Hosted by Lifeway Christian Resources, a ministry of the Southern Baptist Convention, MFuge will bring approximately 2,475 campers representing 96 churches to the 秋霞福利一区 over six weeks. Students from states including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas will serve the Mobile community while participating in worship, Bible study and ministry experiences designed to strengthen their faith.

The 秋霞福利一区, a Christ-centered university affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention, has hosted FUGE Camps since 1981 and has served as one of the longest-running MFuge locations in the nation since the missions-focused camp model launched in 1996.

For many students, the weeklong camp will be more than a summer event. Through hands-on ministry and intentional discipleship, campers will have opportunities to discover God’s calling, deepen their relationship with Christ and learn what it means to live on mission.

“Each summer, the 秋霞福利一区 is honored to welcome students from Southern Baptist churches across our region who come ready to serve, grow and be challenged in their faith,” said 秋霞福利一区 President Charles Smith. “MFuge reflects our shared commitment to making disciples and developing Kingdom leaders. We are grateful for this longstanding partnership and the opportunity to see lives transformed through the Gospel as students serve the Mobile community and beyond.”

Last summer, the 秋霞福利一区 site hosted 2,451 campers from 102 churches, and 114 students made professions of faith in Christ, while 14 sensed a call to vocational ministry. Campers also served at 41 ministry sites throughout the Mobile area, contributing 1,428 hours of ministry and helping raise $16,922 through the camp’s missions offering.

The impact extended far beyond Mobile. Across all FUGE Camps locations last summer, 52,342 campers from 2,016 churches participated in missions experiences that resulted in 1,954 salvations and 479 calls to ministry. Campers gave more than $445,000 through missions offerings and served at 381 ministry sites, contributing more than 10,700 hours of ministry in communities across the nation.

A Legacy of Ministry and Missions

The 秋霞福利一区 has welcomed generations of students through its partnership with FUGE Camps, creating opportunities for young people to grow in their faith while serving others.

MFuge Camps are designed to help students move beyond learning about missions to actively living out their faith through service. Campers spend their days serving in local communities and their evenings gathering for worship, Bible study and fellowship.

The experience challenges students to see missions not as a one-week event, but as a lifestyle of following Christ and serving others.

Serving the Mobile Community

A hallmark of MFuge is its emphasis on hands-on ministry. Throughout the summer, campers will spread across the Mobile area to partner with local ministries and organizations serving people with a wide range of needs.

Students may serve through construction, painting and yard work projects; children’s ministry; recreation outreach; and social ministries that include food assistance programs, clothing distribution centers, nursing homes and other community organizations.

The goal is to meet practical needs while building relationships and creating opportunities to share the love of Christ.

“MFuge hopes to connect with local ministry partners to shine the light of Christ throughout the Mobile community while meeting physical needs and creating opportunities for individuals to experience Christ personally,” said Melina Baird, FUGE Camps coordinator for Lifeway Christian Resources. She said the 秋霞福利一区’s commitment to serving the community helps make the Mobile location a favorite destination for many churches.

“FUGE Camps is grateful for the partnership with the 秋霞福利一区,” Baird said. “Mobile’s dedication to serving through active presence in the surrounding communities provides incredible ministry partnerships. It is a camp location that sees churches return summer after summer with a desire to continue the ministry relationships that are fostered as churches engage with ministry partners during their week of FUGE Camps.”

Baird said those long-term partnerships benefit both campers and the community, creating ministry opportunities that extend well beyond a single week of camp.

秋霞福利一区 Student Serves Through MFuge

秋霞福利一区 student Jackson Anders is spending his summer as an MFuge staffer. A junior from Cumming, Georgia, majoring in Christian Studies, Anders has sensed the Lord鈥檚 call to serve in youth ministry. After graduation, he plans to attend seminary.

鈥淚 see 秋霞福利一区 helping me pursue my calling not only through my major in Christian Studies, but also through the connections you can make. One reason I love 秋霞福利一区 is because of all the friends that I鈥檝e made and the community that I have here at school,鈥� he said.

As an administration assistant at MFuge, Anders handles many of the behind-the-scenes details that make the camp run.

鈥淚 got involved with MFuge because I attended camp with my church at a young age,鈥� he said. 鈥淭his summer, I hope our students see the true love of the Lord and understand that it鈥檚 ok to be hyped for the Lord. I want them to use what they learn and take it into the real world when they go back home.鈥�

Anders’ experience reflects the impact MFuge has had on countless college students who first encountered the ministry as campers and later returned to serve on staff.

Spiritual Growth That Lasts

For many students, the most significant moments of MFuge happen not through the projects they complete, but through the ways God works in their hearts throughout the week.

Whether through a profession of faith, a call to ministry or a renewed commitment to follow Christ, students often leave camp with a deeper understanding of God’s purpose for their lives.

As thousands of students arrive on campus this summer, leaders are praying for another season of spiritual growth, transformed lives and Gospel impact.

“One of the greatest joys of hosting MFuge is seeing students discover that God can use them right now to make a difference,” President Smith said. “Our prayer is that they leave Mobile with a deeper love for Christ, a greater heart for serving others and a renewed commitment to live for His Kingdom wherever He calls them.”

For the 秋霞福利一区, the partnership continues to reflect its mission of multiplying Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world 鈥� one student, one church and one transformed life at a time.

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 the Kingdom. To the World.鈥� With a vision to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world, the university equips students through Christ-centered learning and community to pursue God鈥檚 calling with courage, purpose and Kingdom impact.

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.

University leaders say the refreshed brand reinforces the Baptist university鈥檚 commitment to Christ-centered learning and spiritual formation while preparing students for lives of purpose, leadership and service through the integration of faith and academics.

鈥淭he 秋霞福利一区 is not changing who we are 鈥� we are clarifying and amplifying who we have always been and strengthening how we communicate our mission for the future,鈥� said 秋霞福利一区 President Charles Smith. 鈥淎t our core, we exist to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world. This refreshed brand helps us communicate that mission with clarity, consistency and purpose.鈥�

Smith said the update reflects the university鈥檚 identity as 鈥渁 Christ-centered academic community propelled by the gospel鈥� and its commitment to recruiting, educating, discipling and deploying the next generation of Kingdom leaders.

鈥淲e believe students are designed by God for more than ordinary lives,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淭hey are created with purpose, gifted for leadership and called to make an impact for the glory of God and the good of the world. Through the 秋霞福利一区 experience, we want students to discover that calling and be prepared to live it out wherever God leads them.鈥�

鈥楧esigned for More鈥�

The university鈥檚 new campaign theme, 鈥淒esigned for More,鈥� speaks directly to students searching for purpose, meaning and calling.

Rooted in the belief that every person is intentionally created by God, the campaign emphasizes that students are designed for more than ordinary lives 鈥� they are designed to grow, lead, serve and make an impact through Christ-centered learning and community.

University leaders say the campaign reflects the heart of the 秋霞福利一区 experience: helping students become all they are designed to be so they can pursue all they are meant to do.

鈥楩or the Kingdom. To the World.鈥�

The university鈥檚 new institutional tagline, 鈥淔or the Kingdom. To the World.,鈥� reflects 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 commitment to preparing graduates who will use their professions, gifts and influence to advance God鈥檚 Kingdom wherever He calls them.

The phrase reinforces the university鈥檚 longstanding emphasis on the Great Commission and sending graduates into the world grounded in truth, equipped through Christ-centered learning, and prepared to serve with conviction and purpose.

University leaders say the refreshed brand identity reflects the distinctives that have long defined the 秋霞福利一区 experience: the integration of faith and academics, a relational campus community where students are personally known, a beautiful campus environment that feels like home, and a Great Commission focus that prepares graduates to impact the world for Christ.

Updated Visual Identity

The updated visual identity includes a refreshed logo system and redesigned presidential seal that modernize the university鈥檚 brand while preserving key elements of its heritage. One of the most significant visual updates in the new logo is the introduction of a shield behind the torch, replacing the previous circular mark and reinforcing themes of heritage, strength and the university鈥檚 calling to develop Kingdom leaders for the future. The torch, flame and cross in the torch handle represent truth, knowledge and Jesus Christ as the light that 秋霞福利一区 graduates will carry into the world.

Each element of the presidential seal has meaning:

• Three Circles: Represent the Trinity 鈥� Father, Son and Holy Spirit
• Shield: Represents faith, strength and purpose. Reflects the university鈥檚 mission to prepare students spiritually, intellectually and professionally to impact the world for Christ.
• Torch, Flame and Cross: Represent truth and knowledge. Also symbolize Jesus Christ as Light of the World, God as the Source of Wisdom, and the light of Christ that 秋霞福利一区 graduates will carry into the world.

• Stars: Represent God鈥檚 guidance and man鈥檚 aspiration.
• Oak Laurel: Represents the spirit of collaboration, partnership and community. Symbolizes a strong foundation, continued growth and serves as a reminder of the oaks of Mobile, Alabama, and the historic Eichold Oaks on campus. The leaves are specifically drawn to represent the Live Oak variety of oak trees on campus.

• Proverbs 9:10 is the foundational scripture for the university: 鈥淭he fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.鈥�
• For the Kingdom. To the World. Reflects the Great Commission calling of the 秋霞福利一区 to develop graduates who are ground in truth, driven by purpose and sent out to make an eternal impact for the glory of God and the good of the world.
• 1961: Indicates the year 秋霞福利一区 was founded.

Additional updates include:

• Refreshed logo system optimized for digital and print applications
• Updated typography that improves clarity, consistency and accessibility
• A refined color palette that enhances visual unity across platforms
• Design elements that reinforce the university鈥檚 Christ-centered identity and Great Commission focus
• Visual continuity with longstanding 秋霞福利一区 symbolism while presenting a more modern, unified brand system

Strategic Branding Partnership

The refreshed brand was developed in partnership with听, a higher education branding agency that specializes in helping colleges and universities clarify their identity, strengthen enrollment messaging and communicate their distinctives with authenticity. The process included extensive research, stakeholder interviews and collaboration with students, faculty, staff, alumni and university leadership.

鈥淭he work through this process helped us identify the clearest and most authentic ways to communicate who we are and what makes the 秋霞福利一区 distinct,鈥� Smith said. 鈥淭his reaffirmed our mission and sharpened our focus as we prepare the next generation of Kingdom leaders.鈥�

Updated Brand Rollout

The updated branding, tagline and student campaign will be rolling out across university communications, digital platforms, advertising, admissions materials, campus signage, merchandise and social media channels throughout the coming months.

University leaders say the refreshed brand positions the institution to connect more effectively with future generations of students seeking a Christ-centered college experience grounded in truth, purpose and community.

As the 秋霞福利一区 continues to prepare graduates to influence their communities, professions and churches, leaders say the updated brand reflects a university committed to helping students live out God鈥檚 calling with courage, conviction and purpose 鈥� for the Kingdom and to the world.

About the 秋霞福利一区

听The 秋霞福利一区 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or the Kingdom. To the World.鈥� With a vision to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world, the university equips students through Christ-centered learning and community to pursue God鈥檚 calling with courage, purpose and Kingdom impact.

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.

The innovative program provides students in the Associate Degree in Nursing program at the Baptist university with a debt-free pathway to a nursing career while earning valuable real-world experience in a healthcare setting.

Students selected for the apprenticeship program will receive full financial support for tuition, fees, textbooks, uniforms and other educational expenses after FAFSA, grants and scholarships are applied. Apprentices also will be employed by Mobile Infirmary, receiving employee benefits, paid holidays and compensation for clinical hours, including specialty rotations at outside healthcare facilities.

Investing in the Next Generation of Nurses

鈥淭his partnership reflects the 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 commitment to preparing students to serve with excellence for the glory of God and the good of the world,鈥� said Dr. Charles Smith, president of the 秋霞福利一区. 鈥淭hrough this innovative apprenticeship program, students will gain hands-on experience, graduate with less financial burden and be equipped to make a meaningful impact.

Stefanie Willis-Turner, director of nursing school partnership and programs for Mobile Infirmary/Infirmary Health, said, 鈥淢obile Infirmary is proud to partner with the 秋霞福利一区 to invest in the next generation of nurses. This apprenticeship program creates a direct pathway for students to gain valuable clinical experience while helping address the growing need for skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals in our region.鈥�

Apply Now for Fall Semester 2026

The apprenticeship program begins with the Fall 2026 Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) cohort in the 秋霞福利一区 School of Nursing. .

Students become eligible to apply for the apprenticeship program after successfully completing their first semester in the ADN program and developing foundational nursing skills. Admission to the apprenticeship is competitive and involves a joint selection process between the 秋霞福利一区 and Mobile Infirmary.

An Incredible Opportunity

Dr. Jason Lee, provost and vice president for academic administration at 秋霞福利一区, said the Nursing Apprenticeship Program 鈥渃reates an incredible opportunity for students who feel called to serve through nursing.鈥�

Additional benefits of the apprenticeship program include:

• Paid clinical experiences, including specialty rotations
• Individualized mentorship during clinical training
• Employer-covered Alabama Board of Nursing apprenticeship permit fee
• Opportunities for continued employment following graduation and NCLEX completion

To complete the apprenticeship and earn credentials, students must graduate from the 秋霞福利一区 Associate Degree Nursing program, demonstrate proficiency in required competencies and pass the NCLEX licensure exam.

Christ-Centered Nursing Education

鈥淭his truly is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students ready to invest in their future and serve others through healthcare,鈥� said Dr. Sarah Barnes-Witherspoon, dean of the 秋霞福利一区 School of Nursing. 鈥淲e are excited to help students launch meaningful careers while making a Christ-centered nursing education more accessible than ever.鈥�

To start the path to a career in healthcare, apply now for the Fall 2026 ADN program at .

For more information about the Associate Degree in Nursing program or the Nursing Apprenticeship Program, contact Barnes-Witherspoon at switherspoon@umobile.edu or 251.442.2445, or visit the 秋霞福利一区 website at umobile.edu/nursing.

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 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.

鈥淜ingdom leader鈥� is more than a phrase at the听秋霞福利一区 鈥� it is a defining outcome of our mission: The 秋霞福利一区 exists For Christ & His Kingdom to Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World.听Every classroom, chapel and campus experience is intentionally designed to shape students who will lead with faith, integrity and eternal purpose.听

Academic departments, student life events, athletic听programs and campus ministries work in concert to develop graduates who are grounded in truth, shaped by faith and equipped to lead with integrity wherever God calls.听

That intentionality is more than aspirational language 鈥� it visibly shapes campus life and is the driving force behind new programs and initiatives marking the second year of 秋霞福利一区 President Charles Smith鈥檚 administration.听

鈥淜ingdom leadership is the heartbeat of the听秋霞福利一区,鈥� President Smith says. 鈥淲e听want every student to leave here equipped not only听with knowledge, but with the faith, courage and听character to make a lasting impact for God鈥檚 Kingdom.听

鈥淭he true measure of our mission is not how many听students walk across the stage at graduation, but how many walk into the world ready to lead with integrity, serve with compassion and make an eternal impact for Christ on whatever path He places before them.鈥�听

What is a Kingdom Leader?听

What exactly does it mean to be a Kingdom leader, and why is it central to 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 mission?听

Dr. Jason Lee 鈥�91, provost and vice president for academic administration, explains:听

鈥淜ingdom leaders are distinct from typical leaders听in that Kingdom leaders are defined by Kingdom听characteristics and driven by Kingdom goals. Kingdom characteristics include humility, patience, integrity and goodness (Galatians 5). Kingdom goals include service, witness, stewardship and glorifying God in all things, at all times, forever (Colossians 3:17 and 1 Corinthians 10:31).听

He cites four keys to creating academic programs that develop Kingdom leaders:听

鈥� Academic innovation ensures students are听receiving superior training marked by creativity, the latest methodologies and high academic听standards.听

鈥� Academic partnerships with businesses, medical providers, ministry partners, schools and government agencies expose students to real听situations, contemporary challenges and听professional mentoring.听

鈥� Program efficiency helps students progress through their programs in a timely manner and helps lower student costs and student debt.听

鈥� A Christ-centered faculty provides听God-honoring programs and courses with a听commitment to excellence that glorifies the Lord.听

鈥淭hat intentionality in everything from the classroom to chapel ensures students are equipped to lead with wisdom and character long after they leave this campus,鈥� Lee says.听

Shaping Leaders Through Student Life听

Leading the overall student experience is Tim Adams, 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 new vice president for student development and collegiate athletics. He holds a Master of Theological Studies with emphasis in leadership from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts in communication from Bethel University. His extensive background includes 16 years of pastoral ministry in Liberty and Camdenton, Missouri, as well as leadership roles with Kanakuk Kamps and K-Life Ministries.听

A former collegiate football player with a coach鈥檚 heart for students, Adams brings a clear vision for听strengthening a campus community that shapes听graduates who leave 秋霞福利一区 saying their college听experience was transformational.听

The Student Leadership Retreat of Fall 2025 kicked off that effort. Faculty and staff identified more than 150 student leaders 鈥� sophomores through seniors 鈥� from academic, athletic and student life programs across the university. In a week-long intensive experience prior to fall semester鈥檚 start, students learned from 秋霞福利一区 staff and faculty 鈥� including President Smith 鈥� what it means to be a leader on campus.听

The first chance students had to practice leadership in the new school year was Ram Rush, a high-energy week of activities designed to integrate the new freshman class听into the campus community. Ram Rush sets the stage for a new student鈥檚 successful college experience.听

鈥淢y vision-cast for the Student Leadership Retreat was that we, as a group, have the opportunity to raise the tide and, with it, all ships in the bay,鈥� Adams says. 鈥淔or us, that鈥檚 the freshman incoming class. We have an opportunity as leaders to make sure these new students have a great experience as they come on campus for Ram Rush. To say to this new group of student leaders that 鈥榃e see you as a person who can help us do that鈥� was really a rallying point of the retreat.鈥�听

Spreading Ram Rush energy throughout the school year are events like The Weekender, a jam-packed weekend filled with activities while increasing attendance and excitement at athletic competitions. The Night Before brought students from across the campus community to a dress rehearsal for Christmas Spectacular, giving them a chance to see friends perform at a professional level in a fun environment that includes games and prizes.听

Game Day Choir put a new spin on fan support when over 100 students in full choir robes became the听noisemakers for a men鈥檚 basketball game. Under the direction of Dr. Andrew Goodwin 鈥�10 & 鈥�23, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, the choir responded to specific moments 鈥� such as singing 鈥淢iss It鈥� to the tune of Michael Jackson鈥檚 鈥淏eat It鈥� when 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 opponents were shooting free throws.听

Within athletics, Adams is providing clarity and听direction through a vision built on four pillars 鈥�听character development, excellence, scholarship and听competition 鈥� helping coaches and student-athletes听understand how to pursue success while growing as Kingdom leaders. Nearly 500 student-athletes听representing 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 21 intercollegiate teams gathered for the university鈥檚 first Spring Convocation for Athletics, a chapel-style service focused on spiritual growth and discipleship. Guest speaker Heiden Ratner, a former听collegiate basketball player and founding pastor of WALK Church, challenged athletes to anchor their identity in Christ, not competition. Preaching from John 15, Ratner encouraged students to remain rooted in Jesus, reminding them that lasting victory begins with听a life built on Him.听

Leadership in Action听

Jared Baria 鈥�09 & 鈥�24, director of student life, says Kingdom leadership is about more than titles or positions; it is about equipping students to live out their faith, to serve and to influence others for Christ in every aspect of their lives.听

鈥淎ll of our students and all Christians will have an opportunity to lead somewhere in life 鈥� that may be leading in the workplace as an employee or employer, it may be leading in your home. Christians are called to live on mission no matter what they do. Our professions do not change the mission,鈥� Baria says.听

The 秋霞福利一区 experience is rich with opportunities for听students to practice Kingdom leadership. Ambassadors and Presidential Fellows guide peers and represent听秋霞福利一区 with integrity. Campus Activities Board gives听students practical experience in developing and听implementing campus events. Student Government Association empowers students to implement innovative ideas to enhance the 秋霞福利一区 experience. Programs like Make Much Bible study deepen relationships with peers while strengthening personal relationships with Christ. Each month, students gather for Prayer Walk across campus, lifting up the university family. Prayer Room happens each semester, bringing students together for听an intense time of prayer and worship. Residential听Assistants mentor students in dorms through prayer groups and Bible study.听

During 2025-2026, University Ministries student听teams led worship and Baria preached the gospel to听incarcerated men and women at the Baldwin County Correctional Center. Three services at Mobile County Metro Jail 鈥� for juveniles, women and men 鈥� resulted听in 12 professions of faith.听

Athletics and intramurals are also spaces for Kingdom leadership. Students learn to compete with excellence while reflecting Christ in all they do, whether on the court, in the gym or at a game-day event.听鈥淓ven a guy playing intramural pickleball can do so听for the glory of God and can represent Jesus well in听competition,鈥� Baria says.听

Developing Leaders at Every Level听

If Kingdom leadership is to be multiplied efficiently,听students must see it modeled effectively by those who teach, mentor and guide them. That starts with听recruiting faculty, staff and coaches who embrace 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 Christ-centered culture and providing them with听opportunities for growth, such as the annual Ignite听Conference each fall. Dr. Rick Langer, retired professor and co-author of 鈥淢ission-Driven Colleges: Keeping First Things First in Christian Higher Education,鈥� joined President Smith for a keynote address and听armchair discussion about what it means to be a听Christian university at the Fall 2025 Ignite Conference.听

Additionally, President Smith has called faculty and staff to embody the university鈥檚 core values 鈥� to be hungry team members passionate about progress, humble servants eager to put others first, smart leaders who approach both people and projects with wisdom, and happy and听hopeful colleagues who are encouraging and optimistic.听

At the Leadership Project, faculty and staff gather regularly to study influential leadership books through a biblical framework, engaging in thoughtful discussion about how Christ-centered leadership applies to their roles on campus. The initiative fosters shared language, deeper alignment around mission and a renewed听commitment to leading with humility, integrity and听purpose. Fall semester鈥檚 study focused on Patrick听Lencioni鈥檚 鈥淭he Ideal Team Player鈥� and spring听semester 2026 is reading 鈥淪o Good They Can鈥檛听Ignore You鈥� by Cal Newport.听

The President鈥檚 Cabinet further strengthens the听university鈥檚 investment in developing a workforce of Kingdom leaders. Bringing together administrative leaders from across the university, the Cabinet provides a forum to hear updates on key initiatives, offer input and ensure collaborative, mission-driven decision-making. The result is not merely administrative coordination, but unified leadership shaped by the same Kingdom听principles 秋霞福利一区 seeks to instill in its students.听

By intentionally developing leaders at every level, the 秋霞福利一区 reinforces a culture where听Kingdom leadership is not only taught 鈥� it is practiced, modeled and multiplied daily.

Stevens will serve as instructor of Bible exposition at the Baptist university. He will continue his current role as pastor-teacher at Redeemer Fellowship in Saraland, Alabama, and as a hospice chaplain in Atmore, Alabama. He and his wife, Brakia, have four children and live in Daphne, Alabama.

秋霞福利一区 President Charles Smith said Stevens鈥� appointment reflects the university鈥檚 mission of equipping students to make a Kingdom impact for the glory of God and the good of the world.

鈥淭his new instructional faculty category allows us to bring seasoned professionals into the classroom in meaningful ways,鈥� said President Smith. 鈥淚t鈥檚 fitting that Joe Stevens is our first instructional faculty appointment. Joe is a gifted preacher and a trusted ministry leader in our community and broader region. What a joy to know he will have an even greater impact in the lives of our students.鈥�

Shaping Students For Christ & His Kingdom

鈥淲e are excited to add Joe Stevens to our faculty,鈥� said Jason K. Lee, provost of the 秋霞福利一区. 鈥淗e can leverage his ministry experience as a church planter, pastor and hospice chaplain to train our students for a variety of ministry contexts.鈥�

Known for his passion for theology, service and Christ-centered teaching faithful to Scripture, Stevens will foster student engagement, growth and discipleship.

鈥淚t is a joy to serve alongside world-class faculty in shaping students for Christ and His Kingdom,鈥� Stevens said.

Since 2021, Stevens has taught at the 秋霞福利一区 in both online and on-campus settings. He is a fellow with the Center for Pastor Theologians and is due to complete his Ph.D. in Bible exposition in the spring of 2027 at Liberty University.

Enhanced Student Learning

Provost Lee said instructional faculty members combine academic preparation with significant field experience that enhance student learning across disciplines.

鈥淚nstructional faculty have a desire to invest in 秋霞福利一区 students and enhance our academic programs,鈥� Lee said. 鈥淲e are able to partner with these high-caliber leaders and field experts to provide the best training to our students in each program.鈥�

University officials said additional instructional faculty appointments are expected in the coming months as the university continues expanding the initiative across academic programs.

About the 秋霞福利一区

听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.

Lucy Kate Allen, Rachel Noelle Allen, Vic L. Allo, Rayan Aden Amison, Jackson Anders, Shaylin Nicole Andrews, Mallory Erin Atchison, Mia Claire Bailey, Madison Faith Barnes, Grace Catherine Barton, Laura Hope Belk, Anaria D. Bell, Brooke Leigh Bell, Liliana Elise Bell, Thomas M. Bell, Bailee Michaela Best, Jonah A. Blackwell, Lillie Hope Blaylock, Addison Kate Boland, Samantha Elina Kostmayer Bolton, Andrew Henry Bosarge, Michelle Hannah Bossard, Mallory L. Botos, Kelsey L. Brewer, Bailey Brianna Bronner, Ashlyn C. Broussard, Gabriel Alex Bryars, Andrew Reece Buck,

Chloe Faith Burford, Whitley Rayne Burns, Stella Elizabeth Byars, Bralee Maleigh Byrd, Brittany Calhoun, Jahi Rasheed Cannon, Kensley Lambert Cannon, Kathryn Nettles Cantey, Anna Claire Carlock, Anna Madeline Carrick, Savannah Scotlynn Catrett, Eugenio Cazares, Elijah John Cherolis, Elkanah Alan Cherolis, Bobbi Jo Chestang, Grace Elizabeth Chisholm, Kenyatta C. Clark,

Evan Stone Clymer, Laiken Kynlee Coaker, Jaime Cobas, Gabriella Grace Cochran, Maeva Constantinoff, Paolo Conti, Elisha Jevon Cook, Evan Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lyn Cope, Micah S. Coxwell, Jaxson D. Crisler, Mala Rene Cross, Noelia Cruz, Milyanis Cruz Martinez, Thomas F. Cumbie, Bryline H. Dailey, Javion A. Dailey, Senyakah K. Darling, Taylor Ann Davidson, Alison Magen Dearmon, Kadence D. Dedeaux, Mathis Devargas, Alyssa M. Dewberry, Callum James David Harvey Dickson, Wyatt R. Dickson, Bella M. Didonna, Albanie Nikole Dixon, Jackson Scott Doggett, Camryn G. Dorilma, Taylor A. Dortch, Ella Joyce Downing, Jacie Adeline Drinnon, Emilee G. Duet, Rachel C. Dunaway, Madison F. Duncan, Craven Powers Dunham, Tristan Van Durflinger, Camille J, Edgar, Kloe M. Ernst, Linda Iris Ethridge, Nicole Fabbruzzo, Loralee Dallas Faulkner,

Hayden Sequoia Fey, Leonardo Fiorotti Da Silva, Amy D. Fisher, Braylee R. Flora, Meagan E. Ford, Michael Anthony Frails, Ethan B. Francis, Gabriel Francis, Kaitlyn Michelle Franklin, Caroline Madison Frederick, Joao Gago, Luke John Galey, Stephen Richard Galvin, Journee Ora Garrett, Trashinda D. Gavin, Isabella L. Gibbons, Joshua Canaan Giles, Sidney Clare Gipe, Grace Elizabeth Girdley, Katherine Margaret Glass, Jenni Marie Goins, Salvador Gonsalves, Takiyah Lanece Goodwin, Jake Christian Graves, John Henry Griffin, Nicole Taylor Griswold, Tyler C. Grondin, Emily E. Grubach, Aaron Manuel Guevara,

Anna Sellers Hadley, Audrey Zoe Hall, Ashleigh E. Hamilton, Yonan Hanna, Kyleigh Elizabeth Harper, Kasi Jeliyah Harris, Taylor Brooks Harris, Dawson Foley Harrison, Steven Edward Hazewinkel, Noah T. Henderson, Christian M. Herron, Rusty W. Hickman, Nathan Jeffry, Higginson, Yusuke Higuchi, Patience Sky Hill, Ethan W. Hilpert, Makala Joy Holland, Ava Kristen Holm, Kaylea Judith Holmes, Hayleigh B. Houk, Micaela Briana Howze, Andrea Michelle Hughes, Joshua Aaron听 Hulse, Lameshia M. Hunt, Ruth Idemudia, Trent Alexander Irvin, Kirstyn Nicole Jackson, Micco Jay Jackson, Jake Jaye, Jonathan N. Jesse, Alisa G. Johnson, Kaylin G. Johnson, Naomi Lynn Johnson, Autumn Renee Jones, Breelyn Renee Jones, Eden Karis Jones, Joseph A. Jones, Lamaria M. Jones, Cayson A. Jordan, Trevor Lee Joseph,

Momolu Kamara, Karleigh Addison Keller, Katelynn Mary Kempton, Ninah Gale Kerr, Maci T. Kiper, Sierra Anna Knight, Jeremy Michael Knox, Adele E. Kuhn, Sophia P. Kuhn, Brooklyn Elise Kyzar, Amy C. Lankford, Gabrielle G. Larsen, Shameika M. Lee, Taylor A. Lee, Claire Lewis, Madalyn Alivia Lewis, Albert Llatje Panisello, Kamirra Shykell Logan, Isabella Elise Lombardo, Emma Kathryn Lowe, Samuel Webster Lowery, Maddox James Lugo, Porsha A. Lynch, Jada Noel Lynd, Carson Luke Lynn,

Mayar A. Maarouf, Audrey Elizabeth Maddox, Crystal Alexis Mai, Jasmine S. Malone, Gracyn Ella Martin, Jocelyn Faye Martin, Chloe Martinez, Alvie E. Maskew, Lais Tammy Masuda, Katelyn Cierra Maten, Kristyn C. Maten, Dalton Grant Mathis, Janae L. McCall, Emilie J. McConnell, Caden Reese McDill, Sarah Renee McGonegal, Abigail Joy McKissack, Rachel Emmajean McMullan, Madison Paige Medley, Anysten L. Metcalf, Jacob W. Miller, Gabryelle Minor, Stephen D. Mixon, Jerniyah K. Moore-Martin, Ashley M. Morsey, Abigail Nichole Moseley, Mariha Tamaria Mosely, Robert G. Moulthrop, Grace Alexis Moye, Stormy Renee Mullins, Katie Lynn Murphree, Trevor Jordan Murphy,

Lexi Hannah Myers, Mattie Caroline Neese, Yasmine Taliah Nichols, Lydia R. Nicholson, Antoinette Oconnell, Zandrea Roylyn Ofstedahl, Damian Jose Ortiz, Ethan N. Oshea, Emily G. Otts,

Keagan P. Partin, Raleigh Michelle Patterson, Meredith Claire Peacock, Luis Perez, Jaden Radic Person, Abby Lila Peterson, Kenzie G. Pihringer, Mary E. Poiroux, Bailey Kayann Polk, Sarah M. Polk, Ellie R. Powell, McCory Reid Powell, Daniel Pratt, Taylor Reese Prestridge, Alexandria Jodi Price, Laura-Kenli K. Prince, Pearl Lavon Pringle, Christy Elizabeth Provost, Lott P. Putnam, Jake D. Quina, Olivia Faith Quiroz, Kristen Marie Rachel, Eimantas Ramanauskas, Angel Josue Ramos, Elizabeth Denise Ranew, Jason Michael Ray, Alyvia Marie Raymond, Dayton C. Richardson, Hannah M. Rigby, Cayden Carter Rigdon, Daryelin Rivas, Jamie Laniece Roberts, Alyna Caridad Rojo, William Roley, Keaine Amiyah Rollins, Jazlyn Christine Romero, Brooklyn F. Rowell, Clayton T. Russell,

Adrian Yadier Salas, Steven Andrew Sandlin, Taylor Grace Sasser, Jeb W. Scarbrough, Brooke Lindsey Schachle, Juronica Dontasia Scott, Halle Aladria Shepard, Addyson C. Shepherd, Emily L. Showmaker, Deanna Cassidy Shook, Courtney Ruth Sides, Georgia Burton Simmons, Miah Faith Simmons, Keira Lynn Skinner, Kaitlyn Joy Skrove, Angel L. Smith, Annie L. Smith, Alya M. Smith, Isabella Marie Smith, Riley Kara Smith, Zachary T. Smith, Guido Solaro, Sadie Elizabeth Sparks, John Lee Spillers, Landon J. Squires, Asya Zori Stanislaus, Lillian Grace Steiner, Joseph P. Stevens, Madelynn Grace Stewart, Shelby Annette Stewart, Lyla Kae K. Stokes, Bryant Wheeler Story, Isabella F. Stracener, Samuel Lane Stronge, Jailyn B. Swink, Mason B. Sword, Marcello Tacca,

Austin Curtis Taylor, Haley Kelis Taylor, Mateo Tempone, Hailey Eleanor Terrell, Andrew Joseph Thames, Ansley Matea Thomas, Semora Lynn Thompson, Emma Rose Tillman, Haven Leigh Tillman, Kaelyn Izabelle Tolley, Cierra Elizabeth Travis, Weston K. Tubbis, Isaiah S. Tunstall, Ian B. Turner, Marleigh Christine Turner, Presleigh Celeste Turner,

Melissa Brooke Umanzor, Alex Thomas Valenzuela, Kristitan Ivaylov Vasilev, Juliana Nicolaievna Vasko, Nicolai Nicolaivichi Vasko, Diana Luara Vazquez, Samuel Felipe Vergara, Halle Jaiden Verkerk, Gabriella Grace Verkouille, Angela K. Viator, Layne Danielle Vidich, Rachel Susan Walker, Ella Joy Walley, Hannah Victoria Elise Walters, Princess Kimara Evon Ward, Rylee Noel Warren,

Gracie G. Warriner, Brock Conaway Washington, Alexis Jade Welch, Kathryn Pyper White, Tahj D. White, Macayla L. Wiggins, Kylie F. Wilkerson, Emma Claire Wilkins, Christian D. Williams, Cooper Thomas Williams, Elise Noelle Williams, Kaylee Renae Williams, Lora Lee Williams, Madison M. Williams, Marleigh Elizabeth Williams, Shyla R. Williams, Chloe N. Wilson, Deanderick X. Wilson, Trenton A. Windham, Kristen Alana Wright, MacKenzie B. Yates.

听About the 秋霞福利一区

听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 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.

Mary Katherine K. Alums, Claire Morgan Atkins, Taylor Ann-Marie Baker, Skyler N. Barnes, Luke Rush Barron, Camilo Jose Bazo, Skylar Marie Bennett, MacKston Cole Bishop, Kathleen Day Bowden, Oliver Boyle, Helena Braga, Isabella Hope Bullington,

Brayen Enrique Canas, Grayson Bradford Cannon, Brianna Grace Carmichael, Emma Marie Champagne, Martin Chaney, Gabriella L. Coleman, Anna Elizabeth Coon, Erin A. Cooper, Eleanor Faith Cowan, Gina M. Cox, Jamie L. Criswell, Ashton Blair Cubitt, Anthony Jesse Cumbaa, MacKenzie Faith Danzey, Allana Marie Davis, Bethany Marie Dean, Brayden Elijah Deaton, Emily D. Dietz, Samuel Allen Dippel, Sophie May Dorris,

Anna Claire Elliott, Hannah Mae Ellis, Makenzie Ellison, Gracelon Rose Fell, Honor J. Fluker, Michael Rhett Ford, Leonardo Jossue Fuentes, Fisher Tru Fuller, Peter Bradford Gardner, Hayleigh B. Gideons, Madison Grace Gipe, William D. Givens, Jade W. Goodiel, Luke Augustine Graham, Phoebe Anne Graham, Surely Azenet Gutierrez,

Abdullah Hamid, Emma Grace Hampton, Brea Lea Harris, Haleigh Hope Hartmann, Rachel Caroline Harwood, Maddison G. Hauck, Anna E. Hedrick, Brianna Ruth Hendricks, Kendall Rebecca Herron, Rebecca Joy Hii, Goodwin Anthony Holley, Jaxson Connor Hughes, Molly Catherine Hughes, Erica B. Jackson, Caroline Grace Johnson, Reese Payne Johnson, Haley Abigayle Jones, Evan Kolby Jordan, Maggie Renae Kenyon, Summer A. Killough, Anna E. King, Michael Ryan Kitchen,

Samantha Grace Landaiche, Elisabeth Grace Langley, Kyleigh Brooke Lewis, Katelyn J. Lippold, Sophie Claire Lomax, Alexandria D. Lopez, Bailey D. Madison, Davi Malvini Leao Fernandes, William Philip Manwaring, Juliana K. McCrary, Samantha Isabelle McMahill, Emma Paige McPhearson, Henrique Luro Teodoro Mendes, Elyssa C. Messick, Natalie Joy Messick, Aniyah Lashay Michael, Brennen Scott Miller, Lacee E. Moore, Esmeralda Janet Morataya, London Elise Morgan, Savannah L. Morgan, Karolina Mrowiecova, Kelly Nichole Murphree, Annsley Sage Myers,

Peter Stracker Olsen, Johan Ong, Luke Edgar Owers, Erin Bailey Parker, Matthew G. Patterson, Ethan James Plank, Elizabeth Grace Posey, Claire B. Powell, Chase A. Raulerson, Victoria M.E. Richardson, Shelby Lynn Isabell Riddle, Andres Riveros-Tejada, Kaitlynn Robertson, Addison Paige Scarborough, Allie Anna Schachle, Greta Liv Marja Schneider, Hayden Ellis Seale, Laine Abigail Shaw, Gabrielle K. Sheffield, Jewel R. Shelly, Merrin Marie Simmons, Caroline Elizabeth Smith, David Tyler Smith, William David Smith, Alison Alexandra Soto, Mileyshka Arianis Soto Trujillo, Bryna C. Stokes,

Maya Tait, Ariana Serenity Taylor, Sarah Katherine Taylor, Susan Elizabeth Terry, Kendall W. Thomas, Mataea Riane Walker, Peyton Rene Lillian Walker, Kirsten Nicole Williams, Brayden Timothy Wilson, Haley Madison Wilson, Mia Jade Wilson.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.

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 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.

MOBILE, Ala.

Doig comes to 秋霞福利一区 after two seasons as assistant basketball coach at Pepperdine University, where he helped lead the Waves to their first WCC Semi-final appearance in four seasons. Prior to joining Pepperdine, he served seven seasons as director of football operations and chief of staff at Indiana University.

‘Talented Coach, Exceptional Leader鈥�

秋霞福利一区 President Charles Smith welcomed Doig to the Baptist university.

鈥淐oach Doig is a talented coach and exceptional leader who shares our vision of an athletic program that not only aims to win on the court but also to build student athletes who understand how to pursue success while growing as Kingdom leaders,鈥� President Smith said.

Tim Adams, vice president for student development and collegiate athletics, said the national search for 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 next men鈥檚 basketball coach focused on finding a leader, a faithful mentor, and a great basketball coach. He said Doig is an excellent fit for 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 athletic program with its six pillars, described as FINISH 鈥� Faithful Character, Intentional Development, Noteworthy Scholarship, Inspire Trust, competing as Steadfast Competitors and Honoring Excellence in all they do.

鈥淐oach Doig is a high-energy, deeply devoted coach. He genuinely cares about his players both as people and as athletes. He is a strong leader with tremendous initiative and is already dreaming about what we all can accomplish together. I believe he is someone our players will quickly grow to love and trust,鈥� Adams said.

The Three A鈥檚

Doig brings to the 秋霞福利一区 a coaching philosophy centered on the 鈥淭hree A鈥檚鈥� 鈥� attitude, athleticism and aptitude 鈥� principles he says shape both individual growth and team success.

Fans can expect an exciting style of basketball built on defensive pressure, energy and relentless effort. Building that program starts with one non-negotiable quality: attitude.

鈥淚f you have the right attitude, you鈥檙e going to work on athleticism, you鈥檙e going to work on aptitude or skill, and you鈥檙e going to play with trust and not fear,鈥� Doig said.

Adams said in addition to Doig鈥檚 coaching experience, it is his passion for making Christ known that meshes so well with 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 mission.

Doig explained: 鈥淭he platform here is basketball, and we鈥檙e going to get after it with all we鈥檝e got. But we鈥檙e going to do it understanding that we鈥檙e seeking to glorify Him and use it to draw people to Christ. That鈥檚 success to me.鈥�

A Winning Record

Previously, Doig served as an assistant coach at Liberty University. He was athletic director at St. Catharine College (NAIA) in Springfield, Kentucky, where both baseball and softball teams won championships and several programs advanced to NAIA National Tournaments.

As a player, Doig was awarded All-American honors in 1992 and 1993 on both the basketball court and soccer field at Clearwater Christian College. He was the runner up in both years for the National Christian College Athletics Association (NCCAA) Pet Maravich National Player of the Year awards.

Next Steps

Doig is already at work building relationships with the current roster of 秋霞福利一区 basketball players and recruiting talented student-athletes to join the team for Fall Semester 2026.

He is married to Wendy, a language arts specialist, and they have two adult children, Kaylee and Cody, and a daughter-in-law, Lauren.

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 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.

MOBILE, Ala.

鈥淎t the 秋霞福利一区, graduation is not the finish line 鈥� it is the starting point of a life on mission,鈥� said President Smith said at Cottage Hill Baptist Church where the ceremony 鈥� usually held outdoors on campus 鈥� was moved due to rain.

Dr. Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Convention, delivered the commencement address based on Philippians 3:13-14, that reads, in part: 鈥淚 press on toward the goal for听the prize of the upward听call of God in Christ Jesus.鈥� He urged graduates to follow the instructions of the Apostle Paul in the race of life, likening life to an Olympic race.

鈥淚n the race of life, in trying to be an Olympian in life, the first thing you need to keep in mind is stay in the race. You are going to hit some rough times. It鈥檚 often human nature to give up and quit, because life can be difficult and it鈥檚 often a struggle. But stay in the race,鈥� Lance said.

鈥淪econd, set the pace in the race of life. Because you鈥檙e running a marathon, not a sprint, and there鈥檚 a world of difference between the two.

鈥淭hird, seek God鈥檚 face. Paul said, 鈥業鈥檓 pressing toward the mark, the goal line of the upward calling of God in Christ Jesus.鈥� If we don鈥檛 have goals in life, we are going to have an aimless, purposeless life.鈥�

Finally, he said, show God鈥檚 grace.

鈥淭his is the starting point,鈥� Lance told graduates. 鈥淩un the race. Stay in that race. Set the pace of life in accordance to your abilities and the leadership of God. Seek God鈥檚 face. That鈥檚 the goal. And along the way, make sure and show God鈥檚 grace.鈥�

Lance Awarded Doctor of Humane Letters

Following his address, on behalf of the 秋霞福利一区 Board of Trustees, President Smith awarded Lance the Doctor of Humane Letters from the 秋霞福利一区.

鈥淒r. Lance has served Alabama Baptists with doctrinal conviction, steady wisdom and a deep love and support for the local church. During his tenure, he has encouraged thousands of ministry leaders; he鈥檚 helped dozens of godly men and women serve here at the 秋霞福利一区 and he鈥檚 worked with thousands of churches to invest more the $50 million into the lives of students at the 秋霞福利一区,鈥� Smith said.

鈥淒r. Rick Lance embodies the mission we desire for our graduates 鈥� a life faithfully lived for Christ and poured out in service to others. His leadership has strengthened churches, encouraged pastors and advanced Great Commission work across Alabama and beyond. We are proud to honor him with this degree in recognition of his extraordinary ministry and lasting Kingdom impact.鈥�

Lance has served as executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions since 1998 and leads the SBOM staff in assisting approximately 1 million Alabama Baptists in more than 3,200 churches with Great Commission ministries. Previously, he served as a pastor for 29 years, including 15 years at First Baptist Church of Tuscaloosa, Ala. Lance recently announced his retirement effective Jan. 31, 2027.

Faculty of the Year

The Faculty of the Year award was presented to Dr. Kathy Dunning, professor of accounting and dean of the Grace Pilot School of Business. Dunning, who served as mace bearer for graduation, was cited for more than three decades of leadership marked by unwavering integrity, vision and a deep commitment to Christ-centered excellence in the classroom and beyond.

In addition to her role as professor of accounting, she has served as 秋霞福利一区鈥檚 Faculty Athletic Representative. Her investment in 秋霞福利一区 students and her leadership as academic dean has strengthened the impact of the Grace Pilot School of Business and positioned it for continued growth well into the future.

鈥淲e are profoundly grateful for Dr. Dunning鈥檚 faithful leadership and the legacy she is leaving at the 秋霞福利一区 as she moves into retirement,鈥� President Smith said.

Alumni of the Year

The Dr. Lonnie Burnett Alumni of the Year award is named after past president Dr. Lonnie Burnett, the 5^th president of the 秋霞福利一区. It honors an alumnus of the 秋霞福利一区 who exemplifies the values of the university, lives with godly character and seeks to serve the Lord in all aspects of life.

The award was presented to 1996 graduate Jeff Jones, former drummer with Big Daddy Weave, a Dove-Award-winning Christian band that started on the 秋霞福利一区 campus. An entrepreneur, Jones launched 鈥淟iving in Mobile,鈥� a distinctive community-centered brand and storefront highlighting the beauty and businesses of Mobile. Today, he is a nationally recognized real estate professional with Keller Williams in Mobile, consistently ranking among the top agents and placing in the top 1% of Realtors in Mobile County over the years.

Weaver Awards

The university honors an outstanding graduating male and female senior for excellence in exemplifying the mission of the 秋霞福利一区. Selection is made by vote of the faculty based on scholarship, Christian character, leadership and service. The awards are named for the founding president and first lady of then-Mobile College.

Receiving the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award is Samuel Marshall Werry, Bachelor of Science in Biology, summa cum laude. Werry has been accepted into the medical sciences Ph.D. program at the University of South Alabama.

Receiving the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award is Madison Rose Lipke, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, summa cum laude. The Honors Program graduate also received the President鈥檚 Scholastic Award.

Following are members of the 秋霞福利一区 Class of 2026:

Alabama School of the Arts, Doctorate

Rosemary Jane Springs 鈥� Pensacola, Florida, Performance, Vocal, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award

Alexandra C. Trosper 鈥� Evanston Wyoming, Performance, Vocal, Area Award: Performance, Vocal

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

Claire Copeland Barnett 鈥� Saraland, Alabama

Trenten Cole Burns 鈥撎鼵olumbus, Georgia

Carlton Lee Carpenter 鈥� Chatom, Alabama

Chelsea Marie Geter 鈥� Mobile, Alabama

Alyssa R. Hemmen 鈥� Wichita, Kansas

Victoria P. Johnson 鈥� Mobile, Alabama

Christopher G. Keeton 鈥撎鼿oover, Alabama

Hunter Louis Kerin 鈥撎鼺airhope, Alabama

Eden Alyse Marble 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Mark D. Matthews 鈥撎齋picewood, Texas

Grace A. McArdle 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Nicholas Moncaleano 鈥撎鼼onzales, Louisiana

Marissa Mya Patel 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

William Thomas Thacker 鈥� Anderson, Alabama

Claire Collins Zieman 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice听

Jessie Coleman Black 鈥� Mobile, Alabama

Hayley Jones Brooks 鈥� Bay Minette, Alabama

Tammy Wadsworth Brown 鈥撎鼵hunchula, Alabama

Lorie A. Bush听鈥撎齌heodore, Alabama

Beverly Danielle Collier 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama

Christy Brown Parmer 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama

Nakia A. Rankin 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Erika Shanovia Samuels 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Ashley Jones Smith 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama

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

Abigail R. Anderson 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, M.A., Musical Theatre

Lenjamin Cory Anderson II 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, M.M., Performance, Vocal, Area Award: Performance, Vocal

Reagan Faith Daniels 鈥撎齌roy, Alabama, M.A., Musical Theatre, Area Award: Musical Theatre

Nicholas Samuel Lewis 鈥� Troy, Alabama, M.M., Performance, Piano, Area Award: Performance, Piano

College of Arts and Sciences, Master of Arts听

Lester W. Bell Jr. 鈥� Chickasaw, Alabama, Master of Arts, Marriage and Family Counseling

AnnaLaura Elizabeth Colbert 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama, Master of Arts, Creative Practice, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award

Stacy L. Edwards 鈥� Daphne, Alabama, Master of Arts, Marriage and Family Counseling

Baleigh A. Essary 鈥� Mobile, Alabama, Master of Arts, Creative Practice

Brinkley P. Goff 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Master of Arts, Marriage and Family Counseling

Dillon M. Helton 鈥� Mobile, Alabama, Master of Arts, History

Jacqueline Cassie Hoeft 鈥� Saraland, Alabama, Master of Arts, History, Area Award: History

Stefany Justiniano Nu帽ez 鈥� Santa Cruz, Bolivia, Master of Arts, Creative Practice, Area Award: Creative Practice

Emma K. Naqvi 鈥� Mobile, Alabama, Master of Arts, English, Area Award: English

Brandi Patrick 鈥撎鼶aphne, Alabama, Master of Arts, Creative Practice

Katherine Hill Turner 鈥撎鼺airhope, Alabama, Master of Arts, Marriage and Family Counseling, Area Award: Marriage and Family Counseling

Bryley C. Walley 鈥撎鼳thens, Alabama, Master of Arts, Creative Practice

Lillian Wheatley 鈥撎齋outhside, Alabama, Master of Arts, Marriage and Family Counseling

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

Thomas L. Ray 鈥撎齋Ilverhill, Alabama, Master of Arts, Worship Leadership and Theology

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

Halie Renee Barger 鈥� Orange Beach, Alabama, Master of Athletic Training

Elizabeth Anne McCormack 鈥撎鼸astaboga, Alabama, Master of Athletic Training, Area Award: Master of Athletic Training

Kinley Grace Phillips 鈥撎鼵hatom, Alabama, Master of Athletic Training

Jayson Isaac Sansom 鈥撎鼼rady, Alabama, Master of Athletic Training

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

Chelsey Lynn Alwell 鈥撎齈ollock, Louisiana, Family Nurse Practitioner

Allison C. Cole 鈥撎齈ensacola, Florida, Family Nurse Practitioner

Ashley Johnson Emmons 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Vantrell T. Fox 鈥撎鼼rand Bay, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Bailey Mae Garriga 鈥撎鼿urley, Mississippi, Family Nurse Practitioner

Courtney D. Hall 鈥撎鼵itronelle, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Ashley Elizabeth Hardee 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Aaron James Haycraft 鈥撎鼺airhope, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Jennifer Hanh Huynh 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Jeri L. Jordan 鈥撎鼴ossier City, Louisiana, Family Nurse Practitioner

Alexandra Audie Kelley 鈥撎齈rattville, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Madison Babette Lowe 鈥撎齌uskegee, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Sonia Leigh Pierce 鈥撎齇cean Springs, Mississippi, Family Nurse Practitioner

Michaela Dew Reynolds 鈥撎鼵hatom, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Lashanda Michole Rudolph 鈥撎齅oss Point, Mississippi, Family Nurse Practitioner

Peyton Scott Jernigan 鈥撎齃ake Village, Arkansas, Family Nurse Practitioner

Dorothy L. Thorske 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

Jacinta Gavin Whitt 鈥撎齌uscaloosa, Alabama, Family Nurse Practitioner

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

Moses Angulo 鈥撎齈anama City, Panama, Master of Business Administration

Nicolas C. Barstad听鈥撎齌ullahoma, Tennessee, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Caiden Joseph Bennett 鈥撎齈earlington, Mississippi, Master of Business Administration

Katharina Bopst 鈥撎齋tuttgart, Germany, Master of Business Administration

Emily C. Butts 鈥撎齈ell City, Alabama, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Jonathan Bryan Byrd Jr. 鈥撎齅onroeville, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

James D. Clark 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, M.S., Leadership and Communication, Area Award: M.S., Leadership and Communication

Brady P. Clarke 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Adam J. Cooke 鈥撎鼼rove Hill, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Emory Blaine Cooper 鈥� Gilbertown, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Gabriela Eva West 鈥� Babylon, New York, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Youssef Fazazi Idrissi 鈥撎齊abat, Morocco, Master of Business Administration

Elke Maria Fern谩ndez Bormann 鈥撎齋evilla, Spain, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Alexandria Rae Godwin 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Jacob T. Harned 鈥撎齋pringville, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Jil Franziska Hellerforth 鈥撎齃uedenscheid, Germany, Master of Business Administration

Ellie Jane Hicks 鈥撎齋tella, Missouri, Master of Business Administration, Area Award: Master of Business Administration

Cierra Highland 鈥撎鼴rooklyn, New York, Master of Business Administration

Laura Hrabovsk谩 鈥撎齅arianka, Slovakia, Master of Business Administration

Jada A. Johnson 鈥撎齆ashville, Tennessee, Master of Business Administration

Cayson L. Langham 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama, Master of Business Administration Grace Pilot School of Business Achievement Award

Michael A. McCrary 鈥撎鼶aphne, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Brady Ray Northam 鈥撎鼳shville, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Miriam H. Oldacre 鈥撎鼵ullman, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Destiny E. Pettway 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Isabella Cameron Pierce 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Mariona Pontnou Ripol 鈥撎鼴arcelona, Spain, Master of Business Administration

Robyn Hunter Reed 鈥撎齅cIntosh, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Shawn R. Rivers 鈥撎鼺airhope, Alabama, M.S., Leadership and Communication

Hamza Sabah听鈥撎鼳mman, Jordan, Master of Business Administration

Emily M. Silbernagel 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Braylan T. Stringfellow 鈥撎鼼rand Bay, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Taylor Faye Vice 鈥撎齏agarville, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Connor West 鈥撎鼿atton, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

Elise Noelle Williams 鈥撎齋emmes, Alabama, Master of Business Administration

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

Grace Elizabeth Atteberry 鈥撎鼵antonment, Florida, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education

Kayley Burgess Bossard 鈥撎鼳tmore, Alabama, M.Ed., Instructional Design and Technology

Annya K. Garcia 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education

Georgette Byrd Mosley 鈥撎齅ount Vernon, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Alternative Early Childhood Education

Michelle L. Parmer 鈥撎齀rvington, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education

Myrenda Howze Tisdale 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, M.A., Alternative Early Childhood Education

Preston R. Webb 鈥撎鼿endersonville, Tennessee, M.A., Alternative Elementary Education, Area Award: Alternative Elementary Education

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

Kenneth Bernard Brandon 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music

Evan Stone Clymer 鈥撎鼶efuniak Springs, Florida, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music

Kadence Denise Dedeaux 鈥撎齈erkinston, Mississippi, B.S., Production Technologies

Rebecca Claire Duncan 鈥撎齃ynn Haven, Florida, B.M., Performance, Vocal, Alabama School of the Arts Achievement Award, Area Award: Performance, Vocal

Camille Jordan Edgar 鈥撎鼶eatsville, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music

Jestavia T. Graham 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.M., Performance, Commercial Voice

Trevor J. Hawthorne 鈥撎齁acksonville, Florida, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music

Nathan Jeffry Higginson 鈥撎鼼ulf Shores, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music, Area Award: Worship Leadership and Music, Music Business

Maggie Renae Kenyon 鈥撎齌rafford, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music

Samuel Webster Lowery 鈥撎鼼reenville, Alabama, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music

Logan Andrew Mitchell 鈥撎鼵lanton, Alabama, B.F.A., Performance, Musical Theatre

Madison Jayne Mitchell 鈥撎鼵restview, Florida, B.S., Production Technologies

Benjamin Paul Naman 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.A., Music

Jonah James Nelson 鈥撎鼺airhope, Alabama, B.F.A., Performance, Musical Theatre

Clayton Russell 鈥撎鼶eatsville, Alabama, B.S., Production Technologies, Area Award: Production Technologies

Jameson Georius Stephens 鈥撎鼳uburn, Alabama, B.A., Music, Area Award: Music

Lyla Kae Stokes 鈥撎鼵restview, Florida, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music, Area Award: Worship Leadership and Music, Church Ministry

Chesed Noel Turner 鈥撎齆iceville, Florida, B.F.A., Performance, Musical Theatre

Bonner Patrick Welch 鈥撎鼸llisville, Mississippi, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music

John Mark Willard 鈥撎鼳lbany, Georgia, B.S., Worship Leadership and Music

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

Alex Ray Abernathy 鈥撎鼴arnesville, Georgia, B.S., Communication

Jacob Gary Wayne Arnold 鈥撎鼵itronelle, Alabama, B.S., Sociology, Area Award: Sociology

Laura Hope Belk 鈥撎齋tarkville, Mississippi, B.S., Communication

Ethan C. Blackwell 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, B.S., Organizational Leadership

Amanda K. Bream 鈥撎齆avarre, Florida, B.S., Communication

Ashlyn C. Broussard 鈥撎齃afayette, Louisiana, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

Grace E. Bryant 鈥撎齃ouisville, Kentucky, B.S., Communication, Area Award: Communication

Samuel Gregory-Harris Colbert 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama, B.S., History, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: History

Lillie Ruth Conner 鈥撎齋panish Fort, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

Jennifer Lyn Cope 鈥撎齈ensacola, Florida, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

Breyton Scott Cornelus 鈥撎齌heodore, Alabama, B.S., Social Science, Area Award: Social Science

Erin E. Degruise 鈥撎鼴ayou Blue, Louisiana, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, Area Award: Biology

Abigail R. Eddins 鈥撎齌heodore, Alabama, B.A., Art

Mallory N. Edwards 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.S., Criminology

Jaycie Gibbons 鈥撎齃eakesville, Mississippi, B.S., Communication

Sidney Clare Gipe 鈥撎齋tockbridge, Michigan, B.S., Marine Science

Gabriella Marie Gordon 鈥撎齈ensacola, Florida, B.A., Government and Law, Area Award: Government and Law

Tyler C. Grondin 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, B.S., History

Brea Lea Harris 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, B.A., English Language Arts, Area Award: English

Jaron Lebaron Harris 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.A., History

Kasi Jeliyah Harris 鈥撎鼸ight Mile, Alabama, B.S., Sociology

Trace Kevin Hauck 鈥撎齃oranger, Louisiana, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

Regan Scott Hickman 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.S., Criminology, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Criminology

Rebecca Joy Siew Hii 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.S., Communication

R.J. Hunt 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, B.S., Communication

William P. King 鈥撎齃oxley, Alabama, B.S., Government and Law

Lillie M. Lanham 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

Shameika M. Lee 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.S., Organizational Leadership, Area Award: Organizational Leadership

Michael-Christian A. Lopez 鈥撎齋atsuma, Alabama, B.S., Sociology

Amanda Marie Majors 鈥撎鼳ndalusia, Alabama, B.S., Communication

Gabriel T. May 鈥撎齋atsuma, Alabama, B.S., Sociology

Lindsey Marie Meza 鈥撎齋an Luis, Arizona, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

James Douglas Monk 鈥撎鼶othan, Alabama, B.S., Marine Science

Lacee E. Moore 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.A., Psychology, Area Award: Psychology

Ashley Michelle Morsey 鈥撎鼶othan, Alabama, B.S., Psychology

April Nicholson 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.S., General Studies

Lydia R. Nicholson 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.S., Psychology

Emily C. Osborne 鈥撎齆iceville, Florida, B.S., Pre-Health Biology, College of Arts and Sciences Achievement Award

Ethan Norton O’Shea 鈥撎齋emmes, Alabama, B.S., History

Emily G. Otts 鈥撎鼿artford, Alabama, B.F.A., Studio Art, Area Award: Studio Art

Cory Reid Powell 鈥撎齈etal, Mississippi, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

Taylor Reese Prestridge 鈥撎鼿attiesburg, Mississippi, B.S., Mathematics, Area Award: Mathematics

Rebekah Noelle Ramirez 鈥撎鼵reola, Alabama, B.F.A., Graphic Design, B.S., Criminology Area Award: Graphic Design

Landon T. Rice 鈥撎齋atsuma, Alabama, B.S., Pre-Health Biology

Victoria Mariana E’lise Richardson 鈥撎齃eroy, Alabama, B.S., Criminology

Ronald D. Simpkins 鈥撎鼸lberta, Alabama, B.S., History

Susan Walker 鈥撎鼶aphne, Alabama, B.S., Psychology

Jordan A. Ward 鈥撎鼳tlanta, Georgia, B.S., Marine Science, Area Award: Marine Science

Arthur Terrell Watson III 鈥撎鼴eauregard, Alabama, B.S., Mathematics

Samuel Marshall Werry 鈥撎齅adison, Alabama, B.S., Biology, William K.Weaver, Jr. Excellence Award

Joy Maidee Wilson 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.F.A., Studio Art

Trevor R. Wood 鈥撎鼺oley, Alabama, B.S., History

Hallie Elizabeth Wriley 鈥撎齅illport, Alabama, B.S., Psychology

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

Yonan Hanna 鈥撎齆azareth, Israel, B.A., Theological Studies

Dalton Grant Mathis 鈥撎鼶othan, Alabama, B.S., Christian Ministry

Jeffrey Lain McCollough 鈥撎齇pp, Alabama, B.S., Christian Ministry

Emma Dawn Owen 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, B.S., Christian Ministry, Area Award: Christian Ministry

Lorelei Nichole Seas 鈥撎齁acksonville, Florida, B.S., Christian Ministry

Bryant Wheeler Story 鈥撎鼳thens, Alabama, B.A., Theological Studies, Area Award: Theological Studies

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

Mallory Erin Atchison 鈥撎齋emmes, Alabama, Kinesiology

Thomas M. Bell 鈥撎鼳shford, Alabama, Kinesiology, School of Health and Sports Science Achievement Award

Gabriel de Souza Cavalcanti 鈥撎齊io De Janeiro, Brazil, Kinesiology

Jaden Paul Clinton 鈥撎鼴iloxi, Mississippi, Kinesiology

Matthew David Dimmick 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Sport Administration

Madison G. Frazier 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Exercise Science

Breanna C. Green 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Kinesiology

Dawson Foley Harrison 鈥撎鼵entreville, Alabama, Kinesiology

Steven Edward Hazewinkel 鈥撎齈ensacola, Florida, Exercise Science, Area Award: Exercise Science

Madeline B. Houk 鈥撎齈ell City, Alabama, Exercise Science

Samuel D. Hughes 鈥撎鼴irmingham, United Kingdom, Exercise Science

Isidro Alejandro Jimenez Rosario 鈥撎齋anto Domingo, Dominican Republic, Kinesiology

Joseph A. Jones 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Kinesiology

Kristian Leann McNeil 鈥撎齋emmes, Alabama, Kinesiology

Jerniyah K. Moore-Martin 鈥撎齅ontgomery, Alabama, Kinesiology

Jarvis Emil Moss 鈥撎齋elma, Alabama, Kinesiology

Karolina Mrowiecova 鈥撎鼿avirov, Czech Republic, Sport Administration

Luke Edgar Owers 鈥撎鼵oker, Alabama, Exercise Science

Latifha Pascall 鈥撎齅arabella, Trinidad and Tobago, Kinesiology

Corrina N. Porch-Maxey 鈥撎齀ndianapolis, Indiana, Kinesiology

Jamie Laniece Roberts 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Exercise Science

Carla Saborido Diaz 鈥撎齋antiago de Compostela, Spain, Exercise Science

Jeb W. Scarbrough 鈥撎鼺airhope, Alabama, Sport Administration, Area Award: Sport Administration, Scholar Athlete Award

Madilyn G. Sheffield 鈥撎鼵reola, Alabama, Kinesiology

Asia Seymone Thompson 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Kinesiology

Samuel Felipe Vergara 鈥撎鼴ogot谩, Colombia, Kinesiology

Philmour Anthony Virgo 鈥撎齏ait-a-Bit, Trelawny, Jamaica, Kinesiology

Tahj Doughty White 鈥撎齆ew Orleans, Louisiana, Kinesiology

Henry Phillip Woodall 鈥撎鼳thens, Alabama, Kinesiology, Area Award: Kinesiology

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

Mallory L. Botos 鈥撎鼴aton Rouge, Louisiana

Grayson Bradford Cannon 鈥撎鼶eatsville, Alabama

Paige R. Conforto Montemayor 鈥撎鼵arriere, Mississippi

Madison Culwell 鈥撎鼿ouston, Texas

Aniyah Jermaniece Dent听鈥撎鼶othan, Alabama

Chelsie Mofeu Tambang Dixon 鈥撎鼴irmingham, Alabama

Sabryna L. Haynes 鈥撎齇rangeburg, South Carolina

LaMeshia M. Hunt听鈥撎齁ackson, Alabama

Lyndsey G. Jackson 鈥撎鼵hunchula, Alabama

Quamichael Andreatta Kennedy 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Kylie Autumn Koster 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Reagan Leigh Lentz 鈥撎齋ilverhill, Alabama

Meredith Anne Lewis 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Hadley Lynn Little 鈥撎齋atsuma, Alabama

Samuel Josef Lockett 鈥撎鼵entreville, Alabama

Kamirra Shykell Logan 鈥撎鼵harlotte, North Carolina

Ethan S. Morton 鈥撎鼳labaster, Alabama

Jessica R. Mosley 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Madison C. Northcutt 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama

Zoey Breanna Powell 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Brooke Mackenzie Rachel 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Hannah M. Rigby 鈥撎齌heodore, Alabama

Sonja M. Rivera 鈥撎齋emmes, Alabama

Gabrielle K. Sheffield 鈥撎鼵restview, Florida, President’s Scholastic Award听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 School of Nursing Achievement Award

Conner L. Shepard 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Katelyn Redding Siler 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama

Isabella F. Stracener 鈥撎齋ummerdale, Alabama

Jailyn B. Swink 鈥撎齀rvington, Alabama

Sarah Katherine Taylor 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Cierra Elizabeth Travis 鈥� Semmes, Alabama

Samuel Villalta 鈥撎齃os Angeles California

Kaylee Renae Williams 鈥撎鼶aphne, Alabama

Grace Pilot School of Business, Bachelor of Science听

听Darlinton Aboagye 鈥撎齂umasi, Ghana, Business Administration

Bryson L. Anderson 鈥撎鼺risco City, Alabama, Computer Information Systems

Kayla Marie Barren 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Healthcare Management

Caiden Joseph Bennett 鈥撎齈earlington, Mississippi, Business Administration

Jonah A. Blackwell 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Computer Information Systems

Ashlyn C. Broussard 鈥撎齃afayette, Louisiana, Integrated Marketing Communications

Andrew Reece Buck 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama, Management

Jonathan Bryan Byrd Jr. 鈥撎齅onroeville, Alabama, Accounting

Mattie Danielle Chestang 鈥撎齅cIntosh, Alabama, Digital Media and Advertising, Area Award: Digital Media and Advertising

Brady P. Clarke 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Accounting

Joseph A. Collins 鈥撎齏ilmer, Alabama, Management

Emory Blaine Cooper 鈥撎鼼ilbertown, Alabama, Accounting

Wyatt Ryan Dickson 鈥撎齋atsuma, Alabama, Healthcare Management

Rachel Celeste Dunaway 鈥撎齇hatchee, Alabama, Integrated Marketing Communications, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Integrated Marketing Communications

Leonardo Fiorotti Da Silva 鈥撎齃isbon, Portugal, Management

Verd Fontaine 鈥撎齊oseau, Dominica, Integrated Marketing Communications

Christian Manuel Galarza Guilarte 鈥� Cochabamba, Bolivia, Management

Alexandria Rae Godwin 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Accounting

Luke Augustine Graham 鈥撎齇cean Springs, Mississippi , Management, President’s Scholastic Award, Grace Pilot School of Business Achievement Award, Area Award: Management

Abdullah Hamid 鈥撎齀slamabad, Pakistan, Computer Information Systems, Area Award: Computer Information Systems

Jacob T. Harned 鈥撎齋pringville, Alabama, Accounting

Ellie Jane Hicks 鈥撎齋tella, Missouri , Management

Jenna Kristine Jiles, Birmingham, Alabama, Business Administration

Steven H. Johnson – Panama City Beach, Florida, Business Administration

Michael Ryan Kitchen 鈥撎齅adison, Alabama, Management

Cayson L. Langham 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama, Business Administration, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Finance

Madison Rose Lipke 鈥撎齇range Beach, Alabama, Business Administration, Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, President’s Scholastic Award

Sam MacDonald 鈥撎鼺ife, Scotland, Business Administration

Lais Tammy Masuda听鈥撎齋茫o Paulo, Brazil, Management

Jared Michael Matthes 鈥撎鼶aphne, Alabama, Management

Michael A. McCrary 鈥撎鼶aphne, Alabama, Accounting, Area Award: Accounting

Joseph McMahon 鈥撎齃iverpool, United Kindgom, Management

Thiago Giri Rodrigues Mello 鈥撎齋茫o Paulo, Brazil, Integrated Marketing Communications

Henrique Luro Teodoro Mendes 鈥撎齋茫o Paulo, Brazil, Business Administration

Maribel Rivera Flores 鈥撎鼳tlanta, Georgia, Business Administration

Dylan Luke Moran 鈥撎齋emmes, Alabama, Management

Trenton Thomas Moye 鈥撎鼵humuckla, Florida, Computer Information Systems, Area Award: Cybersecurity

Elijah Nicholson 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Business Administration

Brady Ray Northam 鈥撎鼳shville, Alabama, Accounting

Miriam H. Oldacre 鈥撎鼵ullman, Alabama, Management

Adarius T. Oliver 鈥撎鼸vergreen, Alabama, Computer Information Systems

Destiny Marie Page 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Healthcare Management

Trinity Ann Page 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Computer Information Systems

Luis Perez 鈥撎鼵aracas, Venezuela, Management

Destiny E. Pettway 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Accounting

Isabella Cameron Pierce 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Accounting, President’s Scholastic Award

Jackson Alan Price 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Management

Olivia Faith Quiroz 鈥撎齅andeville, Louisiana, Business Administration

Enrico Chicone Recchia 鈥撎齋茫o Paulo, Brazil, Management

Joevonie Joshua Reid 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Management

Santiago Reina Mendivelso 鈥撎鼴ogota, Colombia, Business Administration, Area Award: Economics

Brooke Lindsey Schachle 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama, Management

Izabella Patrycja Sikora 鈥撎鼺ayette, Alabama, Healthcare Management

Emily M. Silbernagel 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Healthcare Management, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Healthcare Management

Ryan A. Squires 鈥撎鼵itronelle, Alabama, Computer Information Systems

Braylan T. Stringfellow 鈥撎鼼rand Bay, Alabama, Accounting

Terrance D.Trussell 鈥撎鼼autier, Mississippi, Business Administration, Post-Traditional Area Award

Taylor Faye Vice 鈥撎齏agarville, Alabama, Accounting, President’s Scholastic Award

Colton Jack Vickers 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Management

Bernardo Vidal 鈥撎齃isbon, Portugal , Management

Princess Kimara Evon Ward 鈥撎鼸vergreen, Alabama, Healthcare Management

Connor West 鈥撎鼿atton, Alabama, Healthcare Management

Joel Cian White 鈥撎鼸ssex, England, Management

Elise Noelle Williams 鈥撎齋emmes, Alabama, Accounting

School of Education, Bachelor of Science听

Camryn H. Anderson 鈥撎鼵reola, Alabama , Elementary Education

Kensley Lambert Cannon 鈥撎齀rvington, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, Area Award: Early Childhood and Elementary Education Elementary Education

Grace Elizabeth Chisholm 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Early Childhood Education

Jessica Reed Davis 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Child and Social Development

Madelynn G. Fleming 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Child and Social Development

Madison Caroline Hill 鈥撎鼶aphne, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Early Childhood Education

Hayleigh Renee Hopper 鈥撎齌heodore, Alabama, Early Childhood Education, School of Education Achievement Award Elementary Education

Chamberlyn B. Lentz 鈥撎齋ilverhill, Alabama, Child and Social Development

Denise T. Mauldin 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama, Child and Social Development

Teylor Denise Odom 鈥撎鼸vans, Georgia, Child and Social Development

Latonya R. Payne 鈥撎齌heodore, Alabama, Child and Social Development

Taylor Grace Sasser 鈥撎鼶othan, Alabama, Early Childhood Education

Hannah Victoria Elise Walters 鈥撎鼵lanton, Alabama, Early Childhood Education

Kristen Alana Wright 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, Early Childhood Education

Mackenzie Brooke Yates 鈥撎鼼ulf Shores, Alabama, Early Childhood Education

Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, School of Nursing, Associate Degree in Nursing听

Skyler Nichole Barnes 鈥撎齋araland, Alabama, President’s Scholastic Award, Area Award: Associate Degree in Nursing

Madison Paige Blackledge 鈥撎齃eroy, Alabama

Alyssa Michelle Dewberry 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Caili Ruth Harborth 鈥撎齅ontgomery, Alabama

Brooke Renee Houston 鈥撎齋aint Louis, Missouri

Emily K. Killcreas 鈥撎鼴ay Minette, Alabama

Anna Faith Martinez 鈥撎齅obile, Alabama

Ian D. May 鈥撎齋atsuma, Alabama

Halle Aladria Shepard 鈥撎鼵itronelle, Alabama

Deidra P. Tatum 鈥撎齃ucedale, Mississippi

Raina Daisy Kollene White 鈥撎鼴ayou La Batre, Alabama

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 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.

“I have always been passionate about teaching and nurturing the next generation of nurses, guiding them with my clinical knowledge, experience, and mentorship to help them grow into confident and compassionate professionals,鈥� said Ajayi, assistant professor of nursing at the 秋霞福利一区.

Ajayi teaches courses in the new online Post-Master APRN Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program in the School of Nursing at 秋霞福利一区, where she prepares and guides students to grow into confident and skilled mental health nurse practitioners.

The graduate program allows current nurse practitioners to earn PMHNP certification in just three semesters, opening up opportunities for career advancement and remote and telehealth jobs following graduation. Applications are currently being accepted at umobile.edu/pmhnp

Q: What is your professional background?

A: I completed my master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees at the University of Alabama with advanced specializations in psychiatric mental health and family practice. I have experience across emergency services, inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, where I have had the opportunity to serve diverse patient populations with a wide range of mental health needs.

I maintain an active clinical practice as an advanced practice nurse, providing mental health services to individuals experiencing various psychiatric conditions. My clinical interests include child and adolescent mental health, with a focus on early intervention, family-centered care and promoting emotional well-being across developmental stages.

Prior to joining the 秋霞福利一区, I spent several years teaching graduate nursing students at the University of Alabama, where I integrated academic knowledge with extensive clinical experience in diverse psychiatric and primary care settings.

By bridging theory and practice, I guide students in applying classroom concepts to real-world clinical settings, preparing them to become confident, compassionate and patient-centered advanced nursing professionals.

Q: Why should a prospective student choose to study in the nursing program at 秋霞福利一区?

A: The graduate nursing programs at 秋霞福利一区 offer a uniquely supportive environment designed to help each student excel both professionally and personally. Our faculty are deeply committed to mentoring and guiding students at every step of their academic journey.

At 秋霞福利一区, students are not just numbers but valued individuals whose growth, goals and well-being are the central focus. This creates a learning environment where students feel seen, supported and empowered to achieve their full potential.

The university鈥檚 focus on integrity, faith-based values and academic excellence resonates strongly with my own teaching philosophy, giving me a genuine sense of belonging and purpose. The highest calling we have is to embrace what God has called us to be, and there is no purpose higher than fulfilling that calling.

Q: What do you think are the most important skills or attributes for students to develop during their college years?

A: Time management, hard work and critical thinking are important qualities that help students succeed in their academic journeys. In nursing, especially at the graduate level, effective time management becomes particularly important because many students continue working while pursuing their studies, which requires them to balance professional responsibilities with academic demands.

At 秋霞福利一区, our faculty are intentional about helping our nursing students develop these essential skills through a thoughtful blend of structured coursework and supportive learning experiences. Students are guided to plan, organize and prioritize their assignments, projects and deadlines, which helps strengthen their time management abilities.

Q: What do you believe sets 秋霞福利一区 apart from other institutions?

A: At 秋霞福利一区, your journey can begin with an ADN or BSN and continue seamlessly through master鈥檚 programs and all the way to the doctoral level 鈥� allowing you to start here and grow your calling in nursing from undergraduate preparation to advanced clinical leadership.

The nursing faculty are highly dedicated to helping students succeed. I have been fortunate to work alongside colleagues who are collaborative, encouraging and invested in student growth. We remind our students that each of us is uniquely gifted and called to serve in different ways.

Through our teaching and guidance, we encourage them to recognize their own strengths, live with intention and use their education not just for personal success, but to positively impact the world around them.

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 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.