涩里番

Author: Kathy Dean

Kathy Dean uses her passion for storytelling and "playing with words" to share the stories of people, place and purpose that make the 涩里番 unique. As associate vice president for university communications, she manages media relations, edits the TorchLight alumni magazine, and oversees university communications. A former award-winning journalist, she is a two-time recipient of the Baptist Communicators Association grand prize for feature writing. Kathy and her husband, Chuck, live with three extremely loud miniature schnauzers.

UM Grace Pilot School of Business Dean Kathy Dunning to Retire, National Search Underway

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala.聽鈥 The 涩里番 announced that Dr. Kathy Dunning, dean of the Grace Pilot School of Business, will retire at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 academic year, marking a season of dedicated leadership and growth for the school. University officials have launched a national search for her successor to continue advancing the school鈥檚 mission of developing Christ-centered business leaders.

鈥淢y years of teaching at UM have been a central part of my life. The opportunity to know and interact with so many amazing students who have developed into enterprise leaders, as well as work with extremely聽talented colleagues, has been a true joy and a privilege,” said Dunning, who joined UM in 1994 as an accounting instructor and became dean in 2019.

UM President Charles Smith said Dunning has led the Grace Pilot School of Business with unwavering integrity, vision and a deep commitment to Christ-centered excellence.

鈥淒r. Dunning鈥檚 investment in our students and leadership has strengthened the impact of the Grace Pilot School of Business and positioned it for continued growth. We are profoundly grateful for her faithful leadership and the legacy she leaves at the 涩里番,鈥 President Smith said.

National Search Begins for Business Dean

Provost Jason Lee said a national search is underway for the next dean of UM鈥檚 Grace Pilot School of Business.

鈥淒r. Dunning is leaving the Grace Pilot School of Business in excellent shape. Our programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels are producing students who are ready for the workplace and are equipped to impact the world as Christian business leaders. We are launching the search to find a new dean who will continue the Grace Pilot School鈥檚 successes,鈥 Lee said.

Provost Lee said the new dean of the Grace Pilot School of Business will focus on connecting to business leaders throughout the Mobile area and the Gulf Coast to ensure UM鈥檚 programs provide the latest and most effective training for the current business climate. The dean will lead the capable faculty at UM to continue delivering high-level training in current programs in accounting, administration, finance, economics, marketing, management, computer information systems and cybersecurity. The dean will also work to identify new innovative programs, delivered in person or online, that will provide UM students with cutting-edge training, knowledge and skills. The dean will also be a committed Christian that helps students develop as servant leaders and exemplify Kingdom ethics.

For more information about the position and to apply, visit umobile.edu/employment or contact Dr. Pamela Buchanan Miller at pbuchanan@umobile.edu

 

A Collaborative and Strategic Leader

Dr. Pamela Buchanan Miller, vice president for academic affairs, said Dunning has been a collaborative and strategic leader across the university, strengthening academic programs, mentoring faculty and championing student success.

Dunning led the School of Business through the reaffirmation of accreditation process by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs in 2024 and chaired the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) committee for the university鈥檚 SACSCOC decennial review.

Under her leadership, the Grace Pilot School of Business added academic programs, most recently a major in cybersecurity. She has served on numerous committees, serving as the Faculty Athletic Representative for the university and representing faculty on the most recent Presidential Search Committee.

鈥淗er engagement in the local business community has elevated the visibility and impact of the Grace Pilot School of Business, creating meaningful partnerships that benefit both our students and our region,鈥 Buchanan Miller said.

Dunning has served as chairman of the Board of Trustees for the First Baptist Foundation and continues to serve as a trustee, as well as former chair of the Mobile County Board of Health鈥檚 Governing Council and current chair of the finance committee. She serves on the Board of Directors of Commonwealth National Bank and is chair of the audit committee. She has been active in the Alabama Council of Graduate Deans and the Alabama Association for Higher Education in Business.

Dunning received the university鈥檚 prestigious William A. Megginson Teaching Award in 2007.

鈥淢y heart lives in the classroom, and nothing makes me happier than when a student reaches out to let me know they passed their CPA exam, or received a promotion, or were offered their dream job,鈥 Dunning said.

About the 涩里番

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥 With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥 the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

涩里番 Announces New Kingdom Leadership Scholarship for Christian Students

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala.聽鈥 The 涩里番 has launched a new Kingdom Leadership Scholarship designed to recognize and encourage outstanding Christian students who demonstrate strong character, servant leadership and academic commitment.

The Kingdom Leadership Scholarship reflects the university鈥檚 ongoing partnership with local churches and its commitment to equipping the next generation of Christ-centered leaders. Established to support students who have been faithful in worship, service and leadership within their congregations, the scholarship affirms the vital role of the church in shaping young men and women for lives of purpose.

鈥淔or more than 60 years, the 涩里番 has partnered with churches to equip students to follow God鈥檚 calling in every profession and every season of life,鈥 said 涩里番 President Charles Smith.

鈥淭he Kingdom Leadership Scholarship is a natural extension of that mission. We want to honor students who are already demonstrating Christian character and leadership and help them continue growing in a university community grounded in a biblical worldview.鈥

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university in Mobile, Alabama, affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. The university offers more than 75 academic programs and provides a close-knit campus community where students are taught through the lens of a Christian worldview.

Charity Wittner, vice president for enrollment management and student success, said the new scholarship underscores the university鈥檚 appreciation for the formative role of the local church.

鈥淲e believe the local church is God鈥檚 primary instrument for spiritual formation,鈥 Wittner said. 鈥淭hrough the Kingdom Leadership Scholarship, we are coming alongside churches to encourage students who exhibit consistent Christian character, are actively involved in their congregations, and show strong academic achievement and leadership potential.鈥

To be eligible, students must:

  • Exhibit consistent Christian character
  • Be actively involved in their local church
  • Demonstrate academic achievement and leadership potential
  • Plan to enroll at the 涩里番

The application deadline is April 1. Students may apply online at umobile.edu/kingdom-leader.

For more information about the Kingdom Leadership Scholarship or the 涩里番, visit umobile.edu/kingdom-leader or contact the Office for Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the 涩里番

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥 With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥 the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

涩里番 Announces Director and Senior Advisors for New Tom Elliff Center for Missions

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala.聽鈥 The 涩里番 has named the leadership team that will guide the newly established Tom Elliff Center for Missions, appointing a director and senior advisors who bring decades of Great Commission experience to this strategic new initiative.

Tom Elliff

Director Austin Holcomb and senior advisors D. Ray and Amanda Davis have extensive missionary field experience and years of mobilizing teams and individuals to global mission fields through the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.

鈥淚t is a tremendous blessing to have Austin, D. Ray, and Amanda leading the Tom Elliff Center for Missions at the 涩里番,鈥 said 涩里番 President Charles Smith. 鈥淭hey are seasoned servants of Christ whose years with the International Mission Board have refined both their skill and their spiritual maturity. These are leaders who love the local church, cherish the gospel and understand the urgency of the nations. I am confident the Lord will use them to raise up students who live and go with gospel purpose.鈥

UM Provost Jason Lee said the Tom Elliff Center for Missions will enable students at the Baptist university to leverage their academic and professional training for Kingdom impact.

鈥淲ith on-campus discussions, short-term mission trips and partnerships with local churches and missionary agencies like the International Mission Board, the Elliff Center will be a key asset to developingkingdom-minded graduates,鈥 Lee said.

Built for Global Impact

The Tom Elliff Center for Missions launches in Fall 2026 and was made possible by a historic multi-million-dollar investment by generous donors.

Named in honor of Dr. Tom Elliff 鈥 pastor, preacher and former president of the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention 鈥 the center reflects Elliff鈥檚 lifelong passion for mobilizing believers to reach the nations. During his tenure, Elliff strengthened missionary care, renewed a focus on prayer and championed engagement among unreached peoples.

Elliff said establishing the Center for Missions 鈥渙nly further underscores the 涩里番鈥檚 long-standing determination to give each student and faculty member a 鈥榟eart鈥 for fulfilling the Lord鈥檚 Great Commission.

鈥淭he incredible team chosen to lead the Center for Missions will assure students that stepping 鈥榦nto鈥 the UM campus will prepare them to step 鈥榠nto鈥 their world, compelled by a fervent desire to share Christ, regardless of their training focus,鈥 said Elliff. 鈥淥n a personal note, with a granddaughter who will also be a UM graduate, that prospect brings my wife and me great joy.鈥

Austin Holcomb to Lead Center

Austin Holcomb

Director Austin Holcomb said leading UM鈥檚 new Tom Elliff Center for Missions is especially significant, as Elliff served as president of the International Mission Board when Austin and his wife, Megan, were first deployed to West Africa.

鈥淗e is a leader I have great respect for 鈥 he preached with conviction, walked in humility and cared more about prayer and holiness than programs or personal influence. I care about this, too, and it will be an honor to lead a center that upholds this kind of legacy,鈥 Holcomb said.

Most recently, the Holcombs served as IMB pipeline liaisons at New Orleans Baptist Theological seminary where they supported students who were considering international missions service. As a missionary in West Africa, his focus included security-conscious mission strategy in restricted contexts, rural evangelism and discipleship, and biblical training for leaders.

He is completing a doctorate in missiology from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where he also holds a Master of Theology. He earned a Master of Divinity in international church planting from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Master of Arts in intercultural studies from The College at Southeastern, and a Bachelor of Science in biology from Dalton State University.

Decades of IMB Experience

D. Ray Davis

Serving as strategic advisors are married couple D. Ray Davis and Amanda Davis. Combined, they served over 55 years with the International Mission Board, having recently retired.

As senior advisor for strategic partnerships and church engagement, D. Ray Davis will cultivate and strengthen relationships between the Tom Elliff Center for Missions and churches, pastors, denomination partners, alumni and donors.

鈥淚’ve prayed every morning for years that the Lord of the harvest would send laborers into His harvest,鈥 said D. Ray Davis. 鈥淚鈥檓 excited to see how God uses this chapter as Amanda and I serve students at the 涩里番 through the Tom Elliff Center for Missions to see laborers mobilized into the harvest.鈥

He served more than 33 years with the International Mission Board in a variety of roles, including as church mobilization team leader and associate vice president of mobilization while leading IMB teams in establishing networking, recruiting and partnership strategies. He began his career with the IMB as a missionary to South Africa and then as a team leader in Zimbabwe where he served as prayer and networking strategist for the Southern Africa region.

He holds a Doctor of Ministry in leadership from Columbia International University, a Master of Missiology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in business management from University of Georgia.

Amanda Davis

As senior advisor for student development, care and engagement, Amanda Davis will provide leadership in student discipleship, vocational discernment and cross-cultural preparation.

“I am eager to be among 涩里番 students who are interested in pursuing missions, but I am also looking forward to getting to know the international students whom God is bringing here,鈥 Amanda Davis said.

鈥淢y prayer is that through the influence of the Center for Missions, international students will return to their home countries with the best academic education to pursue their careers and having been discipled and equipped to be a light among their own peoples and to the nations.鈥

With over 22 years of experience with the IMB, she served as director of globalization where she trained and coached IMB missionaries in mobilizing, training and equipping national partner missionaries. She began her career as a missionary in Bolivia, Peru and Colombia where she helped plant churches among rural indigenous people groups and trained missionaries in jungle missionary skills.

She holds a Doctor of Ministry in Christian leadership and Master of Theology, both from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Master of Divinity in biblical languages from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Bachelor of Arts in mass communications from The University of Alabama-Birmingham, and an Associate of Arts in clinical laboratory sciences from Jefferson State Community College.

Learn More About the Tom Elliff Center for Missions

Learn more about the historic gift to the 涩里番 that established the Tom Elliff Center for Missions on the UM website at umobile.edu.

Prospective students interested in being part of the programs in the Tom Elliff Center for Missions at the 涩里番 are invited to tour campus, meet faculty and learn about scholarship opportunities at UM Day on March 23, 2026. Traditional undergraduate students who visit campus on a UM Day or private tour then apply and enroll may be eligible for a $2,000 scholarship.

RSVP for UM Day or schedule a private visit at umobile.edu/umday-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

 

About the 涩里番

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥 With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥 the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

You鈥檙e Invited to the Last UM Day of the Year 鈥 March 23

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala. 鈥 This is your final opportunity this academic year to experience UM Day, the signature visit event at the 涩里番.

High school and transfer students are invited to see what makes this Christ-centered university stand out. Come visit and picture yourself as part of a campus community where students are known by name and become Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.

Monday, March 23, 2026, is the date!

Check鈥慽n begins at 8:30 a.m. in Ram Hall, 5735 College Pkwy., Mobile, Alabama 36613.

Reserve your spot now at umobile.edu/umday-info or call 251.442.2222.

Earn a $2,000 Visit Day Scholarship

Students who attend a UM Day, apply and enroll are eligible for a $2,000 Visit Scholarship for new traditional undergraduate students 鈥 making this the perfect time to plan your visit and take the next step toward your future.

Why RSVP Now?

When you RSVP, you unlock exclusive opportunities and special perks that make your visit even more rewarding.

  • Apply for Free at UM Day!
  • Free UM Day T-shirt for students who apply for admission at UM Day!
  • Free UM sweatshirt for students who make their enrollment down payment!
  • $2,000 Visit Scholarship for new traditional undergraduate students who visit, apply and enroll

What Happens at UM Day?

On your visit, you鈥檒l:

  • Tour our beautiful 880鈥慳cre campus and see why our dorms are ranked #1 in Alabama on a campus ranked #1 for safety.
  • Meet professors and current students who will inspire you.
  • Learn how affordable a private Christian university can be.
  • Apply for free 鈥 and take the first step toward your future.

Schedule a Private Visit

If you can鈥檛 make it to this final UM Day, private tours are available year-round. You can still qualify for the $2,000 Visit Scholarship when you visit, apply and enroll.

Schedule a visit at or call 251.442.2222.

About the 涩里番

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥 With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥 the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

A Calling to Lead and Serve: Doug Harwell 鈥00

by Kathy Dean

鈥淏elieve in yourself and what God has called you to do.鈥

That guiding conviction shapes every chapter of Doug Harwell鈥檚 life 鈥 as a husband, father, business owner, community servant and 涩里番 alumnus.

As founder and owner of Harwell & Company, a construction firm serving communities across the Southeast, Doug has built a career grounded in leadership, responsibility and integrity.

Today, he continues to live out that calling through business, faith and community service 鈥 foundations strengthened during his time at the 涩里番. From coaching youth baseball and serving as a church deacon to representing District 1 for 12 years on the Mobile County Public School Board, Doug鈥檚 lifelong dedication to leadership and helping others has now led him to pursue another avenue of service as he runs for Alabama State Senate District 34.

Faith, Perseverance & Success

Doug鈥檚 path to the 涩里番 was not a traditional one. A 1983 graduate of Mary G. Montgomery High School, he briefly attended college before entering the workforce full time.

After the birth of his second son, Doug was passed over for a job he had been ranked first for 鈥 a turning point that underscored the importance of finishing his degree and trusting God鈥檚 timing. After evaluating his options, he enrolled at the 涩里番, a decision he now recognizes as God鈥檚 direction.

Doug quickly learned the role faith would play in perseverance and success.

鈥淲orking full time, raising two small children, and attending school full time taught me quickly that there is only one way to make it through, and that is faith in God,鈥 he said. 鈥淯M administrators, professors and staff reinforced that lesson.鈥

He credits UM鈥檚 degree programs with equipping him not only academically, but personally and professionally.

鈥淓arning a degree challenges you to think critically, solve problems and work with others. Those are the same skills required to succeed as a business owner,鈥 said the 2000 graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in business management.

A Heart for Service

Doug鈥檚 commitment to serving others grew out of his faith and family life. After marrying his wife, Sandy, in 1990, the couple became active at Orchard Assembly of God, where they served in children鈥檚 church and later as youth sponsors.

Their sons began playing baseball at Semmes Community Park, and Doug coached for many years before serving six years as park commissioner 鈥 an experience that helped clarify his calling to community leadership.

鈥淒uring this time, I saw that I could make an impact by serving others and my community,鈥 Harwell said. 鈥淔or me, it is not about a job 鈥 it is service.鈥

That calling led to additional roles in public and community service, including 12 years on the Mobile County Public School Board representing District 1, which includes Semmes, Citronelle and northwest Mobile County. He also served more than 10 years on the Mobile Sports Authority Board and has been a deacon at Orchard Assembly of God for more than 27 years.

Building a Business with Purpose

In 2010, Doug founded Harwell & Company, a licensed general contracting firm serving Alabama, Mississippi and Florida, specializing in concrete and asphalt construction throughout the Southeast. What began with four employees, two trucks, a tractor and a trailer is now a company employing more than 40 people and operating a full fleet of trucks and equipment.

In addition to the construction firm, Doug owns Division Supply and partners in Complete Pool Care, Mobile Soft Wash and Ace Marketing. His professional background also includes 12 years in the water and wastewater industry.

He describes the decision to start his company as another clear moment of God鈥檚 direction.

鈥淣o question, it was a God thing,鈥 Doug said. 鈥淚t was a 27-year journey where many doors closed and pushed me to do something different and go in a new direction. Everything aligned, and through prayer and confirmation, I knew it was time to start the business.鈥

Faith, Family and Foundation

Family is central to Doug鈥檚 life. He and Sandy have been married for more than 35 years and have three sons and seven grandchildren.

He also credits the 涩里番 community for walking alongside him during both joyful and difficult seasons of life. While he was a student, Doug experienced the loss of his mother on October 15, 1998 鈥 a time he remembers as especially challenging.

With faith in God and the support of his UM family, he persevered.

鈥淯M is a family,鈥 Doug said. 鈥淔amily stands by you during challenging times and circumstances. Family helps keep you on the path to success.鈥

Looking back, Doug describes his decision to attend the 涩里番 as a defining moment.

鈥淢y decision to attend UM was a turning point in my life, and it was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made for my career and my family,鈥 he said. 鈥淒uring my time at UM, I learned many valuable lessons, sharpened my skills, and built a network that continues to pay dividends today. UM truly changed my life.鈥

About the 涩里番

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥 With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥 the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at聽umobile.edu/um-info聽and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

UM Chapel Speaker William Smith Highlights Faith, Leadership and Service

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala.聽鈥 鈥淭ake heart. The world is full of fears, but Jesus has overcome them all.鈥

That鈥檚 the message shared in Chapel at the 涩里番 on Feb. 11 by guest speaker William Smith, senior fellow of the Conservative Partnership Institute.

Smith oversees CPI鈥檚 Magnus Fellowship and engages with CPI鈥檚 partners on Capitol Hill and in the executive branch. With over 20 years of experience on Capitol Hill, Smith has built a reputation for identifying and training the next generation of conservative staffers.

While at UM, Smith also met with students interested in gaining internships in D.C. His son, Will Smith, is a freshman at UM majoring in computer information systems and cybersecurity and serves as a UM Ambassador.

The Good Shepherd

Jeff Sessions, former U.S. senator from Alabama who later served as U.S. attorney general, and his wife, Mary, joined UM students, faculty, staff and Board of Trustee members for the weekly Chapel service in Ram Hall.

In an auditorium filled to capacity, Smith centered his message on Psalm 23 and Christ鈥檚 role as the Good Shepherd.

鈥淭he Christian life is not all calm streams and green pastures,鈥 Smith said. 鈥淔or every fear we have, God has a calming solution through His Word. The calming solution is found in Jesus.鈥

He urged students to find a local church community and build their life around that community.

鈥淵ou鈥檙e not alone in your fears,鈥 he said. 鈥淭his is what your church family is for, to help bear your fears and struggles. Please do not bear them alone.鈥

He said life is full of unexpected tragedies and trials.

鈥淭he question is how we respond to them. We should respond with recognition of God鈥檚 sovereignty,鈥 Smith said.

College Internships at Capitol Hill

Previously, Smith met with students interested in internship opportunities in government. He said the best way to get started in government service is by securing an internship while in college, and CPI can help make that happen.

CPI was created in 2017 by former U.S. Sen. Jim Demint to grow and support the conservative movement. It provides a home base and networking hub for conservative lawmakers and staff in Washington.

鈥淲e believe it鈥檚 cool to be conservative,鈥 Smith said. For interns, 鈥渨e can help you build your resume, build your social media profile, and build the right interview skills.鈥

Smith said his team is 鈥渢he CPI headhunters. We go around the country looking for the next group of stars 鈥 people who want to change the world, people who want to shake it up.

For information about CPI and college internships, visit

About the 涩里番

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥 With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥 the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

涩里番 Announces International Dual Enrollment Partnership with Christian Academy of Guatemala

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala.聽鈥 The 涩里番 has established a new international dual enrollment partnership with Christian Academy of Guatemala, expanding UM鈥檚 global academic footprint and creating a pathway for high-achieving students in Guatemala to earn 涩里番 college credit while completing their high school education.

Starting Fall 2026, eligible students at Christian Academy of Guatemala (CAG) may enroll in select 涩里番 courses through UM鈥檚 Freshman Academy, which offers both Dual Enrollment and Early Enrollment opportunities. Students earn both high school and college credit simultaneously, gaining early exposure to university-level academics while remaining in their home school environment.

鈥淥ur partnership with Christian Academy of Guatemala is a natural extension of the 涩里番鈥檚 mission to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world,鈥 said 涩里番 President Charles Smith.

鈥淭his dual enrollment partnership allows students in Guatemala to experience the 涩里番 early, earn college credit and take meaningful steps toward the calling God has placed on their lives. It also reflects our commitment to investing in students around the world who desire a college education rooted in truth, excellence and service,鈥 Smith added.

Christian Academy of Guatemala

Located in San Cristobal near Guatemala City, Christian Academy of Guatemala is an accredited K-12 school founded in 1974 by five missionary families as an educational service to evangelical missionary families. Its original mission continues: to provide a biblically based, quality English language education to prepare lives for Christian service.

Whitney Wills, guidance counselor and communications coordinator for Christian Academy of Guatemala, said the collaboration provides CAG students with a seamless, faith-based bridge to higher education without leaving their own campus.

鈥淏oth institutions are private and Christ-centered. By using CAG staff certified to deliver UM-approved curriculum, the school ensures that subjects are taught through a consistent biblical lens, rather than a secular one,鈥 Wills said.

“Christian Academy of Guatemala is excited about our new dual enrollment partnership with the 涩里番. By having the opportunity to offer college-level courses, we are providing our high school students with a head start on their university careers, allowing them to save on future tuition costs while remaining in the supportive, biblically grounded environment of CAG,鈥 Wills added.

UM Dual Enrollment/Early Enrollment

The 涩里番 Freshman Academy offers both Dual Enrollment and Early Enrollment programs that provide opportunities for high school juniors and seniors to earn college credit at a reduced rate while still in high school.

UM Dual Enrollment partnerships with specific schools are taught by qualified faculty and follow the same academic standards as on-campus classes, ensuring students receive an authentic college experience while benefiting from additional guidance and support designed specifically for high school learners.

UM鈥檚 Early Enrollment program allows individual high school juniors and seniors to take on-campus or online classes at a reduced price.

鈥淯M鈥檚 Freshman Academy allows students to experience real college expectations in a supportive environment, giving them a strong foundation for their future studies. Students are not just earning college credit 鈥 they are learning how to think, write and engage at the collegiate level,鈥 said Dr. Matthew Downs, dean of UM鈥檚 College of Arts & Sciences and dual enrollment program director.

Downs said UM has multiple dual enrollment partnerships with high schools in the United States, and the program continues to expand. Learn more about UM鈥檚 Freshman Academy and opportunities for Dual Enrollment and Early Enrollment at umobile.edu/academy or contact Downs at mdowns@umobile.edu.

About the 涩里番

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥 With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥 the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Spring Convocation Sets the Tone for Christ-Centered Athletics at the 涩里番

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala.聽鈥 For student athletes at the 涩里番, the most important victories aren鈥檛 decided on a field or court, but in the foundation on which they build their lives 鈥 a foundation grounded in Christ.

That challenge was delivered during the Baptist university鈥檚 first Spring Convocation for Athletics, a chapel-style gathering that brought together nearly 500 student-athletes from across all 21 intercollegiate sports programs. The event featured guest speaker Heiden Ratner, a former collegiate basketball player and founding pastor of WALK Church in Las Vegas. Ratner spoke from John 15 on Jesus鈥 parable of the vine and branches, shared his personal testimony, and challenged student-athletes to build their lives on Christ rather than their sport.

The message connected.

鈥淗eiden did an amazing job relating his own experience of making basketball his God and asking the hard question: What happens when your sport doesn鈥檛 work out and you鈥檝e built your life on it?鈥 said Dylan Moran, a senior business management major on UM鈥檚 Rams baseball team.

鈥淭hat message really hit home and showed how putting anything above God will eventually affect your life. What made the chapel even more meaningful was seeing the impact it had on others. One of my teammates was saved through this message,鈥 Dylan said.

Shaping Students for Christ and the World

The Spring Convocation for Athletics was held Jan. 27 as part of a broader effort at the 涩里番 to intentionally expose student-athletes to the gospel and nurture spiritual growth 鈥 a mission championed by Tim Adams, UM鈥檚 new vice president for student development and collegiate athletics.

Under the leadership of UM President Charles Smith, Adams is strengthening the role of the university鈥檚 student life and athletic programs in shaping culture and spiritual formation. A former collegiate football player with a coach鈥檚 heart for students, Adams is starting new initiatives that invest in student growth 鈥 like a fall semester student leadership retreat 鈥 while raising the level of excitement for campus activities and events. In keeping with UM鈥檚 mission, the overall goal is to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.

鈥淲e want our students to embrace what it means to live For Christ & His Kingdom,鈥 said Adams.

Heiden Ratner Presents Gospel Message

Heiden Ratner was the perfect choice to kick off the first athletics convocation 鈥 a former Division I basketball player at James Madison University, he is chaplain to the NFL Las Vegas Raiders and the WNBA Las Vegas Aces. By vocation he is a church planter 鈥 in addition to founding and serving as senior pastor at WALK Church, he is the Las Vegas City Missionary for SEND Network, the church planting arm of the Southern Baptist Convention.

Ratner was already scheduled to speak at the university-wide weekly Chapel program when Adams recognized an opportunity to capitalize on a moment that could speak specifically to the hearts of athletes.

鈥淗eiden has an incredible gift and ability to relate to college age students,鈥 Adams said. 鈥淗e also has a gift to take complex biblical concepts and make them relatable to our students. Watching the Holy Spirit move through Heiden to reach the hearts and minds of our athletes was amazing. Several athletes responded to the call to repent of their old life and live for Jesus, trusting in the True Vine that will help them bear fruit.鈥

鈥楾he Lord Was Working鈥

Volleyball player Sophie Dorris, a sophomore majoring in kinesiology on the pre-physical therapy track, had a front-seat view of the convocation鈥檚 impact. With one side of Pharr Gym鈥檚 bleachers filled with student-athletes, Sophie took a seat on the opposite side, facing the larger group.

鈥淲hat a blessing that turned out to be!鈥 Sophie said. 鈥淔rom there, I was able to see the full picture of what God was doing. The Lord was working, and it was visible on so many faces!

鈥淏eing at chapel with fellow athletes was so special to me. We cheer each other on during our games, but our connection often ends there. This chapel gave us the chance to grow with one another outside of sports, which was really meaningful to me.鈥

About the 涩里番

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥 With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥 the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

Spring Semester Chapel Begins with UM President and Panelists Calling Students to a Year of Gospel Growth

by Kathy Dean

MOBILE, Ala.聽鈥 The 涩里番 kicked off its first chapel of Spring Semester 2026 by calling students to a year of gospel growth. Led by UM President Charles Smith, the Jan. 14 panel of faith leaders challenged students to envision 鈥渁n amazing year of faithfulness, joy and gospel growth.鈥

Dr. Smith opened the panel by reminding students, faculty and staff that gospel growth is the reason the 涩里番 exists.

鈥淲e are grateful to offer nearly 80 cutting-edge degree programs 鈥 from medicine to marketing 鈥 but if this is all students learn at the 涩里番, we have failed. Our first and most fundamental calling as Christian educators is to help students encounter the living God. When we get this right, students do not merely prepare for a career; they move from death to life, and their vocation becomes a world-shaping calling,鈥 Smith told a capacity crowd gathered in Ram Hall for weekly praise and worship.

鈥淧art of the Good News of the gospel is that God is a God of growth,鈥 President Smith added. 鈥淗e doesn鈥檛 leave us in our sin and immaturity but calls us to grow into all that He has for us.鈥

Panelists Share Testimonies

Panelists presented the gospel message in a Q&A format and shared their personal testimonies. They encouraged students to look to Jesus, either for the first time or in a fresh way, and to prepare for a season of gospel growth by immersing themselves in God鈥檚 Word and joining a local church community that faithfully preaches the gospel.

Panelists included:

  • Tim Adams, VP for Student Development & Collegiate Athletics, 涩里番
  • Kathy Litton, Former Director of Planting Spouse Development, North American Mission Board & UM Board of Trustees member
  • Ashley Smith, First Lady, 涩里番
  • Joe Lewis Stevens Jr., pastor of Redeemer Fellowship, Hospice Chaplain at Southern Care & UM adjunct instructor for theology
  • Ben Stubblefield, pastor of Spring Hill Baptist Church

Tim Adams spoke about the moment he made a decision for Christ.

鈥淚 was vaguely familiar with Bible stories and totally unaware of what the meaning of Jesus鈥 life meant. At youth camp, I heard a gospel presentation that my sin separated me from a Holy God. It was like opening up the reality that Jesus was relational. It changed my life forever,鈥 Adams said.

First Lady Ashley Smith said as she became a wife and mother, she began to ask identity questions, such as who was she beyond those labels.

鈥淭he Lord began to unveil the depth of my need, and it changed my life,鈥 she said. 鈥淭he right question is 鈥榳ho is Jesus?鈥 Jesus is the way, the truth and the light, for you to find the light, you must look to Jesus.鈥

Joe Lewis pointed students to God the Creator, using his favorite passage, Revelations 21, that speaks of a new heaven and new earth.

鈥淭he gospel message is transforming repentant sinners, and it is creating creation again. God isn鈥檛 using the work of Christ to refurbish creation, He is recreating creation. Trust and believe in a cosmic Savior who is redeeming all creation.鈥

Kathy Litton said the power of the gospel carried her through the toughest of times, such as when her first husband died in a car crash.

鈥淭hat seed of truth has shaped me and given me the power for the darkest days of my life,鈥 she said. 鈥淵ou need the gospel, and the roots that you are putting down by being in a school like this is strengthening you.鈥

Ben Stubblefield urged students to see yourself as God sees you.

鈥淐onsider Christ. There鈥檚 a testimony of people who have gone before you who will tell you they would rather have Jesus than anything,鈥 Stubblefield said.

Public Invited to Chapel Series

The public is invited to join UM students, faculty and staff for Chapel, held Wednesdays at 2 p.m. in Ram Hall on campus. Past Chapel messages are available on the 涩里番 Chapel Podcast through Apple or Spotify, and videos are posted on UM鈥檚 YouTube channel and UM social media. Access podcasts and videos at umobile.edu/chapel.

Spring Chapel Schedule

Upcoming speakers are:

Jan. 21 鈥 Dr. Tony Merida, Pastor for Preaching and Vision, Imago Dei Church

Merida is founding pastor of Imago Dei Church in Raleigh, NC; vice president for planter development for the Send Network, the church planting arm for the North American Mission Board (NAMB) of the Southern Baptist Convention; and a Board member of The Gospel Coalition. He is the author of several books, including 鈥淭he Christ-Centered Expositor,鈥 鈥淥rdinary鈥 and 鈥淥rphanology.鈥

Jan. 28 鈥 Heiden Ratner, Senior Pastor, WALK Church

Ratner is senior pastor of Walk Church in Las Vegas, NV, and serves as the Las Vegas City Missionary for Send Network. Heiden also serves the NFL Las Vegas Raiders and the WNBA Las Vegas Aces as their lead team chaplain.

Feb. 4 鈥 Dr. Alan Floyd, Lead Pastor, Cottage Hill Baptist Church

Floyd is a native of Mobile, holding degrees from the 涩里番, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the author of 鈥淭hese Three: A Believer鈥檚 Guide to Faith, Hope, & Love鈥 and is executive director of The Hill Collective, a church planting/replanting network.

Feb. 11 鈥 William Smith, Senior Fellow, Conservative Partnership Institute (CPI)

Smith oversees the Conservative Partnership Institute鈥檚 Magnus Fellowship and engages with CPI鈥檚 partners on Capitol Hill and in the executive branch. He has over 20 years of experience on Capitol Hill, where he built a reputation for identifying and training the next generation of conservative staffers.

Feb. 18 鈥 Quintell Hill, Lead Pastor, Multiply Community Church

Hill , a UM alumnus, is pastor of Multiply Community Church in Monroe, NC, and former president of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. Hill also serves on the mobilization team at the International Mission Board where he seeks to fulfill the mission of the Great Commission.

Feb. 25 鈥 Dr. Kevin Ezell, President, North American Mission Board (NAMB)

Ezell has served as president of the North American Mission Board (NAMB) of the Southern Baptist Convention since 2010. He has helped Southern Baptists plant more than 11,000 churches during his tenure.

March 11 鈥 Dr. Derek Allen, Lead Pastor, First Baptist Tillman鈥檚 Corner

A native of Etowah County, AL, Allen holds a bachelor鈥檚 degree in psychology from Jacksonville State University, Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and PhD in Church Leadership from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. After planting Christ Centered Church in Miami for six years, he has served as lead pastor at FBTC since 2019.

March 18 鈥 Dr. Jed Coppenger, Lead Pastor, First Baptist Cummings

Coppenger is lead pastor of First Baptist Church Cumming, GA. He is an author of 鈥21 Days to Childlike Prayer: Changing Your World One Specific Prayer at a Time鈥 and 鈥淔ake Christianity: 10 Traps of an Inauthentic Faith (and How to Avoid Them).鈥 Coppenger has worked in Christian publishing, Christian higher education, church planting, served on mission trips around the world, and preached for a wide range of camps, retreats and events.

March 25 鈥 Dr. Paul Chitwood, President, International Mission Board (IMB)

Chitwood was elected president of the IMB in November 2018. He previously served as executive director of the Kentucky Baptist Convention from 2011-2018. For 18 years prior, Chitwood served as the pastor of local churches of varying size in Kentucky. During his pastorates, he served as chairman of the International Mission Board鈥檚 trustees from 2008-10, as part of his tenure as an IMB trustee from 2002-10.

April 1 鈥 Tim Adams, Vice President for Student Development & Collegiate Athletics, 涩里番

Prior to joining the 涩里番 in June 2025, Adams served as director of student life and events at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. His extensive background includes 16 years of pastoral ministry in Liberty and Camdenton, MO, as well as leadership roles with Kanakuk Kamps and K-Life Ministries. At UM, Adams leads the overall student experience through the Student Life and Athletics departments.

About the 涩里番

The 涩里番 is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence 鈥淔or Christ & His Kingdom.鈥 With a vision to 鈥淢ultiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,鈥 the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

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