A new collection of Christian resources at the University of Mobile’s renovated J.L. Bedsole Library is honoring the legacy of one of Alabama Baptist life’s longtime leaders while providing students with books and resources to deepen their faith and expand their learning.
The Dr. Rick Lance Christian Studies Collection, located in the library’s central bookcases, honors Dr. Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.
Longstanding relationship
Lance has served as executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions since 1998, providing leadership for Alabama Baptists and their Great Commission ministries. His decades of service have also included a longstanding relationship with the University of Mobile and a deep investment in Christian higher education.
“I am deeply honored and extremely grateful for the privilege to have my name associated with the Christian Studies Collection of the J. L. Bedsole Library,” said Lance. “The University of Mobile strives for excellence in Christian higher education. That passion is epitomized in their efforts to help students to develop a Biblical worldview in life preparing them to serve Christ through their vocations.””
In May 2026, the University of Mobile awarded Lance a doctor of humane letters during its commencement ceremony in recognition of his decades of ministry and service.
‘Faithful friend’
University of Mobile President Charles Smith noted Lance’s significant role in helping Alabama Baptists invest in the lives of University of Mobile students.
“Dr. Rick Lance has been a faithful friend and champion of the University of Mobile for decades,” said Smith. “This collection is a fitting way to honor his life of service while continuing his legacy of investing in the spiritual growth of students. We pray these resources will encourage students to study God’s Word, grow in wisdom and prepare to serve Christ wherever He calls them.”
The collection is part of the newly renovated J.L. Bedsole Library, which opened for the fall semester following a major renovation supported by a generous grant from the J.L. Bedsole Foundation and other donors. The renovation transformed the second floor into a more inviting environment for learning, adding more than 700 square feet of bookcases, expanded individual and group study areas, conference rooms, a classroom and dedicated space for the Honors Program.
“The collection and book donation add another layer of purpose to the renovated library, where students can now study, collaborate, research and gather in a space designed around the student experience,” the university noted. “The renovation is part of a broader investment in the heart of campus and in environments that support students academically, spiritually and personally.”
The J.L. Bedsole Library, dedicated in 1971, is named for Joseph Linyer Bedsole, the first chairman of the University of Mobile’s Board of Trustees and a longtime supporter of Christian higher education in Mobile. The J.L. Bedsole Foundation, the university noted, “has continued his legacy of investing in education and community impact, including its longstanding support of the University of Mobile.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on Oct. 22 at the J.L. Bedsole Library. Guests will have an opportunity to view the Rick Lance Christian Studies Collection and experience the newly renovated library space. Additional details regarding the time and program will be shared soon, the university noted.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Ashlyn Mitchell and originally published by the University of Mobile.
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