UNIVERSITY of MOBILE
Spring 2019 Volume 11
Ignite Your Why Renewing Minds, Transforming Hearts
M E S S AG E F RO M T H E P R E S I D E N T ’ S O F F I C E Greetings from University of Mobile! From the boardroom to the classroom, we have been talking a lot about our “why” as a university, with our Ignite the Why campaign. Drawing inspiration from Simon Sinek’s book, “Start with Why,” we are celebrating our driving purpose as a Christ-centered university – our “why.” Since the university’s founding, throughout changes in leadership and a rapidly changing world, our “why” has never changed. As a university, we define our why in our mission statement as preparing students “for the fulfilling of one’s professional calling.” This involves much more than filling a niche in the workforce. At UM, we believe that each student receives a divine call to glorify God and serve his or her neighbor through their vocation. No matter where on the globe our students are called to serve, every student receives a Great Commission calling to make disciples as they live out their Christian worldview. Returning to our mission statement, what we do is provide “liberal arts and professional programs” and how we do it is through “intellectual development and spiritual formation.” And while these aspects are important, our challenge is to create an authentic educational model where everything we say and do (the how and what) is an expression of our why. As Sinek says, “When you start with WHY, those who believe what you believe are drawn to you for very personal reasons.” I don’t know where you may find yourself currently. Perhaps you are operating clearly out of your sense of why. Or perhaps the guiding principles behind your behavior have become a little fuzzy. If that is you, I hope this issue of TorchLight will be an encouragement to you. Either way, my encouragement to you is to join your university to “ignite the why” and lead and live out of the deep sense of purpose God has given us. In Christ,
Fred Wilson Interim President University of Mobile
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TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2019
IGNITE Spring 2019 • Volume 11 • Issue 1
Spring 2019 | Volume 11 Issue 1
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. - Matthew 5:14 (ESV) There is a song we sing as children, holding our pointer finger straight up, toward the heavens. This little light of mine. I’m going to let it shine. Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. Light is a powerful thing. Its presence exposes, illuminates, brings clarity. Its absence confuses, obscures, creates uncertainty and fear. But before it can shine – before it can dispel the darkness in the world – this little light must be sparked. Something must ignite. At University of Mobile, we see that spark as a sense of purpose, an understanding that goes beyond “what” you do or “how” you do it to the central question of core beliefs, your “why.” University of Mobile’s “why” is to be the place where students come to understand their own personal “why.” A place where the spark is lit. It’s no wonder that university founders chose the torch and flame to symbolize the school and pursuit of truth and knowledge. Its burning flame represents Jesus Christ as Light of the World, God as the Source of Divine Wisdom, and a renewed spirit and transformed mind that is the aim of a University of Mobile education. It’s a powerful light. In this issue of TorchLight, you will meet people for whom “Ignite Your Why” means being the light of Christ, starting in their corner of the world. You will find stories about the past and future of a university that is fixed on making an impact with eternal significance. Because, when over 12,000 alumni – plus supporters, faculty and staff, and those who believe in the value of Higher Education for a Higher Purpose – can name their “why,” they carry a torch that banishes a world of darkness to burn brightly for the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. - Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
University News ...................................... 4 Rams Round-Up ....................................... 8 Ignite Your Why ...................................... 10 My Why .................................................... 14 Uniquely Inspired ................................... 18 Transforming Healthcare ...................... 22 Good People, Good Work ..................... 26 DeBakey Scholarships .......................... 30 Retrospect .............................................. 32 Alumni Stars ........................................... 38 Going Viral .............................................. 42 Connection & Christ .............................. 44 A Carnegie Dream Come True ............. 46 The Simple Greek .................................. 48 Class Notes ............................................. 50
Interim President | Fred Wilson
Vice President for Marketing and Public Relations | Lesa Moore Editor | Kathy Dean Graphic Design | Heath Vester Writers | Rivers Brunson, Valerie Cockrell, Michael Dumas, Kim Garrett, Jonathan Harding, Amber Kelley, John Killian, Lauren McCaghren, Susan Murphy, Anna Newman, Jessica Sawyer Photographers | Dan Anderson, Alex Kiker, Amanda Pritchard, Heath Vester, Katie West Editorial Office University of Mobile, TorchLight 5735 College Parkway Mobile, Alabama 36613 Phone: 251.442.2497 Email: torchlight@umobile.edu TorchLight is published by University of Mobile Office for Marketing and Public Relations and is distributed free of charge to alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the university. Issues may be viewed online at umobilemagazine.com Postmaster: send address changes to Office for Marketing and Public Relations, University of Mobile
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RECENT UNIVERSITY NEWS 4
TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2019
Board of Trustees Announces Leadership Change
The University of Mobile Board of Trustees has appointed long-time trustee Fred Wilson as interim president while a nationwide search begins for a new university president. Wilson served on the Board of Trustees for over 12 years and was beginning his third term as chairman at the time of his appointment as interim president on March 1. Trustee David Conner assumes the role of chairman of the Board of Trustees. President Emeritus Dr. Mark Foley, who served as president from 1998 until his retirement in 2016, will serve as a consultant. The board is being assisted in its search for the university’s fifth president by the executive search firm JobfitMatters, a nationally recognized company specializing in higher education and the non-profit sector. This change in leadership is the result of the Feb. 25 resignation of the fourth president, Dr. Tim Smith, who cited personal reasons. “The Board of Trustees is committed to building on the university’s forward momentum. Immediately having leadership in place who are already knowledgeable about the university will enable University of Mobile to continue its mission without missing a beat,” Wilson said. He thanked Smith for his service to the university, noting that many significant accomplishments had been made under his tenure. Wilson previously served as a partner in P.J. Lumber Co. of Mobile, where he handled international sales and export marketing. He retired in 2017. Conner is an attorney with Blackburn & Conner P.C., headquartered in Bay Minette, Alabama.
Miss UM 2019
Photo by Katie West
Wearing the crown of Miss University of Mobile 2019 is more than an honor for Raven Young – it’s an opportunity to make a difference. “I have a strong passion to help others – that will always fuel my reason why I push to do everything I’m doing,” Young said. The sophomore from Mobile, Alabama, has the distinction of being the university’s first African-American Miss UM. “I live every single day of my life to the fullest because I know where I’ve been doesn’t stop me from where I am going. I am the change, I am unique, and I am not the same. I will not stop until I see the change,” she added. For the next year, Young will represent UM at various events, including the Miss Alabama pageant this summer. Participation in this pageant is the next step of the Miss America pageant. She will continue to serve as a UM Ambassador – but in addition to wearing the trademark Ram red shirt and black suit, she will wear the Miss UM crown and pin. Young’s platform as Miss UM is “The S.T.A.R. Program.” S.T.A.R. stands for Students and Teachers on A Roll for education, and its purpose is to collect needed materials for students and teachers. “As a future educator, it’s up to me to bring attention to the many students suffering from lack of necessities. It’s time for us to put education back on top, and that starts by supporting our teachers and students with the materials they need to be successful.”
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She also won the talent portion of the pageant with an outstanding vocal performance of “I Am Changing” by Krieger from “Dream Girls.” First runner-up was Kailee Montes, musical theatre major from Atlanta, Georgia. Second runner-up was Grace Maddox, music major from Magnolia Springs, Alabama. Maddox also won the swimsuit portion. Madison Verkouille, communication major from Saraland, Alabama, received People’s Choice Award. Sophie Eberhard, graphic design major from Milton, Florida, received Miss Congeniality.
Making History
“During this process, I have grown so much as a student, a mother, a friend and a Christian. Words cannot begin to express the gratitude and joy that I have. I am so blessed, and I thank God every day for the growth and opportunity He has given me. I want this degree to bring Him glory and honor,” Todd said. Pictured front row from left: Deanna Montieth (Highest G.P.A. Award), Chastity Huguley, Rhonda Foles (Outstandng Leader Award), Amelia Williamson, Tiffany Waugh, Ashley Acosta (Outstanding Clinician Award), Sarah West. Back row: Sallyanna Silveria, Stacey Lanham, Charisse Smith, Anganatte Williams, Cameka Evans, John Loper, Africa Todd, Nakia Rankin. Not pictured: Ashley Hughes. For more about the College of Health Professions, and degree programs, visit umobile.edu/healthcare or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.
She Reads Truth Photo by Dan Anderson
One group of University of Mobile students made history when they became the first to graduate from the university’s new Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program. The 16 new family nurse practitioners received diplomas Dec. 15 during fall semester 2018 commencement. “Not only is this an historic moment in the life of University of Mobile, but also for our community, as these advanced practice nurses enter the workforce using the knowledge and skills they gained to improve patient care,” said Rita Croom, dean of the College of Health Professions and assistant vice president for academic partnerships. Africa Todd ’18 said she gained more than a degree.
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Amanda Bible Williams ’00 is not only co-founder and chief content officer of She Reads Truth, a worldwide community of women who read God’s Word together every day. She’s also a University of Mobile graduate. On April 9 she returns to her alma mater as keynote speaker for the 2nd annual Torch Society Scholarship Celebration Dinner. Tickets may be purchased at umobile.edu/torchsocietyevents or through the Advancement Office at 251.442.2587 or advancement@umobile.edu.
She Reads Truth was founded in 2012 and creates beautiful, accessible Bible reading plans and resources, using old and new technology, for women and men worldwide to grow in biblical literacy and affection for God and His Word. For more, visit shereadstruth.com.
After the workshop, the duo led worship at Christmas Under the Oaks, a free concert on campus open to the community and presented by 19/19 Investment Counsel.
Alabama’s Bicentennial
Throughout the year, Torch Society members raise funds for scholarships while building bonds of friendship and community through monthly meetings and activities. The Celebration Dinner is the culmination of those efforts as the philanthropic organization fulfills its mission of “Lighting the Way through Scholarships” by awarding scholarships to UM students. Be part of a dynamic community of volunteers with a culture of compassion and giving through serving. Join at umobile.edu/torch-society.
Songwriting Workshop
Photo by Heath Vester
Photo by Katie West
Christian recording artists Shane and Shane encouraged University of Mobile students to write songs for the right reason, during a songwriting workshop on campus. They told students to write songs from the heart because they want to praise and worship God with it – not because they want the song to be a hit. J.C. Adams, a sophomore studying worship leadership, said, “Shane Barnard’s explanation of an anchor made me look more diligently at my day-to-day interaction with the Holy Spirit and how the things He’s teaching me could be the holding point for a praise and worship song.”
The University of Mobile College of Arts & Sciences put the spotlight on Alabama’s bicentennial with a free lecture by “Alabama’s Historian” Dr. Wayne Flynt. The topic was “ Pulitzers and Politics: The Best and Worst of Alabama on Our 200th Birthday.” Flynt is the author of 11 books, two of which were nominated for the Pulitzer Prize, and is professor emeritus of history at Auburn University. He has been an invited lecturer at institutions around the world, including Cambridge and Oxford universities, and was the subject of two Alabama Public Television documentaries.
Keep up with the latest university news at umobile.edu/news.
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RAMS
round-up By John Killian Photo by Dan Anderson
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TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2019
After a fall semester which saw a lot of Ram wins on the field of play and in the classroom, the University of Mobile Athletic Department is ready for a great spring semester. University of Mobile claimed the 2019 Southern States Athletic Conference Competitive Cheer Championship in January, giving the Rams two titles in the last three seasons. Thirteen student-athletes earned All-Conference honors, and coach Kami Whiteis was named SSAC Competitive Cheer Coach of the Year.
Men’s and Women’s golf teed off their spring seasons in February. TJ Jackson returns for his 4th year in charge of the program and, with an arsenal of returning players as well as a few promising new faces, will look to contend for conference titles. Seniors John Taylor Evans and Wade Duke will be
Photo courtesy of SSAC
leading the way on the men’s side as the women’s squad will be relying on new recruits and returning underclassmen.
Photo courtesy of UM Athletic Staff
Baseball enters the season ranking 3rd in the SSAC preseason poll. Nine returning seniors form the core of the team as Head Coach Mike Jacobs returns for his 30th season at the helm.
After a successful 2018 campaign that saw them go undefeated in conference, Men’s Tennis enters 2019 with a top ranking in the SSAC Coaches’ Poll. Head Coach Uwe Tittl has advised UM students that they do not want to miss the home matches, as they can expect exciting play.
Softball is ready for the season as they begin play ranked 1st in conference and 8th in the NAIA. Head Coach Alison Sellers-Cook is returning 17 players from 2018, which saw the Rams eliminated in the national championship round after a tremendous season and top national ranking.
Photo courtesy of SSAC
Women’s Tennis is co-ranked 3rd alongside Loyola in the SSAC Preseason Coaches Poll and 21st in the NAIA Preseason Poll. They hope to repeat last year’s excellent performance in conference play.
Photo courtesy of NAIA
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TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2019
IGNITE YOUR WHY It happens every day. It’s in the gentle touch of a nurse’s hand as she prays for a patient. It’s in the extra time a teacher takes to tutor a student. It’s in the Christ-centered way a business owner treats his customers. It’s in the late-night visit a pastor makes to a devastated family. It’s not just what University of Mobile alumni do every day that distinctively transforms the world. It’s why they do it. By Kathy Dean
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Understanding ‘Why’ What is your “why?” It’s a question that businesses started asking of themselves in 2009, when author Simon Sinek wrote the bestselling book “Start With Why.” The idea, in essence, is that very few people or organizations know why they do what they do – instead, they are focused on what they do or how they do it. The organizations that focus on understanding their purpose – their core beliefs – and can clearly articulate their “why,” are the organizations that will capture the hearts of people who share those beliefs. They inspire. They thrive. They make a difference.
If “why” is so important for secular businesses, it is even more crucial for a Christ-centered university where helping students discover their own “why” has eternal significance, both for themselves and for the world.
It might seem obvious that a university’s purpose is to educate people. But University of Mobile’s purpose goes far beyond simply providing an education. The truth is, there are many colleges and universities that provide an education. University of Mobile addresses a cause, by providing society with intellectually prepared graduates that serve the world through a Christian worldview. As a university, our “why” is in our mission statement: University of Mobile is a Christ-centered academic community providing liberal arts and professional programs to renew minds through intellectual and spiritual development for the fulfilling of one’s professional calling. Our WHY is preparing graduates to fulfill their professional calling. Our HOW is through intellectual and spiritual development.
“There has to be a purpose for why your company exists, beyond the things you make, beyond the things you do…” Sinek said in one of many TED Talks viewed by millions. Most organizations are satisfied with saying what they do, and how they are different or better than what others do. That’s not enough, he argues. “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it,” Sinek said. It’s that ability to clearly communicate their “why” that has made companies like Apple and Amazon so successful.
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Our WHAT are the liberal arts and professional programs we provide.
Understanding our “why” undergirds and empowers our efforts and energies. With understanding comes action. By its very nature, a university is a place where professors and students are predisposed to thinking deeply, to considering new ways of
looking at ideas that are hard to define. “Ignite the Why” was the first step – a year-long internal campaign to define and create a culture where people take the time to think about the university’s purpose, its why. Now, “Ignite Your Why” makes the campaign personal to share stories of how the University of Mobile culture – founded on the gospel of Jesus Christ – is transforming the world. The aim goes beyond simply drawing attention to the impact University of Mobile has through graduates who are fulfilling their professional purpose. It’s to spark a deeper understanding of why we do what we do, both for our university and, on a personal level, for ourselves. As alumni. As donors. As trustees and supporters. As faculty and staff. As the University of Mobile family.
It happens every day. It’s in the time a student gives to serve the community. It’s in the generosity of a donor that changes a life through scholarships. It’s in the friendship of a professor who encourages a student to achieve the impossible. It’s in the way alumni fulfill their professional calling as the hands and feet of Christ. It’s not just what you do every day that distinctively transforms the world. It’s why you do it.
Because when higher education has a higher purpose – a Great Commission calling – something special happens.
Ignite Your Why.
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My “Why” By Amber Kelley The Lord has gifted me with a voice that is literally loud. It echoes just about everywhere. I have always been told, “Amber, I could hear you from outside.” I used to think this was a thing I should be ashamed of. As I discover more of God, I discover that He is intentional in His making; Psalm 139 reveals that. The Lord has given me a voice, and whether people want to or not, sometimes they have to hear it. And every once in a while, a person chooses to listen. I am bold, loud and outgoing. Freshman Amber used to look at those words and think “shame” – senior Amber looks at those words and thinks “freedom.” Freedom in igniting my “why” to drive my everyday actions, freedom in knowing who God is and, in light, who He has made me to be. My “why” is using my personality, and even my loud voice, for the benefit of God’s kingdom and the uplifting of others. My personality from freshmen year to senior year hasn’t changed, but my “why” has. I am using the gifts and personality that He has given me for His purpose, for His people.
Amber Kelley is a senior majoring in communication who works part-time in the Marketing & Public Relations Office. She joins the staff full-time as marketing communications specialist upon graduation in May. Photo by Heath Vester
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#MyWhy For University of Mobile Student Appreciate Month in March, a team of student interns in the Marketing & Public Relations Office spread out across campus to ask students to talk about their “Why.” Here are some of their answers. Tell us your story at umobile.edu/why. Follow UM’s social media for more #MyWhy stories. Compiled by Jonathan Harding, Amber Kelley, Anna Newman Photos by Heath Vester & Katie West
We can make a difference “When I got out of the army, it was very important to come home and be with my family. I looked for a school around here, but what was more important were the values I wanted in a school. The values that the army instills in their soldiers such as integrity, honor, respect, selfless service, personal courage – these were things I looked for. On top of these I wanted a small, community feel in my school, and I found all of this at University of Mobile. My goal after I graduate is to get involved on Wall Street. Once I am there, I want to use my position to help other business majors at UM to obtain interviews and careers in this field. I love the values that UM teaches their students, and I know that if they work their way up to the top, then I know we can make a difference.” - Zach Smith, sophomore, finance
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Genuine joy of the Lord “During my freshman year, I quickly noticed that many people at UM embodied genuine joy of the Lord, and that inspired me to acquire the same overflow from within. From that, my personal relationship with the Lord grew so much, and it continues to grow each day. So many people I have met here, whether they are staff or students, desire to grow closer to the Lord as well. That fosters a special type of community that you can’t easily find anywhere else.” - Tiffany Stanford, senior, communication
UM is my place to grow “University of Mobile is life-changing. Before UM, I didn’t really own my faith. This school has helped me grow in my faith, a lot. I am growing as a leader and an individual. Being at UM is helping me become a better man of God. UM is my place to grow.” - Phillip Maddox, sophomore, business management
A life well lived “I love to help people, to be their hands. I also enjoy being able to make people happy. For some weird reason, I enjoy studying, so I knew I could handle the challenge of nursing school. I want to contribute my abilities to my community. At the end of my life, I want to look back and feel like it was a life well lived by serving others. - Casey Lunceford, junior, nursing
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Learn what I need “I decided on my major during one of my many visits to Honduras. In these cultures, they see people with special needs as almost like a curse. With University of Mobile starting a brand new Collaborative Special Education K-6 program, I feel like this school would be perfect for me to learn what I need to be able to teach people about how to care for those in need.” - Will Spears, freshman, collaborative special education
Nurtured the dream “In high school, my choral director who is a UM graduate, Amanda Davis Goins ’06, helped me birth my dream of music education. She nurtured the dream by giving me opportunities to teach classes and direct the different choirs that our school had. She let me sit at her feet and soak up all the knowledge that she had. She was my mentor, and I want to be that to others. I want to be the teacher that supports students in any area that they are in, but I also want to give them a love for the art form that they have. If music is a student’s passion, I want to be able to give them as much knowledge and experience as I can, and if I can’t give it to them, I want to find someone who can.” - Cory Anderson, freshman, music education
Reflecting His glory “University of Mobile has a central idea of the Imago Dei, which means made in the image of God. It is not a mindset of ‘I am so great,’ but that we are reflecting His glory. I know God has used UM to shape me to be more confident in who I am, and I can definitely see God’s hand through all of this.” - Maya Lewellyn, junior, intercultural studies & communication
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DR. ROBERT OLSEN UNIQUELY INSPIRED By Susan Murphy Photos by Katie West Though the eyes may be windows to the soul, a casual glance at Dr. Robert Olsen, associate professor of Christian studies at University of Mobile, tells of his fun and approachable spirit. Signature muttonchops, white lab coat and Star Wars lightsaber prompt students, and almost everyone, to wonder just what he will say next.
receiving Jesus in primary church one week as a first grader, but recalls his teacher saying, “No, Bobby, you did that last week.”
“My wife has facial hair blindness,” said Olsen, “so I decided to cut off part of my beard — it was originally Amish-looking. I’ve had these (muttonchops) for about a year, and I can’t cut them now — they’re how everyone knows me.”
“The idea of it stressed me,” he said.
While attending college, Olsen was given a white lab coat from his dad, a biology teacher. “I wore it around my campus back then, too,” he said. “It’s like my own Batman utility belt — a great place to keep pens, paper clips, stress ball, whatever I need to have at my fingertips. My light saber is a great tool to turn on an out-of-reach projector or to use as a pointer.” In his 11th year at UM teaching in the School of Christian Studies, Olsen’s passion is imparting foundational truths of Christianity. He stresses that understanding doctrine today must have as its context knowing church history. “Context is very important to me. I want to know how everything goes together,” he said. “The way to understand now is to look at the past. Problems arise when you don’t understand history.” Growing up in an Independent Baptist Church in Delaware, but not always understanding its concepts or responsibilities, Olsen confesses to
When he got to college and leaders of the Christian groups he attended pressed him to get more involved in leadership, he simply moved on.
Finding his life’s work was a journey. Six months into his first job as a biology teacher, he knew it wasn’t what he wanted, and he quit. It spurred a painful break-up with his fiancée. “That is when spiritual growth started in my life,” said Olsen. “Trauma is like that, and it was the best thing that could have happened to me.” Just a month after the painful parting, God brought a second godly woman into his life. “Sarah was a mature Christian, much more mature than I was,” he said. “I saw that she lived out what she believed.” The couple married two years later. Valuable advice from his wife’s former youth pastor sent him to enroll in classes at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SBTS) in Wake Forest, North Carolina. He taught Latin at a private Christian school to third through 10th grade students and taught biology for two of his six years there. While in seminary, he taught as an adjunct professor at the College at Southeastern, affiliated with SBTS. By 2006, Olsen had earned Master of Divinity and Doctor of Philosophy degrees.
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Before joining the faculty at University of Mobile in 2008, the Olsens, with their young children Peter and Anna in tow, spent a year teaching middle school students at Agua Viva Children’s Home and School in Guatemala. Mrs. Olsen taught math, and Dr. Olsen taught Bible, computer and physical education to orphans — in Spanish. As the Olsen family joined the UM family, the size of their own crew increased by two. The family relocated to Mobile, Olsen started his new job, and Sarah gave birth to twin girls, Eleanor and Elizabeth — a stressful and action-packed first semester. Teaching a variety of subjects at UM, from Christian Worldview to Honors English, has allowed Olsen to connect with non-Christian Studies majors as well as those studying for ministry. “I’m passionate about truth,” he said, “and I have a drive for students to understand why people believe the way they do.” Olsen encourages Christian students to represent Christ in the classroom by speaking out and addressing cultural issues that come up in class. “When I see students engaged with Christian culture, it makes me optimistic about the future,” said Olsen. “I’m pleased to find really committed Christians at UM.” Wyatt Jones, a senior theology major, believes Olsen’s uniqueness inspires his students to be confident in the person God made them to be. “He places a strong emphasis on being honest with God, and himself, and that honesty flows into his teaching,” said Jones. Once fearful of answering questions in class, Jones was inspired by the way Olsen honestly examined and tested his own thoughts in discussions with the class.
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“It motivated me to speak up and make my voice heard,” said Jones. “His humility in the classroom helped me become a more confident thinker.” UM students Dallas Dodson and Hannah Atkins Dodson, a married couple both majoring in Spanish and intercultural studies, have previously taken Olsen’s classes and are currently enrolled in his denominationalism seminar. Building great relationships with his students and other faculty members is a hallmark of Olsen’s life, according to the couple. Engaging and generous with his time and advice, the professor has helped Dallas discover opportunities for ministry. “He has greatly encouraged me as I pursue God’s calling on my life,” Dallas said. Olsen’s “fun and unique teaching style” has been a factor in drawing Hannah into the importance of history and how it informs students’ view of theology.
“I feel comfortable coming to him with any questions I have about theology — or life.” - Hannah Dodson And as for Olsen, engaging with students, influencing them for Christ and for their future in ministry or the work force, is just a bit more fun sporting muttonchops, a white lab coat and a lightsaber.
DR. ROBERT “BOB” OLSEN Associate Professor of Christian Studies
Bachelor of Science (biology and science education), North Carolina State University Master of Divinity, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Doctor of Philosophy, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
WORDS TO LIVE BY “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
- John 16:33
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RITA CROOM Transforming Healthcare
Through compassion, excellence and partnership By Susan Murphy
Photo by Katie West
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“The man never complained a day in his life,” said Rita Croom of her stepfather, whose agonizing headaches sent him seeking help from various doctors. Physicians and nurses brushed aside his concerns, chalking up the pain to everything from poor diet to his imagination.
and School of Allied Health. Croom’s passion for emphasizing quality patient care goes hand-in-glove with the university’s vision for student graduates in healthcare to fulfill their calling of delivering Christ-centered care with excellence and compassion.
“People do not simply go to the doctor without a reason,” said Croom. “Patients have an important voice in their healthcare. It’s imperative physicians and nurses listen carefully.”
“We are preparing students to be the hands and feet of Christ,” said Croom. “Patient communication, empathy, patient/family experience — these are important skills and attitudes for students to develop.”
Four months after a medical team listened and began running tests on Croom’s stepdad, he passed away from a brain tumor. He was 40 years old.
Fulfilling the Vision That experience is one reason Rita Croom has been hospital patients’ staunchest ally throughout her career, and why she is passionate about developing the next generation of healthcare leaders at University of Mobile. With 20 years of experience, armed with three degrees and a slew of advanced certifications, Croom arrived in Mobile in August 2018 to lead the expansion of UM’s healthcare programs. She was named dean of the College of Health Professions and assistant vice president for academic partnerships. Croom’s oldest son, Caleb, enrolled at UM as an accounting major. Rita has been married to Wilson Croom for 32 years, and, in addition to Caleb, they are the parents of Cody, an accountant/auditor married to Chelsea; and law school student Chandler, married to Aleshia, who are parents of the first grandchild in the family, Owen Chandler. The move to UM gives Croom leadership and management of programs taught in the $4.6 million healthcare and science education center housed in William K. Weaver Hall, which was completed and dedicated late last year. The College of Health Professions is comprised of the Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice, School of Nursing, School of Health and Sports Science,
Transformative force First-class patient experience was a priority during her tenure in the School of Nursing at Union University and at large healthcare systems HCA/ TRISTAR, Capella Healthcare and RCCH, where she served as corporate vice president and chief experience officer. “Patient engagement, physician engagement and employee engagement have a profound impact on healthcare outcomes,” said Croom. “These all begin with healthcare leaders focused on alignment, accountability and patient outcomes. Our goal at University of Mobile is to produce healthcare leaders with these values.” As a senior-level leader and consultant, Croom acted as a force for change in hospital systems throughout the country and abroad by transforming organizational structure, culture and leadership through listening, developing programming and continual process improvement.
Innovative Learning Training up highly skilled, compassionate, patient-centered medical personnel is the focus of the UM Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice with its state-of-the-art labs and advanced equipment. Engaged in “Prac-ademics,” students at UM are being prepared both academically and practically through living laboratories.
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“Living laboratories in the Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice offer students hands-on learning utilizing high-fidelity human patient simulators in a hospital setting that ranks among the top simulation centers in the country,” said Croom.
“Turnover is about 30 percent for new graduates in nursing,” said Croom. “Our aim is not only to teach to the certification licensure exams, but to the actual job. Orientation for nurses is important, as are internships, to better prepare students for the realities of the healthcare role.”
The lab features an operating room and seven bays, which include pediatrics, two birthing suites, a two-patient trauma room (emergency department), a centralized control room and private student debriefing rooms. Patient assessment and care on life-like human simulators give students freedom to make mistakes and learn from them while being observed by professors in the control room on highly advanced audio/visual equipment and specialized software.
Partnerships for the future
Science labs in the College of Arts & Sciences give healthcare and pre-med students practical applications for their classroom learning as well. The new anatomy lab allows undergraduate students to work with human cadavers – an opportunity most students must wait until medical school to experience.
Teaching to the job Healthcare personnel are in high demand, and new programs are being introduced in the College of Health Professions to meet workforce needs, said Croom. The Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, including tracks in DNP Nurse Practitioner or Executive Leadership, is one of the newest degree offerings at University of Mobile. This advanced degree program prepares students for managing the primary care of individuals, teaching or clinic administration. Having an extensive background in developing organizational leadership in large hospital systems, Croom knows that a major challenge for hospitals and healthcare centers is recruiting, orientation and turnover of personnel.
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Croom is working toward developing partnerships with regional healthcare systems, local health organizations or governmental entities by offering them professional, well-prepared UM students and graduates, and by presenting continuing education opportunities for regional healthcare systems employees and other medical personnel, including first responders. Short-term certification programs, conferences and seminars in medical occupations and leadership are being considered in the future at UM. Developing healthcare students and professionals is at the heart of Croom’s mission to promote outstanding patient-centered care and operational excellence. “We are striving to build strong relationships by understanding and meeting the needs of regional partners,” said Croom. “We anticipate some very exciting things happening in 2019 — and I am thrilled to be part of the College of Health Professions’ future growth!”
To learn more about degrees and programs in the College of Health Professions, visit umobile.edu/healthcare or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.
RITA CROOM
Dean, College of Health Professions Assistant Vice President for Academic Partnerships Bachelor of Science, Organizational Leadership, Union University Master of Business Administration, Union University Doctor of Science in health services administration, University of Alabama-Birmingham
Certifications
CPXP, Certified Patient Experience Professional, Patient Experience Institute SHRM-CP, Society for Human Resource Management Executive Leadership Excellence, Owen School of Management at Vanderbilt University Human Resource Management, Christian Brothers University LEAN Healthcare, Belmont University Health Management, Union University
WORDS TO LIVE BY “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” - C.S. Lewis “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” - Romans 12:12
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Good People, Good Work School of Business By Michael Dumas Photos by Heath Vester
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Business is booming in Mobile as industries global and domestic invest new resources to take advantage of an increasingly driven and inspired workforce. The University of Mobile School of Business is partnering with industry leaders to educate the next generation of professionals to help foster this unprecedented growth. It is through those partnerships that students enrolled in the School of Business gain practical experience working in the private sector with comprehensive internships and paid contracts – all while honing instincts rooted in their Christian faith and understanding that good people do good work. Much of their success occurs at the intersection of “what” and “why,” according to Dr. Todd Greer, dean of the School of Business and vice provost in the Office for Academic Affairs. Students can develop a useful skill set that highlights what they can do, he said. But when they discover why they want to — what they are truly passionate about and called to do — it becomes much more than “work.” It allows them to see the intersection between their professional and personal lives. “We have to make sure, as a capitalist society, that we’re not being capitalist at the expense of people, and that we don’t maximize profits to the point that we forget people are why we exist,” Greer said. “With our faith-based mission and Christ-centered focus, we don’t just want you to be a good person in business. “We want you to understand what it means to be a good Kingdom citizen.”
Learning Through Example That philosophy led to the creation of the Faith at Work series, where guest speakers from local and international business communities are brought in to illuminate to students what it means to truly carry the mantle of faith in the business world. The shared perspective helps illustrate how, while someone may have a laser academic focus, there must also be a willingness to understand what God’s path for them might be.
Clarifying a student’s ability to understand God’s reach in their life is also a huge benefit to building their instinct, their path to the “why,” said Dr. Kathy Dunning, the School of Business’s associate dean and associate professor of accounting. “The more we show students what’s out there, what’s being done by our Christian and faith-based community, the more open they will be to paths that might benefit them,” she said. The Faith at Work series is one of two speaker programs the School of Business offers. The other is The Business Breakdown. Through that series, industry professionals share their greatest successes and failures. “One of the things that we want our students to see is that failure is an opportunity to learn,” Greer said. “Not everything that goes bad is going to be fatal. It’s an opportunity for you to learn and grow from it.”
Making Connections Throughout the curriculum, the emphasis is on connecting students to professional leaders in their discipline. Speakers have ranged from Grammy Award-winning artists to executives with Google and Facebook, either directly brought into the classroom or connected via video conferencing. “It really opens up the world,” Greer said. And it not only acquaints the students with successful entrepreneurs from the Mobile area and beyond, it shows the international business community what UM is all about. Amy Wright Lamb ’13 graduated from UM in the 5-year integrated MBA program, earning a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in business administration with a concentration in global business. She currently works for Open Doors USA, helping support persecuted Christians in more than 60 countries. She said the School of Business exposed her to passionate, like-minded people, and the accompanying mentorship and
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encouragement helped her develop key leadership and critical thinking skills, and understand what God was calling her to do. Lamb also learned the value of “creating and casting a vision, establishing objectives and carrying them out.” “You have people who care about you and who care about your particular gifts and skills and strengths,” she said. “And also your hopes and intentions for your career.”
Prac-ademics at Work
“They say, ‘We’re the Good Work Agency. We do good work for those who do good works,’” Greer said. The agency helps students learn how to communicate with clients throughout a project, set and meet goals and deadlines, and build their portfolios as undergraduates. The full-semester program also helps them develop passions for a variety of career fields. Prac-ademics also includes curricula involving living laboratories that supplement lecture spaces. An apt example during spring is the VITA, or Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, program facilitated by the IRS. Through VITA, accounting students can be trained and certified online, then staff various sites throughout the Mobile area to prepare tax returns for low-income citizens. “That’s the perfect intersection of Christian faith and your capabilities as a business student, or an accounting major,” Dunning said. “Look what you can do for these people.”
Future-proofing The School of Business is growing, and administrators believe one reason for increased student interest is their ability to offer real-world opportunities. After all, the value of practical experience has never been higher, and many industries aren’t interested in graduates who haven’t been actively exposed to the workplace. While internships are a crucial requirement for every School of Business student, so are opportunities to earn money in relevant fields while still pursuing their degree. Known as Prac-ademics, the approach bridges the gap between business theory and practice. One of the key initiatives to come out of that mindset is the Good Work Agency. Over the last year-and-a-half, Greer, Dunning and Katie Allred ’12, assistant professor of software development and digital media, developed a student-run marketing firm to work with area non-profits, churches and small businesses.
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According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the most valued assets a student can develop include teamwork, communication, collaboration, problem solving and critical thinking. The more opportunities the School of Business can offer to develop these abilities, the more successful its students will be, which is a key component of what Greer calls “future-proofing.” Basically, the more adept the student, the more they will be able to evolve to meet the challenges of their faith and career. And the administration needs to be malleable, as well, which is why new bachelor’s degrees are being offered in fields such as software development, and digital media and advertising. In addition to typical areas of focus such as marketing, management, accounting, finance and economics, the school is also growing in areas like integrated marketing communications and computer information systems.
Also, there is tremendous opportunity for UM’s international students through a new project of the School of Business with the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce. “What we recognized is, with the Port of Mobile, we are truly becoming a greater presence in international import-export, or trade,” Greer said. “So we now are starting an international consulting group for our students.” Several students are already enrolled in the project, which began in October. What the faculty is discovering, Greer said, is that students from other countries are often familiar with the companies investing in Mobile and are well-positioned to learn how to work with them. Recently, some German students began working on a project with a company supporting the Airbus supply chain. The students knew all about Airbus, since one of the company’s largest operations is in western Europe. “What we’re trying to do is stay grounded in traditional business understanding and, at the same time, be looking to how we can future-proof our students,” Greer said. “An overarching theme throughout our curriculum is that you can meld your Christian faith with your career,” Dunning said. “The two shouldn’t be separate.”
To learn more about degrees and programs in the School of Business, visit umobile.edu/schoolofbusiness or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222. For information about the Good Work Agency, visit goodworkagency.org.
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DEBAKEY SCHOLARSHIPS By Michael Dumas Photo by Amanda Pritchard
As a longtime physician and philanthropist, Ernest DeBakey thrived on opportunities to work with young people, often inspiring them to pursue careers in medicine. Through the charitable foundation he created, three University of Mobile nursing students will have full scholarships that pay for their education.
UM students receive some sort of financial aid. And the impact of the DeBakey Scholarship is multi-faceted. It provides much-needed funding for deserving students who are responding to the community’s need for well-trained, excellent nurses. It also serves as a catalyst for others to respond to this need in the form of scholarship dollars.
DeBakey died in 2006, nearly a decade after creating the Ernest G. DeBakey Charitable Foundation, which has given millions to foster medical care in underserved communities from Alabama to his native state of Louisiana. His wife, Marsha DeBakey, oversees the foundation and agreed earlier this year to fund three nursing scholarships for four years beginning fall semester 2019, for a total gift of $240,000.
Luke 10:9 states, “Heal the sick who are there and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.’” Ernest DeBakey brought health and hope to people in rural areas who ordinarily may not receive either. And in this spirit, the next generation of UM students practicing the healing arts will have opportunities to fulfill their professional calling.
The scholarships will be fulfilled through the University of Mobile Foundation, created in January to support the mission and vision of the university through fundraising and efficient management of the university endowment.
The university offers each of its students higher education, encouragement and guidance rooted in Christ’s teachings, and the funding raised through the University of Mobile Foundation helps deliver those blessings to those who need it most.
Financial support like the DeBakey Scholarship is vital to the growth of the university and its ability to graduate students to fulfill their Great Commission calling. Ninety-seven percent of
For more information on the Foundation, and to contribute to its mission of facilitating physical, mental, spiritual and religious development and growth for students, visit umobile.edu/giving.
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Amanda Bible Williams AN EVENING WITH
COFOUNDER & CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER
A night of inspirational worship & celebration REDEMPTION CHURCH | APRIL 9, 2019 • 6 PM | UMOBILE.EDU/TORCHSOCIETYEVENTS
$50 AUTHOR MEET & GREET AND RESERVED SEATING | $35 GENERAL ADMISSION | $30 EACH FOR GROUPS OF 10+
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RE TRO SPE C T Who would have thought, back in 1961 when Mobile College was founded, that software development was something the world needed? Or that you could use a degree in graphic design to share the gospel of Jesus Christ, or that studying kinesiology would open doors for sharing the Good News to the world of professional athletics? As University of Mobile has added academic programs – now offering over 90 areas of study – it is bringing the world closer to the Lord through every graduate fulfilling his or her professional calling for a Great Commission purpose. By Kathy Dean
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1964 Photo: First faculty and staff
“During the fall of 1963, Mobile College began its first academic year. This was a giant step into the realm of higher education and it made a new way of life available for many students. This first year at Mobile College shall always be hallmarked as the light that opened the world to these people, as well as to the ones who shall follow in the years to come.� - Preface to Rampage yearbook, 1964
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1968
“At 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 4, 1968, President William K. Weaver Jr. called from Atlanta, Georgia, and informed the students and faculty via a telephone – public address speaker in the auditorium that Mobile College has been fully accredited and accepted into the membership of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. This joyful news was greeted by thunderous applause from the audience.” - Mobile College Bulletin, December 1968
“The college began its second decade with an enrollment of 656, of which 107 were preparing for the preaching ministry and 43 were studying for other types of full-time Christian service. After just 10 years, 10 percent of the pastors serving churches in the Mobile Association were Mobile College graduates.” - The Alabama Baptist Historian, July 1995
Photo: Ministerial Association
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1970
1978
Photo: A.D.N. Pinning
“At a press conference on May 17, 1978, Mobile College officials announced the inauguration of a new, significant step in the continuing development of the school’s academic program … (the B.S.N. program) was ‘a dream come true’ in the efforts of those connected with the school to offer programs that are needed and that can extend the effectiveness and ministry of the college.” - Mobile College TorchLight, June 1978
“Any business student who is not prepared to meet the needs of computer knowledge in the business world will find it hard to be competitive in the job market. That is why computer science is now a major emphasis in the curriculum of students … (we are) striving to meet the needs of students, industry and community. The objective is to take major steps in producing the finest, most qualified product that we can.” - Rampage yearbook, 1985
1985
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Ignite the Future with Project Give! As current students receive Higher Education for a Higher Purpose at University of Mobile, we ignite within them a passion they will carry into their future workplaces and communities. The spiritual formation and intellectual development received within the classrooms, in the community, and through our hands-on Prac-ademics approach uniquely positions them to stand out in a crowded workplace. UM has greatly advanced since the first classes took place in 1963, and the generosity of donors continues to bring to fruition innovative and bold dreams such as the recent Center for Excellence in Healthcare Practice, state-of-the-art science classrooms and labs, Worship Leadership 210 mixing and visualization lab, and the current renovation of J.L. Bedsole Student Learning Commons. With a great vision for the future, an opportunity is on the horizon to shine UM’s light even brighter. Project Give is a 36-hour giving campaign bringing the entire UM family together to ignite the future of UM. From the Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, students, alumni, parents and donors, we recognize that, together, we can light the way for UM’s next generation of servant leaders. Every gift matters and will leave a legacy that expands the impact and vision of UM. Great things are to come! Join us and mark your calendar for April 2 - 3 to #GiveGreatUM!
Kim Garrett Director of Annual Giving
Lauren McCaghren Director of Alumni
Update your information at umobile.edu/alumni • Make a donation at umobile.edu/giving
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By Amber Kelley
Every year since 1967, University of Mobile sends graduates into the world to fulfill their professional calling for a Great Commission purpose. Since the first graduating class of 67 students, that number has grown to over 12,000 alumni – men and women whose spiritual formation and intellectual development were shaped during their years at a Christ-centered university. It’s an education that builds servant leaders who are making a difference. We call some of them Alumni Stars.
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“The Alumni Stars program was created in 2017 to honor graduates of University of Mobile while inspiring current students in their future career paths,” said Lauren McCaghren, senior director of alumni programs and director of Torch Society. Alumni Stars are selected by faculty in the school from which they graduated and are featured to current students within the school.
THE 2018 ALUMNI STARS ARE:
Christy Amick of Theodore, Alabama. Representing the School of Education, Amick is principal of Chickasaw Elementary School. Amick graduated in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education/early childhood education.
Dr. Alan Floyd of Mobile, Alabama. Representing the School of Christian Studies, Floyd is senior pastor of Cottage Hill Baptist Church. Floyd graduated in 1989 with a Bachelor of Arts in religion.
She went on to obtain a master’s degree in educational leadership. Amick served as a third grade teacher in the Mobile County Public School System from 1999 to 2013. She was named assistant principal at Chickasaw Elementary in Chickasaw City Schools and was promoted to principal in 2015. Amick has made significant contributions to the field of education in her many years as an educator.
He went on to earn a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Doctor of Ministry from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. A gifted communicator of the gospel, Floyd started pastoring Cottage Hill Baptist Church in November 2012. Since then, Cottage Hill has baptized over 750 people and has more than doubled in attendance. They are now averaging over 1,500 in Sunday morning worship.
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Meredith Carlson King of Mobile, Alabama. Representing the Alabama School of the Arts, King is an elementary music teacher at Prichard Preparatory School. She graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in music. As a UM student, King volunteered with the Prichard Children’s Choir and tutoring program. She also traveled with the ensembles Sofree and Voices of Mobile in the university’s Alabama School of the Arts. After graduating, she directed Sofree and the middle and high school choirs at UMS-Wright Preparatory School. She has led her choirs to district and state superior ratings and is a College Board-certified music theory and composition instructor. King said she firmly believes the instruction and opportunities given to her at UM molded her career into ministry. She is married to fellow UM alumnus Joel King ’15 and serves with him in music ministry at Luke 4:18 Fellowship.
Dr. Cheree Melton of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Representing the College of Arts and Sciences, Melton is completing a fellowship in obstetrics at The University of Alabama. Melton graduated in 2009 with a Bachelor of Science in biology. She went on to obtain her medical degree at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She recently completed residency in family medicine at The University of Alabama and its affiliated Druid City Hospital. Her special interests in medicine are adolescent female health, obstetrics, and long-acting reversible contraception, which is the topic of her ongoing research and for which she received the Outstanding Research Award during residency.
Tramaine Perry of Mobile, Alabama. Representing the School of Business, Perry is business banking officer vice president at BBVA Compass. Perry graduated in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in computer information systems.
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As a UM student, Perry was a member of the men’s basketball team and became the university’s all-time leader in seven statistical categories including scoring, rebounding, steals, and 5th all-time in assists. After graduating, Perry went on to serve as a business banking officer as well as a branch manager for BBVA Compass for eight years before taking on a leadership role in the small business arena as business banking officer vice president. He is involved in many outreach initiatives in the local community, including financial ambassador for Real Life Outreach, board of directors for the Alabama Kings Youth organization, member of the Alabama Leadership Initiative Committee and the 100 Black Men Organization.
Association of Critical Care Nurses, and American College of Healthcare Executives. He graduated from Leadership Mobile in 2005 and serves as a voice for healthcare in the Mobile area. In addition, he recently retired from the U.S. Navy at the rank of commander, serving four years of active duty and as executive officer of a forward resuscitative surgical company supporting USMC Forces.
Stephanie Verkouille of Satsuma, Alabama. Representing the School of Health and Sports Science in the College of Health Professions, Verkouille teaches girls’ physical education at Saraland Middle School. Verkouille graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science in global business. Paul Read of Mobile, Alabama. Representing the School of Nursing in the College of Health Professions, Read is vice president and chief nursing executive at Springhill Medical Center. Read graduated in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and in 2005 with a Master of Science in Nursing administration. Read began working at Springhill Medical Center in 1990 as a unit secretary in ICU, and began his nursing career there after graduating from UM in 1998. In 2002, he was named chief nursing executive charged with promoting nursing and improving quality of care hospital-wide. He serves on advisory boards for the UM School of Nursing, Spring Hill College, Bishop State Community College and Alabama Southern Community College, and is a member of the American Organization of Nurse Executives, American
She continued her education by obtaining a certificate in marketing education and alternative bachelor’s certificate in teaching Physical Education for P-12. She has obtained many fitness certifications, including group fitness and personal trainer. She serves as assistant girls’ volleyball coach, and teaches as an adjunct PE instructor at University of Mobile. She previously taught at North Mobile Christian School, Springhill Athletic Club, the YMCA and was co-owner of Outdoor Boot Camp Fitness. She is active at Redemption Church and her daughter, Madison, serves as a University of Mobile Ambassador. For more information about Alumni Stars and other alumni programs, contact the University of Mobile Alumni Office at 251.442.2587 or visit umobile.edu/alumni.
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Going Viral Matt Mitchell ’10 By Jessica Sawyer Photos by Alex Kiker
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You’ve likely seen the popular product of his work on Facebook. For funnyman Matt Mitchell, his daily work for “It’s a Southern Thing” – including videos for the “So True, Y’all” Facebook Watch page and the “Backporch Bickerin’” series – is a world away from his career starts in nonprofits and the public sector. A 2010 graduate of University of Mobile with a Bachelor of Science in social science, Matt was a program supervisor for the Alabama Department of Human Resources when his sense of humor opened up an unexpected door. “I had been writing a Twitter account, the fake Daily Mountain Eagle, and it took off,” Matt said of the parody account that got him noticed as a writer. “I had been writing things before that, just blogs, but I didn’t even know if anyone was reading it – I was just doing it for myself. But it was the first time I was writing something, and people were reading it.” And people were taking notice: in 2016, AL.com offered Matt a freelance position to write an article once a week. Before long, they had also offered him a position with It’s a Southern Thing. The move to writing, producing and, sometimes, starring in funny viral videos is one that required quite a bit of diversity and faith. “It was definitely a leap, and it took a lot of time considering options, praying about it, weighing pros and cons,” Matt said. “An opportunity like this in Alabama isn’t going to come very often. I didn’t want to sit back and not take it and wonder forever what would have happened.” The Walker County native chose UM because of its small size and Christian environment, and found a community who shared a passion for serving Christ. “There were people from all walks of life with completely different upbringings and opinions, but at the end of the day it all cycles back around to this view of Christ and really just wanting to make the world a better place,” he said.
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Connection & Christ Sammy Flores ’81
By Valerie Cockrell Photos courtesy of Sammy Flores Of all the roles that Sammy Flores plays, perhaps the most life-changing one is serving as Director of Guest Experience and Connections at Christ Fellowship, a multi-site church in Miami, Florida. For 21 years, he has worked to ensure that everyone who visits has an extraordinary experience that connects them to God. Young people stay connected to the church because they have a sense of belonging. Discipleship is important. The youth serve in various areas of the church on weekends, including playing or singing in the band or assisting Guest Services. This work helps them to stay more connected even into adulthood. “I am the worship pastor I am today because of UM,” Sammy stated. When he began at Christ Fellowship, the church was one campus serving around 1,100 people. Under the leadership of Lead Pastor Dr. Rick Blackwood, Christ Fellowship is now a multi-site church serving 8-9,000 people on the weekend. “Our challenge is to make a big church feel small,” said Sammy. People are part of small groups that are more personal. The church also has several global campuses in South America and the Caribbean. Sammy has great memories of his fulfilling time at UM — the dorm life, the music school, and of course the relationships and friendships made. He is grateful to the professors who believed in him and encouraged him, both in his area of study and as an individual. Sammy struggled in Mr. Robert Sawyer’s class, and Mr. Sawyer told him that just
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because you fail at something doesn’t mean that you give up. You have to pick yourself up and try again. In addition to his dedication to work, Sammy is also a devoted husband (Linda Blount Flores ’81), father, grandfather, and triathlete. He started competing in triathlons in 2007 and is currently a USA Triathlon Ambassador and Team Multirace Triathlon Ambassador. This past November he qualified to compete in the Age Group World Championships Long Distance Triathlon in Pontevedra, Spain. He plans to compete this August in the Olympic-Distance National Championships. Although his high school guidance counselor encouraged him to focus on sports rather than college, Sammy never gave up. He trusted Christ and persevered. He realized that, with God, all things are possible. When Sammy first walked onto campus, he prayed: “Lord, I don’t know what all you have planned for me, but help me every step of the way, to please you and honor you.” That prayer still guides him today.
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A Carnegie Dream Come True Scott Lawrence ’10 By Rivers Brunson Photos courtesy of Scott Lawrence
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As the bass singer and one of four University of Mobile alumni in the classical crossover quintent Veritas, Scott Lawrence provides a strong and steady foundation to the group’s wide range of harmonies. But it is as a powerhouse soloist with an extraordinary vocal range that Lawrence recently brought a Carnegie Hall audience to its feet. The University of Mobile alumnus has obviously come a long way since his senior year when he refused to audition for a role in “Saviour,” a modern oratorio telling the story of God’s passion for His people, that the Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts in the Alabama School of the Arts performs regularly.
Scott and Ellie are both alumni of University of Mobile and remain part of the tight-knit Alabama School of the Arts. Ellie graduated with a Bachelor of Music in violin performance, is an accomplished violinist and vocalist, and serves in ASOTA as a staff member and advisor. Scott, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in theology and Bachelor of Music in vocal performance, has served as an adjunct faculty member for three years, while working professionally as a graphic artist and web developer.
“I wasn’t confident that I was capable of singing it,” he said. “But then mysteriously my name showed up on the cast list. I am pretty confident Dr. Al Miller had something to do with that…” The dean of the Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA) is as much a prankster as he is believer in students who don’t yet believe in themselves. Lawrence went on to perform it that year, and many times since. But his performance on Oct. 1, 2018, was unlike any of the rest. It was his first performance at Carnegie Hall apart from Veritas. The 25th Anniversary of “Saviour” – which is comprised of a choir, orchestra and five soloists – featured Lawrence alongside Larnelle Harris of the original cast, Christian contemporary recording artist Travis Cottrell, Wes Hampton of the Gaither Vocal Band, and Annie Dupree of the Annie Moses Band. The concert was conducted by David Hamilton and produced by True North Presents. Bob Nelson and Greg Farrell, who wrote the work, were in attendance. And to complete the dream come true? His wife Ellie Thomas Lawrence ’11 and one-year-old daughter Ivey made the trip with him – “though we had enough foresight to make alternative plans for Ivey during the concert itself,” he said, with a laugh.
He is enrolled in UM’s new Master of Music in vocal performance, and plans to graduate in May 2019. “This program is unlike any in the country in that it’s extremely forward-thinking and tailored to equip the students for a 21st-century music career,” Lawrence said. “In today’s music industry, which is changing at a faster rate than ever before, the Alabama School of the Arts is ensuring that its graduates are equipped with not only the knowledge but also experience they need to enter the performing space and excel musically and professionally.” And excelling musically and professionally in the performing space is something that Scott Lawrence knows a thing or two about.
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The Simple Greek
Angela Prine ’02 Bill Prine ’00 By Jessica Sawyer Photos by Heath Vester
University of Mobile alumni and high school sweethearts Angela Chancellor Prine ’02, and Bill Prine ’00, never had the restaurant business on their radar. But after Bill read a story about The Simple Greek, a “fast casual” and growing Greek restaurant, the couple went to the restaurant’s discovery days for potential franchisees. “Doors just kept opening from there,” Angela said. “It wasn’t that we were seeking to open a restaurant; we’ve never been in the restaurant business before. The opportunity presented itself and we just jumped into it.” With Bill’s instrumental guidance in the construction phase of the project and his “behind-the-scenes” presence, Angela is in charge of the day-to-day operations of the midtown Mobile restaurant. “I went to University of Mobile and was an accounting major,” Angela said. “I worked as an accountant until I had children, and then I stayed home. This is what I’m doing after having children.” As the family – which includes daughters Addison, 12; Madeline, 10; Haidan, 7 and Evelyn, 4 – balances the rigorous life of owning and managing a seven-days-a-week restaurant, Angela continues to draw on skills she learned at UM. “In the business world, in particular with this restaurant, it’s really just about attention to detail. The skills from the business school I learned many years ago are still valid, even today,” she said. “At UM we did a ton of group projects and had to work with different people. Those skills of being able to communicate helped me every day, with The Simple Greek in particular.” As the restaurant continues to grow, the Prines hope to add UM students as employees. “We did a job fair before we opened and we have one student on our payroll right now,” Angela said. “He’s great – we’d like to have more.”
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CLASS NOTES 80s 90s
Duke Vinson ’93 (Business) received his doctorate in behavioral health from Arizona State University and his master’s degree in human relations and professional counseling from University of Oklahoma. He is CEO/Regional Director of JourneyPure Behavioral Health in Santa Rosa Beach, where he lives with his wife Jennifer and three daughters, Ellie (17), Becca (14) and Sydney (8). Tim Rice ’93 (Physical Education) serves as Program Chair of the Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program and as lead faculty in Sport and Performance Psychology at Ashford University. In addition, he teaches for several other universities as an adjunct faculty member. He has consulted internationally working in the Republic of Ireland from November 2015 - May 2016 and currently serves on the Elite Performance Committee (EPC) for Basketball Ireland, governing body of basketball in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. He and his wife, Candy, have lived full-time in an RV since 2010.
00s
Gimel Lewis ’08 (Accounting) started a new position as inventory control coordinator at Ansa Coatings Limited.
Deryl Pendleton ’82 (Sociology) serves as CEO of Pendleton & Associates insurance agency in Mobile, AL.
Stephen Davis ’98 (Finance) serves in a financial advisory position at Merrill Lynch along with his wife, Ashley Davis ’99. They met at University of Mobile and have been married 19 years. They live in Vestavia, AL with their two dogs, Maverick and Chase, and are members of Valleydale Baptist Church. David Tuyo ’00 (Finance) serves as President/CEO of University Credit Union in Agoura Hills, CA. He and his wife, Amber, along with their two children, Alexis (13) and Trey (11), attend Agoura Bible Fellowship Church where they actively participate in leadership for various initiatives. Amanda Locke Pederson ’04 (Nursing) serves as a nurse at Covenant Care in Milton, FL.
Tabitha Goodwin ’10 (General Studies) has been named a talent advisor at Ascension. Cory Poff ’12 (MBA/Business Administration) started as a Contract Specialist at Defense Information Systems Agency. Bryan “Luke” Easley ’13 (Communication) is a Digital Creative Communications Senior Consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton and resides in Prattville, AL. He also serves as Owner and Founder of Dwella. Rachel Kotlan Schwandt ’14 (Nursing) and her husband, Michael Schwandt, are expecting a baby in May 2019. Rachel serves as a nurse at Texas Children’s Hospital. Blake Tims ’17 (Master in Marriage/Family Counseling) has been named Intensive Outpatient Therapist at Bradford Health Services.
DECEASED C. Lamar Crocker, Jr. ’72 (Exercise Science) passed away April 5, 2017. He is survived by his wife Rachel; son, Steven, and a brother and sister.
BIRTHS Justin ’11 (Theology) and Courtney ’12 (Spanish) McGehee welcomed their first child, a son, Micah Anthony McGehee, on Dec. 18, 2018. In addition, Courtney became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Stay Involved with your Alma Mater! Go to umobile.edu/alumni to update your profile, volunteer, and meet your Alumni Board of Directors. Catch the latest news on our University of Mobile Alumni facebook page.
50 TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2019
Friends Forever
and successful career at GTE Government Systems, and volunteered in the community. He died Dec. 11, 2018, and is survived by his wife of 44 years, Ellen Boykin; a son and daughter, and numerous relatives and friends.
Rocketing to Success
The friendships made in college can last a lifetime, as these Mobile College alumni prove. Pictured at a recent celebration for Scott Morton ’87 upon his retirement after 25 years as a chaplain in the U.S. Navy are, from left, Ashley Evans ’90, pastor of Twenty-Second Street Baptist Church in Tucson, Arizona, and president of the Arizona Southern Baptist Convention; Rear Admiral Phillip Endel Lee Jr., ’85 deputy chief of chaplains for reserve matters in the U.S. Navy; Morton; and Tim Dollar ’85, principal of Wilmer Elementary School in the Mobile County Public School System.
Making History
Samuel Boykin ’69 took pride in graduating from Mobile College – and in being the first African-American to do so. In a 2011 TorchLight article celebrating the 50th anniversary of University of Mobile, Boykin said he learned appreciation at the school – appreciation for hard work, for earning what you receive, for professors who took an interest in him. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in history, he served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army, moved to California, earned an M.B.A., had a long
Majoring in history can lead to a career that’s out of this world! Huntsville Space and Rocket Center’s new space camp director is Sarah Crane ’17.
From A to Z
Learning the virtues of good character is as easy as A-B-C with “The Achiever’s Alphabet,” a new book for boys and girls ages 6-10 by Christian Bolden ’06. Available through Amazon, Bolden’s first book introduces foundational ideals such as fairness, empathy and accountability to reshape how youth view and interact with the world around them. Bolden is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, and is a former staff member for U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, a certified Project Management Professional, and holds an M.B.A. from Syracuse University’s Martin J. Whitman School of Management. During his career, he has served as a defense analyst, project manager, and government affairs director in Washington, D.C.
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52 TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2019