Torchlight: Spring 2020 by University of Mobile

UNIVERSITY of MOBILE

Spring 2020 Volume 13

Making Connections Alumnus Lonnie Burnett Becomes 5th President

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 I can still remember entering the back door of Weaver Hall on the first day of classes at Mobile College in August of 1976. I was an 18-year old, long-haired freshman ready to set the world on fire. Over the next few years, I came to love the college and, more importantly, the people that would influence me for the rest of my life. I was amazed that a college president would actually come sit in the “snack shop” and talk with us like he was actually interested in our lives. We would hang on the words of Dr. Weaver and try to soak in his wisdom. My first mentor, Dr. Hazel Petersen, taught me the importance of always pursuing excellence, even in the smallest details. Next to an eventual “Well done good and faithful servant,” a word of approval from her was the most treasured acknowledgment. A 25-year career in public education followed my 1979 graduation. During those years, I drew upon my experiences and relationships from the college. In January of 2005, I was blessed to return to what was now the University of Mobile as an associate professor of history. Over the last 16 years, so many people have been influential. I survived my employment interview with Dr. Mark Foley. Dr. Foley was, and is, the gold standard of class and dignity. I could have no better example for this new role. Dr. Audrey Eubanks exhibited great patience and sometimes tough love. Most importantly, the faculty and staff of this university are unsurpassed. They are the most dedicated servants I have ever seen, and I am humbled that I get to work alongside such as these. I come in that same back door every day as I walk to the President’s office. There is not a morning that my mind doesn’t go back to 1976. What a journey we have all taken together! Through it all, God has been so very faithful to this institution. We have seen His mercies new each morning. I am blessed and honored to serve as the 5th President of the University of Mobile.

Lonnie A. Burnett, Ph.D. President, University of Mobile

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

Spring 2020 • Volume 13 • Issue 1

CONNECT

Spring 2020 | Volume 13 Issue 1

By all appearances, University of Mobile’s beautiful campus is a secluded oasis set apart from the busy world just a few miles away. But appearances can be deceiving. In fact, the University of Mobile is alive with connections that extend far beyond its 880+ acres. This issue of the TorchLight explores some of those connections. Our cover story focuses on a new chapter in the life of this university. We celebrate a new president whose connections go back to his days as a student, then grew during his years as a faculty member and administrator. We explore how love and appreciation for his alma mater shape his vision for its future. We meet five alumnae who, despite living hundreds of miles apart, discover on a four-day vacation that friendships forged here will overcome the years and the distance. A team of students demonstrate the university’s historic connection with Alabama Baptists when they help revitalize a local Baptist church during Project Serve. A UM alumnus receives an honorary doctorate in recognition of his life’s work when his term as president of the Alabama Baptist State Convention draws to a close. The faith that is the foundation of a University of Mobile education connects and sustains us when a beloved member of our university family is suddenly gone. Well-prepared graduates are connected to a world in need through a pre-med program that opens doors to medical school and a new partnership with New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. The past connects to the future through an alumna who achieved her career dreams decades ago with the help of a University of Mobile degree, then established an endowed scholarship so current and future students could achieve their own dreams.

University News ...................................... 4 Rams Round-Up ....................................... 6 Retrospect ............................................... 10 Art That Speaks ...................................... 12 Personal Chimistry ................................. 14 More than a Coach ................................. 16 Fruitfull Service ...................................... 20 Practical Pre-Med .................................. 22 It’s Unanamous ...................................... 24 Q&A With The President ...................... 26 BA+ MDiv Program ................................ 28 A Givers Heart ........................................ 30 Servey Says ............................................ 31 Fullfilling Dreams ................................... 32 Connected for Life ................................. 40 My Soul Belongs to Him ........................ 42 Realized Potential .................................. 44 Class Notes ............................................. 45

President | Lonnie Burnett

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

Our connections run deep.

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.

Whatever your place may be at the University of Mobile – alumni, supporter, faculty/staff, parent, trustee, Rams fan or more – one thing is certain. You are connected. You are family.

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 2020

Northeast Louisiana University, and Bachelor of Arts in adapted physical education, health and physical education with teacher’s certification from Louisiana College. Fox Piano Lab Dedicated

Miss University of Mobile 2020 Abigail Breland, a nursing major from Little Rock, Arkansas, was crowned Miss University of Mobile 2020 on Jan. 18. She will represent UM at various events throughout the year, including the Miss Alabama Competition this summer. Participation in Miss Alabama is the next step of the Miss America Competition. Her platform is “True Identity,” a program designed to inspire children with special needs and remind them they are not defined by their disability – their identity is found in the unique individual they are.

The University of Mobile honored Rebecca “Becky” Fox, who taught piano at UM for almost 40 years, at a ribbon cutting of the “Rebecca Ware Fox Piano Lab” on Dec. 5. Fox served as co-chair of the “All Photo by Katie West Steinway, All Together” campaign in 2016 that raised funds to make UM an All-Steinway School within a year. UM Grads Urged to Use Influence December commencement speaker Dr. Alan Floyd ’89 challenged graduates to use their influence to change the world, one relationship at a time. The Cottage Hill Baptist lead pastor encouraged the 120 graduates to live out each day by making the most of every opportunity, realizing that people are always watching to see if one’s beliefs match with one’s actions.

College of Health Professions Announces Deans The College of Health Professions announced new deans for the School of Nursing and School of Health & Sports Science. UM alumna and professor of nursing Dr. Sarah Barnes-Witherspoon ’94 & ’96 is dean of the School of Nursing, after serving as interim dean since March 2019. She holds both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing from UM, and joined the faculty in 2001 as a nursing instructor. She holds a Ph.D. in nursing education and nursing administration from William Carey University. Associate Professor Dr. Lori DeLong is dean of the School of Health & Sports Science. She leads an academic program that includes a new Master of Athletic Training degree, plus bachelor’s degree programs in kinesiology, sport administration and exercise science. DeLong joined the UM faculty in 2014 and holds a Ph.D. in pedagogy in kinesiology from Louisiana State University, Master of Education specializing in exercise science from

Dr. Audrey Eubanks Retires Dr. Audrey Eubanks, professor of education and former vice president for academic affairs, retired in December with 38 years of service. She was honored at fall commencement Dec. 14 as she carried the ceremonial mace and received a standing ovation. “I personally believe the highest honor you can be paid is when someone says, ‘The place was better because you have been there,’ and that is the case for Dr. Eubanks,” said UM President Dr. Lonnie Burnett.

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RAMS

round-up By David Haney Photo by Dan Anderson

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

Beach Volleyball Coming Spring of 2021 Beach volleyball is one of the fastest-growing college sports in the nation, and the University of Mobile will join the competition when the Rams beach volleyball program starts in the 2020-2021 academic year. Indoor volleyball Head Coach Jon Campbell will lead the new beach volleyball program, assisted by current indoor volleyball assistant coaches Amber Campbell and Melody Fillingim. Both Jon and Amber Campbell were founding coaches for the university’s volleyball program and enter their 16th season as the 2020-2021 season gets underway. Fillingim will start her second year as assistant volleyball coach at UM. The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics announced last April that its National Administrative Council voted to add beach volleyball as an emerging sport in the 2019-2020 school year.

The University of Mobile named longtime associate head baseball coach Jon Seymour as interim baseball coach following the passing of Coach Mike Jacobs in December 2019. Seymour served as assistant coach then associate coach under Jacobs, who founded the UM baseball program in 1990 and served as head coach all 30 seasons since the program was established. Seymour and Jacobs coached together at UM for over 15 years. “I would have spent another 15 years investing in this program as associate head coach with Mike Jacobs. He was a walking mission statement of what this school is – a mentor to me and to so many young men that he poured his life into over the year,” Seymour said. He added, “We are not going to try to win baseball games in the name of Mike Jacobs. We are going to play the game of baseball to the best of our ability, in the name of Jesus Christ to glorify Him, and in that, we will honor Mike Jacobs.”

Jon Campbell said the coaching team is excited about the opportunity to start another program. “We love coaching volleyball and are very happy to see the sport continuing to grow each year. We hope to bring in more athletes than ever before with this addition,” Campbell said. The inaugural University of Mobile beach volleyball season is scheduled to begin in the spring semester of 2021.

Rams Retire Joe Espada’s No. 6 Jersey

Jon Seymour Named Interim Head Baseball Coach

On Saturday, Nov. 16, the University of Mobile baseball program invited university baseball alumni back to Jacobs Field on campus for the annual UM Alumni Game. Among returning alumni were Joe Espada, current bench coach for the Houston Astros in Major League Baseball, and J.C. Romero, who played over 10 seasons in MLB, winning the World Series with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2008. Both Espada and Romero played baseball for UM in the mid-’90s and continue to support the Rams baseball program. The UM hitting facility on campus was named after Romero in 2012.

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The university honored Espada during afternoon festivities in a ceremony where his No. 6 university jersey was retired as teammates, alumni, family and fans gave him a standing ovation. “I have learned from a very young age that we are here on earth to serve others. I am a believer of that. I try to teach that to my girls,” Espada said. “I want you guys to know that I don’t do this just to get recognition or get my jersey retired. I just do it because I think that’s what God wants us to do. To share our experiences, to share our knowledge, and to make an impact on people’s lives. That’s all I try to do.” To Coach Mike Jacobs, Espada said, “Coach, thank you very much because this place is like a home. Friends, teammates, and everyone, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.” Espada is the third Ram to have his jersey retired, joining Romero and the late Scott Vereen who played in the early ’90s. Romero wore the No. 32 jersey and Vereen wore No. 16. Espada’s No. 6 jersey will join Romero’s and Vereen’s on the wall in the baseball locker room.

season for a Rams team that reached the final site of the NAIA National Tournament, was also named to the SSAC 1st Team All-Conference Team and the SSAC All-Academic Team following the season. She was also named to the 2019 CoSIDA Academic All-District after earning Academic All-America honors in 2018. Women’s soccer Head Coach Brian Person said, “Heidi continues to be not only one of the best players in the conference but one of the hardest working, humble, and unselfish people I have had the pleasure to coach. This is reflected by her athletic awards and equally in her academic accomplishments. As a senior, she has maintained a perfect cumulative 4.0 which has been and continues to be an inspiration to those around her. Thank you, Heidi, for your steadfast example both on the field and in the classroom.” Giles will graduate in May 2020 with a degree in accounting and in business.

Men’s Soccer: The Southern States Athletic

Notable Honors from Fall Semester 2019 Women’s Soccer: Heidi Giles, a senior from Clive, AB, Canada and a member of the women’s soccer program, was named 2019 Southern States Athletic Conference Women’s Soccer Scholar-Athlete of the Year, the SSAC league office announced Dec. 12. This is the second straight year Giles recorded a 4.0 GPA and has been honored with this prestigious award. Giles, who started all 19 games during her senior

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

Conference announced on Nov. 14 that Liverpool, England native Ellis Roberts earned the SSAC Defensive Player of the Year award for the 2019 season. In 17 matches played, Mobile defensively held opponents to just 11 goals scored during the 2019 season. Along with the Defensive Player of the Year award, Roberts was named to the SSAC First-Team All-Conference Team. The SSAC also announced that University of Mobile men’s soccer Head Coach Daniel Whelan was voted the SSAC Coach of the Year. Whelan, who just wrapped up his sixth season as head coach, led his Rams to the NAIA National Championship

Tournament in Irvine, California. Mobile finished with a 17-2-2 overall record. At one point during the 2019 season, the Rams were ranked the No. 3 team in the country in the NAIA Men’s Soccer Top 25 Coaches’ poll. They ranked No. 9 in the final poll. Along with several individual awards for Mobile players and coaches at the SSAC Awards Banquet, the men’s soccer program was awarded the SSAC Team Sportsmanship Award for showing the most class and sportsmanship before, during, and after matches played throughout the 2019 season.

senior season (2019) while being named to the NAIA All-American Honorable Mention Team. Nichols will graduate in May 2020 with a degree in biology. Reflecting on her UM experience, she said, “Even now, it still does not feel real. It is such an honor to receive these awards and definitely a solid way to end one’s volleyball career, but I literally could not have done it without my teammates, my coaches and my family along the way. Although my title of ‘student-athlete’ has come to an end, the stories, friends, memories, lessons, characteristics and much more will continue with me into this next chapter of life. I am forever grateful for these four years at the University of Mobile. Go Rams!”Keep Up with UM Athletics Never miss any games, news and the latest Rams information. Following University of Mobile Rams social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; visit the website at umobilerams.com, or call the UM Athletic Department office at 800. WIN.RAMS.

Volleyball: Samantha Nichols had an illustrious four-year career at the University of Mobile as a key player for the volleyball program. Along with recording over 1,000 kills in her collegiate career and earning several SSAC Player of the Week Awards, she broke two school records. During Nichols’ freshman year in 2016, the 6’3” Cypress, Texas, native broke the single season total blocks record with 184 blocks. This set her up to break the all-time school record for total blocks, previously held by former Ram Paula Stilkey with 535 blocks. At the end of Nichols’ collegiate career, she finished with 544 total blocks, engraving her name in the UM record books. She was named to the SSAC Second-Team All-Conference Team during her first two seasons with the program (2016 and 2017) along with being named to the SSAC All-Freshman Team. She was named to the SSAC First-Team All-Conference Team her junior season (2018), and capped off her collegiate career by taking home the SSAC Volleyball Player of the Year Award during her

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R E TRO SPE C T By Kathy Dean

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whether or not this College is built depends upon the response of Baptists in this area and upon individuals of other denominations and faiths who desire to help provide a Christian College to educate our fast-growing number of high school students.â&#x20AC;? - Mobile College Campaign Fund Brochure The University of Mobile is built on connections. It started with Baptist leaders in Mobile, spread throughout Baptist churches, and extended into the community and beyond. Today, those connections form a network throughout the world, wherever there are UM alumni pursuing their professional calling for the glory of God.

In 1958, the Alabama Baptist State Convention agreed that if Mobile Baptists could, within two years, successfully complete a financial campaign resulting in cash or pledges of at least $1.5 million, it would be willing to establish and operate in Mobile a Christian college of liberal arts and sciences. A year later, more than $2 million was pledged and the convention agreed to establish and operate Mobile College.

The Book of Remembrance contains the names of 6,413 individuals and 186 businesses that contributed to the original campaign to build Mobile College. Over three-fourths of the $2 million pledged was raised through Baptist churches in Mobile, Baldwin, Clarke and Washington counties.

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

The Alabama Baptist State Convention elected the first Board of Trustees for the college, and continues to do so. Ex-officio trustees are the president of the Alabama Baptist State Convention and the executive director-treasurer of the Alabama Baptist State Executive Board.

The university’s Baptist heritage is symbolized by Lyon Chapel, located in the heart of campus. Originally built in 1883 as St. Stephens Baptist Church in St. Stephens, Alabama, the chapel was moved to campus and restored in 1988. It is named in honor of Willie Mae Lewis Lyon, a founding trustee. Today, chimes ring out across campus from its bell tower.

There is no greater symbol of the connection between God and man than the cross and the empty tomb. This sculpture, titled “I Am the Vine,” symbolizes Christ’s death on the cross, while the vine symbolizes the eternal life that He passes on through faith in His resurrection. Designed and built in 2009 by former UM president Mark Foley with former trustee Jim Daniel, the 12-foot sculpture set on a hill near Ram Hall is based on John 15:5: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

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ART THAT SPEAKS

Phillip Counsilman By Grace Thornton

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

Phillip Counselman says verbal expression isn’t his natural comfort zone. He’s a man of few words. And of all the topics he thought he might spend those words on this year, his boat definitely wasn’t one of them. “I never really thought I’d be talking to anyone about it,” he said. But it’s hard to avoid the subject when people see it and stop in their tracks, or they follow him onto the dock to ask questions about it. They can’t seem to help it. The sea green, hand-built boat is a thing of beauty. “I’ve been amazed and flattered by the response,” Counselman said. He got into boat building a few years ago when a friend introduced him to the hobby. It was new for Counselman, and it turned out to be a challenge — a magnum opus. But even so, it wasn’t a stretch.

connections — for instance, in 2019 they helped paint a mural for the Greater Gulf State Fair. “We want to be active in the community,” Counselman said. “It’s a great way to communicate with people.” To him, that’s what art is all about — honing your God-given talent so you can use it to communicate and, when necessary, talk about it too. Caroline Ennis, a 2016 UM graduate and Master of Fine Arts candidate at Florida State University, said Counselman was one of her most valuable mentors, spending hours outside of class helping her build her portfolio. Under his teaching, she grew in confidence — both in her work and in speaking about it. “I am forever grateful for his unwavering support and dedication to my success,” Ennis said.

“The boat really is a sculpture, and I like to work with my hands,” he said. “It’s a big part of being an artist.” Art is something he’s loved ever since he started painting landscapes in the rural town of Thomaston, Alabama, where he grew up. Over the years, he stretched himself and explored sculpture and other kinds of art through his studies, including as a student at the University of Mobile. Now he teaches ceramics, along with drawing and other art forms, and chairs the art department at the University of Mobile.

Kiara Page, a 2018 UM graduate, said Counselman “is a great teacher who has a talent for helping students develop their art further than they believed they could achieve.”

And as his choice of medium changed, so has his outlook on what art is all about.

She said his critiques were her favorite part of his classes.

“You go through different stages with art — it’s just like anything else,” Counselman said. “When I was a younger artist, it was all about me. Now I’ve come to the realization that a big part of art is lifting others up and reaching out to others with your artwork.”

“He could pick apart a piece in a way that was not harsh or judgmental, but in a way where you could understand how and why you should improve it,” Page said.

That’s what he tries to pass on to his students — that they have a responsibility to others and that their work should have integrity. He said their art is tied to their spirituality and their viewers can see that in what they create. And he helps them get that art in front of people so they can make those

Counselman puts it simply like this — “I tell my students they are here to learn to express themselves in the best way that they can.” And when people follow them onto the dock to ask about their magnum opus — and every other work of art — he wants them to be ready to talk about it.

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Personal Chemistry Dr. Wanda Jones By Grace Thornton

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

All the students who walk into Wanda Jones’ classroom are walking chemistry experiments — they just may not realize it yet. “We live this kind of science all the time,” she said. “For instance, if you get sick, you take medicine.” And that’s just one example — she’s got many. If you pump gas, Dalton’s law is involved. If you boil ramen noodles, you’re doing chemistry.

UM, said Jones showed her how to apply chemistry in the real world. “She is a great encouragement to all her students and is very approachable,” Moore said. “She makes the effort to get to know our lives outside of the classroom and wants us to excel in all aspects, not just chemistry.” Approachable is exactly what Jones said she wants to be.

For Jones, the beauty of the University of Mobile’s small class size is that she can make all of these examples personal. On the first day of class, she has her students fill out a profile sheet so she can learn a little about their lives and what they’re majoring in. Then, as the semester goes on, she shows them how chemistry is a part of that. “Chemistry really does touch your life, even if you aren’t majoring in it,” she said. “I don’t want anyone to be scared of it.” Jones feels that way because she loves it. Earlier in life, she thought she wanted to be a lawyer, but then chemistry stole her heart. “I had a knack for the sciences, and I loved chemistry and understood it,” she said. “Not only that — I had great mentors.” For Jones, that mentorship was a vital component. “It’s a huge deal to find mentors who can help you cultivate what is in you,” she said. “You should always find mentors, no matter what part of life you’re in.” That’s what she tries to provide for the people in her life, too — a little guidance from someone who’s a few steps further down the road. She’s invested in raising her recently adopted sons, Ayden and Dylan, and when she’s at work at the University of Mobile, she is intentional about connecting with her students. Marie “Callie” Taylor, a senior biology major at UM, said Jones is “one of the best chemistry teachers around” and was a big part of the reason she earned a chemistry minor. Olivia Moore, a junior pre-health biology major at

“I just want to show my students that I’m understanding, that I’ve sat in their chair and have been where they are,” she said. “I want them to know that I care about their success.” Travis Hudson, a junior biology pre-med major, said he can tell she cares — it’s played a vital role in his life. “She has helped me through Organic Chemistry, which has been the most difficult class of my college career,” he said. “She will drop everything to help a student in need and has been kind, generous and loving to her students. I’ve learned from her that, throughout your life, you will experience trouble, but keeping the attitude of Christ will be what makes the trials worth it.” That’s the ultimate goal of all their studies, Jones said — to know Jesus and do the Lord’s work. “They come to school to learn, and I encourage them to take that knowledge and go out and do good and help others,” she said. “When you do that, the blessing comes back to you in more ways than you can count.”

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MORE THAN A COACH By Kathy Dean

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

For Coach Mike Jacobs, the baseball field was never just a baseball field.

Scholar-Athletes, 13 conference Gold Glove winners, and 102 conference

“It was a mission field. He didn’t run a baseball program. He ran a discipleship program,” former player Jared Baria ’09 said at a memorial service held Dec. 7 at Jacobs Field. “Coach Jacobs always thought of the person first and the player second. He was preparing you for life.”

All-Academic performers. He saw 35 players go on to sign professional contracts.

The University of Mobile’s beloved athletic director and head baseball coach passed away suddenly Dec. 3 after suffering a heart attack at the baseball field on campus that bears his name.

Prior to his time at Mobile, he spent six years – two as an assistant and four as the head coach – at UMS-Wright Preparatory School in Mobile with a 65 – 34 record. He led them to a second place finish in 1987 and in 1988 a state championship and was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame in 2013. He also coached at Evangel Christian and Central Baptist.

As word spread, the reaction from the University of Mobile family and the community reflected the legacy of integrity and faith that Coach Jacobs left. “I have never met a man with more class and dignity on and off a ball field,” said UM President Lonnie Burnett, who first met Jacobs in 1980 when they were both coaching high school baseball. “Not only was he a legendary coach, but he was a spiritual mentor to hundreds of players over the decades of his career. Coach Jacobs was inducted into the Alabama Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2018. He was named University of Mobile athletic director July 1, leading one of the largest athletic programs in the NAIA. He founded the university’s baseball program in 1990 and coached all 30 seasons since the Rams’ program was established. In 2011, the baseball field was named Mike Jacobs Field in his honor, after he compiled 700 wins. Overall, he earned 993 wins and was 10th among active coaches in career wins in the NAIA. He led the Rams to three streaks of 40 or more total wins, and reached the 30-win plateau 17 times. He guided the Rams to seven conference championships and a berth in the 2001 NAIA World Series.

As a college player, he had an outstanding career as a four-year letterman at University of South Alabama and was the Jaguars’ leading hitter in 1976. He is survived by his wife, Joy; their two sons, Josh and Jeff; and eight grandchildren.

The family asks that memorials be made to the University of Mobile Baseball Program, 5735 College Parkway, Mobile, Alabama 36613 or umobile.edu/givenow and designate baseball.

He won Conference Coach of the Year three times in his career; in 1998, 2001 and 2008. He coached 20 total All-Americans, 88 First-Team All-Conference performers, 10 NAIA

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TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

COACH By Jared Baria

O Lord in this brokenness, please calm the raging storms, Just get me past the gate, and let me make it past the dorms. Where my heart is not so heavy, and loaded down with hurt, Just take it out and leave it, upon the brick-crushed dirt. Where everything was good and your children were at play, Just take me back again, to another Saturday. Where the fans are in their seats, hearing Mrs. Joy shout, Just put me in the box, when the wind is blowing out. Where the grass is freshly cut, and the Rams always get the win, Just put me there on second, and have Jacobs wave me in. Where lives have been transformed and where baseballâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just a game Just leave me there with him, on the field that bears his name. Where a man lived out his faith and made the gospel known, Just let me help to water, the countless seeds heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sown. Where he is right now, I can tell from all their faces, Lord, let me stand beside him, when Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m finished running bases.

Jared Baria spoke at the memorial service for Coach Mike Jacobs and shared this prayer. Baria is a 2009 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and played second base for the Rams baseball program from 2006-2009. Currently, he serves as a post-operative nurse at Surgicare of Mobile and as an associate pastor at Crawford Baptist Church in Semmes, AL.

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FRUITFUL SERVICE T I M C OX â&#x20AC;&#x2122; 8 8 By Kathy Dean

20 TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

Alabama Baptist State Convention President Tim Cox had just wrapped up his president’s address at the annual gathering at Eastern Shore Baptist Church in Daphne, not far from the University of Mobile. This year’s theme was “fruitful,” based on John 15:5, where Jesus speaks of the vine and branches, and how “if you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” University of Mobile President Lonnie Burnett stepped to the podium. “For a university, our fruit is our graduates,” Burnett said. That’s when he presented the 1988 graduate with the university’s highest honor, the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. As UM’s first graduate to serve as president of the Alabama Baptist State Convention, Cox exemplifies what it means for a university to produce graduates whose lives bear fruit. “He serves our local church, he serves our state Baptists, and most of all he serves our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” Burnett said in conferring the degree. Cox has served as senior pastor of Liberty Baptist Church in Chelsea, Alabama, since 1998. The church has more than doubled in size and remains a flagship church in Shelby County, with the mission of making an impact for Christ by making disciples who make disciples. His UM experience prepared him academically and equipped him with meaningful relationships as a pastor, he said. “While at Mobile, my spiritual roots grew deeper and my theological foundation grew stronger. Professors connected with me personally and continued encouraging me in ministry far beyond graduation. Even though I commuted to classes each day, many of the connections I made with fellow students turned into life-long friendships. I enjoy the bond I share with UM alumni all across our state and even across the Southern Baptist Convention,” Cox said later, adding that he was humbled and honored to receive the prestigious recognition.

He was ordained to the ministry in 1986, two years before he would graduate from UM with a Bachelor of Arts in religion. His father, Dr. Henry Cox, then of First Baptist Church of Bay Minette, was ordaining pastor. In addition to following his father’s path into the ministry, Cox’s journey to becoming convention president mirrored his father’s. They are the first father/son duo to have held all three officer slots – second vice president, first vice president and president – consecutively for two years each on their way to the top leadership role. Cox said UM helped build a strong biblical foundation in his life and ministry as a pastor. He continued his education at The New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary where he earned the Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry. He and his wife, Dawn, have been married 13 years. Together they have four children. From his perspective in his second year as president of the Alabama Baptist State Convention and an ex-officio member of the UM Board of Trustees, Cox sees strong connections that further the kingdom of God. “First, Alabama Baptist pastors and churches can have confidence in an intentional Christ-centered academic environment. We know that Christian higher education at UM enables students to develop spiritually as they are equipped academically. UM embraces the same mission mandate given to the Church – to make disciples who make disciples (Matthew 28:18-20). “Second, we have the privilege as a state convention to affirm and elect supportive and cooperative trustees each year. Our trustees believe in the mission of UM and value the cooperation with Alabama Baptists. “Third, Alabama Baptists support UM with significant Cooperative Program dollars each year, over $2.6 million in 2020. “The connection between UM and Alabama Baptists is a vital partnership and fruitful ministry for Christian higher education in our state,” Cox concluded.

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Practical Pre-Med When Chloe Wentland enters medical school in the fall, she will have a significant advantage over most of her peers, thanks to the hands-on instruction she received at the University of Mobile. A 2019 graduate with goals of studying osteopathic medicine, Wentland is not alone. Pre-med students at the university benefit from small class sizes resulting in extensive one-on-one instruction, plus laboratory access comparable to far-larger institutions nationwide. Both are popular reasons students enter the Department of Natural Sciences, in addition to the desire to be led by instructors deeply connected to their faith in God. “I knew I would get the one-on-one connection and teaching I wanted,” Wentland said. “The professors don’t just have an open-door policy; they really care and want you to understand the things you don’t.” One of the most impactful experiences of her studies in pre-med was the gross anatomy lab, Wentland said. Known as the cadaver lab, it was added two years ago along with labs for organ plastination, anatomy and physiology, and microbiology under the direction of biology professor and department chairman Dr. Randy Craig. The nationally accredited cadaver lab is an anomaly among schools the size of the University of Mobile. In fact, less than 10 such schools have gross anatomy labs nationwide, giving seniors as much as two full semesters of training on actual human specimens, which is a tremendous benefit. “It’s as close as these students can get to touching living people until they are in or out of medical school,” Craig said. “Gross anatomy lets them apply those skills they learned in their senior-level undergraduate course work in the real deal. “It’s better than some picture in a textbook somewhere.”Such hands-on learning is indicative of the faculty’s approach throughout the pre-med program. Craig, a veterinary surgeon with three decades of experience, said that while he has

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By Michael Dumas

much respect for the theoretical sciences, there’s no substitute for practical application. “All the research in the world is great and wonderful, but it doesn’t mean anything if it doesn’t work in that patient,” he said. “For the most part, if you can’t explain it in terms that your patients understand, you did absolutely nothing.” Whether pre-med students are aimed at careers as physicians, dentists, pharmacists, veterinarians or researchers, the faculty and curriculum will prepare them accordingly, Craig said. “Medicine is medicine,” he said. “Whichever way you then specialize it on the other end is where it changes.” The department’s one-on-one approach allows professors such as Craig to see potential in students they may not even see in themselves. Senior Hope Cain will graduate in spring of 2020, and while she originally enrolled with the goal of becoming a pharmacist, Craig and others helped her realize her true passion was to become a physician. Cain said she chose the University of Mobile because “that it is where my peace was, and where I needed to be.” “Dr. Craig saw something else in me that I didn’t see in myself,” said Cain, who has been accepted to medical school. “And he has shown me that what I am passionate about is serving people in a medical setting.” When she changed her major to pre-med, Cain said the decision resulted in the sort of happiness and peace that has accompanied all other major choices in her life. Seeing his student realizing her passion and potential left her professor with a similar feeling. “Sometimes they don’t realize it until you put it in front of them,” Craig said. “Hope is a home-run all-star, and I want her to be my doctor some day.”

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ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S UNANIMOUS! Dr. Lonnie Burnett Named 5th President of the University of Mobile

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

University of Mobile alumnus Lonnie A. Burnett, Ph.D., is the university’s fifth president, following his unanimous selection by the Board of Trustees on Nov. 22, 2019. The longtime history professor and dean was only six months into a 16-month term as interim president when the Board of Trustees made the position permanent. “It quickly became obvious there was no ‘interim’ in Dr. Lonnie Burnett’s commitment to lead the university to becoming all that it can be. We are enthusiastic about the future with his leadership,” said Board Chairman Fred Wilson.

high school and middle school levels in the Mobile County Public School System from 1980 to 2004, serving as chairman of the history departments at Semmes Middle and Satsuma High schools. He taught several years as an adjunct history instructor at UM, retired from the public school system, and focused on his second career as a college professor and author. Burnett served as visiting assistant professor of history at the University of Southern Mississippi in 2002, where he earned a Ph.D. He joined the University of Mobile faculty in 2005, eventually becoming chair of the UM Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, a full professor, and gaining tenure in 2012.

Burnett said the university will build on its strengths – strong academics, a vibrant college community, and Christ-centered mentoring – to prepare students to pursue their professional calling. “The University of Mobile is a special place. While we have a beautiful campus with great academic programs and facilities, it is our people who make the University of Mobile unique. It’s a place where students are known, educated and mentored by dedicated faculty and staff who ensure they are gaining more than just a degree from college. We truly believe we are advancing ‘Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,’” Burnett said. An inauguration ceremony will be held March 27 at 9 a.m. at Cottage Hill Baptist Church in Mobile. Burnett steps into the presidency after serving most recently as executive dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. His past leadership roles include vice provost, assistant vice president for Academic Affairs, and president of the Faculty Council. He graduated in 1979 from the University of Mobile, then Mobile College, with a Bachelor of Arts. His wife, Lynne, graduated from UM in 1996, and daughter Lauren Burnett Wetzel holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree, having graduated in 2009 and 2019. He earned a Master of Arts from the University of South Alabama and Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Southern Mississippi. He taught regular and honors U.S. history at the

He has two books published with the University of Alabama Press, “Henry Hotze: Confederate Propagandist,” and “The Pen Makes a Good Sword: John Forsyth of the Mobile Register.” He has written numerous articles, book chapters and reviews, and received the university’s Mitford Ray Megginson Research Award in 2006. Burnett has served in leadership positions or been a member of professional organizations including the Alabama Historical Association, Society of Civil War Historians, and southern Historical Association. He serves as managing editor for “The Alabama Review,” a quarterly journal of Alabama history published by the Alabama Historical Association in cooperation with the University of Mobile. He has served as a member of the Saraland city School Board since 2010 and was one of five school board members statewide to be named to the 2017 All-State School Board by the Alabama Association of School Boards. He is an active member of Redemption Church in north Mobile.

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Q&A WITH UM’S NEW PRESIDENT There’s no doubt, Dr. Lonnie Burnett loves the University of Mobile. Just ask him why. We did.

Q. What do you love most about the University of Mobile? A. I love the people. We have got some great facilities and great technology – things I call “stuff.” However, it’s the people that make us unique. The employees of this university are here because they have a calling. This calling is manifested in the way they pour themselves into the lives of our students. Likewise, the students here are special. They are pursing knowledge and skills that will prepare them for the workplace, but, at the same time, they realize there is a higher purpose. Q. Where do you plan to lead the university in the next five years? A. I want us to fulfil what I believe is our special purpose. Our motto, “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” is more than just a marketing slogan. I truly believe that our mission sets us apart from other institutions. Every university in America (including us) will claim to offer quality academic programs. We will no doubt continue to offer the very best in academic training, but we will also excel in the mentoring aspect of our mission. Our size and our spiritual focus make us uniquely qualified in this regard. Q. What do you see as the university’s strengths? Its challenges? A. As mentioned, our biggest strength is our people. However, we have several other advantages. One is that we are in a great geographical location. Students can leave our campus and be on some of the nation’s greatest beaches in just over an hour. We are also 10 minutes from a thriving downtown area. Another is our traditionally strong tie-in to Alabama’s Baptists. There are over 3,000 Baptist churches in this state.

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They contribute through the Cooperative Program, they support us in prayer, and they send us their kids. Finally, our most noticeable strength is the quality of the “product” we turn out. The quality of our graduates is the best advertising we could have. Q. You often speak about the value of personal relationships and mentors at UM. Who are your mentors? A. I have had several mentors along the way at this university, both as a student and later as a faculty member/administrator. As a student, Dr. Hazel Petersen was my first mentor. As chair of the Division of Education, she taught me the importance of hard work and paying attention to detail. She would accept nothing less that your best effort. When I came here as a full time employee in 2004, I was greatly influenced by Dr. Audrey Eubanks, Dr. Billy Hinson, Dr. Dwight Steedley, and, of course, Dr. Mark Foley. Each of these, in his or her own way, taught me valuable lessons. I also benefitted from working with the faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences, who are an inspiring group of dedicated professionals. Q. What advice would you give to students considering their future plans after high school? A. When I speak to high school students, I always say they should follow their passion. I understand that they (and, more importantly, their parents) are thinking about a well-paying job. I like to say that there is no amount of money that will make up for being unhappy in a career. The beauty is that if a student will follow their passion, the money will most likely follow. I have been extremely fortunate that, for the last 41 years, I have managed to convince someone to pay me to do what I love. It just doesn’t get any better than that.

Your ‘Sometime’ is Now Sometimes you want to change career paths. Sometimes you want to get more knowledge about leadership. Sometimes you just want to take it to the next level.

Now is the time. The University of Mobile provides the master’s and doctoral degree programs you need to succeed in your professional calling. Graduate programs are offered in nursing, business, education, Christian studies, health professions and the arts. Classes are offered online, on campus, or blended to fit your busy schedule. To learn more about new master’s and doctoral degree programs at the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/graduateprograms. Apply today at umobile.edu/apply.

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University of Mobile and NOBTS Announce Accelerated BA+MDiv Program By Kathy Dean

A new partnership between the University of Mobile and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary allows students to save time and money by earning both a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Divinity in just five years. The Accelerated B.A.+M.Div. program reduces by two years the time it takes for a student to earn both a bachelor’s degree from the University of Mobile and an M.Div. from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. “This agreement will greatly benefit both institutions. We are pleased to partner with our colleagues in New Orleans and hope this is just the start of many such opportunities,” said Dr. Lonnie Burnett, University of Mobile president. Dr. James Dew, president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, said, “This is an exciting time in our history to partner with the University of Mobile to train students for the mission of Christ. This partnership will enable students to maximize their time and get to the field more quickly.” The agreement allows selected undergraduate courses taken at UM to apply toward the master’s program at NOBTS. UM students also may qualify for advanced placement in biblical language courses.

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In addition, up to 29 hours of graduate-level courses taken in the University of Mobile School of Christian Studies Master of Arts program may transfer to any NOBTS M.Div. NOBTS offers a M.Div. with specializations in 24 areas, including pastoral ministry, missions and urban missions, church planting, evangelistic church growth and more. Dr. Doug Wilson, dean of the University of Mobile School of Christian Studies, said the partnership will allow students to build on their UM ministry training and pursue their M.Div. from NOBTS in an accelerated format. “We’re grateful for this academic partnership. Through the years, many of our Christian Studies alumni have gone on to pursue M.Div. and doctoral work at NOBTS. By formalizing this partnership, one of our key Southern Baptist seminaries is affirming the value of our theological and ministry training at the University of Mobile,” Wilson said. The program starts fall semester of 2020. For more information, contact Dr. Doug Wilson, dean of the School of Christian Studies at the University of Mobile, at dwilson@umobile.edu or call UM Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

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A Givers Heart By Bruce Easrnest Vice President for Advancement

While preparing remarks for this year’s University of Mobile Scholarship Banquet, I asked my friend and colleague Dr. Doug Wilson, dean of the School of Christian Studies, for information about how many times the word “giving” was used in the Bible. I was somewhat surprised to learn that “ giving” is mentioned 2,172 times. When someone asks me what I do, I answer that I get to tell people what God is doing at the University of Mobile. Recently, I had a conversation with a couple that felt compelled to support what the Lord was doing through our university. These committed friends of UM were adamant that everything they had – including their home, retirement and possessions – did not belong them, but to God. As I sat and listened to their hearts, I was inspired and encouraged by their story and desire to share what they had for our students. I can’t stop thinking about this couple and their generous spirit. They were giving from their storehouses, not from what they had left over. They acknowledged that what they had been blessed with belonged to God, and they were being obedient to Him. For them, giving wasn’t a burden,

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but a blessing. Whenever I meet someone like this, I am reminded of my own predisposition to take credit for what I have. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says- Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Paul is writing this to the church at Corinth, but this scripture applies to us more than ever. Giving and giving generously is not just for those the world would consider wealthy. I believe that we are cheerful to give when we can truly acknowledge that what we have belongs to God, and acknowledge this truth not just in our speech, but in our hearts manifested by our actions. There are several important projects at the University of Mobile we are asking God to help fund. Please consider giving a tax-deductible donation at giving.umobile.edu, or contact our Office for Advancement at advancement@umobile.edu or 251.442.2587.

SURVEY SAYS By Kathy Dean

A new survey of University of Mobile freshmen found over 97% would recommend UM to their friends, while over half said their favorite thing about the Christ-centered university is the people. “My favorite thing about UM so far has been how welcoming and encouraging everyone is. From my fellow peers to all the faculty, everyone has made this place feel like a second home,” wrote a student on the anonymous survey. “I feel noticed,” wrote another. Over 90% of the university’s 2019 freshman class – 239 of 265 – responded to the survey conducted in September 2019. Students were asked to rank the importance of various factors that influenced their decision to attend UM. Open-ended questions asked why they chose the university and what they liked most about their college experience so far. Lesa Moore, vice president for marketing and public relations, said the survey confirms that aspects of the University of Mobile that make it unique are the same attributes valued by students.

Among the findings:

“The people of UM – faculty, staff and students – make us who we are as an institution. Research says that Gen Z students value uniqueness and authenticity, and this survey shows they are finding that at the University of Mobile,” Moore said.

• The top five factors influencing their college decision are scholarships/financial aid, career opportunities after college, academic programs, faculty and Christian environment.

• Over 96% said they were satisfied, very satisfied or extremely satisfied with their experience.

She added that Pew Research says Generation Z, those born in the mid-1990s to early 2000s, is on track to be the best-educated generation ever.

• Favorite things about UM so far are the people (51%), atmosphere, small campus/classes, the Alabama School of the Arts/performing ensembles, and Christian focus.

The university conducted the survey to learn how incoming freshmen found out about UM, what was important to them, and how their college experience has been so far.

• The most important reasons they chose UM are Christian environment/spiritual growth, scholarships/financial aid, a sense that God led them to UM, athletics and academics.

Over half of respondents said they originally heard about UM from friends or family, a finding that Moore said reflected the university’s reputation.

• Nearly half ranked the 4-day academic week as very important, along with pracademics hands-on experiential learning.

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FULFILLING DREAMS George W. and Patricia H. Dorsett Endowed Scholarship By Kathy Dean

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

There was a time when a woman could not be married and also be in nursing school. In 1949, Patricia Holliday was about to step on the bus to Rochester, Minnesota, to enroll in nursing school at the Mayo Clinic. In the last hour before she was to begin her journey, she realized her real dream was to have a life with George Dorsett. So she took a step in a different direction and married the love of her life. The beauty of Pat Dorsett’s story isn’t just that she eventually got to have it all – marriage, family and nursing career. It’s that she and husband George made it possible for University of Mobile students to pursue their own dreams, as well.

As nursing evolved and the Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing became the standard, Pat set her sights on achieving the degree. The University of Mobile, then Mobile College, offered her the best opportunity to pursue this next dream while working full time and continuing to fulfill her role as wife and mother of now four children. She graduated in 1981 with a B.S.N. from Mobile College. She went on to receive her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and retired in 1992 after 30 years as a nurse educator.

When Pat died at the age of 89 on Oct. 18, 2019, surrounded by family, she left a legacy to inspire future generations through the George W. and Patricia H. Dorsett Endowed Scholarship at the University of Mobile. In addition, through estate planning, she bequeathed a $100,000 life insurance policy to the university that will transform Weaver Auditorium into a state-of-the-art, technology-rich classroom and conference venue. Deep Devotion “Pat Dorsett represents the very best of who we are as University of Mobile alumni,” said Brian Boyle ’94 & ’15, executive director of the University of Mobile Foundation in the Office for Advancement. “She had a spirit of giving back throughout her life – in the community through her nursing career, and in remembering her alma mater and caring for future students.” Never Give Up Pat’s decision to forego nursing school was merely a delay. Several years and two children later, she was admitted to the University Hospital School of Nursing in Birmingham as a married student with children, graduated in 1957, and took her first job as a registered nurse. Over the next 30 years or so, with two more children, a move to Mobile, Alabama, and a career as a nursing instructor in a licensed practical nursing program, Pat’s dream continued to grow.

“Having cherished and appreciated the opportunities presented to her by Mobile College to further her career in nursing, Mother developed a deep devotion to the university,” family members said. Pat and George wanted to help future University of Mobile students pursue their own dreams. They hoped to provide a significant gift to make a significant impact – George mentioned $100,000. They were not wealthy – they were raising four children on a modest income. They didn’t know how they would do it – but they had the dream. After George’s death in 1997, Pat used $25,000 she had saved to establish the George W. and Patricia H. Dorsett Endowed Scholarship that would provide scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing degrees in nursing or religion and, later, business.

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As she grew older and her life slowed somewhat, Pat became less and less interested in things for herself and more interested in things for the future – for all of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, of course – but also for students at the University of Mobile who would pursue their dreams to become nurses, pastors and business leaders. She urged family members to make donations to the scholarship fund instead of buying gifts for her birthday, Mother’s Day or Christmas. That frequent and faithful giving over a long period of time added up. The principle in the endowed scholarship grew, was invested and managed, and an ever greater portion of the earned interest was spun off to provide scholarships.

Martin Dorsett served on the UM Board of Trustees and as a member of the UM Business and Finance Committee. Currently, he is associate for daily church ministry at Luke 4:18 Fellowship in Mobile, where Pat had been a member, in addition to the couple’s longtime involvement with Cottage Hill Baptist. Another son, Dr. Wayne Dorsett ’76, serves in interim pastor roles for the Georgia Baptist Convention while serving also in Africa, teaching and training pastors through Wayne Dorsett Ministries. Two grandchildren hold degrees from UM: Erin Dorsett Vaughn ’00, a mental health counselor with LifeVesting International in Mobile, and Ross Dorsett ’17, the volunteer coordinator for the Jerry Carl for Congress campaign.

“We all recognized how important this was to her, and we genuinely wanted to please her by doing as she asked. We also recognized that we were contributing to the legacy that she and our Dad had begun,” the family said. A life insurance policy with the university as beneficiary made George’s and Pat’s dream of a $100,000 gift a reality upon Pat’s death. Before her death, Pat was recognized by the university as the single largest lifetime alumni donor. Invested in UM The George W. and Patricia H. Dorsett Endowed Scholarship and recent $100,000 bequest are just some of many ways the Dorsett family invested in the university. At the request of then-UM President Mark Foley, Pat served three terms – 12 years – on the Board of Trustees. She considered it one of the great honors and privileges of her life. Pat received several awards from the university over the years, including the World-Changer Award, Alumni Award for outstanding achievement in health care, Door Opener Award for fundraising efforts, and Alumni Council service award for her leadership as a vice chairman. The Dorsett family embraced the university. Son

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

The dreams that Pat and George shared live on through the lives of University of Mobile students. “It is truly amazing that they had a vision and pursued their dream of establishing a scholarship that will live on well beyond their own lives for students they will never even know,” family members said. President Emeritus Foley said when he thinks of encouragement and care, “I think immediately of my friend Pat Dorsett. Her smile seemed constant, and there were many days that smile and her words of encouragement were just enough to push through a thorny issue. I will always be grateful for Pat and the friendship she so wonderfully shared.” The Office for Advancement can help you maximize your giving through a life insurance policy or other estate planning tools. Contact Brian Boyle at 251.442.2287 or bboyle@umobile.edu, or visit the website at giving.umobile.edu.

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SERVING THE CHURCH By Amber Kelley

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

Reid Guy, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Chickasaw, Alabama, doesn’t want to be a statistic.

in over a year. UM students helped paint, clean and do carpentry work to help the church get ready to move back into the sanctuary Oct. 27.

“Statistics show that 100 churches across our country close their doors every week,” he said. “And we don’t think God is ready for us to be one of those 100.”

Morgan Brasell, a junior worship leadership major, said, “Being able to serve First Baptist Chickasaw has been a pleasure. It’s amazing what we can do in the church when we all come together as a team.”

It takes prayer, hard work and many hands to revitalize a 30-member church that once attracted 1,200 worshipers. Some of those hands belong to more than 120 University of Mobile students in the Alabama School of the Arts. The school used its annual Project Serve event Oct. 25 to help FBC Chickasaw accomplish major projects that would have taken the church years to complete on its own. “This was a megachurch before we really had the term megachurch, and it has the facilities to accommodate all that came with a large church,” Guy said. “First Baptist Chickasaw was a hub for our community.”

Abigail Breland, a sophomore nursing major, said, “It’s pretty cool that UM gets to go out and serve. And it means even more, because my grandparents got married in this church. I’m excited to help with the church growing.” Breland was one of the students that helped clean over 100 pews. Students helped paint rooms in the education building, children’s building, fellowship hall and parts of the sanctuary. Students also helped clean the church’s gym.

The church has seen its share of struggles. Membership has fallen to around 30. They were close to shutting the doors when Guy expressed interest in becoming pastor. Guy is married to Lori Guy, UM assistant professor of music. “I began interviewing for the role as senior pastor in May and obviously saw the struggle,” Guy said. “But also found that this church was not ready to close its doors.” Since he began in September, the church is averaging around 50 people on Sundays, has had new members join and has launched a new children’s ministry. But there is still a lot of work to be done on the church building, and that is where UM students stepped in. UM president Lonnie Burnett said the university emphasizes student involvement in local churches, and this Project Serve event symbolizes that partnership. “Local churches are our lifeblood – they send us students, they send us donations, and this is our chance to give back,” Burnett said. Due to financial troubles and declining numbers, First Baptist Chickasaw has not met in its sanctuary

“The work they did was invaluable to our church. We are better positioned to reach our community for the Gospel because of the work they did,” Guy said. “I honestly believe that indirectly, through the work done by these students, people will come to know Christ and/or grow in their relationship with Him. We have several UM students and faculty that attend our church. They are special to us.” To celebrate moving back into the sanctuary Oct. 27, UM ensembles Sofree performed at during the church’s morning service and RamCorps played in the evening. More than 80 people attended the Sunday service that included the first baptism in over two years. “This partnership with the University of Mobile is God-honoring and one we are so grateful for,” Guy said.

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Your Alumni Connection The Alumni Office is here to serve you, the alumni. We want you to be informed, network with fellow alumni and be in the know about the exciting changes at the University of Mobile. If you were unable to attend alumni events during the fall, we hope to see you in the coming months! Check your email for information on the Alumni Brunch, Ram Run, Family Easter Egg Hunt and Annual Golf Classic. If you cannot make these events, we encourage you to come back home and attend a home athletic event this spring! If it’s been awhile since you’ve seen the updated facilities around campus, schedule a tour with us. We’d love to see you!

Allie Normand Ratcliff ’15 Director of Alumni Programs and UM Ambassadors

Update your information at umobile.edu/alumni

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

The University of Mobile Golf Classic The 23rd Annual University of Mobile Golf Classic will take place on April 24 at Heron Lakes Country Club. The University of Mobile Golf Classic is one of the most popular golf tournaments on the Gulf Coast. To register for the tournament, visit umobile.edu/mobileclassic. The day will include the golf tournament, door prizes, buffet lunch, a silent auction and more. A $25 discount is available for alumni of the University of Mobile. All proceeds go to the University of Mobile Annual Fund which provides support to meet the immediate and evolving needs of UMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s departments, students, faculty and programs. For more information, contact the Office for Advancement at 251.442.2587.

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FRIENDSHIP • LOVE • CONNECTIONS • LIFE • RAMS • ROOMMATES

Connected for Life

By Hannah Vester

FRIENDSHIP • LOVE • CONNECTIONS • LIFE • RAMS • ROOMMATES 40 TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

S The University of Mobile has been a lot of things for me, but friendship-curator must be my favorite. I moved to Mobile from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, in 2012 to start my college career. I did not know a single person, but that did not last long. The University of Mobile offered so many ways to get involved, from student life events to Ram Rush – the possibilities were endless. On move-in day, the girls on my hall and myself had a meet-and-greet and, in that moment, I made some of my very best friends.

Our four-day vacation together was nowhere near long enough, but we’ve decided to reserve a weekend every year to make time for us to all be together. I really look forward to our annual trip and seeing how much life will change, yet also stay the same.

Hannah and Debra became two people that I quickly realized I cannot do life without. We were practically attached at the hip, never leaving each other out of anything. Our friendship involved a lot of intramural sports, conversations in the Caf, Ram Rush activities and late-night adventures. But what’s better than two friends? Four more friends! In the fall of 2013, Piper and Sarah added so much to our group when they became students at the University of Mobile. The five of us have remained friends throughout post-college life. Through graduation, continuing educations, careers, moving states and marriage – we have been through so many changes together, despite living hundreds to thousands of miles apart.

As I take time to reflect on that weekend, I am reminded of the importance of friendship and the value these girls have added to my life. I am forever grateful that the University of Mobile brought us all together, and for the memories that we have shared and will continue to make.

Hannah Burch Vester graduated from the University of Mobile in 2017 and is now a clinical research coordinator at Coastal Clinical Research. She lives in Saraland, Alabama, with her husband, Heath, who is also a UM graduate and creative director in UM’s Office for Marketing and Public Relations. Hannah enjoys traveling the world, kickboxing, enjoying dessert, and adventuring with her two pups, Finn and Raven.

We recently took a trip to Chattanooga, Tennessee, together. It had been two years since we had all been together, and it seemed as if not a single thing had changed. We hiked, drank coffee, enjoyed good food, laughed and shared memories and stories of our time at UM.

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‘My Soul Belongs to Him’ Rianna Freeman Turner ’02 & ’05 By Michael Dumas

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

Rianna Freeman Turner describes her paintings as a reflection of her true self: someone whose devotion to Jesus Christ inspires her to creatively bare her soul every day. So it’s telling that to experience her art is to step into a place of wonder, lightness and joy.

missions organization, teaching painting classes in a program she created called “missions masterpiece” to raise funds for missions. She also taught adult and children’s painting classes in Lafayette, Louisiana, for several years.

While attending art classes at the University of Mobile, the 2002 graduate learned to “paint what you see, not what you know,” an invaluable concept that helped Turner develop and trust her unique perspective. That confidence helped transform her into a professional artist who, in 2019 alone, was the featured artist at Daphne’s annual Jubilee Festival, and winner of Best of Show out of 480 other artists at the prestigious Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. It had been years since she’d entered a festival, but Turner’s trust in God’s vision for her life helped allay any doubts. “Art is a reflection of the soul, and my soul belongs to Him,” she said. Spiritually, Turner was saved years before she entered college, but said attending the University of Mobile was an evolutionary step in her faith. After earning her Bachelor of Science in communication with a minor in fine art, she mastered in Marriage and Family Counseling.

“I wanted to go to a school that would help me become the person God had for me, on the spiritual level and in so many other levels in life,” Turner said. After graduation, she traveled the nation for five years with the Woman’s Missionary Union Foundation, a Southern Baptist-affiliated national

Most recently, she taught painting classes to 3rd and 4th graders in Washington County, Alabama, schools and surrounding counties through the Wilcox Foundation and Gallery, a nonprofit foundation that seeks to bring art and music to rural communities who may not have access otherwise. The foundation, headed by former UM Board of Trustee member Susan Wilcox Turner, also has a partnership with UM’s Alabama School of the Arts and Dr. Kadisha Onalbayeva, Steinway Artist and UM professor, that provides two scholarships to master’s-level piano students who teach a free piano lab for the community. It’s safe to say the devoted wife and mother of three sees the world a bit differently than anyone else. Turner is grateful for her understanding of that truth, and it helps her approach each day just as she does each new piece of art. “Just keep painting and see what happens,” she said. “And expect to be really surprised.”

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Realized Potential Tramaine Perry ’05 By Michael Dumas

During his basketball career at the University of Mobile, it was easy to identify Tramaine Perry as a leader. The Rams’ star forward broke just about every meaningful record in school history and was part of several legendary teams. But those at the university charged with his personal and professional growth saw even greater potential in the 2005 graduate. Longtime President Dr. Mark Foley and then-Head Basketball Coach Joe Niland were certain Perry was a born leader, and constantly gave him opportunities to speak in public and network throughout the community. That way, if by some chance basketball didn’t pan out, then the Louisiana native could have opportunities in other professional arenas. As fate would have it, Perry didn’t make his mark as a professional athlete, but through the wisdom and guidance of others, and an unshakeable belief in God, he’s a devout husband, father, mentor and businessman today. “I’m very thankful to those individuals because they saw something in me that this shy kid didn’t

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

see in himself,” Perry said. “No matter what the situation calls for, I’m always ready to speak and move forward on behalf of the group.” He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in computer information systems, but quickly realized that his passion lay in finance. So Perry entered the banking world and has never looked back. Currently, he serves as a regional small business executive for all of BBVA Compass’s branches in Alabama and Florida. In 2018, he was named an Alumni Star by UM’s School of Business in recognition of his accomplishments. The father of three boys, Perry also serves on the School of Business Advisory Board, and loves to help students along their journey. “I stay involved because I believe in the institution, what it stands for,” he said. “And I always make sure I let the kids know that a relationship with God is the only thing that can carry you through this life.”

CLASS NOTES 70s Loretta Weninegar ’76 (Biology, Secondary Education) retired in 2016 and works part-time at Alabama A&M as a research assistant in forestry, ecology and wildlife programs. Loretta lives in Huntsville, AL, and has 3 children and 8 grandchildren. James (Jim) O’Neal ’78 (Psychology) is director of facilities and security at Judson College. Jim is married to Karen Lathan O’Neal ’80 (Education) and they live in Marion, AL.

80s Martin Pettit ’87 (Sociology) recently retired from federal law enforcement. Martin and wife Lisa live in Ellijay, GA, after many years spent in Washington, D.C. They enjoy being closer to their children and extended families. Dianna Kreidel Robertson ’87 (Art) is an administrative assistant in enrollment management at King University. She is married to Joel Robertson ’88 (Psychology), chief information officer at King University. They have 4 children: son Joshua (nurse) and his wife, Samantha (music teacher) Robertson, daughter Cassie Robertson (nursing student), daughter Kaitlyn Robertson (accounting student) and daughter Grace Robertson who was adopted last September. Dianna and Joel live in Bristol, TN.

90s Leslie A. Adkins ’92 (Sociology) is a training supervisor at Southeast Toyota Finance in Mobile, AL. Mary Beth Brantley Lancaster ’92, ’94 (Education, English) is dean of instruction at Coastal Alabama Community College. Mary Beth and husband Steve Lancaster live in Atmore, AL. Charles Montoya ’92 (Religion) serves as chaplain in the U.S. Air Force. Currently, he is assigned at the Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base. Charles is married to Tina.

Mark Whittington ’92 (Religion) is pastor at Evergreen Baptist Church. Wife Michele Maughon Whittington ’92 (Music) is a music teacher. They live in Evergreen, AL, and have 3 children; two of their children attend UM, Grace and Noah. Karla Blake Burdette ’93 (Psychology) is ministry assistant for Baptist Campus Ministries at the University of North Alabama. Karla is married to Kelly Burdette ’96 (Marketing), senior vice president - digital and product at Bank Independent. They have a daughter, Blakely, and son, Joseph, and live in Killen, AL. Chrissy Anthony Henderson ’93 (Education) is a 1st and 2nd grade teacher at Bright Beginnings Academy in Mobile, AL. She is married to Todd Henderson and they have 3 children: Ashlynn, Peyton and Morgan. Marti Pulliam Messick ’93 (Business) is a communication instructor at the University of South Alabama and director of communications at Foley United Methodist Church. Marti and her husband, Dendy Messick, live in Foley, AL. Together, they have 5 daughters: Allie and husband Wes Ratcliff, Paige and husband Steven Evans, Jill, Maddy and Mary Katherine. Lee Raybon ’93 (Nursing) is an RN with the Neonatal ICU at USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital. Lee lives in Mobile, AL. Henry Lowery ’94 (Organizational Management) is a retired conservation enforcement officer. His wife, Dr. Anne Lowery, taught at UM for 27 years. They live in Northport, AL, and are loving spending time with their granddaughter. Carrie Boyd Austin ’95 (Studio Art, Psychology) ownsTrue Change Counseling in Leander, TX. Carrie also serves as state president of Christian Counselors of Texas. Her husband, Jonathan Austin ’96 (Computer Science), is an app developer for Supply Logistics Solutions. Eric Baker ’98 (Sports Medicine) is an analyst at Tecolote Research Inc. Eric is married to Valerie Briggs Baker ’00 (Education), a teacher at Peridot Montessori School. They live in Madison, AL.

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Eric Dean ’98 (Business) serves as CEO at Top Brass Consultancy and lives in Chesapeake, VA. Joshua Johnson ’99 (Religion) is youth pastor at Oyster Bay Baptist Church. Joshua and wife Jessica live in Silverhill, AL.

00s

Justin Staton ’05 (Religion) is a patient service clerk at Diagnostic and Medical and lives in Mobile, AL.

Wendy Funes Jaimes ’00 (Education) is a reading coach at W.D. Robbins Elementary in the Mobile County Public School System. Wendy lives in Daphne, AL.

Peter Burmeister ’06 (Religion) serves as minister of missions and students at Pine Terrace Baptist Church. Peter and wife Amy live in Milton, FL.

David Jarrell ’00 (Computer Information Systems) is network coordinator for the Mobile Housing Board. David’s wife, Marci Jarrell ’01 (Nursing), works at Springhill Medical Center. They have 2 sons, Matthew and Wesley. Aundrea Davis Walker ’01 (Mathematics) is a teacher at Faith Academy. Aundrea, her husband Spence, and son William, live in Mobile, AL. Jason Kirksey ’02 (Business) is media operations manager at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Jason is one of the only people in the world to work Super Bowl LIII, 2019 NCAA Final Four, 2019 CFP Championship Game and 2018 MLS Cup, all between December 2018 and March 2019. Jason is married to Heather Kirksey and they live in Marietta, GA. Woodie Turner ’02 (Religion) is minister to families at First Baptist Church Gadsden and is married to Kylie Webb Turner ’19 (APN). Evanglia Brown Burgess ’03 (Business) is a claims adjuster at Sheffield Risk Management. Evanglia and husband Ronnie live in Dora, AL, and have 4 children, Ella, Rylan, Masyn and Kane. Alvin West ’03 (Psychology) is special education liaison and mathematics teacher with Mobile County Public Schools. Alvin has two children, Alvin West III and Wynter. Dr. Katherine Garth ’04 (Education) is a teacher with Mobile County Public Schools. She earned her Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from Mississippi State University and lives in Mobile, AL.

Samantha McAllister Parker ’04 (Business) is HR manager at Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes. Samantha is married to Chris and they have 2 daughters, Mackenzie Grace and Taylor Faith. They live in Hoover, AL.

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Karissa Knutson Kause ’06 (Business Administration) is a real estate agent for Edina Realty in Rochester, MN. Karissa has two sons, Kameron and Karter. Adrian Rochofski ’07 (Business) is head of sales at 3C Software. Adrian and wife Morgan live in Atlanta, GA. Lucinda Driver Parmer ’07 (Business) is an assistant professor at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Lucinda has worked in education in both secondary and post-secondary since graduation. She lives in Durant, OK. Andrew Desko ‘08, (Religion) is student pastor at Immanuel Baptist Church in Savannah, GA. He is married to Megan Dean Desko ‘08 (English, Religion), a freelance artist. They have two children: Sarah Grace, 9, and Luke, 5. Meghan Dove ’08 (History, Political Science) is manager for community engagement for Toronto Dominion Bank of Canada. Meghan recently competed in the Ontario Women’s Mid-Am golf provincial tournament where she is ranked 15th overall. She lives in Ontario, Canada. Britney Barentine Allen ’09 (Theology) is a stay-at-home mom. Britney and husband Bret live in New Orleans, LA. Arthur Bosarge ’09 (Leadership Development) is assistant public works director for City of Fairhope Public Works. Arthur looks forward to retiring in May after 25 years of service. Arthur and wife Paula live in Fairhope, AL.

John Overstreet ’09 (Business) is associate pastor of worship at FBC Satsuma. John is married to Laura Overstreet. They live in Saraland, AL. Christine Vaughn Shaw ’09 (Business Administration) works in human resources at Dauphin Island Sea Lab and the Marine Environment Science Consortium.

10s Amanda Akey ’10 (Social Science) is marketing and community relations coordinator at Infirmary Health in Mobile, AL. Laura Ashley Ingram Harper ’10 (Communication) is a missionary church planter with International Mission Board. She is married to Lee Harper ’02 (Theology). They have 2 children, Holland Grace and James, and live in Belgium. The Harpers have adapted to the Belgium culture by riding bikes everywhere, hauling groceries up several flights of stairs and eating lots of bread! In the past decade, Laura Ashley and Lee have lived in Wake Forest, NC, while attending Southeastern Seminary; London, England and Andalusia, AL. Travis Williamson ’10 (Education) was recently named interim assistant baseball coach at the University of Mobile. Travis previously coached football and baseball at Theodore High School. He is married to Kylie and they have a 2-year-old son, Leo. Louise Arseneault ’11 (Athletic Training) is a soccer coach and author living in San Ramon, CA. Louise recently published her first book, “The Blackout.” Debby Faught Cullum ’11 (Communication) owns Deborah Michelle Photography and works for Birmingham Southern College in the Student Development Office. She and husband Richard Cullum live in Birmingham, AL. Tiffany Hudgins Layton ’11 (Theology) is pre-funding verification examiner at Alabama Housing Finance Authority. Tiffany and husband Lex live in Millbrook, AL. Adam Morris ’11 (Theology) is student pastor at Kennesaw First Baptist Church. Adam is married to

Nicole Morris ’13 (Nursing), an RN at North Cherokee Hospital. Adam and Nicole live in Kennesaw, GA, with their two children, Zoe and Jude. Heath Walton ’11 (Church Music) serves as associate pastor at First Baptist Church of Talladega. Heath recently earned his Master in Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He is married to Cortney Walton. Josh Bugg ’12 (Worship Leadership) is a performer at Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World. Wife Joey Beth Luttrell Bugg ’12 (General Studies) is a stay-at-home mom with their daughter, Lucy. Josh and Joey Beth live in Orlando, FL. Kala Holt Hembree ’12 (English, Humanities) is an instructor of literature and rhetoric at Bayshore Christian School. Kala earned her M.A .in English from Baylor. Husband Joshua Hembree ’12 (Political Science) is director of operations for Hembree Heating and Air. Joshua completed law school and passed the bar in 2015. They served on the campus launch team for Church of the Highlands Mobile Bay Campus. The Hembrees have a daughter, Eva Hope, and live in Daphne, AL. Katherine Looney Sparks ’12 (Social Studies) is an 11th grade history teacher for Thomasville City Schools. Katherine is married to Matthew S parks ’11 (Social Science), director of parks and recreation for the City of Thomasville, AL. Matthew is also director of the Thomasville Golf & Recreation Club. Cierra Giles Windle ’12 (Education) is a 4th grade English language arts and social studies teacher with Madison County Schools. Cierra is married to Coleman Windle and they have a daughter, Aly. They live in Hazel Green, AL. Charsy Martratt Anderson ’13 (Sociology) is a youth care worker for United Methodist Children’s Home. Charsy is married to Wesley Anderson; they have one daughter and live in Robertsdale, AL. Jessica Catlin Anderson ’13 (Political Science) is an assistant district attorney for Mobile District Attorney’s Office and an adjunct professor at UM. Jessica and husband Blake Anderson live in Spanish Fort, AL.

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Anna Williams Clark ’13 (History) is program director for Youth Advocate Programs in Albertville, AL. Luke Easley ’13 (Communication) is founder and creative director of Easley Investments. Luke founded a hotel startup called Dwella in 2018. He lives in Montgomery, AL. Jessica Letson ’13 (Education) is an elementary teacher at West Decatur Elementary School in Huntsville, AL. Weston Mason ’13 (Accounting) is a CPA at Mason & Company PC. Wife Ashley Shelton Mason ’13 (Business) works at Elkdale Baptist Church as ministry assistant. They have a daughter, Camryn Amelia, and live in Selma, AL. Megan Ramsey Parsons ’13 (Worship Leadership) is finance controller with International Mission Board. Megan and husband Sam live in the United Kingdom. Jordan Pinkston ’13 (Worship Leadership) is worship pastor at CityHope Church. Wife Shannon Powers Pinkston ’15 (Worship Leadership) is worship coordinator at CityHope Church. They have two children, Jad and Rhodes, and live in Spanish Fort, AL. Jessica Compton Joseph ’13 (Intercultural Studies) is project coordinator at CIMCO Refrigeration Inc. in Delray Beach, FL. Jessica is married to Marc Joseph ’12 (General Studies). Marc is a 7th grade math teacher at Palm Beach County School. They have two children, Lillian Kate and Nathaniel James. Alexis Barnard Nshamamba ’13 (History, Elementary Education) is quality assurance and training manager at Good Samaritan Shelter, a nonprofit serving over 33,000 homeless a year. Alexis is married to Franck Nshamamba ’14 (Business) who works for Entegris. They have two children and live in Santa Maria, CA. Seth Brasher ’14 (Worship Leadership) is worship associate pastor at Sherwood Baptist Church. Seth co-wrote three songs on “Hope is Rising” by Sherwood Worship, co-wrote and co-produced “Your Kingdom Come,” and arranged and

TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

produced Elevate EP. Seth is married to Katie Compton Brasher ’16 (Psychology), head women’s soccer coach at Andrew College. They live in Albany, GA. Dakota Cantrell ’14 (Psychology) is a program specialist and traveling day camp coordinator at Chestnut Ridge Camp and Retreat Center in Efland, NC. Jessica Hughes Cole ’14 (Music Education) is a strings teacher at Baldwin County Youth Orchestra in Loxley, AL. Jessica is married to Charlie Cole ’15 (Mathematics), a design engineer at Austal. They have 2 children, Adelaide and Joseph. Joshua Dailey ’14 (Worship Leadership) is a touring production manager. Wife Cary Williams Dailey ’14 (Communication) is administrative coordinator of student ministry at Journey Church. They live in Franklin, TN. Shelby Townsend Jacobs ’14 (Education) is a stay-at-home mom to two daughters, Sadie Blake and Ellie Grace. Husband Matthew Jacobs ’10 (Theology) is associate youth pastor at First Baptist Church Crossnore. They live in Crossnore, NC. Stacie Holland Johnson ’14 (Music Education) is the choral teacher at Brookwood Middle School. Stacie and husband Tyler live in Elrod, AL. Melissa Maddox Dorminy ’14 (Nursing) is a stay-at-home mom to 3 children: Rylee, Trey and Drew. Melissa is married to Will Dorminy ’13 (Worship Leadership), manager of Goldfinger’s on Dauphin Street. The family lives in Saraland, AL. Erica Thompson Mason ’14 (Biology) is a stay-at-home mom to 3 children. Erica and husband Ronald live in Chatham, AL. Anna Phillips ’14 (Worship Leadership) is an agent marketing director for Bellator Real Estate and Development. Anna spent the first two years out of college working as an event planner and in social media marketing for Jennie Weller of Montgomery. She has been with Bellator since July 2017. Anna serves as a volunteer worship leader with City Hope Church at the Malbis campus and lives in Spanish Fort, AL.

Cynthia Summersgill Schneider ’14 (Mathematics) is a math teacher at Timber Creek High School. Cynthia and husband Dustin Schneider have a daughter, Haisley Grace. They live in Orlando, FL. Emil Verde ’14 (General Studies) is online campus pastor and college pastor at Church Unlimited. Wife Kourtney Campbell Verde ’08 (Business) is worship director at Church Unlimited. They are expecting a son. Emil and Kourtney live in Corpus Christi, TX. Meagan Bell ’15 (Sociology) is an executive assistant at Long Hollow Baptist Church in Nashville, TN. Erin Lindsay Brown ’15 (Business) is a senior tax associate at Pivot CPAs. Lindsay became a licensed CPA in 2018. Lindsay and husband Robert Brown live in Jacksonville, FL, with their two cute pups, Max and Pearl. Kendall Floyd ’15 (Education) is a pre-K lead teacher for Chickasaw City Schools and lives in Mobile, AL.

teacher at Prichard Preparatory School. They live in Semmes, AL. Amanda Gaster Leach ’15 (Nursing) is an RN pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice through Baylor University. Amanda and husband Adam live in Rifle, CO. Leslie Ann Godwin Middleton ’15 (Music Education) is a stay-at-home mom to daughter Melody Ann. Leslie Ann and husband Broox live in Mobile, AL. Before Melody Ann was born, Leslie Ann worked as a music educator for Cherokee Elementary and director of bands for Saraland Middle. Catherine Webb Owler ’15 (Nursing) is an RN at Providence Hospital and lives in Mobile, AL. Katie Arrant Sirmon ’15 (Education) is a teacher for Escambia County School System. Katie and husband Gordon live in Flomaton, AL. Mason Thompson ’15 (Communication) works for UNUM. Mason is married to Erin Thompson and they have a son, Eason. They live in Ooltewah, TN.

Hannah Stokes Gibson ’15 (Psychology) is an administrative assistant for Radical. Hannah is married to Elijah Gibson ’15 (Communication), worship and young adults pastor at McLean Bible Church. They live in Ashburn, VA.

Laura Vinzant ’15 (Intercultural Studies) is a lead teacher at Sa-nguan Ying School in Suphanburi, Thailand.

Emily Griner ’15 (Education) is a 2nd grade teacher at Cherokee Bend Elementary School in Birmingham, AL.

Blake Walker ’15 (Worship Leadership) is contemporary worship pastor at First Baptist Gulf Shores in Gulf Shores, AL. Blake recently sang professionally in Washington, D.C., at the Museum of the Bible.

Lane Keeton ’15 (Theology, Athletic Training) is an athletic trainer at Alabama Orthopedic Clinic. Lane lives in Axis, AL. Lauren Dyson Killgore ’15 (Political Science) is a special needs caregiver living in Theodore, AL. Lauren is married to Nathaniel Killgore. Caleb Godfrey ’15 (Worship Leadership, Church Ministry) is worship pastor at First Baptist Church Arab in Arab, AL. Joel King ’15 (Music Education) is worship pastor at Moffett Road Baptist Church. Wife Meredith Carlson King ’15 (Music Education) is the music

Sara VanWert ’15 (Biology) is a service representative for McGohan Brabender in Franklin, OH. Kayleigh Clinkenbeard ’16 (Marketing, Management) is the event planner at Rock Creek Golf Club and lives in Silverhill, AL. Sarah Jones Crane ’16 (History) is custom programs supervisor at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. Sarah is married to Tyler Crane ‘14 (Business). They have a son, Leslie and live in Huntsville, AL.

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Emily Williams Deal ’16 (Graphic Design) is a studio designer at Red Square Agency in Mobile, AL. Emily is married to Alex Deal. Meredith Gwin ’16 (Biology) is a 4th year graduate student in the department of physiology and cell biology at the University of South Alabama’s College of Medicine. She is also an American Heart Association predoctoral fellow. Meredith lives in Mobile, AL. Madison Holcomb ’16 (Education) is a 1st grade teacher at Carroll County School and lives in Carrollton, GA. Maggie Merck ’16 (Business) is a utility purchasing agent for Irby and lives in Brandon, MS. Andrew Mullins ’16 (Theology) is a student ministry associate at Northside Baptist Church. Andrew is married to Lauren Story Mullins ’18 (Biology) who works at St. Thomas Hospital Rutherford. They live in Murfreesboro, TN, with their dog, Sunday. Rebecca Sales ’16 (Psychology) is a mental health therapist at AltaPointe Health. Becca is engaged to Mikey Finamore and lives in Robertsdale, AL. Debra Story ’16 (Nursing) is an RN at Vanderbilt Photo by Dan Anderson Children’s Hospital in Nashville, TN. Miranda Freeman Stringer ’16 (Music Education) is a music teacher at College Park Elementary. Miranda and husband Kevin Stringer live in Lucedale, MS. Victoria Acker ’17 (Intercultural Studies) owns Vessel Coffee Company and lives in Alabaster, AL. Malorie Buckhault ’17 (Education) is a teacher with Escambia County Public Schools and lives in Atmore, AL. Taylor Clinkenbeard ’17 (Accounting) is staff accountant for Hartmann, Blackmon and Kilgore PC and lives in Silverhill, AL. Annamarie Smith ’17 (Education) is an elementary teacher with the Mobile County Public School System and lives in Semmes, AL. Montana Hollis ’18 (Education) is the lead pre-K

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teacher at Wilmer Elementary and lives in Mobile, AL. Tyna Orth ’18 (History) is a middle school teacher with Pasco County Schools and lives in Holiday, FL. Kayla Whatley ’18 (Business) is an assistant manager at Enterprise-Rent-A-Car and lives in Canton, MI. Todd Bosarge ’19 (Education) is an instructor at J. Larry Newton School and lives in Fairhope, AL. Amanda Browning ’19 (Worship Leadership) is in rights administration for Christian Copyright Solutions and lives in Daphne, AL. Darby Callicut ’19 (Sociology) is pursuing her M.S.W. at University of Alabama and lives in Tuscaloosa, AL. Morgan Cleveland ’19 (Music Education) is an elementary music teacher at Faith Academy in Mobile, AL, and a private lesson instructor. Andrew Felts ’19 (Communication) is the digital marketing and social media specialist at the University of Mobile and lives in Saraland, AL. Kendall Floyd ’19 (Education) is a pre-K lead teacher for Chickasaw City Schools and lives in Mobile, AL. Amber Kelley ’19 (Communication) is marketing communications specialist at the University of Mobile and lives in Saraland, AL. Joshua Kennedy ’19 (Worship Technologies) is media production assistant at Cross River Church and lives in Lucedale, MS. Rebekah Lipscomb ’19 (Piano Performance) is pursuing a master’s degree in piano at the University of Mobile and working to expand her private teaching studio. Anna Newman Lovette ’19 (Communication) is director of communications at Cottage Hill Christian Academy. Husband Austin Lovette ’19 (Theology) is student pastor at Wilmer Baptist Church. They live in Semmes, AL, with their dog, Finn.

Whitney Myers ’19 (Business, Worship Leadership) is music director and assistant youth director at Covenant Presbyterian Church and lives in Mobile, AL.

MARRIAGES Stacie Holland Johnson ’14 (Music Education) married Tyler Johnson June 15, 2019. Jannah Lyons Glass ’15 (Intercultural Studies) married John Glass on Oct. 27, 2019. Abbie McAuley ’17 (Communication) and Jacob Henderlight ’19 (Theology) married Jan. 4, 2020. Jodie Robinson Sigrest ’18 (Intercultural Studies) married Brian Sigrest in October 2019.

DJ Giaritelli ’14 (Communication) and Brooke Giaritelli welcomed their first son, Matteo Joseph, on Dec. 2, 2019. Cynthia Summersgill Schneider ’14 (Mathematics) and Dustin Schneider welcomed daughter Haisley Grace in February 2019. Leslie Ann Middleton ’15 (Music Education) and Brooxs Middleton welcomed daughter Melody Ann in July 2019. Mason Thompson ‘15 and Erin Thompson welcomed son Easton Thompson in August 2019. Sarah Jones Crane ’16 (History) and Tyler Crane ‘14 (Business) welcomed son Leslie on Nov. 7, 2019.

BIRTHS Trey Taulbee ‘08 and Michelle Taulbee welcomed their second son, Elijah Trey Taulbee, on July 29, 2019. He joins brother Jack, 4. Bryan Yeager ’10 and Ashley Yeager ’09 welcomed son Orlo Cecil Yeager on Dec. 5, 2019. Adam Morris ’11 and Nicole Moris ’13 welcomed their second child, Zoe Grace, on Nov. 25, 2019. She joins brother Jude, 4. Cierra Giles Windle ’12 and Coleman Windle welcomed daughter Aly Coleman on Apil 18, 2019. Jordan Pinkston ’13 and Shannon Pinkston ’15 welcomed their second child, Rhodes, in November 2019. She joins brother Jad, 2. Weston Mason ’13 (Accounting) and Ashley Mason ’13 (Business) announce the birth of their daughter, Camryn Amelia, in August 2019.

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5735 College Parkway Mobile, Alabama 36613

The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile invites you to the first Black Tie Ball. The ball will take place April 4 at 7 p.m. at the Alabama Contemporary Art Center in downtown Mobile. This gala event will feature dancing, a silent auction, food, entertainment from the UM Jazz Band and soloists, and more. 52 TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2020

Purchase your tickets at umobile.edu/blacktie.

Torchlight: Spring 2020

Articles inside

Class Notes

My Soul Belongs to Him

Realized Potential

A Givers Heart

Q&A With The President

BA+ MDiv Program

Connected for Life

It’s Unanamous

Servey Says

Art That Speaks

More than a Coach

Rams Round-Up

Fruitfull Service

Retrospect

University News

Practical Pre-Med

Personal Chimistry