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.

Heath Vester

Heath Vester is an experienced graphic designer and photographer. He serves as the Associate Vice President for Creative Services for the University of Mobile’s Office of Marketing & Public Relations. He is an alumnus of the University of Mobile, 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 University of Mobile as we seek to impact the world For Christ & His Kingdom.

A Great Commission University

Every student at the University of Mobile 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 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. Learn more about the University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile,” 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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile 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 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.

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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile.

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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile 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 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.

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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile, 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 University of Mobile Store at universityofmobilestore.com. 

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 University of Mobile on March 21, 2024. He and his wife, Kelsey, have three children, Noah, Jude and Ruth.

“Since 1961, the foundation and fuel of the University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile: “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 umobile.edu/inauguration.

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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile, 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 University of Mobile “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 University of Mobile 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 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.

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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile,” 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 HERE.

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 University of Mobile 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 umobile.edu/give 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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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 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 University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile, 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.

University of Mobile President Charles Smith presented the award.

“All of us here at the University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile 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.”

Click the link 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 University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, 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 University of Mobile 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.

However, I was recently reminded of harder questions: What should people strive to be like? More specifically: What kind of community have we created at the University of Mobile? During the recent snowstorm, I had an experience that both asked and answered this question.

A Record-breaking Snowfall

In case you didn’t know, Mobile recently received the biggest snowstorm in 130 years. In a region where snow is extremely rare, a record 7.5 inches fell on the city of Mobile and our campus. Simply put, it was awesome! My friends and I spent two full days doing nothing but playing outside. I believe that everyone else in the student body did, too. Even President Charles Smith came out to sled with us!

It was a good reminder that, sometimes, we simply need to celebrate and have fun. This, in itself, speaks volumes to the quality of UM’s student body. However, not everyone got to play outside.

An Overlooked Sacrifice

When I went to breakfast in Ingram Dining Hall on the second day of the snowstorm, I got to talking to some of the cafeteria staff. I found that not only did they spend the entire day inside serving us, there were only three workers on duty because of road closings and driving conditions! I realized that while we were playing, they were working to keep us fed. 

Stepping Up to Serve

I felt convicted to help. I asked the SGA (Student Government Association) where I serve as a representative if they might consider volunteering to clean up The Caf over the next couple days. The response was overwhelming!

That night, we helped sweep floors and break down boxes, take out trash and wipe down tables. Not only did the SGA help, the UM Honors Program and even a few other people stepped up to clean up. In all, I think we had 15 people!

The biggest thing I remember was talking to one of the cafeteria managers, who told me his team was touched by the responsibility taken by those students who stepped up, and they felt seen and respected.

A Higher Calling

This act of service was more than just cleaning up. It gets at an important truth, that as Christians we must look for unexpected ways to serve one another as a reflection of the dignity that God has placed in every human – the dignity that Christ died to preserve. 

For me, playing in the snow was a memorable experience. But even more memorable is the experience of working beside other students to live out Christ’s call to servant-leadership.

William Givens

William Givens is a sophomore at the University of Mobile studying Philosophy with a minor in Biblical Studies. He is part of the Honors Program, represents the College of Arts and Sciences in the Student Government Association and runs cross-country and track for the Rams. William is from Montgomery, Alabama and enjoys reading The Classics and arguing about seemingly pointless things.

Additional members of UM’s senior leadership team include Dr. Pamela Buchanan Miller, vice president for academic affairs; Lesa Moore, vice president for marketing and public relations; and Charity Wittner, vice president for student affairs.

“Together, these leaders are poised to accomplish historic things for the University of Mobile,” said President Smith.

Lynn Smith, Vice President for Business Affairs, Chief Financial Officer

UM’s new chief financial officer and vice president for business affairs is Lynn Smith, formerly director of fiscal planning and analysis at The University of Southern Mississippi. Over Smith’s 18 years at Southern Miss, he also served as director of budget and tax compliance, senior budget analyst and adjunct instructor in the School of Accounting. He was president of the Covington County School Board and has over seven years of experience as a high school economics and government teacher while also coaching baseball, softball and football.

At the University of Mobile, Smith will oversee the university’s annual budget and endowments, provide fiscal analysis and strategic direction, and manage a variety of departments including business affairs, human resources, information technology, plant operations and food services.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration in accounting from The University of Southern Mississippi, a Master of Business Administration from William Carey University, and a Master of Arts in theology and biblical studies from Belhaven University.

Brian Boyle, Special Assistant to the President & Executive Director for Estates, Grants and Government Relations

A University of Mobile alumnus, Brian Boyle has served his alma mater in a variety of leadership roles for more than 25 years, most recently as vice president for advancement. President Smith cited Boyle’s unique passion, experience and training as vital to the development of the new position of special assistant to the president and executive director for estates, grants and government relations.

Boyle will lead a comprehensive planned-giving program, manage and grow legacy giving, oversee government relations and work closely with the president and vice president for institutional relations to engage government officials, policymakers and other key stakeholders to advocate for the university.

In addition, Boyle teaches in UM’s School of Christian Studies. Previously, he enjoyed a successful career in retail and commercial banking. He holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and a Master of Arts in theology, both from UM.

Dr. Nathan Harris, vice president for institutional relations

Harris assumes the new title of vice president for institutional relations after joining the University of Mobile in June 2024 as vice president for strategic initiatives. In addition to directing the university’s fundraising and strategic initiatives, Harris will oversee the areas of alumni relations, donor engagements and career development.

Harris is the author of the book “Gospel Generosity: Giving as an Act of Grace.” Previously, he served as vice president of advancement at Grace College & Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana. He has taught courses on the New Testament, hermeneutics and theology.

Harris holds a Bachelor of Arts in youth ministry from Malone University. He earned a Master of Theology, Master of Divinity Doctor of Philosophy in biblical studies, each from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. 

Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info. Plan a campus visit or register for a UM Day at umobile.edu/um-info or call Enrollment Services at 251.442.2222.

About the University of Mobile

The University of Mobile 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 University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.

For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu/um-info, 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 University of Mobile 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.