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University News
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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.
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 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
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.
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.
