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

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

“As a child, I ‘taught’ my younger siblings as they sat in plastic Little Tikes school desks, and I would teach them just as I had learned from my teachers. I would even line up my stuffed animals to teach them my spelling words and recite my poems,” said Wilson.

That childhood spark has grown into a lifelong mission. As an assistant professor in the School of Education at the University of Mobile, Wilson guides future teachers. She helps them discover their own path for education and prepares them to go out and inspire others.

She brings 29 years of experience across all levels of education, from elementary teacher to assistant principal then director of human resources. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a master’s degree in educational leadership and both an EdS and EdD in curriculum and instruction.

“Throughout these roles, I witnessed firsthand the powerful impact of teachers and staff working together to support student success. Their dedication reminded me daily that teachers truly change lives,” said Wilson. “I am grateful to bring that experience to UM, guiding and preparing future educators to become champions in the lives of children.”

Q: Can you tell us about some of your role models and what you learned from them? 

A: I was inspired by two teachers in my early education.

Mrs. Phillips, my second-grade teacher, encouraged me so much that I began to believe that I could accomplish more academically. With love and kindness, she encouraged my writing and creativity until my isolation was cultivated into a quiet confidence.

My fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Blair, had the most profound impact on my decision to teach.

He was and will always be my favorite teacher. He recognized my interest in teaching and helping others and often allowed me to be his teacher assistant and a tutor.

What was unique about Mr. Blair was that he was interested in developing relationships with his students. He got to know us, allowed us to get to know him and he was genuinely interested in our success beyond the time and space of his classroom.

It is with the same passion and commitment shown by these mentors that I strive to teach, guide and positively influence my students at UM.

Q: Why did you decide to become a college professor in the School of Education?

A: I have seen and experienced many challenges and rewards of teaching. My desire is to prepare, encourage and inspire others to join our field. I am a passionate and obsessive learner and I am excited to share what I have learned with my students.

What interests me about the field of education is its life-long dedication to knowledge acquisition and application. Education is a continuous cycle of people engaging and sharing curiosity, learning and growth.

Q: What is something surprising about yourself that might surprise your students? 

A: I have a potbellied pig named Fredrick Alabaster, also known as “Freddie.”

Growing up, I had a secret wish that I would have a pig of my very own. I never shared my wish with anyone, but determined to one day hold Fredrick Alabaster in my arms, I picked out his name when I was nine.

Freddie was my birthday present in 2017. I chose him from his litter, syringe fed him as a baby, potty trained him in only a day and he lived inside with our family until he began to root in the house.

If you don’t know, potbellied pigs are great companions, very intelligent animals and can be very manipulative. Needless to say, Fredrick Alabaster normally gets what he wants when Momma is around. He will always have a very special place in my heart.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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.

Experience it all at UM Day on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026 – a special campus-visit event for high school and transfer students and their families.

Wondering what your future could look like at a university where faith and learning go hand in hand? UM Day at the University of Mobile is your chance to see for yourself.

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

RSVP today 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 – 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’ll:

• Tour our beautiful 880‑acre 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 — and take the first step toward your future.

Just 1 More UM Day!

The final UM Day of spring semester 2025 is March 23. Reserve your spot today at umobile.edu/umday-info or call 251.442.2222.

Schedule a Private Visit

If you can’t make a 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 umobile.edu/visit or call 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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.

Earn a master’s degree while preparing for Alabama Class A teacher certification in Early Childhood or Elementary Education. Courses are offered in a flexible, blended format that includes online coursework, evening on-campus classes and a culminating internship experience.

Proven Success for Graduates

UM’s School of Education has an excellent track record for preparing graduates for successful teaching careers, with a 100% pass rate on the edTPA – the state-required teaching performances assessment – and 100% job placement for graduates of the Alternative Master of Arts in Education in early childhood or elementary education.

Supportive, Faith-Based Environment

Rooted in the University of Mobile’s commitment to Christ-centered higher education, students benefit from a low student-to-faculty ratio that fosters personalized instruction and mentorship from experienced education faculty.

The program emphasizes both professional excellence and a heart for service, equipping graduates to teach with competence, compassion and purpose

A Calling to Teach

“Teaching is one of the most meaningful and impactful callings a person can pursue,” said Dr. Ashley Milner, dean of the School of Education. “This program is designed for individuals who feel called to the classroom later in life and want a supportive, faith-based environment that values their previous education and professional experience while preparing them to serve students well.”

Take the Next Step

Applications are being accepted now for classes starting in Spring, Summer or Fall semesters. Learn more or apply at umobile.edu/um-info. Call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222 or contact Graduate Enrollment Counselor Grace Blankenship at gblankenship@umobile.edu.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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.

Hosted by the Celia Wallace College of Health Professions and the School of Nursing, the ceremony honored graduates who have completed an advanced program of study preparing them to serve as highly skilled primary care providers for families and communities.

The graduation recognition ceremony included a keynote address by Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations, as well as remarks by the School of Nursing Graduate Faculty and music performed by Sofree, an ensemble in the University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts.

MSN-FNP Diploma Recipients for Fall 2025 are:

Chelsey Alwell, Alexandra Audie, Allison Cole, Ashley Emmons, Vantrell Fox, Bailey Garriga, Courtney Hall, Ashley Hardee, Aaron Haycraft, Jennifer Huynh, Jeri Jordan, Sonia Pierce, Michaela Reynolds, Madison Robinson-Lowe, Lashanda Rudolph, Peyton Jernigan, Dorothy Thorske, JaCinta Whitt.

Accelerated MSN-FNP Program

The Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) program at the University of Mobile equips nurses to provide advanced, compassionate primary care as leaders grounded in Christian values. This flexible, faith-based pathway can be completed in as few as four semesters through an accelerated track, or over seven semesters with a part-time option.

Delivered in a convenient hybrid format, the program combines online coursework with three on-campus intensives, an initial orientation plus one each fall to foster clinical excellence, professional growth, and a supportive community of mentorship.

Learn More & Apply

Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from a regionally accredited institution. At least one year of clinical experience is preferred.

The first priority deadline for Fall 2026 applications is April 1, 2026.

To explore the Family Nurse Practitioner program or other offerings within the Celia Wallace College of Health Professions, visit umobile.edu/um-info.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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.

Along with significant enrollment growth, national rankings and expanded focus on student life and spiritual growth, the 2025 year reflected the university’s ongoing impact For Christ & His Kingdom.

“As we reflect on this past year at the University of Mobile, we are deeply grateful for the many ways the Lord has blessed our university and is at work in the lives of our students, faculty and staff,” President Smith said. “We go into the new year with purpose and confidence in our mission to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.”

Mission and Leadership 

A central theme of 2025 was set during Smith’s inauguration on May 1, 2025. In his address, UM’s president outlined a bold mission and vision aimed at expanding the university’s impact and guiding its strategic planning:

“The University of Mobile exists For Christ & His Kingdom to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world.”

Tom Elliff Center for Missions

 In November, UM announced an historic multi-million-dollar gift establishing the Tom Elliff Center for Missions, scheduled to open in Fall 2026. Named for former International Mission Board president Tom Elliff, the Center will provide students with focused missions training, quarterly forums with missionary leaders and scholars, and opportunities for cross-cultural field experiences. UM officials report that the initiative builds on the university’s longstanding commitment to preparing students to make a global impact for Christ.

Student Life and Campus Engagement

The university expanded Student Life programming in 2025, adding new campus-wide events and leadership development opportunities. Chapel services consistently drew full crowds, featuring speakers from churches, ministries, and academic institutions nationwide. Chapel sermon videos and podcasts are available at umobile.edu/chapel.

Enrollment and Recruitment

Fall 2025 enrollment grew by 14% over the previous year. Attendance at UM Day, the university’s main campus-visit event, increased 30%, according to institutional data. University representatives attributed the growth to expanded recruitment efforts, engagement with regional churches, and strengthened academic outreach.

Rankings and Recognition

UM earned several rankings in the 2026 Niche Best Colleges list:

• Top 100 Best Christian Colleges in America
• Top 100 Best Colleges for Music in America
• #1 Best College for Music in Alabama
• #1 Safest College Campus in Alabama
• #1 Best Dorms in Alabama (fifth consecutive year)

The School of Nursing was named #1 Nursing Program in Alabama by RegisteredNursing.org. Faculty recognition included Dr. Robert Olsen, who was voted Best College Professor in Mobile in the 2025 Nappie Awards.

Church and Community Partnerships

UM reported increased engagement with Alabama Baptist churches and partners in the Southern Baptist Convention through campus events, ministry training, and student mission programs. Officials said these partnerships support the university’s goal of integrating academic study with preparation for service across ministry, business, healthcare, education and the arts.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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.

Special showtimes include Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day for the hour-long special featuring highlights of UM’s 2024 Christmas Spectacular.

The Christian university has presented Christmas Spectacular each November for 23 years to audiences of thousands, celebrating the true meaning of Christmas through the talents of more than 250 students, faculty and staff. In addition to the University Singers and University Orchestra, featured ensembles include Voices of Mobile, Deliverance, Dunamis, Jazz Band, RamCorps, Shofar, Sofree, Welsh Revival and Worship Collective.

Highlights include “Noel” and “The Prayer,” along with “Joy to the World,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “We Three Kings” and more.

“FOX10 has been honored to air the University of Mobile Christmas Spectacular during the holiday season for nearly 20 years, and it has become a tradition for our viewers,” said FOX10 Vice President and General Manager Eric Duncan. “This year, there will be more opportunities than ever to watch Christmas Spectacular.”

David Mayo, general manager of CTN Pensacola-Mobile WHBR, said, “We are thrilled to continue our tradition of airing the University of Mobile’s wonderful Christmas Spectacular program this holiday season!”

WHBR Christian Television Network will air Christmas Spectacular:

• Dec. 24 @ 9:30 pm

WALA Fox10 will air Christmas Spectacular:

• Dec. 24 @ 9 pm
• Dec. 25 @ 11 am
• Dec. 27 @ 10 am
• Jan. 1 @ 7 am

Daystar Television Network will air Christmas Spectacular:

• Dec. 24 @ 11 am & 8 pm
• Dec. 25 @ 12 am

About the University of Mobile 

The University of Mobile 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.

To get started, schedule an audition at umobile.edu/audition.

All incoming freshmen are automatically considered for the new expanded scholarships when they apply to the University of Mobile, audition for the Alabama School of the Arts, are accepted into ASOTA and enroll.

Student pursuing degrees any of the more than 75 academic programs offered at UM are eligible to audition for ASOTA scholarships. Award amounts are based on talent and level of involvement in the department.

#1 Best College for Music

Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, said, “Our mission is to help students grow as artists and as Christ-centered leaders.

“These new expanded scholarships make it possible for students to develop their God-given gifts in a community that nurtures both artistic growth and spiritual formation.”

The University of Mobile Alabama School of the Arts has been named the #1 Best College for Music in Alabama and is in the Top 100 Best Colleges for Music in America, according to 2026 Niche Best Colleges rankings.

In addition, Niche ranks UM among the Top 100 Best Christian College in America with the #1 Best Dorms in Alabama and the #1 Safest College Campus in Alabama.

2026 Audition Dates

The Alabama School of the Arts has scheduled two audition dates for 2026:

• February 6
• March 22

Students may also schedule a private audition or virtual audition at another time. For more information and to schedule an audition, visit umobile.edu/audition.

2026 UM Days

Students scheduling an audition also encouraged to attend a UM Day in conjunction with their audition. UM Days provide students and families opportunities to tour campus, meet faculty and students, experience student life, learn about financial aid, and earn a $2,000 Visit Scholarship when they visit, apply and enroll.

UM Days are scheduled for:

• February 5
• March 23

Sign up to attend a UM Day at umobile.edu/umday-info.

About the University of Mobile 

The University of Mobile 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.

“I’ve had a passion for leadership for many years – not because I consider myself an exceptional leader, but because I understand how much of life rises or falls on faithful, effective leadership,” President Smith said.

“I am proud to see more than 100 of our key leaders gathering each month to invest intentionally in their own development and, in doing so, strengthen the overall effectiveness of our institution.”

The Leadership Project

During Fall Semester 2025, University of Mobile participants explored leadership principles from the national best-seller “The Ideal Team Player” by Patrick Lencioni.

The author’s emphasis on three virtues of effective leadership – humble, hungry and smart – provided a shared framework that helped participants articulate what it looks like to build a healthy, Christ-centered organizational culture of leadership at the University of Mobile.

“The Leadership Project gives our faculty, staff and students a shared space to grow together, reflect deeply and build the kind of collaborative culture that multiplies our impact of multiplying Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world,” Smith said.

In Spring Semester 2026, The Leadership Project welcomes new and returning participants for a study of “So Good They Can’t Ignore You” by New York Times bestselling author Cal Newport.

“My prayer is that The Leadership Project will continue to grow and positively impact the lives of many,” Smith said.

A Proven Model

The Leadership Project at the University of Mobile is an outgrowth of a program Smith began over a decade ago at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he served prior to joining UM as senior vice president for institutional relations and assistant professor of Christian leadership.

At Midwestern, Smith hosted a podcast focusing on key leadership topics such as Building Healthy Leaders and Teams, Developing and Deploying Leaders in The Church, and 16 Leadership Lessons Learned the Hard Way. “The Leadership Project with Charles Smith” podcasts featured leaders across the Southern Baptist Convention and is available on Spotify.

Practical Strategies

The Leadership Project monthly gatherings blended food, fellowship and learning for an experience UM participants found both personally and professionally valuable.

“It created an atmosphere of collaboration and comradery as faculty and staff members came together for a united purpose,” said Shirley Sutterfield, associate vice president for academic services and registrar.

She said “The Ideal Team Player” offered meaningful and practical concepts, values and strategies that easily can be implemented in the workplace.

Building the Team

Amber Campbell, assistant volleyball coach, said The Leadership Project study “gave language to some methods we were already implementing in the volleyball program,” which made the experience especially affirming.

Campbell said the monthly gatherings provided a team-building exercise that was impactful, resulting in new relationships with faculty, staff and students she had never previously met.

Hungry, Humble & Smart Leaders

College of Arts & Sciences Dean Matthew Downs said The Leadership Project was “a fantastic opportunity to make connections with colleagues across campus in pursuit of a greater purpose.”

He noted that “it’s all too easy to get stuck in our own areas, in our own buildings,” but the project created an intentional space to talk about becoming “smart, hungry and humble people” and to consider ways to strengthen the culture of the university.

Godly Leadership

Dr. Pamela Buchanan Miller, vice president for academic affairs, said it was “really gratifying to see how much Godly leadership ability there is out there, especially among younger faculty and staff.”

The Leadership Project “gave us a space to come together outside our normal roles and get some great perspective from one another. I’m looking forward to Spring 2026,” she said.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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.

MOBILE, Ala.

The online master’s program in the School of Christian Studies at the University of Mobile was ranked nationally for affordability by OnlineU, a ranking site aimed at helping students make educated decisions when choosing an online degree.

The fully online program is taught by faculty members dedicated to training students to rightly interpret the Word of God and understand theological truth to strengthen the church and her mission.

The program offers students flexible options to pursue their online master’s degree in two or four years, making it compatible for graduate students working full-time or part-time, says Dr. Douglas Wilson, executive director of the Center for Christian Calling and professor of Old Testament and Hebrew in the UM School of Christian Studies.

The degree also offers flexibility for graduates working in a variety of settings.

“Our Master of Arts in Biblical & Theological Studies graduates currently serve as church planters, pastoral staff, international missionaries, military and healthcare chaplains, Christian school teachers and community ministry leaders. In addition, some of our graduates have continued their education to pursue Doctor of Ministry, Doctor of Theology, PhD, and EdD degrees,” Wilson said.

For information about the Master of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies, visit umobile.edu/um-info, contact Dr. Doug Wilson at dwilson@umobile.edu, or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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.