Ram Report Fall 2015

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President | Dr. Mark Foley Vice President for External Affairs and Information Services | Mr. Brian Boyle Executive Director for Marketing & Public Relations/Magazine Editor | Lesa Moore Director of Media Relations/Magazine Copy Editor | Kathy Dean Graphic Designer | Jay Adcock, JWACreative.com Staff Writers | Renee Busby, Matthew Hicks,

Shannon Mason, Trey Taulbee,

Stephen Tindal Staff Designer | Amanda Pritchard Photographers | Dan Anderson, G.M. Andrews,

Denis Bancroft, Kathy Dean,

Sharon Steinmann, Trey Taulbee Cover Photo | By G.M. Andrews

COVER STORY COVER STORY

18 No No Limitations Limitations 28 Dr. Ben Carson Editorial Office University of Mobile Ram Report 5735 College Parkway Mobile, Alabama 36613 Phone: 251.442.2210 Fax: 251.442.2512 www.umobile.edu University of Mobile RAM REPORT is published by the University of Mobile Office of Marketing and Public Relations, and is distributed free of charge to prospective students and parents.

Issues may be viewed online at www.umobile.edu/ramreport.

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

30 Rhymz with Grace

4 University News

38 The First-Year Experience 42 Never Stop Learning

48 Alumni Kingstone Govati Dr. Brooke and Michael Lenz Dr. Todd Stearns Veritas

57 Campus Corner

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ONLINE NO W O F FERED ONLINE • • • •

Associate of Science in General Studies Bachelor of Science in Marketplace Ministry Bachelor of Business Administration Master of Arts in Education

For more info, go to learnonline.umobile.edu or call 251.442.2222 umobile.edu 3

RRNEWS New York Yankees Hire Former Ram as Third Base Coach

By Matthew Hicks The New York Yankees hired former University of Mobile baseball player Joe Espada as their new infield and third base coach for the 2015 season.

Espada served as a special assistant to general manager Brian Cashman last season in the Yankees’ organization.

A two-time NAIA All-American and second round pick in the 1996 MLB Amateur Draft, Espada previously worked in the Miami Marlins’ organization, serving as third base coach from 2010-13 after several years in their minor league system as a hitting coach and infield coordinator.

“His knowledge of the game is incredible in all aspects,” UMobile Head Coach Mike Jacobs said. “Even as a player here, he knew where to be and where everyone else should be, and he knew how to play the game, and always played the right way. He was an ideal coach’s player.”

Espada’s UMobile playing career spanned 1994-96. He posted the two highest single-season batting averages at the school, hitting .468 in 1995 and .446 in 1996, and his .442 career average still stands as the best in school history.

He is third all-time in hits with 212 and third all-time with runs scored with 159.

He was first-team All-Conference each season, second-team NAIA All-American in 1995 and 1996 and two-time Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Player of the Year.

Photo by Denis Bancroft

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several occasions. In 1999 he was a Texas League All-Star. He compiled 811 hits, 108 doubles and 172 stolen bases for the Oakland Athletics, Florida Marlins, Colorado Rockies, Kansas City Royals, Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals organizations. RR

Espada also continues to make his mark on the program, long after his college playing days are done.

“He continues to give back to the program every year, donating money and equipment, and helping us recruit in Puerto Rico,” Jacobs said. “He is

very interested in this program being successful and still tries to find ways to help us. This school is important to him and it did a lot for him.”

Espada’s minor league/independent league career spanned 10 seasons where he reached the Triple-A level on

Entrepreneur A.J. Niland Recognized for Leadership in ‘40 Under Forty’

University of Mobile RN-to-BSN Program Named a Best Value in the South

Each year, Mobile Bay Magazine recognizes 40 of the top individuals younger than age 40 who demonstrate leadership, professional excellence and a commitment to the Bay area community. The 2014 Class of 40 Under Forty includes 30-year-old A.J. Niland, who started his career as a student at the University of Mobile.

According to Mobile Bay Magazine, “By following his passion and entrepreneurial instincts, A.J. has proven himself as an innovative leader in the live entertainment arena of the Gulf Coast and beyond. A.J. cofounded HUKA Entertainment, an industry-leading event planning company that has grown to include four offices and 40 full-time employees in only 10 years. He has also cofounded numerous music festivals, including Gulf Shores’ wildly successful and award-winning Hangout Music Fest.”

The son of UMobile Athletic Director and head Men’s Basketball Coach Joe Niland, A.J.’s first job was as clubhouse manager for the Mobile BayBears. He told the magazine that his love of music “is the sole reason I work. My talents were not lending themselves to being on stage. Now, I get to contribute behind the scenes.”

He attributed HUKA’s success to “A little bit of luck and hard work. Not to mention doing the right thing no matter the cost,” according to his profile at MobileBayMag.com. RR

The University of Mobile School of Nursing has been ranked in the 30 Best Value RN-to-BSN Degree Programs in the South based on quality and affordability

by Best Value Schools.

The University of Mobile was the only private university in Alabama included in the list. Of the 30 schools listed, UMobile was ranked 12th in quality and 27th in affordability. Only two Alabama schools were listed. UMobile ranks alongside University of Alabama, University of Texas, University of North Carolina, Clemson University and Louisiana State University, Dr. Jan Wood among others.

Best Value Schools is a comprehensive online resource guide that helps college students to locate the best accredited learning options that will provide the highest overall value for their educational dollars. The survey of nursing programs in 14 southern states considered net price, freshman retention rate, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, percentage of courses taught by teaching assistants, admissions requirements, flexible class format and NCLEX pass rates.

The RN-to-BSN Program enables registered nurses to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing while continuing to work full-time. Courses are offered in a day-long Friday format through

the Christian university’s Adult and Professional Studies Program.

“We are pleased that our RN-to-BSN program has been recognized as a best value for affordability and quality,” said Dr. Jan Wood, dean of the UMobile School of Nursing.

“Our students have the advantage of small classes, a new nursing lab, and a flexible class schedule that allows them to continue working full time

“We are pleased that our RN-to-BSN program has been recognized as a best value for affordability and quality.” while earning a bachelor’s degree that will expand their opportunities for career advancement. They also have the advantage of a Christian university where professors teach compassionate nursing from a faith-based perspective,” Wood said.

According to Best Value Schools, the National Advisory Council on Nurse Education and Practice now recommends that at least two-thirds of the nursing workforce hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in nursing.

For information about the UMobile RNto-BSN Program, contact UMobile’s Adult and Professional Studies at 251.442.2491, email dbchancey@umobile.edu or visit the UMobile website at umobile.edu. RR

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RRNEWS UMobile Receives $140,000 Grant to Provide Scholarships for Women from Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation The University of Mobile has received a $140,000 grant from the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation Inc. to provide scholarships for women attending the Christian university during the 2015-2016 academic year.

The Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation is a charity dedicated to the support of women in nine southeastern states. The Foundation provides scholarship grants to schools and colleges for deserving female students. In addition, the foundation supports selected nursing homes and hospices serving the needs of elderly women.

“The Lettie Pate Whitehead

University of Mobile Selected Among ’America’s 100 Best College Buys’ Foundation provides significant scholarships for women who, because of financial limitations, would have otherwise been unable to further their educational dreams. This grant expands opportunities for many students who want a quality, Christian higher education at the University of Mobile, and we thank the Foundation for its investment in our students,” said Claude Bumpers, development officer for foundations and grants at the University of Mobile. RR

University of Mobile Accreditation Reaffirmed by Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges The Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges has reaffirmed accreditation for the University of Mobile for the next decade during its annual meeting in Nashville, TN. The Christian university’s reaffirmation came without recommendations for improvement from the accrediting body.

SACSCOC is the regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern states. Its mission is to assure the educational quality and improve effectiveness of its member institutions.

Member institutions must go through an extensive self-examination and reporting process every 10 years to demonstrate their compliance with SACSCOC standards. The review culminates in an on-site visit from a SACSCOC Reaffirmation Committee that can make recommendations for improvements that institutions must

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address in order to move forward in the process.

UMobile President Dr. Mark Foley said the university was among a select few institutions that received no recommendations following a site visit in February 2014 by the reaffirmation committee.

“The Reaffirmation Committee’s report of no findings is an anomaly, almost unprecedented,” Foley said. “We have just joined a unique group of schools, and it happened because we work hard every day to excel. Our constant work of self-examination and adjustment in light of the SACSCOC Principles of Accreditation has produced a good and stable institution.”

The University of Mobile is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees.RR

The University of Mobile has been selected as one of “America’s 100 Best College Buys” for the sixth consecutive year.

The University of Mobile is one of only four colleges in Alabama to receive the 2014-2015 “Best Buy” designation and the only private university in the state selected through the annual survey administered by Institutional Research & Evaluation Inc. Lewis T. Lindsey Jr., president of IR&E, says, “Consistent with its mission, and as a guide by which institutions may be compared, each year Institutional Research & Evaluation Inc. identifies the 100 American colleges and universities providing students the very highest quality education at the lowest cost.”

The IR&E conducted its 24th Annual National College Survey between April 1 and July 31, 2014. UMobile was selected for the top 100 list from among 1,143 accredited U.S. colleges and universities surveyed.

To be considered for the designation “America’s 100 Best College Buys,” an institution must be an accredited, four-year institution offering bachelor degrees and full residential facilities including residence halls and dining services. It must have had an entering freshman class in the fall of 2013 with a high school grade point average or SAT/ACT score equal to or above the national average for entering college freshmen. It must have an out-of-state cost of attendance in 2014-2015 for three quarters or two semesters below the national average cost of attendance, or not exceeding the national average cost by more than 10 percent. RR

University of Mobile History Prof Receives Alabama Historical Association Book Award Dr. Matthew L. Downs, University of Mobile assistant professor of history, has received the prestigious 2015 James. F. Sulzby Book Award presented by the Alabama Historical Association.

The Sulzby Award recognizes an important book that has contributed to greater knowledge and appreciation of Alabama history.

“I’m truly honored and humbled to receive the James F. Sulzby Book Award,” said Downs.

Downs received the award for his published work, “Transforming the South: Federal Development in the Tennessee Valley,” 1915-1960 (LSU Press, 2014).

UMobile Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Lonnie A. Burnett, president of the 1,000-member association, noted that the UMobile History Department is proud of Dr. Downs’ accomplishment. Burnett said he is “always happy to see the emergence of young scholars on the scene.”

A three-member panel chaired by Dr. Brad Creed of Samford University reviewed the nominated works before selecting Downs the eventual winner.

The presentation was made during the association’s awards banquet, held in Mobile during the organization’s 68th annual meeting. For information about the University of Mobile, visit www. umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222. RR

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RRNEWS Oxford Scholar and Author of ‘Planet Narnia’ Discussed C.S. Lewis and Narnia The University of Mobile presented a free lecture by one of the world’s pre-eminent scholars in C.S. Lewis studies, Michael Ward, Ph.D. on March 13 in Weaver Auditorium.

Ward is a senior research fellow at Blackfriars Hall, University of Oxford, and author of the groundbreaking study of Lewis’ writings, “Planet Narnia: The Seven Heavens in the Imagination of C.S. Lewis.”

He is the presenter of the BBC television documentary “The Narnia Code.”

Ward spoke on “C.S. Lewis on Imagination and Reason in Science and Religion.” The talk focused on “The Magician’s Nephew” book in the Narnia series, as this year marks the 60th anniversary of its publication.

The lecture was sponsored by the University of Mobile Honors Program.

Dr. Stephen Schuler, UMobile assistant professor of English, said Ward’s book, Planet Narnia, was a major advance in the

understanding of the Narnia books.

“It’s hard to find someone with a fresh perspective on C.S. Lewis, but Ward’s work has been revolutionary. A lot of people read Lewis’s fiction without any clear sense of the ideas that the books are based on. Ward’s work uncovers

those ideas and present them in a very accessible way,” Schuler said.

Ward lectures internationally on Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Christian apologetics, and has co-edited “The Cambridge Companion to C.S. Lewis.” He has been described in the 2009 “Times Literary Supplement” as “the foremost living Lewis scholar.”

As an Anglican clergyman, he served as chaplain of St. Peter’s College in the University of Oxford from 2009-2012, and as chaplain of Peterhouse in the University of Cambridge between 2004 and 2007. He was resident warden of The Kilns, Lewis’s Oxford home, from 1996 to 1999.

He holds a Ph.D. in divinity from University of St. Andrews, a Master of Arts in theology from University of Cambridge, and master’s and bachelor’s degrees in English language and literature from University of Oxford. RR

10th Anniversary Billy G. Hinson Lecture Series Brings Historian to Campus The University of Mobile presented award-winning historian Dr. Elizabeth Varon as speaker for the 10th anniversary of the Billy G. Hinson Lecture Series at the History Museum of Mobile on March 19.

Varon is the Longbourne M. Williams Professor of American History at the University of Virginia. The program, titled “Legacies of Appomattox: Lee’s Surrender in History and Memory,” included a lecture, a reception, and a book signing.

According to Dr. Lonnie Burnett, professor of history at the University of Mobile and director of the lecture series, the topic is particularly timely as this spring marked the 150th anniversary of the end of the war.

“Dr. Varon examined not just the closing events of the American Civil

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War that led to the surrender, but also explored the meaning of the war in historical memory,” Burnett said.

Varon received her Ph.D. from Yale University after finishing her undergraduate work at Swarthmore College. Her 2014 work, “Appomattox: Victory, Defeat, and Freedom at the End of the Civil War,” won the 2014 Library of Virginia Literary Award for Nonfiction and was a finalist for the Jefferson Davis Award and the Library of Virginia’s People’s Choice.

Her 2003 book, “Southern Lady, Yankee Spy,” was named by the Wall Street Journal as one of the “Five Best books on the Civil War away from the battlefield.” Varon speaks at conferences across the nation and has made several

appearances on C-Span.

The Billy G. Hinson Series was established by the University of Mobile College of Arts and Sciences to present academic programs dealing with topics in southern history. The series is named in honor of Dr. Billy Hinson, long-time history professor at the university. RR

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RRNEWS

RAM RUSH

2015

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RRNEWS Artist Lenda Baxter-Simonic Returns to Alma Mater to Exhibit Work at Marilyn Foley Art Gallery University of Mobile graduate Lenda Baxter-Simonic ’00 returned to her alma mater for an artist’s talk and to share her art work in an exhibit call “Landscapes: Be Still and the Earth will Speak” at the Marilyn Foley Art Gallery.

Her work was on exhibit March 2 through April 10, and she discussed her work at an artist’s talk on March 19.

A native of Alabama, she received her Bachelor of Arts from UMobile and went on to further her education by earning a Master of Fine Arts in painting from Fontbonne University in St. Louis, Missouri. As the gallery director for Fontbonne University, she brought in a variety of art exhibitions, workshops, and lecturers to the gallery and started the Up & Coming Artists competition for high school students in the area.

She has competed and exhibited in various art venues for a number of years, and has taught for the past 12 years in the private sector and publicly.

She currently lives in Fort Walton Beach, FL, where she is an adjunct art faculty member at Central Texas College – Eglin AFB, in Fort Walton.

Her artwork has been displayed in a number of exhibitions and competitions in Alabama, Arizona and Missouri. Many of her paintings and drawings are in private collections, and on public display at Cochise College in Sierra Vista, Arizona;

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Benson Hospital in Benson, Arizona; and the offices of the dean of undergraduate studies at Fontbonne University.

Gallery director Phillip Counselman ‘01, associate professor of art, said, “Lenda Baxter-Simonic’s landscapes communicate

land, and also its Creator,” said BaxterSimonic.

“Along with this appreciation and respect there is added a deep admiration for the beauty that I have experienced in the deserts and mountains of the western

Summer Rain in August was one of many landscapes included in the exhibit.

many different emotions, but mainly a feeling of peace and serenity. Travel and a love of nature are also important aspects in Lenda’s works. I think the viewer will find these paintings to be very sincere, as they offer an inspiring view of nature.”

Baxter-Simonic said the words of the hymn “For the Beauty of the Earth” comes to her mind when she thinks about the inspiration for her artwork.

“There has always been inside me an appreciation of the landscapes that surround me, which I would suppose, comes from being taught to respect the

United States, and along the banks of rivers and bays of Alabama, as well as the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.

“In my way, painting ‘Landscapes’ is my hymn of praise to the Creator for all He has given,” Baxter-Simonic said.

“I feel compelled to record the places where I have found solace, and if I can share this with others in hopes that they, too, will experience the peace and serenity that is there. It is a way of passing on to others the blessings given to me, also a way of expressing my gratitude and paying homage to the Creator for these blessings,” she said. RR

SPRING SPECTACULAR

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RRNEWS NFL’s First Full-time Female Game Official is UMobile’s Sarah Thomas

By Matthew Hicks Sarah Thomas, who played basketball at UMobile from 1992-95, made international news with the NFL’s announcement that she will be a line judge for the 2015 season. She will have the ability, based on performance, to move into other roles, including the highest position of referee. The NFL made the formal announcement April 8, capping days of speculation by major sports media outlets.

Athletics officials at Thomas’ alma mater said this 1995 graduate and former Lady Ram has always performed at the highest levels and shown the determination to succeed at anything she undertook.

“We are honored that one of our former athletes is achieving the highest level in her profession,” UMobile Athletic Director Joe Niland said.

“We’re extremely proud of what she has accomplished.”

During Thomas’ three seasons at the University of Mobile, the Lady Rams won 61 games, including two seasons with a 13-3 record in Gulf Coast Athletic Conference action. Thomas helped guide the 1992-93 team to a District 30 Championship and a berth in the NAIA National Championship.

She was a two-time GCAC All-Academic selection and a Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete in 1995.

For her career, she totaled 779 points, 411 rebounds, 108 assists and 192 steals, currently sitting at fifth all-time in steals.

Martha Gore-Algernon ‘93, an assistant coach with the UMobile women’s basketball program during Thomas’ playing career, praised her former player’s work ethic.

“I’m not surprised she’s made it this far,” Gore-Algernon said. “She didn’t set out to do this, but she just worked hard at it

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and they took notice of her. It couldn’t happen to a nicer person. She was a great player to coach.”

Thomas decided to become an official in the 1990s after attending a coaching meeting with her brother. Then, in 1996, she became the first female to officiate a Division 1-A high school football game in Mississippi. In 2007, she became the first female to officiate college football games, and in 2009, she became the first female to officiate a bowl game.

Having former athletes succeed in the professional sports world isn’t new for the University of Mobile.

Former UMobile baseball players J.C. Romero, Joe Espada, Saul Rivera and Kyle McPherson have all reached the

Major Leagues, while Espada currently serves as the New York Yankees’ 3rd base coach. In 2008, five current and former softball players competed in the Summer Olympics for the Venezuelan National Team. Former UMobile men’s soccer player Michael Azira plays for the Seattle Sounders of the MLS and former Ram Deshorn Brown was recently transferred from the Colorado Rapids to Valerenga. Former women’s soccer players Anne Stangeland-Horpestad and Danielle Small faced each other in the 2007 Women’s World Cup, playing for Norway and Australia, respectively.

For more information about athletics at the University of Mobile, visit umobilerams.com or call 251.442.2278. RR

New York Times Bestselling Author Bob Goff Speaks To UMobile Students

By Trey Taulbee Bob Goff is an anomaly. The New York Times bestselling author of “Love Does” is an attorney by trade, sharing leadership in a Washington law firm, Goff & Dewalt. He is the founder of human-rights organization Restore International, which fights for freedom and improves educational opportunities in Uganda, India and Somalia. He serves as the honorary consul for the Republic of Uganda to the United States. He has shared meals with countless world leaders in his own home and built schools for the needy in countries across the world. He is also an adjunct professor at Pepperdine Law School and Point Loma Nazarene University. On April 1, he was the guest speaker for Chapel on UMobile’s campus.

Students were skeptical as Goff stepped on stage sporting an eye patch that April Fool’s day. But what the students didn’t know was that just a week prior, Goff had been in Iraq building a school when he woke up with a detached retina.

“I think He wants us to live right on the edge of ‘yikes’ – because you’ll actually need Him.” Bob Goff “I’m telling you – if I get a glass eye, let’s go play marbles!” Goff quipped.

In quick-witted and engaging fashion, Goff continued to share several of his unbelievable life adventures, taking students from belly laughter to pin-drop whispers. With each story, he challenged students out of a life of comfort and into a journey of abandonment with Jesus.

“Comfortable people don’t need Jesus,” Goff said. “I think He wants us to live right on the edge of ‘yikes’ – because you’ll actually need Him.” Moments before he prayed, Goff simply charged to “Love everybody, always.”

“Our job: lift people up – right to the feet of Christ,” said Goff.

It was an extraordinary address, and as Goff walked off the stage he received

a unanimous standing ovation.

Each student that signed up received a copy of his bestselling book, “Love Does.”

Through the book purchase profits, UMobile will play a part with Goff in building a school in Mongolia.

This year’s Chapel also featured speakers Gabe Lyons, co-founder of the Catalyst Conference; Joy Eggerichs, director of Love and Respect Now; Dr. Denny Burk, associate professor of Biblical Studies and Ethics at Boyce College; Mike Donehey, lead singer of Dove-Award-winning band Tenth Avenue North; Christopher Yuan of the Moody Bible Institute; Dr. Jeff Van Duzer, provost at Seattle Pacific University; and Trillia Newbell, author of “United. Captured by God’s Vision for Diversity.” RR

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RRNEWS University of Mobile Students Receive Leadership Awards at 10th Annual Leadership Banquet The University of Mobile presented leadership awards to eight outstanding students during the 10th annual University of Mobile Leadership Banquet April 30, featuring a keynote address by Dr. Ben Carson.

Kaysie Meacham receives Dr. Ben Carson Leadership Award from University of Mobile President Dr. Mark Foley.

The University of Mobile presented leadership awards to eight outstanding students during the 10th annual University of Mobile Leadership Banquet April 30, featuring a keynote address by Dr. Ben Carson.

To mark the 10th anniversary of the annual fundraiser, the university presented awards to students selected by professors in their academic areas Criteria included demonstrated responsibility to God and others, and a self-sacrificing spirit; leadership and academic achievement.

The top leadership award, the Dr. Ben Carson Leadership Award, was presented to Kaysie Meacham, a junior in the School of Education double majoring in elementary and early childhood education. Meacham received a $5,000 award from the university.

“Kaysie has a heart for helping others,” wrote UMobile education professor Dr. Sue Gober in her nomination. Kaysie has worked as an emergency medical responder for Atmore Ambulance while attending school full time, has taught English as a Second Language through the Mobile Baptist Association, served on three mission trips with UMobile teams, and with husband Alex is working with the non-profit Hope of the Nations ministry with a goal of starting churches for 66 nationalities in the Mobile area.

Presidential Leadership Award winners received $1,000 awards.

Award recipients are:

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John T. “Tad” Borowski, nominated by the School of Business. Tad is double majoring in music and accounting, plans to complete both a bachelor’s degree and Master of Business Administration. He creates opportunities for ministry through his music and the business world, such as starting Zero Hour Entertainment for event planning and entertainment booking with Christian musicians.

Richard DeShields, nominated by Adult and Professional Studies. Richard is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration while raising a family, working a full-time job in a management position, and starting a new church, Victor in the Word Ministry. Richard served with the United States Army for six years.

Abbie George, nominated by the School of Worship Leadership. Abbie is double majoring in English and worship leadership with a concentration in church ministry. In addition to being involved in the Honors Program, Abbie was a featured soloist in the university’s Christmas Spectacular concert and the school’s 8Eighty Records live worship recording, and has an original song featured on the latest song writers’ project by 8Eighty Records.

Tinsley Griffin, nominated by the College of Arts and Sciences. A political science major, Tinsley is incoming SGA vice president, is instrumental in forming the Mock Trial Club, and helps lead events in the Honors Program. She has won awards for her role as attorney at the American Mock Trial Association tournament two consecutive years.

Nathanael Hicks, nominated by the

School of Music. Nathanael is pursuing a Bachelor of Music in voice. He was selected to be a young artist with Mobile Opera and sang in both of their full productions, along with other concerts.

He has had significant roles university concerts and opera productions, and was a featured soloist in the school’s recent production of “Saviour.”

Austin Lovette, nominated by the School of Christian Ministries. A theology major, Austin volunteers between 2030 hours per week at Chickasaw High School where he helps at-risk teenagers with transportation, tutoring and encouragement. He is team leader for the SCM Chickasaw Outreach Team and started a Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter at Chickasaw High School that averages over 50 students per week in attendance.

Courtney Rhinehart, nominated by the School of Nursing. Courtney is a junior in her first year of clinical nursing courses. She is an officer in the student nursing association and is involved in student government. She works three jobs during the summer, and volunteers at local recreational parks and schools.

For information about the University of Mobile, visit www.umobile.edu or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222. RR

WOMEN’S SOCCER SCHEDULE

VOLLEYBALL SCHEDULE Date Aug. 29 Aug. 29 Sept. 4-5 Sept. 11 Sept. 12 Sept. 12 Sept. 18 Sept. 19 Sept. 22 Sept. 25 Sept. 29 Oct. 2 Oct. 5 Oct. 6 Oct. 9 Oct. 10 Oct. 16 Oct. 17 Oct. 17 Oct. 23 Oct. 24 Oct. 27 Oct. 31 Oct. 31 Nov. 3 Nov. 6 Nov. 7

Opponent Location Xavier University TBA Wayland Baptist University TBA Faulkner University Tournament *Faulkner University Home *Dalton State College Home Tougaloo University Home *Brewton Parker College Away *Coastal College of Georgia Away Spring Hill College Away *Brenau University Home Loyola University Away Xavier University Home *Martin Methodist University TBA *Bethel College Away *Brewton Parker College Home *Coastal College of Georgia Home *Brenau University Away Bryan College Away Truett-McConnell Away *Martin Methodist University Home Bethel College Home *Loyola University Home Philander Smith College Away Tougaloo College Away Spring Hill College Home * Faulkner University Away Dalton State College Away

Nov. 12-14 SSAC Tournament Away T.B.A. NAIA National Tournament Away * denotes Southern States Athletic Conference match

Time TBA TBA TBA 7:30 TBA TBA TBA TBA 7:00 7:30 TBA 7:30 TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA 7:30 7:30 7:30 TBA TBA 7:30 TBA TBA T.B.A. T.B.A

Aug. 2 Aug. 22 Aug. 28 Aug. 29 Sept. 4 Sept. 6 Sept. 1

Sept. 11 Sept. 12 Sept. 12 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 3 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 24 Oct. 29 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Nov. 12 Nov. 14 Nov. 30

John Brown University Home Thomas University (GA) Home St. Thomas University (FL) Away Northwood (FL) Away St. Thomas University (TX) Away Univ. of Houston at Victoria Away William Carey vs.

Olivet Nazarene University Away Cumberland (TN) Away William Carey vs. Cumberland (TN) Olivet Nazarene University TBA University of Georgia Gwinnett Home *Martin Methodist College Home *Bethel University (TN) Home *Brenau Universtiy Away *Auburn Univ. Montgomery Home *Middle Georgia State College Away *Brewton-Parker College Away *Faulkner University Away *William Carey University Home SSAC 1st Round Game SSAC Semi-Finals SSAC Championship Game NAIA National Tournament Round of 16

5:00 5:00 TBA 4:00 TBA 11:00 4:30 4:30 4:30 4:30 7:00 5:00 5:00 5:30 5:00 5:00 TBA TBA 5:00 TBA TBA TBA TBA

MEN’S SOCCER SCHEDULE Aug. 21 Aug. 22 Aug. 29 Sept. 4 Sept. 6 Sept. 11 Sept. 12 Sept. 18 Sept. 22 Sept. 25 Oct. 1 Oct. 3 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 24 Oct. 29 Oct. 31

Florida Memorial University John Brown University Louisiana College SWCU Univ. of Houston at Victoria St. Thomas (Texas) Northwestern Iowa Thomas University (GA) West Florida LSUA *Martin Methodist College *Bethel University (TN) *Dalton State *Auburn Univ. Montgomery *Middle Georgia College *Brewton-Parker College *Faulkner University *William Carey University

Home Home Away Away Away Home Home Away Home Away Home Home Away Home Away Away Away Home

7:30 7:30 5:00 TBA 1:00 5:00 7:30 7:30 7:30 4:30 7:30 7:30 TBA 7:30 TBA TBA 7:30 7:30 umobile.edu 17

W

hen Dr. Ben Carson spoke at the 10th annual University of Mobile Leadership Banquet just four days before announcing his candidacy for president of the United States, he said the university has something the nation needs.

“I want to talk a little bit tonight about our nation. It would be in good shape if the whole nation had the values of this school and the young people I have met here today, and the president and the professors,” Carson said.

The renowned pediatric neurosurgeon who has become an influential national leader shared the inspiring story of his rise from poverty to the heights of his profession, during the gala that raised more than $163,000 for university-funded scholarships. Performances by Voices of Mobile, RamCorps and Welsh Revival ensembles from the UMobile Center for Performing Arts entertained the audience of more than 1,200 who had gathered April 30 to support the university and hear from a man then-speculated to be just days away from throwing his hat into the ring Carson followed in the footsteps of previous high-powered influential leaders that have shared their insights and experiences at the Christian university’s leadership banquet. Previous speakers have included former President George W. Bush, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice,

By Kathy Dean Photos by G.M. Andrews

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“Be courageous.

Be willing to stand up for what you believe in.” Ben Carson Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, former Arkansas Gov. and current presidential candidate Mike Huckabee, retired Col. Oliver North, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Newt Gingrich, former Georgia Gov. and retired U.S. Sen. Zell Miller, and New York Times best-selling author Andy Andrews.

Carson touched on a variety of topics: self-sufficiency and hard work, investing in others, the individual’s responsibility to be well-informed, the importance of education, faith, government inefficiency and waste, the economy, the environment, national defense, and the potential

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Americans have to solve a myriad of problems by using the complex, wonderful brains that God created.

“With those amazing brains that He has given us, we also have the ability to solve the many problems that plague us today and that threaten our future and the future of our children,” Carson said.

Be Courageous Prior to the banquet at the Mobile Convention Center on Mobile’s waterfront, Carson met privately with UMobile student leaders and UMobile President Dr. Mark Foley.

During their 45-minute conversation, UMobile students gave Carson a glimpse of what they thought made the university special.

Incoming Student Government Association President Kayla Litton said the university “does a really excellent job of preparing us for the real world…academically pushing and at the same time spiritually preparing us.”

A student asked whether it was more important to represent one’s faith or one’s constituents when the two are at odds.

“I always go with my faith,” Carson said, adding that he aspires to be a leader, not a politician.

Asked what advice he would give to the next generation of leaders, Carson responded, “Be courageous.

Be willing to stand up for what you believe in.”

On his way to a private reception with many of the university’s major donors, Carson spoke briefly with media. Responding to questions about the nation’s challenges, he cited a lack of leadership that results in a nation

like “a third-grade classroom with no teacher.”

“There are all kinds of skirmishes breaking out. That’s what tends to happen when you don’t have leadership,” he told reporters.

He added, “I believe that the country is in big trouble right now. We need to become a people of principle once again.”

A Success Story Carson’s resume is impressive – made even more so as he told stories during the evening of growing up in poverty and his mother’s determination to be self-sufficient.

The recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, Carson is an emeritus professor of neurosurgery, oncology, plastic surgery and pediatrics at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where he directed pediatric neurosurgery at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center for 29 years.

Career highlights include the first and only successful separation of craniopagus (Siamese) twins joined at the back of the head in 1987, the first completely successful separation of type-2 vertical craniopagus twins in 1997 in South Africa and the first successful placement of an intrauterine shunt for a hydrocephalic twin.

Carson holds more than 60 honorary doctorate degrees and has received hundreds of awards and citations. He sits on the board of directors of numerous organizations, including Kellogg Company, Costco Wholesale Corporation, the Academy of Achievement and is an Emeritus

‘We Prepare Track-Layers for a Nation’

By Kathy Dean How do you turn a moving train? What if that train is the American culture and the track is unstable, the foundation has eroded, and all the people you love are aboard? Is the only outcome a horrible train wreck?

That was the scenario posed by University of Mobile President Dr. Mark Foley as he addressed more than 1,200 UMobile supporters at the 10th annual Leadership Banquet on April 30.

The answer, he said, lies in the mission and purpose of the University of Mobile.

“You can gather a group of clear-thinking, committed, talented people; move well out in front of the train; repair the eroded foundation; and lay new track that gently leads the train in a new direction,” Foley said.

“We prepare track-layers for a nation – men and women who have mastered a body of knowledge according to the degree they seek; who know what they believe and why they believe it; who possess the willingness and the skill to use their influence in appropriate and effective ways to change the world in which they live and work – track-layers,” he said.

‘We Will Serve the Lord’ Foley said it is an interesting time in American history.

“Whether viewed from the perspective of economics or social policy or international engagement or spiritual condition, we have moved to a critical pivot point upon which our nation will turn for better or worse,” he said.

He asked: • What is it in which you believe?

• What is it to which you hold so tightly that you will not be shaken from it?

• What is it that you seek so desperately that you will sacrifice anything to hold it?

“I think that when a great nation arrives at a point such as that we now face, a point upon which the matter of greatness swings in the wind, these are the kinds of questions we must Continued on page 33

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Fellow of the Yale Corporation, the governing body of Yale University. He was appointed in 2004 by President George W. Bush to serve on the President’s Council on Bioethics.

He has spoken twice during the President’s National Prayer Breakfast, in 1997 and 2013.

In 2001, Carson was named by CNN and TIME magazine as one of the nation’s 20 foremost physicians and scientists. That same year, he was selected by the Library of Congress as one of 89 “Living Legends” on the occasion of its 200th anniversary. He is also the recipient of the 2006 Spingarn Medal, which is the highest honor bestowed by the NAACP. In February 2008, Carson was presented with the Ford’s Theatre Lincoln Medal by President Bush at the White House. In June 2008, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by the President, which is the highest civilian honor in the land.

In 2009, the award-winning movie, titled “Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson

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Story,” starring Cuban Gooding Jr. as Carson, premiered on TNT and is based on his memoir.

Carson is president and co-founder of the Carson Scholars Fund, which recognizes young people of all backgrounds for exceptional academic and humanitarian accomplishments.

The Fund is currently operating in 50 states and the District of Columbia, having awarded more than $6.2 million dollars to more than 6,200 scholars. The program also establishes Carson Reading Rooms to encourage young students and their families to discover the pleasure to be found in books and to recognize the true power of learning.

His first four books, Gifted Hands; THINK BIG; The Big Picture; and Take the Risk: Learning to Identify, Choose and Live with Acceptable Risk, provide inspiration and insight for leading a successful life. A fifth book, America The Beautiful: Rediscovering What Made This Nation Great, was released in early 2012 and made

Track-Layers Continued ask ourselves,” he said.

He answered the question for himself and his wife, Marilyn, with a borrowed phrase: “As for us and our house – as for the university for which I hold responsibility – we will serve the Lord, and we will seek to expand the influence of God in this land by any and every means possible.

“For there is no greatness apart from that.”

The president thanked the audience for joining with the university in providing a portion of the more than $10 million in university-funded financial aid awarded to UMobile students each year. Each scholarship makes a significant impact in the life of a student.

“There are 1,600 students at the University of Mobile, and there are 1,600 stories. Some of those stories would move you beyond words,” he said.

Honoring the Track-Layers To mark the 10th anniversary of the annual fundraiser, Foley presented awards to students selected by professors in their academic areas Criteria included demonstrated responsibility to God and others, and a self-sacrificing spirit; leadership and academic achievement.

The top leadership award, the Dr. Ben Carson Leadership Award, was presented to Kaysie Meacham, a junior in the School of Education double majoring in elementary and early childhood education. Meacham received a $5,000 award from the university.

“Kaysie has a heart for helping others,” wrote UMobile education professor Dr. Sue Gober in her nomination. Kaysie has worked as an emergency medical responder for Atmore Ambulance while attending school full time, has taught English as a Second Language through the Mobile Baptist Association, served on three mission trips with UMobile teams, and with husband Alex is working with the nonprofit Hope of the Nations ministry with a goal of starting churches for 66 nationalities in the Mobile area.

Presidential Leadership Award winners received $1,000 awards. Award recipients are: John T. “Tad” Borowski, nominated by the School of Business. A junior double majoring in music and accounting who plans to pursue a Master of Business Administration, Tad creates opportunities for ministry through his music and the business world, such as starting Zero Hour Entertainment for event planning and entertainment booking with Christian musicians.

Richard DeShields, nominated by Adult and Professional Studies. Richard is a junior pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration while raising a family, working a full-time job in a management position, and starting a new Continued on page 35

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“I rapidly came to understand that the person who has most to do with what happens to you in life is you – it’s not somebody else.” Ben Carson The New York Times Best Seller List in 2013. His sixth book, One Nation: What We Can All Do To Save America’s Future, was released in May 2014 and has also made The New York Times Best Seller List. His seventh and latest book, One Vote: Make Your Voice Heard, was released in September 2014.

Carson has been married for over 39 years to his wife, Candy; is the father of three adult sons and has two grandchildren.

‘A Dismal Existence’ Carson said his mother, Sonya, was one of 24 children growing up in rural Tennessee. She never had a stable home and received bits and pieces of education up to the third grade, then nothing more. She married at age 13 to escape that life, and moved with her husband to Detroit in search of a future. Once there, she discovered that her husband was a bigamist with another family, so she was left as a single parent with two young sons to raise.

She moved the family to Boston to live with an older sister and brotherin-law.

“It was a typical tenement,” Carson recalled, “a large multi-family dwelling, boarded up windows and doors, sirens and gangs, murder. I remember seeing people lying on the ground with bullet holes and stab wounds. Both of my older cousins, whom we adored, were killed.

“I remember as a nine-year-old… thinking about my future, thinking I probably wouldn’t live past 25 years of age, because that’s what I saw.

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“It was a very dismal existence.”

His mother worked two, sometimes three jobs. She would take her sons to the country on the weekend and knock on a farmer’s door, offering to pick four bushels of whatever was growing – three for the farmer and one for her, which she would can. She saved her nickels and dimes, and was so thrifty that “I’m convinced if my mother was secretary of the treasury, we would not have a deficit situation,” Carson quipped.

“The reason she worked so hard was that she didn’t want to be dependent. She was very observant and she noticed that most of the people who went on Welfare never got off it,” he said.

His mother realized her goal of becoming independent and moving back to Detroit, but she had another

challenge – two sons who were terrible students.

“I thought I was really stupid, and everyone else agreed,” Carson said.

His mother insisted her sons become well-informed and educated, but didn’t know how to accomplish that.

“So she prayed to God and asked God to give her the wisdom to know what to do. That’s the wonderful thing about God; you don’t have to have a Ph.D. to talk to Him, you just have to have faith.

“She had the faith that He would give her the wisdom, and He did – at least in her opinion. My brother and I didn’t think it was wise at all – turning off the TV – what kind of wisdom is that? Making us read two books from the Detroit Public Library every week and submit to her two written book reports – which she couldn’t read, but

Track-Layers Continued church, Victory in the Word Ministry. Richard served with the United States Army for six years.

Abbie George, nominated by the School of Worship Leadership. Abbie is a freshman double majoring in English and worship leadership with a concentration in church ministry. In addition to being involved in the Honors Program, Abbie was a featured soloist in the university’s Christmas Spectacular concert and the school’s 8Eighty Records live worship recording, and has an original song featured on the latest song writers’ project by 8Eighty Records.

Tinsley Griffin, nominated by the College of Arts and Sciences. A junior political science major, Tinsley is incoming SGA vice president, was instrumental in forming the Mock Trial Club, and helps lead events in the Honors Program. She has won awards for her role as attorney at the American Mock Trial Association tournament two consecutive years.

Nathanael Hicks, nominated by the School of Music. Nathanael is a freshman pursuing a Bachelor of Music in voice. He was selected to be a young artist with Mobile Opera and sang in both of their full productions, along with other concerts.

He has had significant roles in university concerts and opera productions, and was a featured soloist in the school’s recent production of “Saviour.”

we didn’t know that.”

Carson said between the covers of those books he found he could escape the poverty he hated; he could go anywhere, be anybody, do anything – there was no limitation as long as you could read and had an imagination.

Within a year and a half he moved from the bottom of his class to the top.

“I rapidly came to understand that the person who has most to do with what happens to you in life is you – it’s not somebody else. And that meant I didn’t have to live in poverty.

That meant I could have any lifestyle I wanted.

“That’s why Candy and I stress education so much. It is the great divide in our nation. It doesn’t matter what a person’s ethnicity or economic background; if they get a good education, they can write their

own ticket. That is still the case in America. There are no victims if one avails oneself of those opportunities,” he said.

My Brothers’ Keeper Carson wove into the story of his life the ideas that he is championing at the national level. Among those is the idea of investing in people to break the cycle of poverty.

“In the ’60s, Lyndon Johnson and his cohorts said ‘we’re going to have a war on poverty, we’re going to fix all these things,’ and they started throwing money at it. But what did those trillions and trillions of dollars do that they threw at the problem?

In 1969, 1.4 percent of the population was on food stamps. Today it’s over 14 percent, a 10-fold increase. There’s

Austin Lovette, nominated by the School of Christian Ministries. A junior theology major, Austin volunteers between 20-30 hours per week at Chickasaw High School where he helps at-risk teenagers with transportation, tutoring and encouragement. He is team leader for the SCM Chickasaw Outreach Team and started a Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter at Chickasaw High School that averages over 50 students per week in attendance.

Courtney Rhinehart, nominated by the School of Nursing. Courtney is a junior in her first year of clinical nursing courses.

She is an officer in the student nursing association and is involved in student government. She works three jobs during the summer, and volunteers at local recreational parks and schools.

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“You cannot be free if you’re not brave…”

Ben Carson

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more poverty, more broken families, more incarceration. Everything this Welfare was supposed to do made things worse, not better.

“So what do intelligent people do? They don’t sit around and just demonize the people that created the failing programs. They use the intellect God has given them to say, ‘what works?’” he said.

Carson described a variety of programs that help people get off the streets, off drugs, into drugs and moving in a positive direction.

“I’m talking about people investing in people,” he said. “This is a way we will solve our problems in this country. We will never solve it with the government just throwing money at it; that will always make the situation worse. What will save us is when we recognize that we are our brothers’ keepers and it is the personal relationships, not just the money, that makes the difference and can save this nation.”

Carson said that doesn’t mean withdrawing all support from everyone, but it does mean that, over the course of time, less people will need that support.

Following are more highlights from the address that had audiences responding with applause or laughter throughout.

On Faith “There’s no need to be ashamed of our faith in God,” he said, adding that the phrase “In God We Trust” is on the nation’s money, “Under God” is in the Pledge of Allegiance, and our nation’s founding document, the Declaration of Independence, talks about certain inalienable rights given

to us by our Creator, a.k.a. God. “Why do we have to be ashamed?

We need to be able to stand up for who we are. Our president says we are not a Judeo-Christian nation, but he doesn’t get to decide that. We get to decide what kind of nation we are,” Carson said.

On Education Our system of governance is based upon having a well-informed and well-educated populace, and that is a reason our founders were adamant about education, Carson said.

“They recognized that people who are uninformed would not be able to decipher the truth from a lie, and they would be easy to manipulate – they would fall easy prey to dishonest politicians and biased news media.

Unfortunately, we see plenty of that today. It’s reached a point where the deception and lies that come from our so-called leaders are expected by the people.

“But it doesn’t have to be that way. It’s that way because we accept it…It is time now for the people to re-establish themselves by becoming well-informed and to stand up for what they believe in. That’s what will save America.”

On Political Correctness “First of all, recognize that we the American people are not each others’ enemies. Those purveyors of division have been very successful in silencing us, in keeping us from talking about issues through the imposition of political correctness, while they change the very fabric and underpinnings of our society, and we’re not even supposed to talk about

Veritas

Has ‘Incredible Opportunity’ When the contemporary-classical vocal group Veritas sang at a conference in Houston early this year, they impressed a future presidential candidate who was also on the conference agenda.

But it still was a surprise when the campaign manager for Dr. Ben Carson called in April with a request: would they sing on May 4 when Carson announced his candidacy for president of the United States?

“It was unreal,” said Scott Lawrence ’10, one of four University of Mobile graduates in the five-member group. “It was a pretty incredible opportunity.”

Scott said the announcement was being streamed live and more than a million people were expected to be watching it, and over 2,000 people were at the Detroit Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts where Carson made it official. There were over 40 media outlets covering the event, and several carried the musical performance.

Veritas sang “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and “An American Anthology,” a trilogy of patriotic songs on their latest self-titled album.

It’s an album that Lawrence has been told is a favorite of Carson and his wife.

“He told us our CD was on ‘repeat’ in his car,” Scott said.

While this was their first performance on the political stage, it may not be their last.

“The very first time we met him, he smiled and said ‘if we make it to the White House, you guys will definitely be singing at the inauguration,” Scott said.

Veritas also includes Andrew Goodwin ’10, James Berrian ’10, Jordan Johnson ’11 and Jeff Anderson. For more information about this group that got its start at the University of Mobile, visit veritasfive.com.

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We have a lot of people who denigrate our nation, talk about how evil it is, how we’re behind all the problems in the world, and the things that we’ve done in the past. And yet, we have a lot of people still trying to get in here and not too many people trying to escape. That should tell you something.”

it. Don’t say anything against whatever is decided to be the politically correct way of saying things.

“There were a lot of people who gave their lives so we could say what we want to say in this country.

Are we going to let their sacrifices go to naught and just cower and be silent? I can tell you for sure that’s what the secular progressives want. They don’t care whether you agree with them or not, as long as you keep your mouth shut.

And as long as you keep your mouth shut, they can continue to change the fabric of society.”

On the Economy “We have the highest corporate tax rates in the developed world, and our secretary of the treasury criticizes American companies for doing business overseas. He says ‘you’re trying to avoid our taxes, you’re unpatriotic.’ What an idiotic

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statement. It means you know nothing about business, you know nothing about capitalism.

“People don’t go into business to support the government. They go into business to make money. So a wise government would obviously do the things that create an environment that’s conducive to entrepreneurial investment, capital investment, risk-taking. Those are the things that created this dynamic economic engine.”

On the American Dream “America is still a land of dreams.

On Freedom “There is no single leader who can solve our problems.

‘We the People’ are at the pinnacle of power in our nation…

“Now the question is what are we willing to do for those who come behind us, because the baton of freedom now resides within our hands. We are the ones who will make the determination.

“Will we capitulate to secular progressivism, to those who feel that the government is the answer to everything, or will we preserve this as the beacon of freedom for the world, a place where the people are the central focus, where their rights are the central focus, a place where we allow the values and principles that put us on the pinnacle of the world to be the continuing guide for the people we are?

“We must remember, freedom is not free – you have to fight for it every day,” he said. Remember the last stanza of our national anthem, The Star Spangled Banner – land of the free and home of the brave.

“You cannot be free if you’re not brave,” he concluded. RR

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By Kathy Dean Photo courtesy of The American Bible Challenge

What are the three constellations named in Job 9:9?

It’s hard enough to answer that question without looking up the verse. Try answering it on national television with cameras zoomed in for a close-up, two teams of Bible scholars standing beside you hoping – even praying – that you don’t know, and world-famous comedian Jeff Foxworthy waiting on your answer.

“I can’t phone a friend, can I?” asked Seth Brasher, flanked by fellow University of Mobile students Harrison Hughes and Kory Van Matre.

“Nope,” Foxworthy said. “That’s a totally different show.”

This is The American Bible Challenge, a fun, spirited game show that celebrates the Bible, its teachings, relevance and place in American culture.

Teams of Bible enthusiasts from across the country compete in a variety of challenges, putting their knowledge of the Bible to the test in humorous, inspiring and educational ways, according to the Game Show Network.

The American Bible Challenge has been described as the most popular show on GSN since its debut in 2012. The fast-paced show is hosted

by Foxworthy, the largest-selling comedy recording artist in history, a multiple Grammy Award nominee and best-selling author of 11 books.

Musical co-host is Kirk Franklin, a Grammy Award winner and multiplatinum-selling musician and producer.

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“From the beginning, I wanted this show to be a place where others could see faith in action, and the fact that these guys are so young and yet living out what they believe was really encouraging.” Jeff Foxworthy

The UMobile team, dubbed “Rhymz with Grace,” was in the final round and just a few more questions away from a possible $100,000 for the charity of their choice.

When the confetti rained down on the winning team, it didn’t fall on Rhymz with Grace. But second place in a Bible competition on national TV, along with a hefty $45,000 for their chosen charity, put these young men in a winner’s circle all their own.

“Rhymz with Grace is one of my favorite teams we’ve ever had on the show,” said Foxworthy. “From the beginning, I wanted this show to be a place where others could see faith in action, and the fact that these guys are so young and yet living out what they believe was really encouraging.”

Casting Call It started with a music video poking gentle fun at self-righteous Christians.

Worship Leadership majors Brasher, Hughes and Van Matre made a video in February 2013. Titled “Thrift Shop – Christian Remix,” the YouTube video is a redone version of the popular rap song “Thrift Shop” by the artists Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. Instead of the original raunchy lyrics, the UMobile trio used the catchy beat to make a point that struck a chord with Christian youth groups across the country.

“We’re making fun of Christians who boast about their good deeds instead of living out a life of faith,” explained Hughes, whose academic

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concentration in film was key to producing the video. With the tag line, “I’m an awesome Christian,” the video takes a tongue-in-cheek look at some of the more pretentiously pious ways people spotlight their good deeds.

Fast-forward a year later and the video had over 858,000 views, including one by a casting agent for The American Bible Challenge. The Los Angeles-based agent tracked Brasher down through Facebook and called his cell phone.

“I was a little skeptical,” Brasher said. When he received an email with the show’s logo and detailed information, he told Hughes and Van Matre, “Oh wow, this is legit!”

The students were asked to audition in Atlanta for season three of the show, but their classwork and busy touring schedules as members of several of the school’s Center for Performing Arts music and worship ensembles made a personal appearance impossible.

Instead, the casting agent arranged a three-hour Skype interview, complete with Bible trivia questions.

The best friends were asked to joke around, show their personalities, and share their testimonies of faith.

Hughes taped the interview, which was sent to the TV show’s producers and edited into a highlights tape used to promote the show.

The show’s producers had an image in mind for the students – part Jonas Brothers, part cool college kids. It was a way to clearly define for the

audience who they were, what they did, and why the audience should like them, Brasher explained.

The producers took a pass on Brasher’s idea for a group name – Boaz and the Kinsman Redeemers – and chose instead Rhymz with Grace.

The name played off the group’s rap video, Harrison said, meaning that the students were able to make compelling rhymes by God’s grace.

The Competition Rhymz with Grace was among 18 teams that would be playing to win money for a charity. They chose Home of Grace for Women, a Christ-centered alcohol and drug recovery program in nearby Eight Mile, AL. Harrison and Van Matre were members of the brass and percussion ensemble RamCorps that volunteered for several years at Home of Grace, working on landscaping and cleaning as part of Project Serve, the university’s annual day of service.

A video crew arrived on campus in November 2013, taping the team during a RamCorps outdoor concert, plus taping in-depth personal interviews. During the next few weeks the team added to their already significant biblical knowledge, studying with Dr. Doug Wilson, dean of the School of Christian Ministries.

Soon, they were in Los Angeles for a week-long experience that pitted them against other teams, most of which included pastors or other older, learned members.

From left: Seth Brasher, Harrison Hughes, Kory Van Matre.

Photo by Kathy Dean

“We were the epitome of the underdogs. We were the youngest team – the oldest of us was 21. Everybody else had a pastor on their team,” said Brasher. As a three-time Bible drill champion in his youth, Brasher was the “Bible guru” of the team. Other teams included former beauty queens, motorcycle-riding priests, police officers and Mormon moms.

Challenges put the contestant’s spiritual and physical talents to the

test with categories that include “Christ or Klingon” in which contestants must guess whether words are from the Bible or Star Trek’s Klingon language; “Curse You Autocorrect” where contestants must decipher a typed Bible passage that has been “autocorrected;” and “Nazareth Enquirer” with sensational Biblical headlines that could have appeared in a tabloid.

More than a Game Their biggest concern was in knowing that “we were representing the school, and we were going to do our best not to look like idiots,” Brasher said.

Their most stressful moment came the first day when they were to perform an original rap song – they hoped it wouldn’t bomb. That moment turned from nerve-wracking to magical when Kirk Franklin was their beat boxer.

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“For me, it’s God showing us through the smallest things that He can make the biggest thing come out of it,” Harrison Hughes

Kory Van Matre watches the semi-finals show of The American Bible Challenge with women from Home of Grace. Photo courtesy of AL.com/Sharon Steinmann

The team said the unusual opportunity gives them a broader platform to share not only their musical talents, but something much more important.

“For me, it’s God showing us through the smallest things that He can make the biggest thing come out of it,” Hughes said.

The impact goes beyond appearing as contestants on a game show, they said.

“We don’t see this as a game. It’s an opportunity, first and foremost, to share the Gospel, and secondly to provide for those ladies at the Home of Grace in a way we never could if not for the show,” Brasher said. “We

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have a mission, and it’s nothing to do with the game show and everything to do with Jesus Christ.”

Photo by Dan Anderson

Mighty Ministry Doris Wood-Littleton, founder and executive director of Home of Grace, said she is “overwhelmed by their goodness.”

The $45,000 in winnings will replace the 32-year-old floor in the building that serves as the cafeteria and chapel for the Christian center dedicated to helping women suffering from alcohol or drug abuse.

“They could go overseas and do mission work, but there is also a mission right here that puts women

back with families, mothers back with their children, mothers with tears streaming down their face saying ‘thank you for giving my daughter back to me,’” Wood-Littleton said.

“I just love them because of their dedication to God and His work.

I know God is going to use them mightily in their ministry,” she said.

The Biggest Blessings When the whirlwind ride was over, the trio of friends had some

Rhymz With Grace presents a check to Doris Wood-Littleton representing their winnings that will replace deteriorated flooring at Home of Grace.

time to reflect on their “15 minutes of fame” – what it taught them, how it affected them, and where they will go from here. They are keeping it all in perspective.

“If that’s all we’re ever known for, we’ll have lived a shameful life,” Brasher said.

Each intends to use his moment

Doris Wood-Littleton hugs Van Matre after the team advanced to the final competition.

Photo courtesy of AL.com/Sharon Steinmann

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Video crew from The American Bible Challenge came to the University of Mobile in November 2013 to shoot a promotional video for Rhymz With Grace’s upcoming appearance.

Photos by Kathy Dean

“But the things that stood out most was when we were learning ‘why’ rather than ‘what.’ That was the biggest blessing.

He was teaching us and reminding us to fall in love with the Bible all over again.”

Seth Brasher

in the spotlight as a tool for sharing Christ.

Van Matre said one thing his experience shows is that God can use anyone in any way – even through something as unexpected as a music video and a television game show.

“Don’t anybody ever doubt who God can use,” Van Matre said.

Brasher said the time they spent studying the Bible with Dr. Wilson taught them much more than Bible trivia.

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“We were studying hard, we took practice tests,” Brasher said. “But the things that stood out most was when we were learning ‘why’ rather than ‘what.’ That was the biggest blessing.

He was teaching us and reminding us to fall in love with the Bible all over again.”

Their shared experience taught them not only to continue to place their trust in God, but also to have more faith in their own ability to accomplish great things with His help.

“If I did anything differently, I would bring more than two pairs of underwear and socks. That sums up the kind of faith we had in our team,” Brasher joked, adding that he brought just enough clothes for the flight to Los Angeles and a flight back the next day to Mobile. “I’d have more faith in our team, in all of us as a whole.”

Hughes said what meant the most to him was seeing the faces of the ladies they were able to help, to see the broken tiles on the floor and know

their experience provided the money to fix it.

The Next Season Season three of The American Bible Challenge is over, but the contestants are just getting started in a new season in their lives.

Seth Brasher graduated in May 2014, just before the first show aired.

Last fall he was on the road with the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular, the largest annual Christian music tour in the United States. Brasher was on stage introducing UMobile to prospective college students between sets by some of the nation’s top Christian bands.

He is now serving as music pastor at Sherwood Baptist Church.

Hughes and Van Matre graduated in May 2015. Hughes is now employed with SeventhStory in Nashville and has his own successful photography/ videography business called Harrison’s Lens. Van Matre is now serving at First Baptist Church, Roanoke, VA. One More Thing As for the constellations named in Job 9:9?

The choices were on the board, and it was up to Brasher to pick the three correct ones that would take Rhymz with Grace into the championship round. With tension mounting, he chose: Orion, because his mother always said the three stars in Orion’s belt reminded her of her three children; The Bear, because everyone in Alabama knows about Bear Bryant; And the Pleiades, because that was the longest word.

That may not be how the Bible scholars do it. But it worked. RR

MORE ONLINE Watch the video that started it all. Go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30vyrdhiwwQ or search “Thrift Shop – Christian Remix” on YouTube View the promotional video for Rhymz with Grace at http://www.al.com/living/index.ssf/2014/05/rewind_the_promo_ on_rhymz_with.html Check out Harrison’s photography at harrisonslens.com Listen to Kory’s music at youtube.com/koryvanmatre

Rhymz With Grace was featured on WALA FOX 10 TV’s Studio 10 show. Photo by Kathy Dean

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38 RAMREPORT | FALL 2015

THE

First-Y ear EXPERIENCE

Freshman Survival in

The College Wild

By Trey Taulbee

T

he typical college freshman must survive late-night cram sessions, little sleep, and the dreaded 15-pound weight gain in their new environment.

And UMobile is making sure freshmen students not only survive, but thrive in their first year away from home.

Each new freshman at UMobile is required to enroll in Freshman Seminar. Freshman Seminar is a transition course provided through the office of Student Success and introduces students to college life at UMobile while fostering successful habits and independent responsibility.

Freshman Seminar was initiated in 2003. At the time, Sara Parker was the university counselor and saw firsthand the challenges of freshman integration into college life.

“When I started the program in 2003 it was not just the needs of our freshmen that caught my attention, but a nationwide trend of colleges and universities working to improve student success by focusing on the ‘first-year experience’ of college students,” says Parker.

Today, more than 250 freshmen are integrated into UMobile life through Freshman Seminar, a crucial component of UMobile’s First-Year Experience. Freshmen are placed in different seminar classes that coincide with their Ram Rush Families for new student orientation.

umobile.edu 39

“Through the worksheets, self-assessments and class discussion, Freshman Seminar really showed me peace that I was indeed in God’s will by being at UMobile.” Logan Harvey

are required to conduct self-assessments ranging from personality profiles and strengths-tests to study-habit surveys and learning style inventories. This self-discovery helps students understand their role and place in the college environment.

“Helping students have a ‘sense of belonging’ is crucial to college success,” says Sutterfield.

While Ram Rush offers freshmen an environment to have fun and become acclimated to college life, the reality of responsibility hits during classes the following two weeks.

According to Shirley Sutterfield, director of student retention, the university has experienced major growth in the areas of retention and student engagement. Since the Freshman Seminar program was established in 2003, UMobile’s retention rates have risen significantly above the national average.

“When students are transitioning from high school to college, they need some direct guidance on what that transition looks like,” says Sutterfield.

Throughout the semester, students

40 RAMREPORT | FALL 2015

Finding Their Way University of Mobile counselors believe that creating a safe and nurturing environment for freshmen to succeed will pave the way for college success.

As students progress through the semester, many will add or drop classes, and even change majors. Counselors offer academic success coaching for students that are struggling with classes or need academic direction. Often, they find that a simple change in

students’ study habits or better time management will make a significant improvement in test scores.

Through the continued success of Freshman Seminar, there has been a growing need for individual interaction. The “peer leaders” program was implemented into Freshman Seminar in 2012. These upperclassmen assist the professor with weekly preparation and facilitating discussions in the classroom.

Logan Harvey, a biology major from Crawfordville, FL, was selected as a peer leader for fall semester 2013. She believes Freshman Seminar was a key part of her assimilation into college life.

“Through the worksheets, selfassessments, and class discussion, Freshman Seminar really showed me peace that I was indeed in God’s will by being at UMobile,” says Harvey.

“As a peer leader, I love the fact that I got to invest in the future of UMobile students and teach them the ins and outs of college to ease their transition.”

“Freshman Seminar gave me the knowledge I needed to become an independent student,” says Joel King, a previous peer leader from Montgomery, AL. “As a peer leader, I wanted to give freshmen the best college experience possible, and I believe that starts with freshman year.”

Thriving After College In addition to classroom learning, students are given opportunities

to practice job preparation through interview and resume workshops.

Brenda Davis, coordinator of career development, provides these services to students as a way for them to practice real-world scenarios before they graduate.

“There are two great needs for our freshmen students: verbal skills and written skills,” says Davis. “I want to make sure they can communicate effectively with people.”

Davis also developed a guide booklet called “Freshman Year to Dream Career.” This guide offers a four-year plan covering all aspects of job preparation, including academic planning, campus/community involvement, personal growth, and internship opportunities.

Davis believes there is a strong correlation between these preparations and successful transitions after graduation.

“We want to make sure our students are changing the world,” says Davis.

“But we also want to make sure that our students are changed so that they can integrate appropriately into the workforce.”

Through an institution focused on learning, faith and leadership, Davis wants to see UMobile graduates use their knowledge and influence out in the world and in the workplace.

“We want them to use who they are as God’s gift to change the world– not only for the Kingdom of God, but in their respective fields as well,” she says. RR

Photos by Trey Taulbee

umobile.edu 41

42 RAMREPORT | FALL 2015

By Lesa Moore

‘And what did you learn today?’

F

or the Buscaglia family of Italian immigrants, this was the focal question asked each night at the dinner table. The youngest of four children, author Leo Buscaglia grew up listening to his father insist that to avoid the trap of complacency, one must learn at least one new thing each day.

Dr. Jan Wood read some of Buscaglia’s works while she was in college and was captivated by this concept. It is a philosophy the dean of University of Mobile’s School of Nursing shares with students.

“I tell our students this same thing,” she said. “It is important to seek out new information, embrace the challenges that we face and use them as character-building experiences. It is so gratifying to see the positive outcomes that are a result.

“There is always room for improvement – always things to learn,” Wood added. “I don’t believe we should leave our area of employment without identifying what we have learned that day.”

The learning that takes place in the School of Nursing is aimed at producing positive outcomes through graduates who are highly competent healthcare professionals. The program combines

Dr. Kathy Sheppard, right, works with a nursing student in the lab.

Photos by Kathy Dean umobile.edu 43

Dr. Jan Wood, Dean, School of Nursing

academic and technical expertise with hands-on experience and caring for the complete well-being of others.

Hands-on Learning Having worked directly with nursing students for the past 26 years, Dr. Kathy Sheppard ’85, ’03, associate dean for the School of Nursing, advises incoming students that they should expect to put in a lot of hard work.

“I help students try to understand that from the day they enter the clinical nursing courses, they will spend the next two years studying very hard,” said Sheppard. “But there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

They will be prepared for a career – a ministry – they have only begun to dream about. The price is high, but the reward is even greater.”

Part of what makes the nursing program at the University of Mobile unique is the small class sizes that allow for personalized attention from faculty.

“I truly enjoyed getting to know my classmates and instructors while attending the University of Mobile,” said UMobile graduate Paul Read

44 RAMREPORT | FALL 2015

’98. “The school isn’t so huge that an individual gets lost within the student population. As a registered nurse, the skill of critical thinking is a necessity in providing excellent patient care.

The format utilized by the nursing instructors allowed us, the students, to develop or improve these skills.”

Wood said University of Mobile graduates are well received and sought-after in area hospitals and have consistently been successful on the national licensure exam.

In addition to the stringent program in the classroom and throughout clinicals, students are required to complete 144 hours of work, specializing in an area of their choosing, during their senior year practicum. During this process, students work hands-on with a nurse in an area hospital.

“There has never been a better time to be a nurse,” said Diann Carithers, associate professor of nursing at UMobile. “There is so much progress in the profession. The faculty members here are committed to equipping our students with the knowledge and skills they need to ensure that they can find diverse and

exciting careers in this evolving health care system.”

While clinical exercises are held in several hospitals, much time is spent in UMobile’s new nursing lab on campus. This lab includes the latest technology, including several “SimMan” devices representing adult and pediatric patients, as well as a birthing center.The education process is enhanced by several “SimMan” devices representing adult and pediatric patients, as well as a birthing center. Each “SimMan” provides highly realistic patient simulation which prepares students for a wide variety of scenarios that could occur in real life.

“The technology that is available for today’s nursing students to assist them in learning is fairly remarkable,” said Read, vice president and chief nursing executive for Springhill Medical Center. “The students become familiar with monitors and equipment utilized during patient care. They also have the ability to learn and utilize an electronic medical record. I believe the skills lab allows the student to become comfortable with their surroundings as well as their ability to work the equipment.”

“I frequently work with undergraduate students who, in their first clinical courses, know so little about what they will be doing in their career,” said Sheppard. “By the time they get to the last semester, most have not only academically and clinically matured, but already secured their jobs.”

Lifelong Learning In addition to the traditional Bachelor of Nursing (BSN) degree, the University of Mobile offers a Master of Science degree in Nursing (MSN) and an RN-to-BSN program designed

specifically for adult nurses.

The American Nurses Association encourages hospitals to satisfy certain criteria in relation to the quality and strength of their nursing by awarding Magnet status to those who qualify.

Wood said as more hospitals are seeking this status, there is a greater demand for nurses with bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

The UMobile RN-to-BSN program, offered through Adult and Professional Studies, promotes Friday-only classes to meet the needs of those students who are working full time and want to continue their education. Many of these students are now choosing to stay in school and earn their master’s degree right after graduation.

“We have a strong focus in the MSN program with a dual concentration in administration and education,” said Wood. “This program is unique to UMobile and combines the strongest components of both concentrations into one to fill a need for students who would like the option to pursue either direction.”

Project Serve The knowledge that UMobile’s nursing students receive is not just academic in nature.

“The technology that is available for today’s nursing students to assist them in learning is fairly remarkable.” Paul Read ’98 “The most important thing I would like for students to learn is that every day they are caring for someone’s child,” said Sheppard. “They should deliver care to each person the way they would want it delivered to their loved ones.”

UMobile faculty stress that this caring should not only be shown in the healthcare setting, but through a life of service to the community. The University of Mobile Association of Nursing Students (UMANS) organizes a variety of service projects each year including Thanksgiving baskets and

jacket drives for the homeless, and participation in cancer walks.

During the university’s annual day of service, Project Serve, nursing students have cleaned and painted at a community ballpark, and conducted health screenings at a nursing home.

Learning by Example UMobile nursing faculty lead by example when it comes to individual care.

“One of the most important aspects of the UMobile education is the emphasis we place on the

umobile.edu 45

whole student,” explained Wood.

“Combining high academic standards with an emphasis on individualized student-oriented education from a Christian perspective is what makes us truly unique.”

“We value excellence and

46 RAMREPORT | FALL 2015

innovation in preserving and advancing the nursing profession,” said Carithers. “UMobile faculty strive to be positive role models and caring practitioners that incorporate Christian worldview in both the academic and clinical settings. We

are proud of our profession and are appreciative of the opportunity to train future nursing practitioners and leaders.”

“As our students walk across the stage to receive their diploma, I know them,” said Sheppard. “I know about

their families and the challenges they have overcome to get there. I enjoy that feeling of pride that they have succeeded. They have learned many lessons both academically and personally that will prepare them for a ministry of serving Christ through

serving others.�

These are lessons students can then share with others in their career, or at the dinner table, for years to come. RR

Photos by Dan Anderson

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48 RAMREPORT | FALL 2015

FROM MALAWI TO MOBILE Kingstone Govati ’10

By Renee Busby When Kingstone Govati ’10 left home to pursue a college degree at the University of Mobile, it was especially difficult leaving his family.

He lived in the Republic of Malawi, a country in southeast Africa, thousands of miles away from the University of Mobile.

The distance meant Kingstone couldn’t go home on weekends or holidays to see his father and mother and eight siblings – a close family that was not accustomed to being separated.

“When I came here to the University of Mobile, it was just like there was another family waiting for me,” said Kingstone.

“I fit right in.”

“It didn’t take me long to find my new family,” he said, adding that within the first two months at the school he “had so many friends.”

Kingstone credits evangelist Terry Veazey of Terry Veazey Ministries International in Montgomery, AL for helping him discover UMobile.

Their friendship began in the summer

of 1997 when Veazey went on a mission trip to Malawi with his church’s youth minister. The Americans went to train pastors and church workers in that area of Africa.

They partnered with Kingstone’s father, Alex Govati, a local pastor in Blantyre, Malawi.

During his initial stay in Malawi, Veazey met Alex’s son, Kingstone, for the first time and was immediately struck by his “sweet spirit.”

Veazey recalled driving up to the Govatis’ small house for the first time where 13-year-old Kingstone was standing outside, smiling and greeting the two men from America.

“I was so impressed with him,” Veazey said of the teenage boy. “He was a wonderful young man.”

Before leaving Malawi, Veazey appointed Kingstone’s father as the national coordinator for Terry Veazey Ministries.

Veazey frequently traveled to Malawi to do mission work with the Rev. Govati. Through the years, he

became close to Kingstone.

In 2005 Veazey’s son, Luke, completed his freshman year at the University of Mobile. Veazey thought the school and Kingstone would be a good fit.

“The Lord put it in my heart to see if Kingstone might be interested in coming to the United States and attend the University of Mobile,” said Veazey.

Kingstone had played soccer since he was three years old, and Veazey thought

umobile.edu 49

RRALUMNI “When I came here to the University of Mobile, it was just like there was another family waiting for me. I fit right in.” Kingstone Govati he was good enough in the sport to get a college scholarship.

Due to a shortage of universities in Malawi, Kingstone said it is difficult to get into a college.

“The University only takes 2,000 people out of 30,000 because they don’t have enough colleges,” he said.

Kingstone was not one of the few who had been accepted to the university.

Instead, he went to a smaller alternative college for one year in Malawi, majoring in accounting. But his available college funds ran out and there seemed to be no other options in Malawi.

The Lord worked out all the arrangements from there, Veazey said.

Upon returning to the United States, he asked University of Mobile President Mark Foley to prayerfully consider a scholarship for Kingstone.

Veazey heard back one month later from Foley and the soccer program at the university. They offered Kingstone a scholarship that covered nearly all his expenses.

Though he was nervous about moving to another country, Kingstone said he was grateful for the offer and accepted the athletic scholarship and moved to Mobile.

“God opened the door for me,” Kingstone said.

Overall, he said he adjusted well to living in a different country.

But he did have problems with some things.

“For me it wasn’t very easy eating American food,” he said, adding, “My first year I got sick a lot.”

While he only played soccer for one year, Kingstone was able to remain at the school as a result of an academic scholarship.

He was involved with Campus Life,

50 RAMREPORT | FALL 2015

helping international students thrive at the school. He helped plan and organize events for international students and ensured their needs were met.

Kingstone is still a member of All Nations Community Church in Mobile, where he found a church home that was particularly attuned to ministering to internationals.

“I am involved in the refugee ministry at the church and help out in serving the international students and refugees,” said Kingstone.

He graduated from UMobile’s 5-year Integrated MBA Program, where he earned two degrees in five years – a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration.

He received the Area Award in finance during graduation ceremonies.

He is currently employed as an accountant at Altapointe Health Systems in Mobile.

Kingstone said the University of Mobile definitely prepared him for his job at Altapointe.

Kingstone said his accounting professors, Rusty Roberts, Kathy Dunning and others “cared so much for me to learn that they went beyond the classroom to help me.”

Roberts, an assistant professor, said Kingstone knew some English but it was very broken, which made it difficult for Kingstone to keep up in class.

Roberts spent time with Kingstone after class, helping him work on accounting and the English language.

“He’s really good with numbers,” said Roberts. “It was just getting the concepts and how American businesses do accounting as opposed to Malawi, which did accounting under the British way.”

Away from the classroom, Roberts also helped Kingstone learn how to purchase

a car and work on his resume and job interview skills.

“He really wanted to work on his career,” the professor said.

That wasn’t all.

“He didn’t know how to get insurance so I went with him, just so no one would take advantage of him,” said Roberts.

Roberts met Kingstone’s mother this past Christmas, when she came to Mobile for three months to spend time with her son.

When Roberts was deciding about pursuing a doctoral degree, Kingstone called his parents in Malawi and asked them to pray for Roberts.

Kingstone told Roberts that his family and people the professor didn’t even know in Malawi were praying and fasting for him over his decision about a doctoral program.

It was a humbling experience for Roberts and another reflection of Kingstone’s kindness and desire to help others.

In the future, Kingstone wants to start his own business.

“I would like to be able to do something to help non-profit organizations that cannot afford to hire their own accountants in doing their accounting services,” he said.

Kingstone said while the transition was difficult in the beginning, he had so many people who helped him make it through college.

“People made the biggest difference,” said Kingstone. “I had so many friends.

Students were so awesome.” From professors to administration and staff, “everybody was like my mother or father.”

“I was a spoiled kid on campus,” Kingstone said. “I don’t think I could have ever graduated without all the help of these people.” RR

IN THE CENTER OF WORSHIP Dr. Todd F. Stearns ’88

By Kathy Dean

There is a moment during the church service when Todd Stearns is at the center of sound. The 120-voice choir and full orchestra of First Baptist Church of Naples, FL are behind him and 2,000 worshippers are in front of him. It is the moment when his hand is raised, directing the music, directing the worship. In the midst of overwhelming sound, of voices raised in praise, Todd is alone with his Creator. It is a moment of pure joy and adoration, a time that Todd and the congregation he serves enter into the presence of Almighty God through personal surrender, praise and thanksgiving. It is a moment when, together, each person stands alone before God and surrenders to Him. That is what it means to be a worship pastor – to stand before God’s people and be used by Him to design and lead worship that touches the heart and helps people touch the face of God. As associate pastor for worship and music, Todd’s desire is simple.

He wants to be the best worship and music pastor he can be. He knows that accomplishing his goal takes hard work and discipline. It’s a lesson he learned as a student majoring in music and vocal performance at the University of Mobile, traveling with a special ministries team presenting music and drama to churches and civic organizations throughout the nation. He practiced, studied and learned from faculty and staff who mentored him in faith and life. The academic program prepared him for seminary where he completed master of divinity and doctor of ministry degrees.

With Sonya, his wife and 1989 UMobile graduate, teaching English in

the church’s school and leading the school choir and worship team, Todd sees his years at UMobile as a blessing in his own life. It is a blessing he knows future students will receive as well, through a Center for Performing Arts program that is second to none.

Today, Todd leads worship and music at a church with 8,700 members. As the sound swells, the voices combine with the orchestra and fill the auditorium, Todd stands in the center of worship. He

realizes yet again how truly humbling it is to stand before God’s people and help them meet with the Lord and worship Him in spirit and in truth. RR

umobile.edu 51

RRALUMNI PRACTICING THE GOOD LIFE

Dr. Brooke Lovett Lenz ’00 Michael Lenz ’00

By Renee Busby

Dr. Brooke Lovett Lenz ’00 starts her day early helping her husband, Michael ’00, dress their three children before she heads off to work as an OB-GYN doctor at Bay Area Physicians for Women in Mobile.

Her work day usually begins around 6:45 a.m., when she checks on patients in Labor and Delivery at Springhill Medical Center, located next to her physicians’ office.

Then there are rounds at the clinic to see patients from 9 a.m. to lunch, when it’s back to the hospital for scheduled surgeries and deliveries. She usually leaves the office between 5 to 5:30 p.m.

She said she’s blessed to have five other doctors in her group so she has time with her husband and children before the day ends.

“I’m fortunate in my practice because I have a great call schedule,” said Brooke.

Juggling a demanding career and a busy family life also requires scheduling.

On days when surgeries are scheduled for later in the morning, Brooke and Michael split duties taking the two oldest children to school.

Their oldest child, 10-year-old Sam, is a student at UMS, while Ryland, four, is in pre-school at Ashland Place. Their daughter, 1-year-old Maggie, who is adopted, stays at home with Dad, who has a real estate business that makes it flexible for him to be home.

“Our careers have evolved around our family,” said Brooke.

Brooke was 13 years old when her family moved to Bay Minette in the 1990s

52 RAMREPORT | FALL 2015

for her father to become Bay Minette’s police chief. She graduated from Baldwin County High School in 1997, then began her studies at the University of Mobile.

“I was looking for somewhere that was far enough from home and I could live on campus, but not too far that I couldn’t see my family,” said Brooke.

Plus, she was awarded a full-tuition University of Mobile Board of Trustees Scholarship.

While touring the campus, she decided she wanted to try out for cheerleader. She made the squad for the Rams and cheered during her four years at the University of Mobile.

Brooke said she had a “great relationship with all my professors there.”

Another advantage, she said, was that the science classes she needed for medical school weren’t large lecture classes.

“You had one-on-one attention with your professor. And they knew your name,” she said.

Attending the University of Mobile “was just good life preparation for me.”

The combination of chemistry and cheerleading also had a life-changing impact.

Michael, a Murphy High School graduate who played for the high school’s baseball team, was offered a baseball scholarship to play for the University of Mobile Rams. But after two years at the college level, he hurt his shoulder and stepped away from baseball to focus on his chemistry degree.

With two years left on his scholarship eligibility, Michael joined the cheerleading squad and was partnered with a girl from Baldwin County he didn’t know – Brooke.

It wasn’t until later, when Michael was tutoring Brooke in chemistry, that they started dating. They graduated from the University of Mobile in May of 2000, married and started a family.

Brooke, who had graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in biology, took some time off to become a nanny.

During this transition period, “I decided I wanted to go into medicine because I was drawn to science and healthcare,” said Brooke.

Plus, she said, “I truly liked the idea of taking care of people.”

Brooke was accepted to University of South Alabama Medical School, where she graduated in 2007. It was during her third year at USA’s Medical School she discovered that she liked taking care of female patients and wanted to be an OB-GYN doctor.

She did her OB-GYN internship at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital from 2007-2008 and completed her residency there in 2011.

She especially likes seeing the different stages of her patients’ lives.

“One thing I like about the medical field is you do a lot of different things. I never get bored,” said Brooke.

In addition to a busy profession, and raising three children, she is also involved in the family’s church, Cottage Hill Baptist, and community activities.

She is president of the Mobile Bay OBGYN Society and a member of the Junior League.

“We just make it happen,” said Brooke.

“Michael’s the support system of our family. He keeps me going and keeps the kids going and is the chef in our house.

“We both grew up in Christian homes but feel that our time at UMobile definitely helped us grow in our Christian faith. It brought us not only to each other, but to many other of our friends that we will have for life,” said Brooke.RR

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RRALUMNI SINGING TRUTH

CCM Magazine Calls Veritas ‘Truly Remarkable’ Andrew Goodwin ‘10 Scott Lawrence ‘10 James Berrian ‘10 Jordan Johnson ‘11

By Stephen Tindal The University of Mobile has earned a reputation for musical excellence in the 53 years since it was founded, creating dozens of incredible ensembles and bringing talented students together to make unique blends of music that are heard around the world. UMobile musical groups have made appearances in international concerts, at the White House and the Pentagon, and even at the 2014 Olympic games in Russia.

Recently, one of these groups has extended its existence beyond its time at UMobile and is quickly climbing the ladder of success in the Christian music industry.

Veritas is a contemporary classical group that combines the sounds of operatic, jazz and pop music into performances that leave audiences encouraged and inspired. This five-man ensemble traveled across the United States on a two-week tour in October following the national release of its selftitled first album.

However, the story of Veritas began several years ago while four members of the group performed together as a new UMobile ensemble under the name “Shofar.”

From Shofar to Veritas Andrew Goodwin ’10, Scott Lawrence ’10, James Berrian ’10, and Jordan Johnson ’11, all came to the University of Mobile to study and perform in various ensembles in the

54 RAMREPORT | FALL 2015

Center for Performing Arts. During their years at the university, the four secured different positions in many of the groups, including the award-winning barbershop quartet Ramtonz, the University Singers, Opera Workshop, Upper Room Theater, and Voices of Mobile.

Dr. Roger Breland, vice president for project development, was inspired to create a contemporary classical group that reflected the same style as Il Divo, a world-famous quartet with an operaticpop sound. Breland makes time to cultivate personal relationships with students involved in the CPA, so when it came to selecting members for this groundbreaking new group, he knew exactly whom to pick. Breland noticed the talent and potential in these singers, and was fully committed to developing their sound into a professional-caliber group.

The new quartet “Shofar” was soon performing at special events throughout the year, and promised to be another entertaining and successful ensemble for the university.

Since its inception, there was one distinct difference between Shofar and the other ensembles in the CPA: this group was made with the intent of continued performance after the students graduated.

“It was Dr. Breland’s ultimate vision to have the group continue on full-time after graduation,” said Andrew Goodwin, Veritas tenor. “We carried that same

classical music concept with us as we graduated from UM.” Shofar’s transition to Veritas began when Breland asked Goodwin, Lawrence, and Johnson to participate in the Truth 40th Anniversary Tour of 2011: a tribute to the Gospel Music Hall of Fame group Breland formed in 1971. On the tour, they met Jeff Anderson, a former member of the vocal group “Wings of Morning,” who was also singing with Truth. Anderson would soon become the next member of Veritas, and the only one who had not graduated from the University of Mobile.

“We went into the tour knowing that the ultimate goal was to launch a male vocal group once it was finished,” said Scott Lawrence, Veritas bass. “Once the tour ended, we decided to change the name to Veritas, which is Latin for ‘truth’ so UM could continue to use the name Shofar. That’s when we asked Jeff and James to go on the road with us and sing for Veritas.”

The Journey to Success In 2012, the new group was preparing to put on its first concert under the name of Veritas. The five singers made their way to Albany, GA, to perform for over 2,000 people.

“I still get goose-bumps when I think of our very first concert at Sherwood Baptist Church in 2012,” said Lawrence. ”Regardless of the endless hours of preparation that went into that concert, we were still scared to death.

Not because we were ill-prepared, but because we didn’t know what to expect or how people would receive our music.”

Veritas members were excited and anxious to see how people would respond to their unique style; little did they know that their style would soon draw in fans from all across the country.

“The cool thing about our style is getting to take familiar songs that everyone knows and putting our contemporary-classical spin on them,” says James Berrian, Veritas baritone.

Their first concert was a huge hit and set the stage for the rest of the tour.

“That was one of the most receptive audiences you could ask for,” said Lawrence. “They truly encouraged us that night.”

Since then, the men of Veritas have travelled all across the United States sharing their unique and encouraging music with thousands. The ensemble has even performed at a University of Mobile Leadership Banquet for former

President of the United States George W. Bush. Over the past year, Veritas has hosted more than 100 concerts over dozens of states. With each concert, the group gains a larger fan base and, more importantly, touches the hearts of hundreds.

This June, Veritas has officially signed on the Fair Trade Services roster. Signing with a record label is a major steppingstone on Veritas’ way to success.

“Being able to have the opportunity to sign with a label and get recognition for all our hard work has been really neat,”

said Jordan Johnson, Veritas tenor. The independent Christian record company has recruited several popular artists including MercyMe, Phil Wickham, Hawk Nelson and Audio Adrenaline.

Veritas released their first full-length album, self-titled “Veritas.”

“The CD has timeless classics like ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone,’ but it also has some newer songs like ‘The Hand That Holds the Storm’,” said Goodwin. “One of the most exciting things that we’ve done is taken the hit Switchfoot song, ‘Dare You to Move,’ and put our own classical

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twist on it.”

The album contains 10 unique arrangements that perfectly showcase the appealing, diverse style that sets Veritas apart. Fans of the ensemble were not alone in their excitement for the CD; the men of Veritas were also ecstatic.

“The biggest accomplishment we’ve had as Veritas is the nationwide release of our first full-length album,” said Berrian. “Walking into Barnes & Noble or Lifeway and seeing our CD on the shelf is really kind of surreal.”

Just days after the album was released, Veritas was mentioned in CCM magazine, a monthly publication that serves as the No. 1 source for the latest news on contemporary Christian music.

The small, five-man ensemble that started in lower Alabama was now being recognized on the national scale.

CCM magazine had this to say about the group’s latest album: “Possibly one of the most unique and intriguing projects this year, the self-titled album from vocal group Veritas stands out with its fusion of classical roots and contemporary favorites. Truly remarkable work from this ensemble.”

A Lasting Impact One of the most noticeable things about each Veritas performance is the genuine desire to create an atmosphere of worship. From the selection of songs to their unique arrangements, every

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aspect of a Veritas concert is grounded in the effort to bring others closer to God through music.

“Veritas is the Latin word for truth,” said Goodwin. “Our desire is to share the truth with people: the truth that everyone is loved. At the end of the day that is why we do what we do.”

Throughout their last two years of touring, Veritas has experienced the positive effects of their music for the Kingdom of God countless times.

“We get to travel the country every week and meet people from all different walks of life. In all of that traveling, we’ve never met a single person who wasn’t searching for truth,” said Berrian. “In our concerts, not only do we get to share the music God has put in our hearts to sing, but we also get to share the message of Jesus who has changed each one of our lives.”

Each week, Veritas has the chance to share an experience of worship with hundreds of people. What makes Veritas unique from other groups is that they also take the time to share experiences with individuals in need.

Berrian shared one interaction in particular that reminds him of the

impact that Veritas truly has: “We have people come to us every night after the concert who are always very encouraging and grateful for the evening. I remember we were doing a concert in Denver for the Volunteers of America, and a woman who had obviously been crying came up to us after the concert. We talked with her for a few minutes and discovered that she wasn’t a believer, but she kept saying ‘I don’t know what’s going on, but I can’t stop crying when I hear you guys sing.’

After a few minutes, we were able to share the Gospel with her. Those are the moments that make the countless hours of driving, travelling, and practicing all worth it.”

Veritas is quickly becoming known throughout the world of Christian music. They performed at the nationally televised presidential campaign announcement by Dr. Ben Carson, and they will be performing on five-time Grammy Award winner Sandi Patty’s Farewell Tour this year.

For more information about future tour dates, merchandise, or music, visit the group’s official website at veritasfive.com. RR

RRCAMPUS CORNER

FISHER-BREWER RECORDING STUDIO

By Shannon Mason On February 27, 2014, the University of Mobile and 8Eighty Records dedicated its new recording studio. The professional studio, outfitted with the latest state-of-the-art recording technology, is a key component of the Christian university’s new record label, 8Eighty Records, and its Center for Performing Arts/School of Music and School of Worship Leadership. The studio was made possible by the donation from Mrs. Joyce Fisher of Odessa, Texas and through the guidance of Rev. Curtis Brewer, associate pastor of worship and celebration at First Baptist Church of Odessa,Texas.

“People are always asking me what part I sing, because they know how much I love the singing. I don’t sing a note – not any. But I am telling you, I love the music,” Fisher told the students, faculty and staff gathered for the dedication.

The studio is equipped with ProTools 11 with Avid HD interfaces capable of recording 32 tracks at once, Apple Mac Pro computer with Mavericks OS, HD technology DAW plugins for mixing and mastering audio, and industrystandard microphones, pre-amps and compressors.

Joyce Fisher and Curtis Brewer

There are multiple isolation rooms for recording individual musicians, instruments and vocalists. The studio has two dedicated control rooms for recording, editing and mixing. Studio A is a multitrack recording and mixing facility, and Studio B is an editing and mixing suite.

UMobile President Dr. Mark Foley said the studio is part of the university’s goal to graduate students who can influence their generation and the world for Jesus Christ. RR

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