The University of Mobile has launched a national search for a “visionary leader” to serve as the 6th president of the Baptist-affiliated university in Alabama.
“The University of Mobile seeks a visionary leader who understands UM’s opportunities and challenges and, with dependency on the Holy Spirit, is eager to lead the school into the future,” said Fred Wilson, chair of the presidential search committee comprised of trustees, alumni, denominational leaders, staff and faculty.
The university is accepting nominations and applications for the position through Dec. 31, 2023. An opportunity profile and information about the search process can be found at umobile.edu/presidentialsearch.
Key characteristics
The opportunity for the search comes with the decision of current president Lonnie Burnett to retire from a presidential tenure that begin in 2019. Under his leadership, the university launched the Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice program and the Associate Degree in Nursing program, completed nearly $3 million in new construction and renovations through existing funds and fund-raising efforts, and was recognized by Forbes as one of only 300 companies in the nation and the only educational institution in Alabama listed as “America’s Best Small Employers 2023.”
“We believe that the foundation laid by Dr. Burnett’s administration creates a tremendous opportunity for an insightful leader with the right set of skills to expand the university’s influence exponentially,” said Wilson, who also serves on UM’s board of trustees.
Key characteristics of the successful candidate will be one who is motivated and drawn to the external aspects of the presidency; exhibits exceptional business acumen; has a proven record of building beneficial partnerships with individuals, businesses and community; and is accustomed to innovative thinking and taking appropriate risks beyond traditional approaches to expand the university’s mission and influence.
Search committee members
Serving with Wilson on the presidential search committee are:
Terry Harbin, chair of UM board of trustees
Mike Tew, member of UM board of trustees
Ron Moore, member of of UM board of trustees and alumnus
Jamey Pruett, member of of UM board of trustees and alumnus
Brynn Albretson, member of of UM board of trustees and alumna
Kenny Harris, member of of UM board of trustees
Charity Wittner, vice president for student affairs (alumna)
Kathy Dunning, dean, Grace Pilot School of Business
Chase Alford, teaching pastor, Dayspring Baptist Church in Mobile and alumnus
Higher education for a higher purpose
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered liberal arts and sciences 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.
The motto “Know & Be Known” describes a close-knit campus culture of caring and mentoring that prepares students to “Know Yourself. Know your Calling. Be Known.” In a world where education often feels impersonal and disconnected, the University of Mobile offers transformative education, community spirit and a faith-based approach that transcends the ordinary. UM invites students to “Experience the Difference” and follow God’s calling for their lives in a Christ-centered academic community where they will “Know & Be Known.”
According to UM officials, the university has gained respect in the Mobile community, in the faith community in the state of Alabama, among peer institutions in the southern region and among families seeking this type of college experience.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Kathy Dean and originally published by the University of Mobile.
Share with others: