Asota – University of Mobile

Experience University of Mobile’s Christmas Spectacular on Fox10, Christian Television Network & Daystar Television Network

Kathy Dean — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 13:09:25 +0000

MOBILE, Ala. – The magic of Christmas Spectacular will be available throughout the Christmas season as WALA Fox10, WHBR Christian Television Network and Daystar Television Network present multiple showtimes of the University of Mobile’s annual musical celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

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.

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.

Audition for New Scholarships Up to $25,000 at University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts

Kathy Dean — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 20:22:53 +0000

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA) at the University of Mobile announces expanded scholarship opportunities for new students pursuing performing arts degrees, with scholarship awards up to $25,000 each year.

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

About the University of Mobile

Kathy Dean

Q&A with UM Music Professor and ASOTA Dean Dr. Andrew Goodwin

Caroline Bowers — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:29:45 +0000

MOBILE, Ala.– For Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, the most meaningful performances happen in the classroom, where students grow in faith and artistry.

“Our students are incredible,” said Goodwin. “I get to walk alongside them during some of the most formative years of their lives. There’s something special about challenging students creatively and academically while also encouraging them spiritually.”

From performing at Carnegie Hall and the White House to mentoring future artists at the University of Mobile, Goodwin has lived a life rooted in music and mission. As dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, he sees the classroom as his most meaningful stage — where faith, excellence and creativity take the spotlight.

Q: What is your professional background?

A: I’ve been connected to the University of Mobile for nearly two decades. First as a student, then as staff, adjunct faculty and now full-time faculty in the Alabama School of the Arts.

I earned a Bachelor of Music in church music from UM in 2010, a Master of Arts in religion and worship studies from Liberty University in 2015, and a Doctor of Musical Arts in vocal performance from UM in 2023.

During my undergraduate years, I performed more than 150 concerts annually with the Voices of Mobile, traveling to Carnegie Hall in New York City, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, and the White House.

Since 2011, I’ve toured nationally with the Dove Award–nominated vocal group Veritas, performing alongside Grammy Award–winning artist Sandi Patty and releasing three albums, including “Simply Veritas.”

I aim to give students practical guidance, performance know-how and mentorship that prepares them to thrive as musicians — and as leaders in their calling.

Q: How do you lead such a diverse and creative academic community?

A: The arts attract all kinds of people, and that’s one of the most beautiful things about this job. I try to lead by example, with clarity and a deep respect for the creative process.

My goal is for everything we do, from a student’s audition all the way to graduation, to be anchored in excellence and centered on Christ. We don’t all have to look or sound the same, but we are united in purpose. Everything we do is ‘”For Christ and His Kingdom.”

Q: What do you think sets ASOTA apart from other schools of the arts?

A: ASOTA is uniquely positioned at the intersection of artistic excellence and spiritual formation. We’re not just training great singers, actors, instrumentalists or technicians — we’re equipping kingdom-minded artists who understand their gifts are ultimately for the glory of God.

Our faculty are not only experts in their fields, but they’re also committed mentors. And because ASOTA is part of a Christ-centered university, there’s a sense of community here that’s hard to replicate.

Q: How has your experience as a touring artist shaped your perspective as both an educator and administrator?

A: Touring taught me how to adapt, collaborate and persevere. It also gave me a front-row seat to the realities of life in the arts — both the beauty and the grind. As an educator, I bring those experiences into the classroom so students get both theory and real-world application.

As an administrator, I understand what it’s like to hustle, work under pressure and rely on a team. It helps me advocate for students and faculty and lead with empathy.

Q: What do you hope students walk away with after spending time under your leadership or in your studio?

A: I hope they leave feeling more confident in who God made them to be. I want them to know their identity is not in their talent, GPA or job title, but in Christ.

I hope they walk away with a clearer sense of calling, a deeper love for their craft and a strong foundation of integrity and faith. And I hope they know they’re not alone — they have a community cheering them on for the long haul. Once a Ram, always a Ram!

Q: What does “For Christ and His Kingdom” mean to you?

A: It’s a reminder that everything we do has eternal significance. Every note sung or played, every show performed, every cable wrapped and fader pushed — it’s all for Jesus.

“For Christ and His Kingdom” is not just a tagline; it’s a mission. It’s about using our talents and our time to point people back to Him.

About the University of Mobile

Caroline Bowers

Caroline Bowers is the social media and content manager at the University of Mobile. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in media studies from Auburn University in 2023 and her Master of Business Administration from Troy University in 2025. With experience in digital marketing and social media management, she is passionate about creating meaningful content. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking with her dog, listening to music and spending time with family and friends.

Murder, Mayhem & Music: Two Hilarious One-Act Operas Hit the University of Mobile Stage

Noah Walters — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 12:16:03 +0000

MOBILE, Ala. – Murder, mayhem and music take the stage as the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile presents two hilarious one-act operas: “La Pizza Con Funghi” and “Un Mari à la Porte” by Jacques Offenbach. This lighthearted double feature delivers a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud night of opera with absurd plots, unforgettable characters and incredible vocal performances – all presented in English.

La Pizza Con Funghi is a clever parody of classic Italian opera, complete with dramatic flair, over-the-top romance and a suspiciously deadly pizza.

Un Mari a la Porter (A Husband at the Door) follows the chaos that erupts when a stranger literally falls through a newlywed’s window on her wedding night.

Performances Oct. 30, Nov. 1 & 2

Performances run Oct. 30, Nov. 2 and Nov. 2 in the Dr. Lonnie and Lynne Burnett Event Center on the UM campus. Tickets are available at the door and online at umobile.edu/asotaevents. General admission is $23.50 and student admission is $12.50.

Showtimes are:

Thursday, Oct. 30 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 1 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 2 at 3 p.m.

Two Comedic Operas in English

Directed by Dr. Kara Claybrook, assistant professor of music, the double bill opera will be full of laughter and incredible vocal performances.

“Opera has acquired a reputation for being long, tedious and hard to understand. However, in this production we wanted to challenge that perception. In doing so we selected two comedic one act operas in English; filled with mistaken identities, love triangles and murder plots – really silly murder plots. C’mon they are trying kill someone with a poisonous pizza. What’s not to love?” said Claybrook.

Erin Davis, a second year graduate student pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance, plays Rosita. Davis said her experience at UM has helped her grow as an artist.

“Being part of opera theatre at UM is one of my favorite parts of the program,” Davis said. “It’s an opportunity to learn as a soloist, a group singer and an actor all in the same room. As a graduate student, it allows me the opportunity to work closely with my professors, get to know my peers on a deeper level, and mentor younger students. It’s challenging, rewarding, fun – everything the best academic experiences should be.”

ASOTA Performing Arts Season

The Alabama School of the Arts performing arts season that offers a variety of events from musical theatre and opera to ensemble performances and piano festival. Tickets are on sale now for UM’s popular Christmas Spectacular set for Nov. 20-23.

For details on upcoming performances and events, visit umobile.edu/asotaevents.

Opera Cast & Creative Team

The cast for La Pizza Con Funghi features:

Abigail Anderson as Voluptua
Anna Geter as Phobia
Dewayne Wheat as Scorpio
Micah Coxwell as Count Formaggio
Katherine Glass as Voluptua (cover)
Emma Champagne as Phobia (cover)

The cast for Un Mari à la Porte features:

Cory Anderson as Florestan
Erin Davis as Rosita
Rebecca Duncan as Suzanne
Nicholas Lewis as Martel
Addison Cronan as Rosita (cover)
Atayah Griffin as Suzanne (cover)

Set design was custom built to meet the needs of two different operettas. Dance elements in “Un Mari a la Porte” were choreographed by cast member Rebecca Duncan. The English libretto for “Un Mari a la Porte” is an original adaptation by director Dr. Kara Claybrook with assistance from Kara Friesen.

About the University of Mobile

Noah Walters

Noah Walters is the Project Manager and Digital Marketing Specialist in the Office for Marketing & Communications at the University of Mobile. Noah loves analyzing data and helping drive projects to completion. When not at work he can be found at any book/comic store or hanging out at a coffee shop.

Q&A with Kenn Hughes, Associate Dean and Music Professor at the University of Mobile

Kathy Dean — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 13:48:24 +0000

What if your trombone, trumpet or tuba could become more than just an instrument—what if it could become your ministry?

As associate professor of music and associate dean in the University of Mobile’s Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts, Kenn Hughes helps students understand their music can be their ministry – every note they play can be a powerful voice for the gospel that impacts the world For Christ & His Kingdom.

A sought‑after trombonist, arranger and musical director, Hughes has toured more than 36 countries and performed with artists including Casting Crowns, Mandisa, TobyMac and Amy Grant. His credits include Grammy‑nominated and Dove Award‑winning recordings, as well as published arrangements with Word Music, LifeWay and Gaylord Entertainment. As ministry director for Global Missions Project, he coordinates music ministry projects for musicians across the world.

At UM, he brings dynamic choreography and drama to RamCorps, a precision brass and percussion ensemble that travels the world representing the university. He also leads the University of Mobile Jazz Band, garnering much acclaim for impressive concerts featuring classic big band standards as well as innovative, contemporary arrangements.

Hughes has received the university’s highest faculty honor, the William A. Megginson Teaching Award.

What do you like most about teaching at the University of Mobile?

One of the things I like most is the strong sense of shared purpose. The university emphasizes a Christ‑centered environment, which shapes not only the curriculum but also relationships between faculty, staff and students. There’s a commitment to both academic excellence and spiritual growth which creates opportunities to mentor students in their studies and in life.

How do you cultivate both excellence and spiritual formation within UM’s music programs?

It starts by trying to model a life of excellence and integrity — both musically and spiritually. Whether I’m conducting, teaching or mentoring a student, I strive toward professionalism and Christlikeness.

In every setting, I encourage students to see their music as ministry, not just performance.

Through touring ensembles, mission trips and partnerships with churches and organizations, students gain hands‑on experience in using their gifts for the Kingdom. These opportunities shape their hearts and hone their skills in ways no classroom alone could.

How do you help students grow as both musicians and ministers through ensembles like RamCorps and Jazz Band?

We emphasize that musical excellence is a form of worship. Students learn their craft isn’t just about impressing an audience — it’s about honoring God with their best. Whether playing locally or on a mission trip, students learn to connect with audiences and communicate the gospel through music. Every performance is a ministry opportunity, so we prepare both spiritually and musically.

Also, students are given leadership roles within the ensembles — section leaders, devotional leaders, logistics coordinators — which helps them develop responsibility, initiative and ministry‑minded leadership. They learn to lead both on and off the stage.

What sets the instrumental experience at the University of Mobile apart from other programs?

I believe it’s our spiritual purpose and real‑world mission. Students don’t just learn to play at a high level — they’re equipped to lead, serve and impact the world through their music. They have the opportunity to travel regionally, nationally and internationally, using their gifts to connect with audiences and serve in a variety of settings. These experiences provide a strong sense of purpose.

I would also say that our faculty are deeply involved in students’ lives — not just as teachers, but as mentors, to help them grow musically, spiritually and professionally.

You recently returned from a RamCorps mission trip to Cuba. How has your global experience as a performer and clinician shaped the way you teach and lead?

Performing and teaching while traveling internationally in different cultures has taught me that music is a universal language, and it speaks most powerfully when connected to our faith. I’ve seen how the tool and magnet of music can reach people in ways words sometimes can’t.

One of my passions is to help students see their God‑given talents communicate the gospel message. Traveling in general challenges students to be flexible, prepared and open to whatever God is doing in their life.

Musical excellence opens doors, but spiritual authenticity leaves a lasting impact. We go with a deeper purpose: to use our gifts to serve, not just to impress. We are equipping students to be artists who impact the world for Christ.

Watch the video here to learn more about RamCorps in Cuba.

How do you live out the University of Mobile calling “For Christ & His Kingdom” in your work with students and missions?

I regularly remind students that our music has eternal value when it’s offered in service to God. Whether we’re playing in a concert hall or a small church overseas, every performance is an opportunity to glorify Christ and encourage the Body of Christ. I help students see that their instrument is also their pulpit.

Through touring ensembles and international trips, students see the world through a Kingdom lens. We go to serve, to build relationships and to share the gospel. These experiences teach students that missions isn’t a one‑time event — it’s a way of life.

Kathy Dean

High School Juniors & Seniors: Get a VIP Backstage Pass to UM’s Christmas Spectacular

Kathy Dean — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 13:44:20 +0000

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile invites high school juniors and seniors to step backstage at Christmas Spectacular Nov. 20-23 for a unique glimpse into the student experience at the #1 Best College for Music in Alabama.

Prospective students with a VIP Backstage Pass will meet current University of Mobile students and faculty, take an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Christmas Spectacular, and join the full cast and crew for Prayer Room – a powerful time of worship right before the performance.

UM’s Christmas Spectacular musical extravaganza has kicked off the Christmas season on the Gulf Coast for more than two decades. Presented by UM’s Alabama School of the Arts, the popular event features more than 200 students, faculty, staff and alumni.

Top 100 Music Schools in America

“Christmas Spectacular is one of the most exciting events we present each year at the University of Mobile. The VIP Backstage Pass experience gives high school students a unique opportunity to step behind the scenes and see the heart behind this event and the mission of the Alabama School of the Arts firsthand,” said Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA).

In addition to students majoring in a variety of music and theatre programs in the Alabama School of the Arts, students from every major across UM can take part in ASOTA ensembles and productions like Christmas Spectacular.

Niche’s 2026 Best Colleges ranks the University of Mobile in the Top 100 Music Schools in America and the #1 Best College for Music in Alabama.

Goodwin said many University of Mobile students on stage at Christmas Spectacular 2025 first experienced it last year as high schoolers with a VIP Backstage Pass.

Sign Up for VIP Backstage Pass, Spec Tickets

VIP Backstage Passes are available for all four performances – Nov. 20-23 at Cottage Hill Baptist Church in Mobile.

Showtimes at Cottage Hill Baptist Church are:

Thursday, Nov. 20 at 7 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 22 at 2 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 23 at 4 p.m.

Visit umobile.edu/Christmas to purchase Christmas Spectacular tickets and sign up for a free VIP Backstage Pass for high school juniors and seniors and their immediate families.

A discount for Christmas Spectacular tickets is available for those who RSVP for the VIP Backstage Pass, and students will be entered into a drawing for a half-tuition scholarship.

Audition for ASOTA

Interested in joining the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile? Audition days are held throughout the year including Friday, Nov. 21. Schedule an audition at umobile.edu/audition.

Add a UM Day Visit to Earn a $2,000 Scholarship

The first day of Christmas Spectacular – Thursday, Nov. 20 – is also UM Day.

Students who visit the University of Mobile campus for UM Day will tour the Christian university campus – named #1 Safest College Campus in Alabama with the #1 Best Dorms, according to Niche’s 2026 Best Colleges ranking.

Students who visit campus on UM Day or schedule a private visit, then apply and enroll, may earn a $2,000 scholarship.

About the University of Mobile

Kathy Dean

University of Mobile Christmas Spectacular Returns for its 23rd Year – Tickets Available Now

Noah Walters — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 12:37:44 +0000

MOBILE, Ala. – Mobile’s favorite holiday tradition is back! The University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts proudly presents Christmas Spectacular 2025, celebrating its 23^rd season with four unforgettable performances Nov. 20 – 23 at Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

Tickets are now available and going fast. Secure your tickets today at umobile.edu/Christmas before they sell out.

“Christmas Spectacular is more than a concert – it’s an experience that brings our community together to celebrate the birth of Christ and share the joy of the Christmas season,” said Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts.

The show will include family favorites such as a humorous take on “The 12 Days of Christmas” and the jazzy “Man with the Bag.”

“For 23 years, families from across the Gulf Coast have made this event part of their holiday tradition, and we are honored to share the gifts of our students, faculty and alumni in a way that points people to the true meaning of Christmas.”

A Gulf Coast Christmas Celebration

For over two decades, the University of Mobile’s Christmas Spectacular has launched the Christmas season for families across the Gulf Coast. This event showcases over 200 students with disciplines in music, theatre, production and more in a musical extravaganza that spreads Christmas cheer and lifts up the name of Jesus.

Experience performances from students, faculty, and alumni at Alabama’s #1 Music School in Alabama (2026 Niche Best Colleges ranking) and discover why Christmas Spectacular is recognized as one of the best Christmas events in the Gulf Coast each year.

Tickets Going Fast

Tickets already are going fast. For the best seats in the house, purchase Christmas Spectacular tickets today at umobile.edu/Christmas.

Showtimes at Cottage Hill Baptist Church are:

Thursday, Nov. 20 at 7 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 22 at 2 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 23 at 4 p.m.

Celebrate the Christmas season in spectacular fashion with the talented students and faculty in the Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile. Purchase your tickets today.

About the University of Mobile

Noah Walters

University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts Presents ‘The Book of Will’

Heath Vester — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 16:16:21 +0000

MOBILE, Ala. – The Alabama School of the Arts at the University of Mobile presents “The Book of Will” by Lauren Gunderson, a heartwarming and hilarious play that brings to life the friends who saved Shakespeare’s greatest works from being lost forever.

Performances run October 2–5 in the Dr. Lonnie and Lynne Burnett Event Center on the UM campus. Tickets are available at the door and online at umobile.edu/asotaevents.

Showtimes are:

Thursday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 5 at 3 p.m.

An Unforgettable Theatrical Experience

Directed by Stewart Hawley, chair of the UM Theatre Department, the production promises an unforgettable theatrical experience.

“The Book of Will is packed with humor, love and the magic of theatre. It’s a celebration of friendship and storytelling you won’t want to miss,” said Hawley.

Production highlights include an exquisite set design, authentic Elizabethan costumes, and exceptional performances from a talented cast, all coming together to create a remarkable theatre experience.

Chesed Turner, a senior BFA Musical Theatre major who plays Elizabeth Condell, said the experience has been both challenging and rewarding.

“Elizabeth has been such a fun character to unravel, working through her own personal loss and balancing it with the joy and playfulness of her marriage with Henry,” Turner said. “It’s also been such a cool experience working on this set. Seeing all the time and effort the students have put into it has been such a sweet thing to witness.”

ASOTA Performing Arts Season

The Book of Will is part of the Alabama School of the Arts performing arts season that offers a variety of events from musical theatre and opera to ensemble performances and piano festival. Tickets for UM’s popular Christmas Spectacular go on sale Oct. 1. For details on upcoming performances and events, visit umobile.edu/asotaevents.

Cast & Creative Team

The cast for The Book of Will features:

Caden Dazzo as Henry Condell
Malik Johnson as John Heminges
Marleigh Turner as Alice Heminges/Susannah Shakes/Fruit Seller
Chesed Turner as Elizabeth Condell/Marcus/Barman 2
Reagan Daniels as Rebecca Heminges/Anne Hathaway/Emilia Lanier
Jonah Nelson as Richard Burbage/Issac Jaggard
Meagan Eveleigh as William Jaggard/Barman 1
Erica Jackson as Edwina Knight/Crier/Marcus/Francisco
Katie McCrory as Ralph Crane/Bernardo
Laurel Burcham as Compositor/Crier/Horatio/Boy Hamlet
Molly Hughes as Sir Daring/Crier/Barman

Stage management and production support are led by Presleigh Turner (stage manager), Alana Carson (assistant stage manager), Prentiss Baker (stagehand), Logan Mitchel (stagehand), Fayth McDonald (stagehand) and Naima Drake (stagehand).

Creative collaborators include Kristina Swearingen (set builder), Jerrilyn Duckworth (costume designer), Mason Moak (light and sound designer) and Chris Dietrich (set designer).

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 equips students for their future professions in an environment where they are known.

Founded in 1961 and affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention, UM is 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. 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.

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.

University of Mobile Named #1 Best College for Music in Alabama, Top 100 in Nation

Kathy Dean — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 15:07:08 +0000

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile is the #1 Best College for Music in Alabama and among the Top 100 Best Colleges for Music in America, according to 2026 Niche Best Colleges rankings released Aug. 25.

University of Mobile President Charles Smith said the recognition reflects the university’s commitment to providing Christ-centered academic excellence in the Alabama School of the Arts (ASOTA).

“Music has the power to move hearts, and at the University of Mobile we believe its highest purpose is to glorify God,” Smith said. “We equip students with exceptional training, preparing them to pursue excellence in any musical path while reminding them that every career is ultimately a calling For Christ & His Kingdom.”

Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, said quality Christ-centered academics, diverse performance opportunities and a world-class faculty are key aspects of the program – but there’s something more that makes the University of Mobile number one.

“While the ranking is exciting, what it really represents is the daily work of our students and faculty – their passion, excellence and commitment to using their gifts for something bigger than themselves,” Goodwin said.

“Students don’t just gain world-class training and incredible performance opportunities – they’re being mentored to become Kingdom-minded artists who are encouraged to pursue their calling for the glory of the Lord and the good of the world,” he added.

Music Scholarships Available

ASOTA scholarships are available for prospective students who audition, are accepted into the Alabama School of the Arts and enroll at UM. Students must first apply to the University of Mobile then schedule an audition on one of the following audition dates:

2025 Audition Dates

Sept. 26
Oct. 13
Nov. 21

2026 Audition Dates

Feb. 6
March 22

Auditions also may be arranged on alternative dates. Schedule an audition at umobile.edu/audition. Learn more about the University of Mobile and apply at umobile.edu/um-info.

A Comprehensive Performing Arts School

Goodwin said UM’s Alabama School of the Arts is one of the most comprehensive performing arts schools in the Southeast, offering bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in a variety of areas.

“Our diverse ensembles offer students the opportunity to gain experience and develop confidence and stage presence, all of which are key to becoming a well-rounded, successful artist,” Goodwin said.

Students have extensive performance opportunities through more than16 ensembles and events like Christmas Spectacular, a musical extravaganza that draws more than 8,000 people to dynamic performances marking the start of the Christmas season along the Gulf Coast.

Degree programs include vocal performance, piano performance, instrumental music, worship leadership, music education, commercial voice, production technologies, musical theater and more.

Best Christian Colleges, #1 Dorms & Safety

In addition, Niche ranks UM among the Top 100 Best Christian Colleges in America.

For the fifth consecutive year, the University of Mobile leads the state with the #1 Best Dorms in Alabama in the new 2026 Niche Best Colleges ranking.

Niche also ranks UM as the #1 Safest College Campus in Alabama – continuing the university’s multi-year ranking at or near the top in safety in the state.

About Niche Rankings

Niche’s Best Colleges rankings compared the top music schools and performing arts colleges in the United States.

Rankings are based on a blend of student and parent feedback from over 100 million reviews and survey responses, along with key statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and other official sources. Over 4,000 colleges and universities were reviewed across multiple categories for the 2026 Best Colleges rankings.

About the University of Mobile

Kathy Dean

‘Worship Choir: Sunday Services’ Series Partners University of Mobile Worship Choir with Local Churches for Great Commission Ministry

Kathy Dean — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 21:10:29 +0000

MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile Worship Choir is stepping off the concert stage and into the heart of the local church this fall as the Alabama School of the Arts presents “Worship Choir: Sunday Services,” a new initiative that takes the Baptist university’s large choir into local churches for Sunday morning worship.

The student choir will join with church worship teams, using their talents to serve congregations, create meaningful musical experiences and bring people in closer relationship to Jesus Christ.

“The University of Mobile is grateful to walk alongside local churches in ministry, sharing our common commitment to the Great Commission,” said UM President Charles Smith. “Programs like ‘Worship Choir: Sunday Services’ give students hands-on opportunities to grow as musicians, leaders and servants of Christ while building meaningful connections between our campus and the communities we serve.”

Dr. Andrew Goodwin, dean of the Alabama School of the Arts, added, “These Sunday services allow our students to partner directly with churches, share the gospel through music and create worship experiences that resonate both on campus and beyond. It’s a unique way for our students to grow as musicians, leaders and ministers, all while living out their calling For Christ & His Kingdom.”

Many of the university’s smaller ensembles such as Voices of Mobile, RamCorps, SoFree, Welsh Revival and Deliverance regularly lead worship at churches. The Worship Choir is a much larger group consisting of approximately 95 students from diverse academic backgrounds. The choir is known for powerful performances at major events like Christmas Spectacular and Spring Spectacular.

Student Perspective: ‘A Blessing’

Senior Worship Leadership major Caitlyn Ozee said taking what students are learning in the classroom and applying it to real-life church settings is exciting.

“The atmosphere at Worship Choir rehearsals this year is incredibly energetic, and we’re all excited about this new concept of partnering with local churches instead of a traditional concert,” Ozee said.

“It’s a blessing not only for the churches we serve, but also for us as students to represent the University of Mobile and reflect our mission statement, For Christ & His Kingdom,” she added.

Worship Choir: Sunday Services Schedule

The first “Worship Choir: Sunday Services” for Fall Semester 2025 was held at Redemption Church in Saraland. Additional services will be held in September and October and continue into Spring Semester 2026.

Upcoming services for Fall Semester 2025 are:

September 28 at 10:30 am – Cottage Hill Baptist Church
October 5 at 6:30 pm – Woodridge Baptist Church for Mobile Baptist Association Annual Meeting

For more events featuring the Alabama School of the Arts, visit umobile.edu/asotaevents.

About the Alabama School of the Arts

The Alabama School of the Arts is one of the most comprehensive performing arts schools in the Southeast, offering bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in a variety of areas. The University of Mobile recently was ranked #1 Best College for Music in Alabama and among the Top 100 Best Colleges for Music in America in the 2026 Niche Best Colleges rankings.

Niche also ranked UM among the Top 100 Best Christian Colleges in America with the #1 Best Dorms in Alabama and the #1 Safest College in Alabama.

Students in the Alabama School of the Arts have extensive performance opportunities through more than16 ensembles and events like Christmas Spectacular, a musical extravaganza that draws more than 8,000 people to dynamic performances marking the start of the Christmas season along the Gulf Coast.

Degree programs include vocal performance, piano performance, instrumental music, worship leadership, music education, commercial voice, production technologies, musical theater and more.

ASOTA Auditions and Scholarships

The University of Mobile currently is scheduling auditions for students interested in music degrees ranging from performance and composition to music education and worship leadership. Scholarships and financial aid are available.

For more information about the Alabama School of the Arts or to schedule an audition, visit umobile.edu/audition. Learn more about the University of Mobile at umobile.edu/um-info.

About the University of Mobile

Kathy Dean