young, is to drift from the founding convictions and mission that the institution once held so dear. In the Southern Baptist world there are 53 Baptist colleges historically associated with the Southern Baptist Convention. The majority of those these days in the 21^st century really maintain no true affiliation or connection with, nor oversight of, the Baptist bodies at large. 

鈥淏ut this institution, praise God, continues to be serious about its commitment to serving the churches of the Alabama Baptist Convention, serious about its Christian identity, serious about its Christian convictions, serious about the Bible as the Word of God, and the Great Commission as the urgent task for churches and for Christian believers.鈥�

Watch the full inauguration ceremony at听.

A Charge Rooted in Christ

Smith formally accepted the charge of the presidency during the investiture portion of the ceremony. Trustee Terry Harbin presented the Presidential Medallion, a symbol of leadership and responsibility, while Board Chair Ron Moore presented the Presidential Bible, underscoring the university鈥檚 foundation in Scripture.

鈥淚n 1963, a Bible was placed in the cornerstone of Weaver Hall as an enduring reminder of the source of truth,鈥� Moore said. 鈥淭oday, as we present this Bible, we affirm once again that the 秋霞福利一区 is founded upon and anchored in God鈥檚 Word.鈥�

Smith was asked to affirm his faith in Christ, commitment to the university鈥檚 Statement of Christian Affirmation, and his willingness to serve with integrity, excellence, and a Kingdom mindset.

鈥淚 do,鈥� he replied, before being formally invested into office.

Smith has served as president of the 秋霞福利一区 since May 6, 2024, following his unanimous election by the 秋霞福利一区 Board of Trustees on March 24, 2024. Previously, he served with Allen in a variety of senior leadership roles at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College.

He and his wife, Ashley, are natives of Montgomery, Alabama, and they have three daughters: Ellie, Annie and Susie.

A Renewed Vision and Mission

In his presidential address based on John 6, Smith warned of the dangers facing Christian institutions that drift from their spiritual foundations. 

鈥淭here is no shortage of once-faithful Christian universities who have lost their way,鈥� he said, noting that the 秋霞福利一区 remains firmly committed to Jesus Christ as the foundation of all true knowledge and the hope of every generation.

Under Smith鈥檚 leadership, the renewed vision of the 秋霞福利一区, expressed by the phrase 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom,鈥� is to multiply Kingdom leaders who embrace their callings and live out the Great Commission for the glory of God and the good of the world.

鈥淥ur prayers and plans for the future are bold,鈥� Smith said, pointing to a growing list of initiatives aimed at strengthening the university 鈥� expanding academic programs, enhancing student life, increasing online offerings, investing in campus facilities, launching workforce development, and many other strategies designed to broaden the university鈥檚 impact in the region and beyond.

While these initiatives are important and inspiring, they are not the university鈥檚 identity, he said. Rather, they are the result of the university鈥檚 identity in Christ.

Student Voices of Hope and Vision

Two students, Kenneth Brandon and Courtney Sides, represented the student body and expressed hope and confidence in the university鈥檚 new chapter under Smith鈥檚 leadership.

Sides, a sophomore majoring in nursing, said, 鈥淗ere at 秋霞福利一区, we are more than a campus 鈥� we are a family. We believe God is doing something powerful on this campus, and we are so excited to welcome a president who sees that 鈥� and who is ready to build upon it.鈥�

Brandon, a graduating senior majoring in worship leadership and music, prayed for the 秋霞福利一区 鈥渢o continue to shine as a beacon of truth and hope, a place where lives are transformed, where servant leaders are not only equipped for careers, but empowered to fulfill their God-given call.鈥�

The university choir and orchestra led the audience in powerful hymns and songs of praise throughout a two-hour program that included words of encouragement and support for the new president and the 秋霞福利一区 family.

The university鈥檚 third president Dr. Mark R. Foley and former first lady Marilyn Foley, and 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 fifth president Dr. Lonnie A. Burnett and former first lady Lynne Burnett, were honored during the ceremony. Nathan Harris, 秋霞福利一区 vice president for institutional relations, welcomed guests. Dr. Samuel W. 鈥淒ub鈥� Oliver, president of Union University, a sister Baptist institution, gave the invocation. Dr. Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, offered a prayer and Scripture reading of Colossians 1:15-18, affirming the strong partnership between the university and Alabama Baptists. Fred Wilson, chair of the Presidential Search Committee, outlined the search committee process and its focus on following God鈥檚 lead. Dr. Ben Stubblefield, pastor of Spring Hill Baptist Church, introduced keynote speaker Dr. Jason Allen. Dr. Ed Litton, pastor of Redemption Church, and Kathy Litton, a 秋霞福利一区 trustee, prayed over the Smith family.

Bringing greetings to the president were Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson; Dr. Jamie Dew, president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary; and Dr. Alan Floyd, pastor of Cottage Hill Baptist Church and a 秋霞福利一区 alumnus. Delegates included Dr. Mary Van Brunt, president of Spring Hill College, and Dr. Charles Guest, vice provost of the University of South Alabama.

Dr. Ed Litton, pastor of Redemption Church and a past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, and his wife Kathy, a 秋霞福利一区 trustee, prayed over the Smith family.

Benediction and Celebration

The service concluded with a benediction and blessing from Dr. Roger Breland, retiring executive director of the university鈥檚 Alabama School of the Arts and founder of TRUTH, one of the first successful contemporary Christian touring and recording groups. 

鈥淏less this university 鈥� every student, every faculty and staff member, every alumnus, and every friend of the Ram Family. May this campus always be a place where truth is pursued, lives are transformed and Christ is glorified,鈥� Breland prayed.

The celebration concluded later in the evening with fireworks and Spring Spectacular, an outdoor concert held on the university鈥檚 Great Commission Lawn.

About the 秋霞福利一区

The 秋霞福利一区 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥� With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥� 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, 秋霞福利一区 offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with 秋霞福利一区 on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the 秋霞福利一区 unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

Launched April 10, 2025, The Great Commission Funds serves as a vital resource to provide scholarships, strengthen academic and spiritual programs, and empower students to follow God鈥檚 call in every profession, community and nation.

For Christ and His Kingdom

鈥淔or Christ and His Kingdom 鈥� this is the heartbeat of everything we do at the 秋霞福利一区,鈥� said 秋霞福利一区 President Charles Smith. 

鈥淭he Great Commission Fund is more than a rebranding of our annual fund; it is a declaration of our mission. Through this initiative, we are calling on believers to join us in raising up a generation of Christ-centered leaders.鈥�

Watch the launch video .

The Great Commission Tradition

Rooted in the university鈥檚 long-standing Great Commission Tradition, The Great Commission Fund reflects the commitment of 秋霞福利一区 students to pursue their education as a calling from God. 

From the moment they step onto campus, new students participate in this tradition by touching the Great Commission Globe during the President鈥檚 Commissioning ceremony, symbolizing their commitment to the intellectual and spiritual transformation they will experience in the college journey ahead. 

A few years later at commencement, they return to The Great Commission Globe as new graduates 鈥� men and women grounded in God鈥檚 Word and armed with the knowledge and skills to pursue their professional callings with excellence. They touch the Great Commission Globe again, making a public commitment to pursue God鈥檚 calling for their lives 鈥� to go out from the 秋霞福利一区 as missional leaders making an impact for Christ.

The 秋霞福利一区 Mission

鈥淲e believe transforming lives for Christ is not just an academic pursuit 鈥� it鈥檚 a mission,鈥� said Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations. 

鈥淭he Great Commission Fund makes that mission possible by ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder students from receiving a Christ-centered education that prepares them to lead with excellence.鈥�

To learn more or to contribute to The Great Commission Fund, visit and follow 秋霞福利一区 social media @univofmobile.

Pray. Tell. Invest.

The university invites Southern Baptist leaders and believers everywhere to partner in this Kingdom work through three powerful actions:

Pray for 秋霞福利一区 students and faculty as they prepare to impact the world for Christ.

Tell others the 秋霞福利一区 and its Great Commission mission

Invest in The Great Commission Fund to provide scholarships and resources that equip students to live out the gospel in every sphere of influence.

鈥淲hen you give to The Great Commission Fund, you are practicing God鈥檚 call to generosity,鈥� said Harris. 鈥淵ou are investing in a Christ-centered college community where students are known, discipled and sent out to transform the world for the glory of God and the good of the world.鈥�

About the 秋霞福利一区

The 秋霞福利一区 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ and His Kingdom.鈥� With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥� 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, 秋霞福利一区 offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.听Learn more at听 and connect with 秋霞福利一区 on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the 秋霞福利一区 unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

Hudson, a two-time graduate of the 秋霞福利一区, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1984 and returned to complete her Master of Science in Nursing Education in 2003. Her lifelong dedication to healthcare, education and civic leadership has made a lasting impact on the Mobile community and beyond.

秋霞福利一区 President Charles Smith presented the award.

鈥淎ll of us here at the 秋霞福利一区 are proud to celebrate Dr. Hudson. She has accomplished so much academically, professionally and locally as a member of Saraland鈥檚 city council. It is a joy to recognize these accomplishments ,and in doing so, to remind our students of what they can achieve,鈥� Smith said.

A Leader in Nursing

Currently serving as the nurse manager of workforce development at the University of South Alabama University Hospital, Hudson has built an extensive career in nursing leadership, faculty mentorship and community engagement. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice focused on community health, she has dedicated her career to advancing patient care, developing healthcare professionals and improving health outcomes.

A Community Leader

Beyond her professional contributions, Hudson has been an active leader in her community. She has served on the Saraland City Council since 2009 and held leadership roles in the Saraland Chamber of Commerce, Mobile County Municipality Association and Keep Saraland Beautiful. She is deeply involved in church ministries and volunteer initiatives, reinforcing her commitment to service.

Reflecting on this honor, Hudson said, “I am truly humbled to receive the Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence. The 秋霞福利一区 played a pivotal role in my personal and professional journey, from my time as a student living on campus to my return for graduate studies. To be recognized by my alma mater in this way is both an honor and a reminder of the incredible mentors, colleagues and students who have shaped my life.”

听to hear what 秋霞福利一区 and the Boykin Award mean to Dr. Veronica Smith Hudson.听

Previous Recipients

Previous recipients of the Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence include:

• 2024:听Ronald G. Moore 鈥�02听
• 2023:听Ira Bates Jr. 鈥�04听
• 2022:听Treii Pace 鈥�11听
• 2021:听Dr. Tracey Henry 鈥�02
• 2019:听听Samuel M. Boykin 鈥�67 (posthumously), accepted by his wife, Ellen Hardiman听Boykin听

About the 秋霞福利一区

The 秋霞福利一区 is a Christ-centered university with a vision of 鈥淗igher听Education for a Higher Purpose,鈥� founded to honor God by equipping students for their听future professions in an environment where they are known.听Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The 秋霞福利一区 was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the 秋霞福利一区, areas of study, admissions and more, visit听,听connect with 秋霞福利一区 on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and “playing with words” to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the 秋霞福利一区 unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

However, I was recently reminded of harder questions: What should people strive to be like? More specifically: What kind of community have we created at the 秋霞福利一区? During the recent snowstorm, I had an experience that both asked and answered this question.

A Record-breaking Snowfall

In case you didn’t know, Mobile recently received the biggest snowstorm in 130 years. In a region where snow is extremely rare, a record 7.5 inches fell on the city of Mobile and our campus. Simply put, it was awesome! My friends and I spent two full days doing nothing but playing outside. I believe that everyone else in the student body did, too. Even President Charles Smith came out to sled with us!

It was a good reminder that, sometimes, we simply need to celebrate and have fun. This, in itself, speaks volumes to the quality of 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 student body. However, not everyone got to play outside.

An Overlooked Sacrifice

When I went to breakfast in Ingram Dining Hall on the second day of the snowstorm, I got to talking to some of the cafeteria staff. I found that not only did they spend the entire day inside serving us, there were only three workers on duty because of road closings and driving conditions! I realized that while we were playing, they were working to keep us fed. 

Stepping Up to Serve

I felt convicted to help. I asked the SGA (Student Government Association) where I serve as a representative if they might consider volunteering to clean up The Caf over the next couple days. The response was overwhelming!

That night, we helped sweep floors and break down boxes, take out trash and wipe down tables. Not only did the SGA help, the 秋霞福利一区 Honors Program and even a few other people stepped up to clean up. In all, I think we had 15 people!

The biggest thing I remember was talking to one of the cafeteria managers, who told me his team was touched by the responsibility taken by those students who stepped up, and they felt seen and respected.

A Higher Calling

This act of service was more than just cleaning up. It gets at an important truth, that as Christians we must look for unexpected ways to serve one another as a reflection of the dignity that God has placed in every human 鈥� the dignity that Christ died to preserve. 

For me, playing in the snow was a memorable experience. But even more memorable is the experience of working beside other students to live out Christ鈥檚 call to servant-leadership.

William Givens

William Givens is a sophomore at the 秋霞福利一区 studying Philosophy with a minor in Biblical Studies. He is part of the Honors Program, represents the College of Arts and Sciences in the Student Government Association and runs cross-country and track for the Rams. William is from Montgomery, Alabama and enjoys reading The Classics and arguing about seemingly pointless things.