Alumni – 秋霞福利一区 Multiplying Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World. Start Your Journey Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:56:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 /wp-content/uploads/2025/05/秋霞福利一区B_Favicon-300x300-1-150x150.png Alumni – 秋霞福利一区 32 32 Making Graduate School Work 鈥 Together /2026/04/making-graduate-school-work-together/ Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:56:02 +0000 /?p=118603 When Mary Margaret and Blake Endris enrolled together in the 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 Master of Science in Nursing鈥揊amily Nurse Practitioner program, they were navigating a season filled with change 鈥 career shifts, relocation and growing family responsibilities. Like many adult learners, they quickly realized success would require flexibility, sacrifice and trust.

鈥淲e both initially enrolled in the program as full-time students,鈥 Mary Margaret said. 鈥淚t quickly became clear that maintaining two full-time course loads while working and managing significant life transitions was not sustainable for our family.鈥

After prayerful consideration, the couple adjusted their plan. Blake transitioned to part-time enrollment and worked full-time as a travel nurse, while Mary Margaret remained enrolled full-time and worked part-time.

鈥淲hat motivated us during the most challenging moments was our shared commitment to supporting one another, our faith, and our confidence that this season of sacrifice would ultimately lead to a more stable and fulfilling future for our family,鈥 she said.

秋霞福利一区鈥檚 faculty and Christ-centered culture played a key role.

鈥淭he academic preparation was excellent and thoroughly equipped us for clinical practice,鈥 Mary Margaret said. 鈥淭he coursework was rigorous yet purposeful, and the faculty were truly phenomenal. They were consistently approachable, supportive and invested in our success.鈥

The spiritual foundation of the program left a lasting impact.

鈥淲hat truly set the experience apart was the Christ-centered culture woven throughout the university. This was evident not only in the curriculum, but in the way faculty and staff interacted with students,鈥 she said. Meaningful moments like White Coat ceremonies were powerful reminders that healthcare is a calling rooted in service and compassion.

鈥淥verall, the combination of strong academic preparation, unwavering faculty support, and a genuine Christ-centered environment made this program both transformative and deeply fulfilling.鈥

Successful Nurse Practitioners

Mary Margaret graduated from the MSN鈥揊NP program in December 2023, with Blake following in December 2024 鈥 all while welcoming their first child along the way.

Today, both are working as nurse practitioners 鈥 Mary Margaret specializing in pain management at Mississippi Sports Medicine Orthopedic Center, and Blake as a full-time nurse practitioner provider with the Mississippi Army National Guard.

鈥淕raduate school is not easy, and I would never minimize the challenges that come with balancing family, work and personal responsibilities. However, I can confidently say that it is absolutely doable,鈥 Mary Margaret said.

鈥淭he journey is demanding, but it is also incredibly rewarding 鈥 and the personal and professional fulfillment on the other side makes every sacrifice worthwhile.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鈥umobile.edu/um-info鈥痑nd 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.

]]> A Calling to Lead and Serve: Doug Harwell 鈥00 /2026/02/a-calling-to-lead-and-serve-doug-harwell-00/ Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:29:45 +0000 /?p=114247 鈥淏elieve in yourself and what God has called you to do.鈥

That guiding conviction shapes every chapter of Doug Harwell鈥檚 life 鈥 as a husband, father, business owner, community servant and 秋霞福利一区 alumnus.

As founder and owner of Harwell & Company, a construction firm serving communities across the Southeast, Doug has built a career grounded in leadership, responsibility and integrity.

Today, he continues to live out that calling through business, faith and community service 鈥 foundations strengthened during his time at the 秋霞福利一区. From coaching youth baseball and serving as a church deacon to representing District 1 for 12 years on the Mobile County Public School Board, Doug鈥檚 lifelong dedication to leadership and helping others has now led him to pursue another avenue of service as he runs for Alabama State Senate District 34.

Faith, Perseverance & Success

Doug鈥檚 path to the 秋霞福利一区 was not a traditional one. A 1983 graduate of Mary G. Montgomery High School, he briefly attended college before entering the workforce full time.

After the birth of his second son, Doug was passed over for a job he had been ranked first for 鈥 a turning point that underscored the importance of finishing his degree and trusting God鈥檚 timing. After evaluating his options, he enrolled at the 秋霞福利一区, a decision he now recognizes as God鈥檚 direction.

Doug quickly learned the role faith would play in perseverance and success.

鈥淲orking full time, raising two small children, and attending school full time taught me quickly that there is only one way to make it through, and that is faith in God,鈥 he said. 鈥溓锵几＠磺 administrators, professors and staff reinforced that lesson.鈥

He credits 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 degree programs with equipping him not only academically, but personally and professionally.

鈥淓arning a degree challenges you to think critically, solve problems and work with others. Those are the same skills required to succeed as a business owner,鈥 said the 2000 graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in business management.

A Heart for Service

Doug鈥檚 commitment to serving others grew out of his faith and family life. After marrying his wife, Sandy, in 1990, the couple became active at Orchard Assembly of God, where they served in children鈥檚 church and later as youth sponsors.

Their sons began playing baseball at Semmes Community Park, and Doug coached for many years before serving six years as park commissioner 鈥 an experience that helped clarify his calling to community leadership.

鈥淒uring this time, I saw that I could make an impact by serving others and my community,鈥 Harwell said. 鈥淔or me, it is not about a job 鈥 it is service.鈥

That calling led to additional roles in public and community service, including 12 years on the Mobile County Public School Board representing District 1, which includes Semmes, Citronelle and northwest Mobile County. He also served more than 10 years on the Mobile Sports Authority Board and has been a deacon at Orchard Assembly of God for more than 27 years.

Building a Business with Purpose

In 2010, Doug founded Harwell & Company, a licensed general contracting firm serving Alabama, Mississippi and Florida, specializing in concrete and asphalt construction throughout the Southeast. What began with four employees, two trucks, a tractor and a trailer is now a company employing more than 40 people and operating a full fleet of trucks and equipment.

In addition to the construction firm, Doug owns Division Supply and partners in Complete Pool Care, Mobile Soft Wash and Ace Marketing. His professional background also includes 12 years in the water and wastewater industry.

He describes the decision to start his company as another clear moment of God鈥檚 direction.

鈥淣o question, it was a God thing,鈥 Doug said. 鈥淚t was a 27-year journey where many doors closed and pushed me to do something different and go in a new direction. Everything aligned, and through prayer and confirmation, I knew it was time to start the business.鈥

Faith, Family and Foundation

Family is central to Doug鈥檚 life. He and Sandy have been married for more than 35 years and have three sons and seven grandchildren.

He also credits the 秋霞福利一区 community for walking alongside him during both joyful and difficult seasons of life. While he was a student, Doug experienced the loss of his mother on October 15, 1998 鈥 a time he remembers as especially challenging.

With faith in God and the support of his 秋霞福利一区 family, he persevered.

鈥溓锵几＠磺 is a family,鈥 Doug said. 鈥淔amily stands by you during challenging times and circumstances. Family helps keep you on the path to success.鈥

Looking back, Doug describes his decision to attend the 秋霞福利一区 as a defining moment.

鈥淢y decision to attend 秋霞福利一区 was a turning point in my life, and it was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made for my career and my family,鈥 he said. 鈥淒uring my time at 秋霞福利一区, I learned many valuable lessons, sharpened my skills, and built a network that continues to pay dividends today. 秋霞福利一区 truly changed my life.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听umobile.edu/um-info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.

]]> Leading from the Sidelines: Kaitlyn Cowart 鈥23, 秋霞福利一区 Master of Athletic Training Alumna /2026/01/leading-from-the-sidelines-kaitlyn-cowart-23-um-master-of-athletic-training-alumna/ Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:51:47 +0000 /?p=111161 When Kaitlyn Cowart was a student in the Master of Athletic Training program at the 秋霞福利一区, she learned more than the technical skills of taping ankles and evaluating injuries.

鈥淢y time here at 秋霞福利一区 taught me to be an advocate for my patients, give 110% in my career, and live passionately for the Lord while doing so,鈥 said Kaitlyn, a certified athletic trainer.

Now as a secondary school athletic trainer with Encore Rehabilitation Inc., Kaitlyn spends her days treating, evaluating and rehabbing various athlete injuries at three high schools, plus covering state events including wrestling, soccer, softball and baseball.

She works directly with Encore physical therapists and team physicians to ensure athletes receive the proper care to get back to playing the sport they love.

鈥淓ach opportunity brings valuable experience dealing with high-caliber high school athletes and working with some of the best sports medicine doctors in Alabama,鈥 Kaitlyn said.

Prepared to Succeed

Kaitlyn credits professors in the 秋霞福利一区 School of Health and Sports Science, MAT Program Director Dr. Melissa Thomas and Coordinator of Clinical Education Dr. Megan Harper, and the university鈥檚 Christ-centered mission with preparing her to succeed in a competitive career.

After earning a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology in 2021, she graduated from 秋霞福利一区 in 2023 with a Master of Athletic Training 鈥 and a job.

鈥淒uring my master鈥檚 program, my professors worked so hard to make sure we had the best experience possible. Throughout my time at 秋霞福利一区, I completed several internships and worked in multiple settings.

鈥淓ach of my preceptors taught me important skills in assessment, communication and rehabilitation. These internships also gave me the opportunity to network with professionals in my field, which ultimately helped me get a job straight out of college,鈥 Kaitlyn said.

Become a Certified Athletic Trainer

The 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 Master of Athletic Training program combines classroom learning with practical experience in the university鈥檚 nationally accredited human gross anatomy lab and state-of-the-art simulation lab in the Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice.

The two-year program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training education (CAATE) and graduates are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) exam, the essential step to becoming a certified athletic trainer.

Clinical placements in high schools, collegiate and professional settings, sports medicine clinics and healthcare facilities give students the real-world experience employers want.

Applications for each cohort of 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 Master of Athletic Training program are open from Aug. 1 to May 1. ATCAS is the primary application process for 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 MAT program and can be found at 听umobile.edu/master-of-athletic-training. Contact Dr. Thomas for additional questions about the program at mthomas@umobile.edu or 听251.442.2324. To learn more about the 秋霞福利一区, visit .

鈥楽ee the Light of Jesus鈥

As an undergraduate, Kaitlyn was awarded a scholarship to pursue her dream of playing college softball for the

Rams. She also fell in love with her best friend 鈥 now husband 鈥 Ethan Cowart, who attended the 秋霞福利一区 on a track and field scholarship.

Their time at 秋霞福利一区 strengthened their walk with the Lord as they pursued their callings. With 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 mission to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world, academic programs like the Master of Athletic Training fully integrate faith and learning.

The result is graduates like Kaitlyn who see their careers as their own unique mission field.

鈥淎s an athletic trainer, I wear numerous hats. I serve as a mentor, friend, counselor, nutritionist, physiologist, coach and more. I am with these athletes every day, and I influence them more than I know,鈥 Kaitlyn said.

鈥淎 Kingdom leader exhibits patience, kindness, love and compassion. I want Jesus to shine through everything I do, from how I speak to how I care for each of my players.

I want them to see the light of Jesus. Every day, I aim to accomplish that,鈥 Kaitlyn said.

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鈥umobile.edu/um-info鈥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.

]]> Church Spotlight: First Baptist Church Hendersonville, TN /2025/07/church-spotlight-first-baptist-church-hendersonville-tn/ Tue, 01 Jul 2025 14:52:52 +0000 /?p=109498 A Giving Heart听

When 秋霞福利一区 alumnus Dr. Bruce Chesser 鈥78 became pastor in 2009, First Baptist Church of Hendersonville, Tennessee, was $17 million in debt. Today the nearly 80-year-old church is debt-free and has the largest attendance in its history, reaching 3,735 in 2024 with over 2,200 people involved in Vacation Bible School each summer. FBC Hendersonville baptized more people than ever before in 2024, with 340 following the Lord in baptism.听

Notably, FBC Hendersonville became the first church in the state of Tennessee to give over $1 million a year to the Cooperative Program of the Southern Baptist Convention.听

The multi-generational church is intentionally a single-campus church with a vision of planting and revitalizing existing churches to help them become thriving, independent Southern Baptist congregations.听

Among its ministries are:听

鈥 Feed Sumner Food Bank and Ministry Center,听meeting the physical needs of people in upper听Middle Tennessee
鈥 Adult special needs ministry, addressing a largely听unmet need in the region
鈥 The Babb Center, a counseling ministry serving all听of Middle Tennessee.听

Fellow alumnus Jason Breland 鈥24 serves as worship leader. Breland holds a Master of Arts in Worship Leadership and Theology from 秋霞福利一区. One of his daughters, Abigail, graduated in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.听

Chesser said he values his 秋霞福利一区 connections, both past and present.听

Dr. Bruce Chesser 鈥78, Senior Pastor听

After graduating from then-Mobile College in 1978 with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, Dr. Bruce Chesser earned both his MDiv and DMin from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He pastored in Texas, Alabama and Arkansas before becoming pastor of FBC Hendersonville in 2009. He met his wife, Joy, at MC/秋霞福利一区 and they have two married sons and two grandchildren.听

鈥淭he foundational truths of my theology began as a child in my home church, but they were refined while I was in college. Things I learned at Mobile College impact my life every single day,鈥 he said.听

]]> Church Spotlight: Cottage Hill Baptist Church /2025/07/church-spotlight-cottage-hill-baptist-church/ Tue, 01 Jul 2025 14:41:17 +0000 /?p=109496 A History of Growth and Impact听

Celebrating 80 years of faith and service, Cottage Hill 听Baptist Church has grown from a one-week tent revival in 1944 with just 28 members to a thriving, multi-site church making a global impact. Each era has brought new blessings and opportunities for expansion:听

鈥 Cottage Hill Christian Academy recently marked its 25-year anniversary and now serves over 600 students听from preschool through 12th grade.
鈥 The Recreational Outreach Center has become a听vital ministry hub, using sports and fitness programs to听reach people across the city.
鈥 Love Where You Live, launched in 2015, has contributed thousands of service hours to Mobile and听Baldwin counties.听

Cottage Hill has been a longstanding partner with 秋霞福利一区,听hosting Christmas Spectacular, graduation ceremonies,听and investing in 秋霞福利一区 students in a variety of ways.听

A Vision for the Future听

With four campuses 鈥 Cottage Hill Baptist Church (main campus), Downtown Church at The Steeple, Church of听the Island (Dauphin Island), and Bay Family Church听(Grand Bay) 鈥 Cottage Hill continues to expand its reach.听During the church鈥檚 80th anniversary celebration, Pastor Alan introduced the 鈥淓ight80鈥 vision, a bold initiative that includes:听

鈥 Commissioning 80 members into ministry service.
鈥 Assisting in the planting or revitalization of 80 churches.
鈥 Sending 800 members on short-term mission trips.听

鈥淲e are very intentional and have currently partnered听with church plants in Puerto Rico, Turkey, Salt Lake City and Pittsburg,鈥 said Floyd. 鈥淲e also want to help those who are called to vocational ministry find opportunities to serve 鈥 whether at one of our campuses, a church replant or through one of the many churches we are connected with. Although Cottage Hill has a very rich history, we truly believe its听greatest days lie ahead.鈥听

Dr. Alan Floyd 鈥89, Lead Pastor听

A Mobile native, Dr. Alan Floyd felt the call to ministry at just 16 years old. He graduated from then-Mobile College in 1989 with a Bachelor of Arts in religion and English, later earning his MDiv from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a DMin from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. His passion for church revitalization has been a guiding force throughout his ministry, shaping his doctoral work and leadership approach. Before becoming lead pastor at Cottage Hill in 2012, he pastored churches in Florida and Georgia.听

鈥淚 value the preparation for ministry and the friendships developed at Mobile College. Many of those relationships remain strong today. It鈥檚 a joy to now serve alongside Ricky Watt, who attended MC with me, as we work together through our network听of churches,鈥 he said.听

Floyd and his wife, Kathy, have two sons, Christopher 鈥17 and Conner 鈥21, both 秋霞福利一区 graduates currently serving in local church ministry.听

]]> Calling to Teach, Mission to Serve /2025/06/calling-to-teach-mission-to-serve/ Mon, 30 Jun 2025 18:17:52 +0000 /?p=109488 How do you know when you鈥檙e exactly where God wants you to be 鈥 using your gifts, following His calling, and making an impact that reaches beyond yourself ?听

For Brinkley Hearn, a 秋霞福利一区 2024 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education, confirmation didn鈥檛 come in a single moment, but in the quiet, daily victories of her first year as a fourth-grade teacher at Saraland Elementary School.听

Just a year ago, Brinkley stood on the graduation stage in front of Weaver Hall and accepted the university鈥檚 highest honor for a graduating female senior, the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Award. Today, she is seeing the impact of her 秋霞福利一区 education come to life in her own classroom 鈥 an education that prepared her not just to teach, but to lead with faith and purpose.听

鈥淚 feel an undeniable sense that I am exactly where I am meant to be. Every day, I have seen my students not only grow academically but also personally, and it feels like I am a part of something bigger than myself. The challenges and triumphs have become moments where I can feel God鈥檚 presence guiding me, strengthening me, and using me to make a difference in their lives. It is more than just a job 鈥 it is a mission 鈥 and I know I am fulfilling my calling.鈥听

– Brinkley Hearn 鈥24听

Nationally Recognized for Excellence听

The 秋霞福利一区 School of Education is听nationally recognized for preparing teachers like听Brinkley. Inspirational professors, 100% pass rates on teacher exams and collaborative partnerships听throughout the community are just a few reasons 秋霞福利一区 is recognized for national excellence by the prestigious Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.听

The school maintains a 100% pass rate on the Teacher Performance Assessment (edTPA) for graduates, and 100% of Early Childhood and Elementary majors exceed the minimum passing score on their first attempt. A job placement rate of 100% means most education students have a teaching position lined up before they graduate.听

Key to 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 success is a team of experienced faculty who know first-hand what it takes to do the work 鈥 manage a classroom, nurture students with a variety of needs and abilities, hold parent-teacher conferences, develop lesson plans that work.听

鈥淭he amazing faculty in the School of Education works as a cohesive team to ensure that our听students are prepared for a career in teaching. The collaborative partnerships we have听established with local schools, educational organizations and the community is vital to the success of our students,鈥 says Dr. Ashley Milner, dean of the School of Education.听

Collaborative Connections听

秋霞福利一区 faculty collaborate with public and private school systems across lower Alabama to provide students with extensive experience throughout the community. Starting in the sophomore year, students have over 200 hours in the field at various schools, grade levels and school systems.听

One example is last fall鈥檚 鈥淏eginning of School听Experience鈥 partnership with nearby Saraland Elementary. Because 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 fall semester starts after K-12 schools have already been in session a few weeks, pre-service student teachers don鈥檛 have the opportunity to experience those hectic early days of a new school year. The Beginning of School Experience let 秋霞福利一区 students volunteer to work side-by-side with veteran teachers 鈥 before college classes even started.听

鈥We鈥檝e had classes already about classroom听management, and so we鈥檝e done plans like first day of school scripts and how to set up a听classroom and things like that. But it鈥檚 really neat to be in a classroom and see how that works听hands-on,鈥 says senior Bethany Kilgore.听

秋霞福利一区 alumna Allison Nelson 鈥06 was one of those veteran teachers showing the ropes to 秋霞福利一区 student teachers.听

鈥淭hese student teachers having the opportunity to see all of what happens is one more aspect that sets apart the education department at 秋霞福利一区听compared to other universities. It is one more step 秋霞福利一区 is taking to help these future educators WIN in the world of teaching,鈥 says Allison.听

Programs & Majors, Master of Education in Instructional Design and Technology

Innovative Partnerships听

The mission of 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 School of Education extends into the future, embracing new technologies and skills. In partnership with Pine Grove Elementary in Bay Minette, Alabama, 秋霞福利一区 students are engaging in a robotics learning initiative led by Dr. Jessica Freeland, instructional design and technology graduate program听coordinator. Freeland is passionate about empowering classroom teachers with the knowledge and skills to provide the computer science and digital literacy instruction required for elementary schools by the Alabama State Department of Education.听

A grant from the North Baldwin Community Foundation 鈥 an affiliate of The Community Foundation of South Alabama 鈥 provided Pine Grove Elementary and 秋霞福利一区 with robots designed to introduce early coding and problem-solving skills to听elementary students in engaging, age-appropriate ways.听

鈥淭oo often, teachers shy away from technology like robotics because they find terms like 鈥榗oding鈥听intimidating. Through this project, I want to demystify those concepts and show how robots can be seamlessly integrated into everyday lessons. By empowering听educators, we鈥檙e ensuring that students will be听exposed to critical 21st-century skills in a fun and听engaging way,鈥 says Freeland.听

She envisions her TE 405 students at 秋霞福利一区 partnering with Pine Grove teachers to co-teach robotics lessons, further reinforcing the collaboration between the two institutions and enhancing the educational experience for all students.听

鈥楶assionate About Teaching鈥听

As she prepares to graduate in a few weeks, senior Bethany Kilgore says she is fully prepared to pursue her calling to teach, her mission to serve.听

鈥淚 have always been passionate about teaching听students, whether that be in a Sunday School class or teaching swim lessons during the summer. Teaching students something new and then seeing them听understand it is one of the best and most rewarding feelings in the world. I believe it is so important for听students to have teachers who are passionate about teaching them in developmentally appropriate ways, and I am learning how to do that to the best of my听ability at the 秋霞福利一区,鈥 Bethany says.

]]> 秋霞福利一区 Launches New Online Program to Train Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners in Just Three Semesters听 /2025/05/university-of-mobile-launches-new-online-program-to-train-psychiatric-mental-health-nurse-practitioners-in-just-three-semesters/ Mon, 19 May 2025 15:40:12 +0000 /?p=108200 MOBILE, Ala. 鈥 The 秋霞福利一区 is responding to the nation鈥檚 mental health care crisis with a new online Post-Master APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). This fully online, asynchronous program can be completed in just three semesters. 

The 秋霞福利一区 is accepting applications now for fall semester 2025. Classes start in August. Apply at umobile.edu/psychnp.

Growing Demand, Competitive Salaries

“The psychiatric provider shortage is having a direct impact on our communities,鈥 said Dr. Jessica Garner, graduate dean of the School of Nursing at the 秋霞福利一区. 鈥淥ur new PMHNP certificate program is a strategic response to this urgent need by preparing nurses to provide mental health services with clinical excellence and compassion grounded in a Christian worldview.鈥

As mental health needs continue to rise nationwide, the demand for psychiatric nurse practitioners is expected to grow significantly. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 46% increase in nurse practitioner jobs between 2023 and 2033, far above the average for other occupations. 

Salaries average $129,000 across the United States, and there are increased opportunities for remote jobs following graduation.

Complete in 3 Semesters

This fully online, asynchronous program can be completed in just three semesters. Graduates will be prepared to assess, diagnose and treat individuals across the lifespan with psychiatric and mental health conditions. 

Students in the program complete a minimum of 585 supervised clinical hours in direct patient care. Didactic coursework is delivered virtually.

Program Welcomes Dr. Taiye Ajayi

The 秋霞福利一区 welcomes Dr. Taiye Ajayi, program director and assistant professor of nursing, whose expertise in psychiatric nursing will be a valuable addition to the 秋霞福利一区 School of Nursing. Ajayi is affiliated with AltaPointe Health and is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a doctoral degree. 

鈥淒r. Ajayi brings valuable experience in psychiatric nursing, with extensive experience in inpatient and psychiatric emergency services for psychiatric patients. She will contribute to our program鈥檚 focus on excellence, empathy and innovation,鈥 Garner said.

Program Benefits

Additional program benefits include:

  • Increased opportunities for remote and telehealth jobs following graduation
  • Integrated, holistic approach to mental health care that incorporates a Christian worldview
  • Supportive faculty with clinical expertise committed to helping students achieve their professional goals
  • Certificate of academic achievement upon successful completion of clinical and academic requirements

Apply Now for Fall Classes

Applicants must have completed an MSN, DNP or other terminal nursing degree from a regionally accredited educational institution and be currently certified as a Family, Primary Care or Adult-gerontology Nurse Practitioner.

For more information or to apply to the Post-Master APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program, visit umobile.edu/psychnp or contact Dr. Jessica Garner at听jgarner@umobile.edu.

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.听Learn more at听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.

]]> Alabama School of the Arts Registering Now for Summer Music & Theatre Camps听 /2025/05/alabama-school-of-the-arts-registering-now-for-summer-music-theatre-camps/ Wed, 14 May 2025 14:00:00 +0000 /?p=108203 MOBILE, Ala. 鈥 Creativity comes alive and students shine at summer music and theatre camps offered in June by the Alabama School of the Arts at the 秋霞福利一区. Registration is underway for the day camps.

鈥淲e had a fantastic camp experience last year, and we are looking forward to having an even better time this year,鈥 said camp director Dr. Stephanie Archer, assistant professor of music at 秋霞福利一区. 鈥淥ur summer camps are the perfect opportunity for children and teenagers to engage in the performing arts in new ways.鈥

Both camps are held on the campus of the 秋霞福利一区, 5735 College Pkwy. Deadline to register for 秋霞福利一区 Summer Theatre Camp is May 22. Deadline to register for 秋霞福利一区 Summer Music Camp is June 2. Register for summer camps at .

秋霞福利一区 Summer Theatre Camp 鈥 June 9-13 & June 16-20

秋霞福利一区鈥檚 theatre camp for high schoolers offers aspiring actors the chance to grow in their craft and gain performance opportunities. 

The 秋霞福利一区 Summer Theatre Camp is for students ages 14-18 or who have completed 8th-12th grades. The 10-day camp will take place Mondays through Fridays, June 9-13 and June 16-20. On June 20 at 7 p.m., there will be a final showcase performance to display all that the participants learned throughout the 10-day camp. 

This camp includes intensives and showcase rehearsals which will be 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Classes and workshops will cover acting, dance, auditioning, stage combat, improv and music/voice.

Tuition is $550 per student. A non-refundable down payment of $75 is required to secure a camp spot at registration. A sibling discount of 10% is available for any additional child attending. Each camper will receive a t-shirt and daily snack.

秋霞福利一区 Summer Music Camp 鈥 June 23-27

鈥Our music camp provides children with the opportunity to engage in various musical activities and experience instruments or genres that they might not have ever heard before. Each day will be full of exciting and age-appropriate learning,鈥 Archer said.

The 秋霞福利一区 Summer Music Camp is for rising 2nd听鈥 6th听grade students. The camp will take place Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.听 Daily classes will cover instrument discovery, singing lessons, music history, and outdoor recreation and movement.听

Camp tuition is $250 with a non-refundable down payment of $50. A sibling discount of 10% is available for any additional child attending. Each camper will receive a t-shirt and daily snack.

Register for 秋霞福利一区 Summer Music & Theatre Camps

Register for summer music and theatre camps and learn more about the Alabama School of the Arts at

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.

]]> 秋霞福利一区 President Charles Smith to Graduates: Anchor Your Life in Christ听 /2025/05/university-of-mobile-president-charles-smith-to-graduates-anchor-your-life-in-christ/ Mon, 12 May 2025 14:11:04 +0000 /?p=108183 MOBILE, Ala. 鈥撎In a powerful address during 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 2025 commencement, President Charles Smith urged graduates to 鈥渁nchor your life and joy in the wisdom of God鈥檚 Word and the unshakable love of Christ.鈥

鈥淭his degree represents more than your academic success,鈥 Smith told over 300 graduates in a ceremony held May 10 on the university鈥檚 Great Commission Lawn. 鈥淚t is a testament to your perseverance, discipline and sacrifice 鈥 qualities that will serve you well as you step into an exciting new chapter of life.鈥

Rooted in Proverbs 3:5-6, Smith challenged the Class of 2025 to: 鈥淭rust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.鈥

Four Truths Taught at 秋霞福利一区

In his message, Smith reminded graduates of four truths that serve as the foundation of everything taught at the 秋霞福利一区.

  • God loves you听鈥 鈥淣ot a smarter, holier, more accomplished version of you 鈥 the real you,鈥 he said. 鈥淭he question is not whether God loves you. The cross makes that clear. The real question is, will you trust Him to be who He promises to be?鈥
  • God has given you profound gifts听鈥撎淵our very life is a gift… the talents you cultivated here at the 秋霞福利一区 are gifts of God鈥檚 grace.鈥 He added, 鈥淭here will be times… when you doubt your abilities… In those moments… steady yourself with these truths: God loves you and has given you profound gifts.鈥
  • God has called you to steward your life and gifts for His glory and the good of the world听鈥撎淲hile the temptation is strong to use them for ourselves, our gifts are meant to bless others and point them to Christ. This is where you will find life鈥檚 deepest joys and greatest impact,鈥 he said.
  • Only Christ can satisfy your deepest longings听鈥撎淎s you enter this next chapter, commit to joining a strong local church. Immerse yourself in God鈥檚 Word. Cultivate godly friendships. Start a family. Serve your community. Do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with your God. And as you do, commit to embracing our Great Commission Tradition here at the 秋霞福利一区,鈥 he said.

鈥淲e are proud to call you an alumnus of the 秋霞福利一区,鈥 Smith said in closing. 鈥淜eep the faith, stay the course and do not forget all that you learned here. Your Great Commission journey is just beginning, and we will be cheering you on every step of the way.鈥

Watch the graduation video.

Weaver Awards Presented

The 秋霞福利一区 presented its top two student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, to Logan Lipke of Orange Beach, Alabama, and Anna Olsen of Semmes, Alabama. The awards are presented to the most outstanding graduating male and female seniors for exemplifying the university鈥檚 mission through scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service. The awards are named for the founding president and first lady of then-Mobile College.

Lipke graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in music 鈥 composition. He received the President鈥檚 Scholastic Award and Area Award in Music.

Olsen graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in education. She is an Honors with Thesis Program graduate and received the President鈥檚 Scholastic Award and Area Award in Communication.

Read more about Weaver Awards.

Dr. Lonnie Burnett Alumni of the Year Award

The Dr. Lonnie Burnett Alumni of the Year award is named after immediate past president Dr. Lonnie Burnett, the 5thpresident of the 秋霞福利一区. A 1979 graduate of 秋霞福利一区, Burnett dedicated over 40 years of service to education in southwest听Alabama, including 20 years faithfully serving the university as instructor, faculty member, dean and eventually president. Burnett exemplifies what it means to be an alumnus of the 秋霞福利一区, living with godly character and seeking to serve the Lord in all aspects of life.听

The Dr. Lonnie Burnett Alumni of the Year award is given to a graduate of the 秋霞福利一区 who exemplifies those qualities in the highest regard. The 2025 Alumni of the Year is Teresa Williamson, president of Roberts Brothers Inc.听

Williamson is a 1990 graduate of the 秋霞福利一区 with a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance. She has served the greater Mobile community with distinction, Christ-like character and an unmatched godly integrity.听

鈥淲hether it is volunteering in the community, engagement through the Mobile Chamber of Commerce, her involvement in and through her local church, or her leadership in real estate, Teresa is an example that all 秋霞福利一区 alumni and current students can look up to,鈥 said President Smith as he presented the award.

Faculty of the Year Award

For the first time in the university鈥檚 history, a new award was presented at commencement:听听the Faculty of the Year award.听

The inaugural Faculty of the Year Award was presented to Dr. Julie Hughes, assistant professor of nursing and simulation lab coordinator for the Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice in the School of Nursing, Celia Wallace College of Health Professions. Using high-fidelity simulators,听Hughes designs intricate simulations for students that allow them to experience real-world medical scenarios as they prepare for healthcare careers.

She recently brought the Blessing of the Hands to the School of Nursing鈥檚 Pinning Ceremony. This component acknowledges the responsibility that nurses shoulder in delivering care and compassion while reminding them they are never alone in their duties as Jesus empowers them to be instruments of His love and healing.听

Presenting the award, President Smith said,听鈥淒r. Hughes听points students and colleagues alike to Christ. In doing so, she has a profound impact on the lives of her students and their future patients.鈥

Trustee Resolution Honors Dr. Roger Breland

Dr. John Roger Breland, retiring executive director of the Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts, was honored with a resolution from the Board of Trustees celebrating his lifetime of music, ministry and mentorship.

For 31 years, Breland served as founder and director of TRUTH 鈥 one of the first internationally successful contemporary Christian recording groups. For the past 23 years, he played a pivotal role in shaping the 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 Alabama School of the Arts.听

Throughout his career, Breland spread the Gospel message across the world, traveling more than 4 million miles across 50 nations, presenting over 12,000 concerts and producing 100 albums.听Along the way, he mentored generations of young men and women who today are successful leaders in the music industry and churches around the world.

His legacy at the 秋霞福利一区 includes founding VOICES of Mobile, launching the beloved Christmas Spectacular, expanding the Alabama School of the Arts, securing funding for the Fisher/Brewer Recording Studio, and establishing the Roger and Linda Breland Endowed Scholarship.听

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.听The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Learn more at听umobile.edu/um-info.

INTRODUCING THE CLASS OF 2025

Alabama School of the Arts, Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance听

Yuliya Ugay Brown – Semmes, Alabama

Magdalena Sage 鈥 Mobile, Alabama
Laura Elizabeth Thomason 鈥 Lexington, North Carolina听

Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, School of Nurse Anesthesia, Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice

Ruby Kay Amys -Daphne, Alabama
James Tyler Atchison- Mobile, Alabama
James Glenn Chance III- Westlake, Louisiana
James Kenneth Easter III- Mobile, Alabama
Zackrey Lee Gray- Trussville, Alabama
Christian Ezra Kostmayer- Biloxi, Mississippi

Ashton Ellzey Nassar -Mobile, Alabama
Amber Huskey Rolin- Atmore, Alabama
Jared D. Rowell- Spanish Fort, Alabama
Sydney Faith Welch- Monroeville, Alabama
Carley Nicole Williams- Biloxi, Mississippi
Miranda Elise Yacovetta- Athens, Georgia

Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, School of Nurse Anesthesia, Doctor of Nursing Practice

Kristan M. Evans- Mobile, Alabama
Stephanie L. Hedden- Silverhill, Alabama

Alabama School of the Arts, Master of Arts and Master of Music

Tiffany J. Aikens- Birmingham, Alabama,听听听听听M.M., Vocal Performance
Abigail Ruth Anderson- Mobile, Alabama, M.M., Vocal Performance, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award
Savannah G. Brannen- Titus, Alabama, M.M., Vocal Performance
Mary Laura Hudson- Salmon, Idaho, M.M., Vocal Performance, Area Award: Vocal Performance
Rebecca M. Reed- Chickasaw, Alabama, M.M., Piano Performance, Area Award: Piano Performance

College of Arts and Sciences, Master of Arts听

Cherry Miranda Duke- Saraland, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling
Elle Bliss Klayko- Belforest, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling, Area Award: Marriage and Family Counseling
Jennifer Erin McDowell- Bay Minette, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling
Tifani S. Nobles- Mobile, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling
Taylor A. Watwood- Birmingham, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling
Rachel E. Williamson- Mobile, Alabama, Marriage and Family Counseling, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award

College of Arts and Sciences, School of Christian Studies, Master of Arts听

Charles A. Gessner- Mobile, Alabama, Biblical and Theological Studies

Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, School of Health and Sports Science, Master of Athletic Training听

Katelon Keiyuna Pernell- Jackson, Alabama
Liliann Jewel Starr- Umatilla, Florida, Area Award: Master of Athletic Training听听听听
Kendell S. Wilson- Griffin, Georgia

Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing听

Myriya Phyllese Elizabeth Collins- Mobile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
John Blake Endris- Jackson, Mississippi, Family Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Gaskins- Gulf Shores, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Akeria King- Mobile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Ananya Pathak- Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Family Nurse Practitioner
Brittany Alaina Pettway- Mobile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Rachel M. Redding- Citronelle, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Kellie C. Roberts- Silas, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Erika Shanovia Samuels- Mobile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Danielle Nicole Smith- Semmes, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Shelby R. Vansickler- Spanish Fort, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Natalie Williams- Satsuma, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner
Jasma Shantell Wright- Bay Minette, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Grace Pilot School of Business, Master of Business Administration and Master of Science听

Aspen M. Adams- Union Springs, Alabama, Master of Business Administration, Grace Pilot School of Business Achievement Award, Area Award: Master of Business Administration
Taylor Christine Boyington- Semmes, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Shannie Chiasson- Bathurst, New-Brunswick, Canada, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Leah A. Clackler- Andalusia, Alabama, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Lindi Grace Debilzan- Lexington, Kentucky, Master of Business Administration
Jackson Wayne Delaney- Chunchula, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Christopher A. Erskine- Havana, Florida, Master of Business Administration
Leon Finke- Lengede, Lower Saxony, Germany, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Travis J. Grimes- Semmes, Alabama, Master of Business Administration听
Joshua K. Harris- Summerdale, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Emily L. Hatcher- Citronelle, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Martin Jeanne- Angers, France, Master of Business Administration
Camden Eli Jewell- Blackshear, Georgia, M.S., Leadership and Communication, Area Award: M.S., Leadership and Communication
Morgan Avery Johnston- Vancleave, Mississippi, Master of Business Administration
Jackson R. July- Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Aleah Marie Kennedy- Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Perren A. King- Hoover, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Alexis Grace Lambert- Citronelle, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Teagan C. Lynn-Daniels- Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Tadeas Manas- Prague, Czech Republic, Master of Business Administration
Landon Hayes Owen- Sylacauga, Alabama, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Sara Parpinel- Trieste, Italy, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Ronak B. Patel- Theodore, Alabama, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Jailen Lamar Pettway- Birmingham, Alabama, M.S., Leadership and Communication
Braylan T. Stringfellow- Grand Bay, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Jordan Nicole Wood- Mobile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Julia Claire Worth- Opelika, Alabama, Master of Business Administration
Jacob A. Wright- Sarland, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

School of Education, Master of Arts and Master of Education听

Kristen Black- Saraland, Alabama,听听听M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology, Area Award: Instructional Design and Technology
Sarah Lindsey Brannan- Enterprise, Mississippi, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology
Lafaye R. Harris- Prichard, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education
Karon L. Hayes- Mobile, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education
Martrisse H. Haynes- Mobile, Alabama, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology
Anna Morgan Heathcoe- Mobile, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Alternative Early Childhood Education
Hannah L. Kelly- Saraland, Alabama, M.A., Early Childhood Education
Danica A. McCall- Arlington, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education
Caitlin Annette McRee- Mobile, Alabama, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology
Lauren L. Meador- Daphne, Alabama, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology
Landon R. Moore- Helena, Alabama, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology
Montrez D. Radcliff- McIntosh, Alabama, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy
Janet Suzann Rainer- Semmes, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education, School of Education Achievement Award
Trenton Thomas Short- Pace, Florida, M.Ed., Higher Education Leadership and Policy
Jordan Stewart Sinclair- Glasgow, Scotland, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology听听听听听听听听听听听听

Celia Wallace College of Health Professionals, School of Nursing, Post-Master鈥檚 Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Certificate听

Jasmine L. Wicks- Mobile, Alabama, Post-Masters Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Certificate Family Nurse Practitioner

Alabama School of the Arts, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Science

听
Ryan S. Adams- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Savanna C. Adams- Dothan, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music, Magna Cum Laude
Karli J. Alaniz- Atmore, Alabama, B.F.A., Performance, Acting, Area Award: Performance, Acting听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听
Miguel-Abdiel Patricio Alonzo- Columbus, Georgia, B.S., Music, Area Award: Music Education
Ian C. Blair- Spanish Fort, Alabama听, B.M., Vocal Performance, Magna Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate
Jesse E. Blow- Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies, Cum Laude
Josie Storm Braly- Fairhope, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Kenneth Bernard Brandon- Jackson, Mississippi, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Harrison Cole Bridges- Tallahassee, Florida, B.M., Performance, Commercial Voice, President’s Scholastic Award, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award, Area Award: Performance, Commercial Voice, Magna Cum Laude
Nina M. Carpenter- Creola, Alabama, B.M., Performance, Violin听听, Summa Cum Laude
Hunter Shane Chapuis- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music, Magna Cum Laude听听听听听
Caleb Lane Davis- Thorsby, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Connor D. Duckett- Portland, Oregon, B.S., Production Technologies, Area Award: Production Technologies, Magna Cum Laude
Anna Gabrielle Geter- Ocean Springs, Mississippi, B.F.A., Performance, Musical Theatre, Area Award: Performance, Musical Theatre, Magna Cum Laude
Cody Alan Green- Loxley, Alabama, B.M., Performance, Commercial Voice
Emalyn J. Heathershaw- Crestview, Florida, B.A., Music
Clara Rebekah Hicks- Franklin, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Harrison Thomas Hood- Gadsden, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Nathan R. Irvin- Opelika, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Kaden P. Kugler- Columbiana, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music, Magna Cum Laude听听听听听Logan T. Lipke- Orange Beach, Alabama, B.A., Music, William K. Weaver, Jr. Excellence Award, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Music, Summa Cum Laude
Jenna April Rebekah McKnight- Daphne, Alabama, B.A., Theatre
Tyler Parker Peters- Ozark, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies
Caleb S. Russell- Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music
Connor L. Thomas- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music, Cum Laude
Joshua B. Trimble- Northport, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music, Magna Cum Laude听听听听听听William Lee Wayne- Corinth, Mississippi, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music, Area Award: Worship Leadership, Summa Cum Laude
Erika Marie West- Dover, Florida, B.M., Performance, Commercial Voice, Magna Cum Laude, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music

College of Arts and Sciences, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Science

Luke Edwin Phillips Arnold- Daphne, Alabama, B.S., Criminology, Cum Laude
Trinity Margaret Barden- Kent, England, B.S., Communication
Hanna A. Barnett- Spanish Fort, Alabama听听听听B.S., Criminology, Magna Cum Laude
Lauren McLean Beasley- Mobile, Alabama听听, B.S., Communication, Magna Cum Laude
AnnaKatherine D. Bell- Dothan, Alabama, B.S., Communication, Magna Cum Laude
Katie Lynn Benoit- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., History
Ian C. Blair- Spanish Fort, Alabama听, B.S., Communication, Magna Cum Laude
Grace Bolden- Chelsea, Alabama, B.S., Communication
Alaina R. Booth- Mobile, Alabama, B.F.A., Graphic Design
Courtney Aunta Bradford- Jackson, Mississippi, B.S., General Studies
Kennedy Faith Bradford- Vernon, Alabama, B.F.A., Graphic Design
Cameron Leighton Brock- Fairhope, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Cum Laude
Grace Ann Burchell- Fort Walton Beach, Florida, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Magna Cum Laude
Shamar Andus Burks- Irvington, Alabama, B.S., History
Ashtyn Baleigh Cammon- Satsuma, Alabama, B.F.A., Studio Art
Alyssa L. Cherry- Robertsdale, Alabama, B.S., Social Science, Cum Laude
Autumn L. Chestang- McIntosh, Alabama, B.S., Sociology
Alejandro Chumacero Navarro- Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico, B.S., Mathematics, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Mathematics, Summa Cum Laude
Bryson A. East Sr.- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., General Studies
MacKensey H. Edmond- Mobile, Alabama, B.F.A., Studio Art
Natoniya J. Ford- Birmingham, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology
Leah Noelle Foster- Sturgis, Mississippi, B.S., Communication, Cum Laude
Kendel Lee Frazer- Fairhope, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology
Tionna Sierra Frieson- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Alexis N. Gillette- Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Sociology, Area Award: Sociology
Taylor Rae Greene- Theodore, Alabama, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Cum Laude
Trevor D. Griffin- Semmes, Alabama, B.S., General Studies
Tonya Renee Griffith- Brookwood, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Cartez A. Harris- Saraland, Alabama, B.F.A., Graphic Design
Will Harris- Southend on Sea, England, B.S., Government and Law, Cum Laude
Andrew J. Henley- Oneonta, Alabama, B.S., History, Area Award: History
Olivia Grace Henley- Huntsville, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Candice N. Jackson- Romeoville, Illinois, B.S., Criminology
Jerenie Arise Jackson- Baton Rouge, Louisiana, B.S., Pre-Health Biology
Hannah Rebecca Edge Jewell- Tampa, Florida, B.F.A., Studio Art, Area Award: Studio Art
Halleen E. Johnson- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., General Studies
Jamie Grace Johnson- Hinesville, Georgia, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Cum Laude
Kaylynn J贸nai Johnson- Hattiesburg, Mississippi, B.S., Pre-Health Biology
Haley S. Jones- Huntsville, Alabama, B.S., Criminology, Area Award: Criminology, Cum Laude
Jessef S. Leslie- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Evelyn Tailor May- Butler, Alabama, B.S., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude
Travis Lanier McKenzie Jr.- Maplesville, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Braylee N. McMath- Georgetown, Kentucky, B.S., Mathematics
Bai-Lee A. McNair- Semmes, Alabama, B.S., Criminology & B.S., Psychology, Cum Laude
Marina Mellado Baron- Sagunto, Spain, B.S., Psychology, Area Award: Psychology, Cum Laude
Reece S. Miles- Daphne, Alabama, B.S., Criminology
William Jackson Mims- Thomasville, Alabama, B.S., Mathematics, President’s Scholastic Award, Summa Cum Laude
Katrina R. Minnefield- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., General Studies
Marlee Jane Montalvo- Satsuma, Alabama, B.S., Communication, Magna Cum Laude
Anna McKeever Roeser Olsen- Semmes, Alabama, B.A., Communication & B.A., English, Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Communication, Summa Cum Laude, Honors with Thesis Program Graduate
Caraline E. Olson- Deatsville, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Emma Kate Patterson- Tuscaloosa, Alabama, B.S., Criminology & B.S., Psychology, Honors Program Graduate
Haley Morgan Pauley- Selma, Alabama, B.S., Criminology, Cum Laude
Jocelyn Denise Phillips- Semmes, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Racheal V. Reeves- Spanish Fort, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Cum Laude
Jenna Grace Schuliger- Niceville, Florida, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Cum Laude
Jasmyne B. Sigler- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Cecil K. Smith- Saraland, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Area Award: Natural Sciences, Summa Cum Laude
Jacylin B. Smith- Jemison, Alabama, B.A., English听听听, Summa Cum Laude
Fatoumata Sonko- Thies, Senegal, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award, Cum Laude
Blakelee A. Stewart- Daphne, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Kylee E. Stewart- Daphne, Alabama, B.A., English, Area Award: English
McKenna G. Stringfellow- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Psychology
Caleb Summerlin- Milton, Florida, B.S., Government and Law
Chephren Diane Sussenberger- Daphne, Alabama, B.S., General Studies
Claire M. Suter- Baton Rouge, Louisiana, B.S., Criminology
Faith Kierstin Taylor- Mount Vernon, Alabama, B.S., Mathematics, Magna Cum Laude
Megan Michelle Thomas- Mount Vernon, Alabama, B.S., General Studies
Emily Michelle Thullesen- Mobile, Alabama, B.F.A., Graphic Design, Area Award: Graphic Design听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听Za’Kiya Shardae’ Tolbert- Orrville, Alabama, B.S., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude
Dallas Lee Trehern Jr.- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., History, Magna Cum Laude
Sabrina Lynn Turner- Vinegar Bend, Alabama, B.S., Psychology, Magna Cum Laude
Karlie A. Welch- Monroeville, Alabama, B.S., Communication, Magna Cum Laude
MacKenzie Reese White- Huntsville, Alabama, B.S., Mathematics, Scholar Athlete Award, Summa Cum Laude
M. Song Whittington- Uriah, Alabama, B.S., Psychology, Honors Program Graduate
Shanta B. Williams- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Biology
Amber J. Young- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

College of Arts and Science, School of Christian Studies, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science听

Garrett Tyler Baker- Spring Hill, Florida, B.S., Christian Ministry, Area Award: Christian Ministry
Jhanya E. Quinones, Oak Hill, Mississippi, B.S., Christian Ministry
Taidi Vielza- Mobile, Alabama, B.A., Intercultural Studies
Jaylyn Marshay Woodruff- Mobile, Alabama, B.S., Christian Ministry

Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, School of Health and Sports Science, Bachelor of Science听


Tatum M. Beech- Spanish Fort, Alabama, Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude
Carleigh G. Bowden- Saraland,Alabama, Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude
Madison Grace Cooley- Satsuma, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude
Tyler S. Cruse- Lexington, Alabama, Kinesiology
Alanna N. Donaldson- New Orleans, Louisiana, Kinesiology, President’s Scholastic Award, Magna Cum Laude
Dalton Bryce Eddington- Mobile, Alabama听听, Kinesiology, Cum Laude
Ebba Kristina Olivia Elweroth- Helsingborg, Sweden, Kinesiology, Summa Cum Laude
Mattie A. Evans- Lucedale, Mississippi, Exercise Science, Cum Laude
Madison M. Hager- Saraland, Alabama, Kinesiology
Branden W. Heinke- Navarre, Florida, Exercise Science
Amy A. Jernigan- Satsuma, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude
Heather Lashea Knowles- Century, Florida, Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude
Bryan Llanes- Puerto Rico, Kinesiology
Sean T. Mason- Mobile, Alabama, Sport Administration, Magna Cum Laude
Megan E. McCartney- Harahan, Louisiana听听, Exercise Science, Summa Cum Laude
Ethan B. McPherson- Mobile, Alabama, Sport Administration, Area Award: Sport Administration
Alex Cheney McWhorter- Semmes, Alabama, Kinesiology
Matthew D. Morgan- Brewton, Alabama, Exercise Science, Area Award: Exercise Science
Victoria Renee Moseley- Hurley, Mississippi, Kinesiology
Liam Patterson- Perth, Western Australia, Kinesiology, Area Award: Kinesiology, Magna Cum Laude
Pierocarlo Previte- Mobile, Alabama, Kinesiology, Cum Laude
Jillian A. Robinson- Mobile, Alabama, Exercise Science
Lillian E. Smith- Helena, Alabama, Kinesiology
Jonathan C. Stewart- Saraland, Alabama, Kinesiology
Guerrero I. Tablan- Harvey, Louisiana, Exercise Science听
Tyler G. Turner- Daphne, Alabama, Kinesiology
Joshua K. Williams- Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Kinesiology
Carlee L. Wyatt- Thorsby, Alabama, Exercise Science, President’s Scholastic Award School of Health and Sports Science Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude

Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Bachelor of Science听

Layton E. Adams- Union Springs, Alabama
Haley B. Baggette- Monroeville, Alabama
Gavin Addison Brown- Branson, Missouri, Cum Laude
Emilee A. Buxton- Mobile, Alabama, Cum Laude
Elizabeth Scarbrough Culpepper- Guntersville, Alabama
Jennifer B. Darby- Mobile, Alabama
Emily Harbin Hatcher- Mobile, Alabama
Carlie Brooks Leonard- Daphne, Alabama
Miriam Frances McCoy- Fairhope, Alabama
Alexandria Cate Miller- Mobile, Alabama
Mary Emma Moore- Monticello, Arkansas, Area Award: Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing听听听听听听Kayla Isabel Prieto- Mobile, Alabama, Cum Laude
Allison F. Ramey- Citronelle, Alabama, Area Award: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Magna Cum Laude
Victoria Alana Riley- Bucks, Alabama
Katlyn Shereen Sampson- Chunchula, Alabama, School of Nursing Achievement Award, Magna Cum Laude
Patrick Dean Sanders II- Mobile, Alabama
Jada M. Shamburger- Mobile, Alabama
Truly Pollard Webb- Mount Vernon, Alabama
Tiara C. Taylor- Mobile, Alabama听听听听

Grace Pilot School of Business, Bachelor of Science听

Aspen M. Adams- Union Springs, Alabama, Accounting, Area Award: Accounting, Magna Cum Laude
Rofiat Temitope Adigun- Mobile, Alabama, Computer Information Systems, Area Award: Computer Information Systems
Moses Angulo Kirsch- Panama City, Panama, Management
Juan Francisco Javier Arias Gonzalez- La Florida, Santiago, Chile, Management
Indeya Renae Armstead- Robertsdale, Alabama, Management
Taylor Christine Boyington- Semmes, Alabama, Accounting, Cum Laude
Isabella M. Breslin- Athens, New York, Management
Salia E. Carr- Mobile, Alabama, Management
Olivia N. Counselman- Spanish Fort, Alabama, Accounting
Antonio C. Crews Jr.- Ashford, Alabama, Software Development
Dazsha J. Dean- Mobile, Alabama, Management, Grace Pilot School of Business Achievement Award, Magna Cum Laude
Jackson Wayne Delaney- Chunchula, Alabama, Accounting, Cum Laude听听
Daniel Doherty- Luton, United Kingdom, Computer Information Systems, Area Award: Cybersecurity, Cum Laude
Tanner Doherty- Chunchula, Alabama, Computer Information Systems
James G. Driver- Robertsdale, Alabama, Accounting, Cum Laude
Christopher A. Erskine- Havana, Florida, Accounting, Magna Cum Laude
Corien Caruso Dashawn Frazier- Mobile, Alabama, Management
Travis J. Grimes- Semmes, Alabama, Accounting, Cum Laude
Joshua K. Harris- Summerdale, Alabama, Accounting, Magna Cum Laude
Emily L. Hatcher- Citronelle, Alabama, Accounting, Summa Cum Laude
Dustin Reed Hill- Irvington, Alabama, Business Administration, Cum Laude
Morgan Avery Johnston- Vancleave, Mississippi, Accounting
Haley S. Jones- Huntsville, Alabama, Accounting, Cum Laude
Sebastian Jorgge- Asuncion, Paraguay, Accounting
Jackson R. July- Mobile, Alabama, Accounting
Aleah Marie Kennedy- Mobile, Alabama, Accounting
Perren A. King Jr.- Hoover, Alabama, Management
Alexis Grace Lambert- Citronelle, Alabama, Accounting, Magna Cum Laude
Zachary Landrum- Saraland, Alabama, Business Administration, Post-Traditional Area Award
Nathaniel D. Larkin- Bracknell, England, Business Administration
Rachel E. Leclerc- Bouaye, France, Management
Teagan C. Lynn-Daniels- Mobile, Alabama, Management
Sam MacDonald- Dunfermline, Scotland, Business Administration
Tadeas Manas- Prague, Czech Republic, Integrated Marketing, Area Award: Integrated Marketing Communications, Summa Cum Laude
Ezra Gallahad McKenna- Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Business Administration, Area Award: Finance, Magna Cum Laude
Lane M. McLaughlin- Mobile, Alabama, Accounting
Landon Cade Montgomery- Mobile, Alabama, Management
Christian Seth Nelson- Brewton, Alabama, Management
Joao P. Okano- Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, Management, Cum Laude
Jacob Lowell Rehbine- Nolensville, Tennessee, Healthcare Management, Magna Cum Laude
Nathalya M. Richardson- Mobile, Alabama, Business Administration
Sonobia M. Robinson- Mobile, Alabama, Business Administration
Sergio Ruiz Ramiro- Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain, Management, Cum Laude
Tyler Bruce Ryals- Pensacola, Florida, Business Administration
Nicholas R. Spears- Ashville, Alabama, Management, Cum Laude
Braylan T. Stringfellow- Grand Bay, Alabama, Accounting, Magna Cum Laude, Honors Program Graduate
Emma L. Todd- Pensacola, Florida听听Management, Magna Cum Laude
Anna Trinh- Mobile, Alabama, Computer Information Systems, Magna Cum Laude
Keon L. Walker- Birmingham, Alabama, Computer Information Systems
Malaijia J. White- Mobile, Alabama, Management
Luana S. Wild- Marechal C. Rondon, Parana, Brazil, Management, Area Award: Management, Magna Cum Laude
Jordan Nicole Wood- Mobile, Alabama, Healthcare Management, Area Award: Healthcare Management, Cum Laude
Julia Claire Worth- Opelika, Alabama, Accounting, Cum Laude
Jacob A. Wright- Saraland, Alabama, Management, Cum Laude听听听

School of Education, Bachelor of Science

Kaylee Ariana Forrest- Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Abigail G. Gorum- Spanish Fort, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Taylor F. Ingram- Red Level, Alabama, Early Childhood Education & Elementary Education, Magna Cum Laude
Abigayle Jackson Hughes- Satsuma, Alabama, Early Childhood Education
Venice Quntra James- Prichard, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Allie N. Kelley- Andalusia, Alabama, Early Childhood Education & Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude
Bethany Grace Kilgore- Mobile, Alabama, Early Childhood Education & Elementary Education, Area Award: Early Childhood and Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude
Rylee G. Martin- Gulf Shores, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Cum Laude
Jaylee Paige Miracle- Crestview, Florida, Elementary Education
Blakeley Kamille Norris- Bay Minette, Alabama, Early Childhood Education & Elementary Education, President’s Scholastic Award, School of Education Achievement Award, Summa Cum Laude听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听Eve Morgan Powell- Bay Minette, Alabama, Early Childhood Education & Elementary Education听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听Kirsha Qushawn Rankin- Mobile, Alabama听, Child and Social Development
Zoe Erica Richardson- Saraland, Alabama, Early Childhood Education & Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude
Raymond J. Shoemaker- Hurley, Mississippi, Child and Social Development
Brooklyn W. Strevel- Daphne, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Melissa D. Trehern- Mobile, Alabama, Child and Social Development
Sarah Elisabeth Tyler- Grand Bay, Alabama, Child and Social Development听听听听听听听听听

Celia Wallace College of Health Professionals, School of Nursing, Associate Degree of Nursing

Imani Sade Bassa- Mobile, Alabama
Destinee D. Boyd- Mobile, Alabama
Sharterica L. Bridget- Mobile, Alabama
Abbie Grace Buford- Wilmer, Alabama
Maggie Elizabeth Cotton- Jackson, Alabama
Jazmine Lachel Davis- Mobile, Alabama
Tyra Breanne Fortner- Mobile, Alabama
Gage Carson Galloway- Saraland, Alabama, President’s Scholastic Award
Caleb Brannon Gay- Citronelle, Alabama
Andrew Vaughn Head- Montgomery, Alabama
Clarissa S. Kelly- Mobile, Alabama
Olivia Marie Pope- Semmes, Alabama
Makayla Shay Reed- Saraland, Alabama
Morgan T. Reynolds- Citronelle, Alabama
Keira Anna-Lisa Ruddock- Foley, Alabama
Conner L. Shepard- Mobile, Alabama
Katelyn Redding Siler- Chunchula, Alabama
Jordan D. Simpson- Mobile, Alabama
Jamilya M. Windham- Saraland, Alabama, Area Award: Associate Degree in Nursing
Zachary Mitchel Zirlott- Mobile, Alabama听听听

 

]]> 秋霞福利一区 Honors Dr. Veronica Smith Hudson with 2025 Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence /2025/02/university-of-mobile-honors-dr-veronica-smith-hudson-with-2025-samuel-boykin-medal-of-excellence/ Thu, 20 Feb 2025 22:37:06 +0000 /?p=107736 MOBILE, Ala. 鈥 The 秋霞福利一区 proudly announces Dr. Veronica Smith Hudson as the recipient of the 2025 Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence, a prestigious award established in 2019 to honor the legacy of Samuel M. Boykin, the university’s first African American graduate. This medal recognizes outstanding African American alumni who exemplify the ideals of virtuosity, faith, and charity that Boykin demonstrated throughout his life.

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.

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