This special initiative highlights three key areas of impact supported by The Great Commission Fund — scholarships, faith and mission — showing how giving opens doors for students to pursue their calling, strengthens their spiritual growth and equips them to live out the Great Commission for the glory of God and the good of the world.

“This is more than a fundraising effort — it is a unified commitment to the mission God has given us,” said ɬ�﷬ President Charles Smith. “Through The Great Commission Fund, students are being equipped to lead, serve and make a difference for Christ in every field and every corner of the world.”

3 Days to Make an Impact for Students

Each day of ɬ�﷬ Days of Giving will focus on a key area supported by the Baptist university’s Great Commission Fund.

• Tuesday, April 28, will emphasize scholarships, highlighting how financial support opens doors for students to pursue their calling.
• Wednesday, April 29, will focus on faith, underscoring the university’s commitment to spiritual growth through chapel, Bible studies and the integration of faith and learning.
• Thursday, April 30, will highlight mission, celebrating how students are equipped to live out the Great Commission through service opportunities, global outreach and initiatives such as the new Tom Elliff Center for Missions.

Every Student Matters; Every Gift Matters

Every gift made during the three-day initiative directly impacts ɬ�﷬ students.

“Days of Giving provide an opportunity for our community to invest in what matters most — our students and their calling,” said Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations. “Every gift, no matter the size, plays a meaningful role in shaping the next generation of leaders grounded in faith and purpose.

“Every student matters; therefore, every gift matters.”

Courtney Sides is one of those students.

“Thank you to all the donors who are giving generously and taking part in God’s will for students they may have never met. It is because of donations from you that I can pursue God’s calling on my life,” said Sides, a student in UM’s School of Nursing.

“I plan to take part in helping heal the physical needs of those in our community and all over the world as a nurse, while leading them to the One who can heal their deeper, spiritual wounds.”

Give Early to Jumpstart UM Days of Giving

Early giving is available ahead of April 28, allowing supporters to contribute at any time leading up to and during the event. Updates and student stories will be shared throughout the three days on ɬ�﷬ social media (@univofmobile).

Gifts are tax-deductible and may be made online at or by calling the Office for Institutional Relations at 251.442.2913.

About the ɬ�﷬

��The ɬ�﷬ is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” 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’s, master’s 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.

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 ɬ�﷬ 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.

Raised in a ministry-centered home, with a father who serves as a pastor and a mother who teaches the Bible, Lana understood both the value of Christian education and the financial realities that often come with it. For her family, the cost of attending the ɬ�﷬ felt impossible. Over time, Lana closed her heart to the idea of attending UM, believing it was simply not an option.

That changed through encouragement from her mother, who urged her to attend Scholars Day.

What happened next would mark a defining moment in Lana’s life. She was awarded the prestigious Weaver Scholarship—news she still remembers with vivid clarity. When she received the call, tears filled her eyes. More than financial relief, the moment carried spiritual significance.

Lana describes it as the clearest direction she had ever felt from the Lord.

Through the generosity of ɬ�﷬ donors, Lana’s perspective shifted from limitation to possibility. Their support opened the door not only to a college education, but to a community where she could fully belong and flourish.

Today, Lana is part of a thriving campus environment where she is deeply known, consistently encouraged, and continually challenged to grow in her faith. At UM, she has found a place where learning and discipleship go hand in hand—and where she is able to pour the joy of Christ into the lives of others.

For Lana, the ɬ�﷬ is more than a continuation of family tradition. It is a testament to God’s provision, the faithfulness of donors, and the life-changing impact of generosity—one student at a time.

Heath Vester

Heath Vester is an experienced graphic designer and photographer. He serves as the Associate Vice President for Creative Services for the ɬ�﷬’s Office of Marketing & Public Relations. He is an alumnus of the ɬ�﷬, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art and a Master of Science in Leadership and Communication. Beyond his role at the university, Heath is the owner of Heath Vester Creative, his freelance company where he provides a wide variety of creative services to individuals and organizations.

That began to change during her freshman year.

Surrounded by caring professors and a close-knit community of friends, Lexie encountered a different way of thinking about success—one grounded not only in achievement, but in calling. During her first year at UM, she gave her life to Christ, a decision she says completely transformed her perspective. Through that spiritual growth, Lexie began to understand dentistry not just as a profession, but as a way to serve others.

She realized her desire to become a dentist was deeply connected to helping people experience confidence and joy – something as simple, yet powerful, as a smile.

For Lexie, the opportunity to attend college did not come without uncertainty. Raised by her mother, the financial reality of higher education, especially with plans for dental school, felt overwhelming. The cost of undergraduate studies combined with the years of education ahead made the dream seem distant.

Through the generosity of the ɬ�﷬, that burden was lifted.

With the support of the Presidential Scholarship, a Visit Day Scholarship, and additional university-awarded aid, Lexie was able to attend UM without tuition costs. That financial freedom allowed her to fully engage in campus life and spiritual formation without constant concern about how she would pay for school.

As a result, Lexie has been able to invest deeply in her faith, get involved in local churches and community food banks, and participate in campus organizations and clubs — all while pursuing her degree as a Pre-Health Biology major.

Her gratitude, she says, extends far beyond her own experience.

“Because of donors’ generosity,” Lexie shares, “students are being blessed in countless ways. Because of this, lives are being transformed.”

At the ɬ�﷬, Lexie found more than an education. She found clarity, community and a calling. One that blends faith, service, and science in meaningful ways.

Heath Vester

Heath Vester is an experienced graphic designer and photographer. He serves as the Associate Vice President for Creative Services for the ɬ�﷬’s Office of Marketing & Public Relations. He is an alumnus of the ɬ�﷬, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art and a Master of Science in Leadership and Communication. Beyond his role at the university, Heath is the owner of Heath Vester Creative, his freelance company where he provides a wide variety of creative services to individuals and organizations.

Gifts made on this day to The Great Commission Fund impact UM students directly through scholarships and spiritual formation. Thanks to a generous donor, every dollar raised on Giving Tuesday will be matched up to $50,000.

“When you give to The Great Commission Fund, you’re investing in more than a college education. You’re helping multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world – graduates who will go into business, healthcare, education, ministry and beyond to serve Christ wherever He leads,” said Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations.

How to Participate

• Give Online: Visit umobile.edu/give on Tuesday, Dec. 2, to make a secure, tax-deductible donation to The Great Commission Fund.
• Spread the Word: Follow UM social media for updates throughout the day. Share why you give and encourage others to join using #GivingTuesday and #UniversityofMobile.
• Pray: Pray for the students, faculty and staff of the ɬ�﷬ as we seek to impact the world For Christ & His Kingdom.

A Great Commission University

Every student at the ɬ�﷬ is part of the Baptist university’s Great Commission mission. Every student matters – so every gift matters, Harris said.

“Your gift on Giving Tuesday helps remove financial barriers and provide opportunities for students to grow spiritually, academically and professionally – so they can answer God’s call on their lives,” Harris added.

Founded in 1961 in Mobile, Alabama, the ɬ�﷬ is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence For Christ & His Kingdom. With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” the university honors God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Learn more about the ɬ�﷬ at umobile.edu/um-info.

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 ɬ�﷬ 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.

The 27^th annual tournament raised an historic amount during a fun-filled day at the stunning Magnolia Grove Golf Course, part of Alabama’s world-renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.

UM President Charles Smith said golfers and sponsors made an impact that reaches far beyond the fairways.

“Every swing, every sponsorship and every contribution made today represents an investment in the lives of students at the ɬ�﷬,” Smith said.

“Together, we are providing resources for scholarships and programs that equip students to lead, serve and live out their calling in every career field – becoming Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.”

Celebrating Strong Partnerships

The event also featured opportunities for participants to meet ɬ�﷬ students, including members of the UM golf team and UM Ambassadors, who shared stories of how scholarships and campus life have shaped their university experience.

Vice President for Institutional Relations Nathan Harris said the event’s success reflects the strong partnership between the university and the local business and donor community.

“The Mobile Classic is more than a golf tournament — it’s a celebration of what happens when our community comes together to make a difference,” Harris said. “Because of the sponsors, players and volunteers who gave their time and resources, UM students will continue to have access to scholarships and opportunities that prepare them to impact the world for Christ.”

Top Teams

This year’s top teams were:

• First Place: Redemption Church/North Campus
• Second Place: Roy Lewis Construction
• Third Place: First Baptist Church of Thomasville
• Closest to the Pin: Caldwell Adams, Roy Lewis Construction team
• Longest Drive: Will Hudson, FASTSIGNS team

Top Sponsors

The ɬ�﷬ thanks the following sponsors for making the 2025 Mobile Classic a success.

• Title Sponsors: The Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, Roy Lewis Construction, Brett/Robinson
• Kingdom Sponsors: Roberts Brothers, C Spire
• Mission Sponsors: The Baptist Foundation of Alabama, Dex Imaging, Redemption Church
• Hole Sponsors: Foosackly’s, Busby Agency, FASTSIGNS of Mobile, Renasant Bank, United Bank, Zest, The Mitchell Company LLC, Aztecas Restaurant & Cantina, Ace Hardware, The Orthopaedic Group P.C., Artcraft Press, Wilkins Miller.

About the ɬ�﷬

The ɬ�﷬ is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” 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’s, master’s 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.

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 ɬ�﷬ 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.

“The ɬ�﷬ Classic golf tournament is our biggest fundraiser of the year. Every dollar raised directly impacts students,” said Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for Institutional Relations at the ɬ�﷬.

The Great Commission Fund

Proceeds go to the university’s Great Commission Fund – a powerful and effective way to change lives and transform futures through Christ-centered higher education.

The Great Commission Fund provides resources for spiritual and academic formation and undergirds the Baptist university’s mission of multiplying Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.

“Spiritual formation helps us provide dynamic Chapel services, mission opportunities and a vibrant spiritual life on campus,” Harris said.

“Academic support comes through scholarships that provide students with much needed financial assistance and helps even more students experience the advantage of a ɬ�﷬ education.”

UM offers over 75 academic programs leading to associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Over 2,000 students are enrolled at UM and 98% receive financial aid.

Putting & Driving Competition + Great Prizes��

Participants will have an opportunity to win some great prizes at the ɬ�﷬ Golf Classic tournament.

A putting competition will be held before the tournament begins and the winner will receive a new Scottie Cameron putter. A longest drive competition will close out the tournament, with the winner receiving a Ping/Taylormade Driver.

Prizes include:

• Scotty Cameron Putter – Putting Competition prior to tournament start
• Ping/Taylormade Driver – Longest Drive Competition at end of tournament
• Edwin Watts Giftcard – Closest to the Pin on course
• Rangefinder – Longest Drive on Course
• Custom UM Golf Bag – Raffle
• Prizes for 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd Place Teams

��Prizes will be awarded at the lunch and awards ceremony following the tournament.

Registration Underway Now

Registration is open at umobile.edu/umclassic.

A limited number of sponsorship packages are available. Sponsorship benefits are listed on the website at umobile.edu/umclassic.

Contact the Office for Institutional Relations at 251.442.2913 or email advancement@umobile.edu to learn more about the Mobile Classic and other giving opportunities.

Tournament Schedule��

The ɬ�﷬ Classic golf tournament will begin Thursday, Oct. 30 with registration at 7 a.m. and a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The day will include lunch and an awards ceremony.

“Come enjoy a day of friendly competition, great company and unforgettable moments on the course – all while raising funds for a tremendous cause,” said Harris.

“The Mobile Classic is a great way to make a Kingdom impact while enjoying a day on the course with friends.”

About the ɬ�﷬

The ɬ�﷬ is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” 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’s, master’s 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.

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 ɬ�﷬ 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.

When I came to the ɬ�﷬, I saw the perfect place for this vision to flourish. Here, we believe God calls His people to radical generosity, and when we answer that call together, the impact is extraordinary. We see it every day in students preparing to serve the Lord through whatever vocation He has given them – men and women who will leave UM with a Great Commission passion to make a difference for the glory of God and the good of the world.��

A Gospel Foundation��

As Christians, we often think that when we give our lives to Christ, He takes hold of everything except our money. But when God calls us to faith in Christ, the entirety of our lives is given over to God. Not one��aspect of us is left outside of God’s sovereignty. As we are baptized, every part of us, including our��pocketbooks, is cleansed and finds transformation in��the gospel.��

This gospel of Jesus Christ – this very gospel that saves, redeems and restores – is our foundation for living a life of radical generosity.��

Transformed by the Gospel��

Giving is a tangible way we can proclaim to those around us that we have been transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ. It shows a change of heart and��reorientation of resources to be used in honor of God and for His glory. When the gospel is the foundation for generosity, then giving is first and foremost about proclaiming and portraying the saving work of Christ. We proclaim the gospel through generosity because it’s the gospel that calls us to life radically different from the world (Rom. 12:1-2). Generosity is nothing but a vehicle to proclaim the goodness of God and the saving work of Jesus.��

As we give, we get to be living examples of what Christ has done in our lives.��

Rooted in the Gospel��

Generosity is rooted in the gospel, sprouts from the gospel, and bears fruit because of the gospel. We give generously because of the gospel, and only because of the gospel. If we confess the gospel, then generosity should naturally follow it. As we practice generosity, God is working through us, enabling us to give.��

Giving, above all else, is about the testimony of the gospel.��

Gospel generosity is the Christian’s joyful awareness of what Christ has done for us and how we are privileged to participate in proclaiming that work through giving and advancing the gospel.��

Go, give generously, and glorify God!��

Nathan W. Harris, PhD, is the author of “A Short Guide to Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace,” published by B&H Publishing and available on Amazon.com and through The ɬ�﷬ Store at��.��

Dr. Nathan Harris

Dr. Nathan Harris holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in youth ministry from Malone University. He earned a Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Theology (ThM) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in biblical studies, each from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has taught courses on the New Testament, hermeneutics and theology. Prior to joining UM in June of 2024, he served as vice president of advancement at Grace College & Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana. Previously, he served at Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio, as associate professor of biblical studies and senior director of annual giving and stewardship. At Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (MBTS) in Kansas City, Missouri, he served as director of institutional relations initiatives and worked under the leadership of Dr. Charles Smith, who became the sixth president of the ɬ�﷬ on March 21, 2024. He and his wife, Kelsey, have three children, Noah, Jude and Ruth.

“Since 1961, the foundation and fuel of the ɬ�﷬ has been none other than our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As we renew our commitment to build our foundation upon His Word – as we commit to existing ‘For Christ & His Kingdom’ – we can expect the Lord’s faithfulness to continue,” Smith said in his presidential address at the Inaugural Celebration held May 1 at Redemption Church in Saraland, Alabama. 

Dr. Jason Allen, president of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, delivered the keynote address. Distinguished guests from across the Southern Baptist Convention; dignitaries from colleges and universities; civic, community and business leaders; and the university’s Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students and supporters filled the sanctuary for the time-honored academic tradition marking the formal investiture of a university president.

Allen spoke on Proverbs 9:10, the foundational scripture for the ɬ�﷬: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” The first half of the scripture is on the university’s official seal, along with the phrase “For Christ & His Kingdom.”

Allen said, “The temptation for every institution, large or small, old or young, is to drift from the founding convictions and mission that the institution once held so dear. In the Southern Baptist world there are 53 Baptist colleges historically associated with the Southern Baptist Convention. The majority of those these days in the 21^st century really maintain no true affiliation or connection with, nor oversight of, the Baptist bodies at large. 

“But this institution, praise God, continues to be serious about its commitment to serving the churches of the Alabama Baptist Convention, serious about its Christian identity, serious about its Christian convictions, serious about the Bible as the Word of God, and the Great Commission as the urgent task for churches and for Christian believers.”

Watch the full inauguration ceremony at��.

A Charge Rooted in Christ

Smith formally accepted the charge of the presidency during the investiture portion of the ceremony. Trustee Terry Harbin presented the Presidential Medallion, a symbol of leadership and responsibility, while Board Chair Ron Moore presented the Presidential Bible, underscoring the university’s foundation in Scripture.

“In 1963, a Bible was placed in the cornerstone of Weaver Hall as an enduring reminder of the source of truth,” Moore said. “Today, as we present this Bible, we affirm once again that the ɬ�﷬ is founded upon and anchored in God’s Word.”

Smith was asked to affirm his faith in Christ, commitment to the university’s Statement of Christian Affirmation, and his willingness to serve with integrity, excellence, and a Kingdom mindset.

“I do,” he replied, before being formally invested into office.

Smith has served as president of the ɬ�﷬ since May 6, 2024, following his unanimous election by the UM Board of Trustees on March 24, 2024. Previously, he served with Allen in a variety of senior leadership roles at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College.

He and his wife, Ashley, are natives of Montgomery, Alabama, and they have three daughters: Ellie, Annie and Susie.

A Renewed Vision and Mission

In his presidential address based on John 6, Smith warned of the dangers facing Christian institutions that drift from their spiritual foundations. 

“There is no shortage of once-faithful Christian universities who have lost their way,” he said, noting that the ɬ�﷬ remains firmly committed to Jesus Christ as the foundation of all true knowledge and the hope of every generation.

Under Smith’s leadership, the renewed vision of the ɬ�﷬, expressed by the phrase “For Christ & His Kingdom,” is to multiply Kingdom leaders who embrace their callings and live out the Great Commission for the glory of God and the good of the world.

“Our prayers and plans for the future are bold,” Smith said, pointing to a growing list of initiatives aimed at strengthening the university – expanding academic programs, enhancing student life, increasing online offerings, investing in campus facilities, launching workforce development, and many other strategies designed to broaden the university’s impact in the region and beyond.

While these initiatives are important and inspiring, they are not the university’s identity, he said. Rather, they are the result of the university’s identity in Christ.

Student Voices of Hope and Vision

Two students, Kenneth Brandon and Courtney Sides, represented the student body and expressed hope and confidence in the university’s new chapter under Smith’s leadership.

Sides, a sophomore majoring in nursing, said, “Here at UM, we are more than a campus — we are a family. We believe God is doing something powerful on this campus, and we are so excited to welcome a president who sees that — and who is ready to build upon it.”

Brandon, a graduating senior majoring in worship leadership and music, prayed for the ɬ�﷬ “to continue to shine as a beacon of truth and hope, a place where lives are transformed, where servant leaders are not only equipped for careers, but empowered to fulfill their God-given call.”

The university choir and orchestra led the audience in powerful hymns and songs of praise throughout a two-hour program that included words of encouragement and support for the new president and the ɬ�﷬ family.

The university’s third president Dr. Mark R. Foley and former first lady Marilyn Foley, and UM’s fifth president Dr. Lonnie A. Burnett and former first lady Lynne Burnett, were honored during the ceremony. Nathan Harris, UM vice president for institutional relations, welcomed guests. Dr. Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver, president of Union University, a sister Baptist institution, gave the invocation. Dr. Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, offered a prayer and Scripture reading of Colossians 1:15-18, affirming the strong partnership between the university and Alabama Baptists. Fred Wilson, chair of the Presidential Search Committee, outlined the search committee process and its focus on following God’s lead. Dr. Ben Stubblefield, pastor of Spring Hill Baptist Church, introduced keynote speaker Dr. Jason Allen. Dr. Ed Litton, pastor of Redemption Church, and Kathy Litton, a UM trustee, prayed over the Smith family.

Bringing greetings to the president were Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson; Dr. Jamie Dew, president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary; and Dr. Alan Floyd, pastor of Cottage Hill Baptist Church and a UM alumnus. Delegates included Dr. Mary Van Brunt, president of Spring Hill College, and Dr. Charles Guest, vice provost of the University of South Alabama.

Dr. Ed Litton, pastor of Redemption Church and a past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, and his wife Kathy, a UM trustee, prayed over the Smith family.

Benediction and Celebration

The service concluded with a benediction and blessing from Dr. Roger Breland, retiring executive director of the university’s Alabama School of the Arts and founder of TRUTH, one of the first successful contemporary Christian touring and recording groups. 

“Bless this university – every student, every faculty and staff member, every alumnus, and every friend of the Ram Family. May this campus always be a place where truth is pursued, lives are transformed and Christ is glorified,” Breland prayed.

The celebration concluded later in the evening with fireworks and Spring Spectacular, an outdoor concert held on the university’s Great Commission Lawn.

About the ɬ�﷬

The ɬ�﷬ is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ & His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” 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’s, master’s 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.

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 ɬ�﷬ 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.

Launched April 10, 2025, The Great Commission Funds serves as a vital resource to provide scholarships, strengthen academic and spiritual programs, and empower students to follow God’s call in every profession, community and nation.

For Christ and His Kingdom

“For Christ and His Kingdom — this is the heartbeat of everything we do at the ɬ�﷬,” said UM President Charles Smith. 

“The Great Commission Fund is more than a rebranding of our annual fund; it is a declaration of our mission. Through this initiative, we are calling on believers to join us in raising up a generation of Christ-centered leaders.”

Watch the launch video .

The Great Commission Tradition

Rooted in the university’s long-standing Great Commission Tradition, The Great Commission Fund reflects the commitment of UM students to pursue their education as a calling from God. 

From the moment they step onto campus, new students participate in this tradition by touching the Great Commission Globe during the President’s Commissioning ceremony, symbolizing their commitment to the intellectual and spiritual transformation they will experience in the college journey ahead. 

A few years later at commencement, they return to The Great Commission Globe as new graduates – men and women grounded in God’s Word and armed with the knowledge and skills to pursue their professional callings with excellence. They touch the Great Commission Globe again, making a public commitment to pursue God’s calling for their lives – to go out from the ɬ�﷬ as missional leaders making an impact for Christ.

The UM Mission

“We believe transforming lives for Christ is not just an academic pursuit — it’s a mission,” said Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations. 

“The Great Commission Fund makes that mission possible by ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder students from receiving a Christ-centered education that prepares them to lead with excellence.”

To learn more or to contribute to The Great Commission Fund, visit and follow UM social media @univofmobile.

Pray. Tell. Invest.

The university invites Southern Baptist leaders and believers everywhere to partner in this Kingdom work through three powerful actions:

Pray for UM students and faculty as they prepare to impact the world for Christ.

Tell others the ɬ�﷬ and its Great Commission mission

Invest in The Great Commission Fund to provide scholarships and resources that equip students to live out the gospel in every sphere of influence.

“When you give to The Great Commission Fund, you are practicing God’s call to generosity,” said Harris. “You are investing in a Christ-centered college community where students are known, discipled and sent out to transform the world for the glory of God and the good of the world.”

About the ɬ�﷬

The ɬ�﷬ is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence “For Christ and His Kingdom.” With a vision to “Multiply Kingdom Leaders for the Glory of God and the Good of the World,” 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’s, master’s 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.

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 ɬ�﷬ 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.

Hudson, a two-time graduate of the ɬ�﷬, earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1984 and returned to complete her Master of Science in Nursing Education in 2003. Her lifelong dedication to healthcare, education and civic leadership has made a lasting impact on the Mobile community and beyond.

ɬ�﷬ President Charles Smith presented the award.

“All of us here at the ɬ�﷬ are proud to celebrate Dr. Hudson. She has accomplished so much academically, professionally and locally as a member of Saraland’s city council. It is a joy to recognize these accomplishments ,and in doing so, to remind our students of what they can achieve,” Smith said.

A Leader in Nursing

Currently serving as the nurse manager of workforce development at the University of South Alabama University Hospital, Hudson has built an extensive career in nursing leadership, faculty mentorship and community engagement. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice focused on community health, she has dedicated her career to advancing patient care, developing healthcare professionals and improving health outcomes.

A Community Leader

Beyond her professional contributions, Hudson has been an active leader in her community. She has served on the Saraland City Council since 2009 and held leadership roles in the Saraland Chamber of Commerce, Mobile County Municipality Association and Keep Saraland Beautiful. She is deeply involved in church ministries and volunteer initiatives, reinforcing her commitment to service.

Reflecting on this honor, Hudson said, “I am truly humbled to receive the Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence. The ɬ�﷬ played a pivotal role in my personal and professional journey, from my time as a student living on campus to my return for graduate studies. To be recognized by my alma mater in this way is both an honor and a reminder of the incredible mentors, colleagues and students who have shaped my life.”

��to hear what UM and the Boykin Award mean to Dr. Veronica Smith Hudson.��

Previous Recipients

Previous recipients of the Samuel Boykin Medal of Excellence include:

• 2024:��Ronald G. Moore ’02��
• 2023:��Ira Bates Jr. ’04��
• 2022:��Treii Pace ’11��
• 2021:��Dr. Tracey Henry ’02
• 2019:����Samuel M. Boykin ’67 (posthumously), accepted by his wife, Ellen Hardiman��Boykin��

About the ɬ�﷬

The ɬ�﷬ is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher��Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their��future professions in an environment where they are known.��Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The ɬ�﷬ was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the ɬ�﷬, areas of study, admissions and more, visit��,��connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.

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 ɬ�﷬ 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.