The University of Mobile (UMobile) is starting the new school year with an emphasis on “new” as Alabama’s youngest Baptist college nears the half-century mark.
Students will move onto campus Friday, Aug. 20, and classes begin Monday, Aug. 23.
The first week of school includes Ram Rush new student orientation. A variety of events designed to help new students make friends and learn the ropes of college life include concerts by Christian artists Matt Wertz and Charlie Hall, poolside movies, skate party, pep rally and soccer game, citywide service project, Dinner on the Run progressive dinner at area churches and a circus-themed carnival complete with fire breathers and live circus animals.
The first week also kicks off First Wednesday, a campuswide chapel led by UMobile President Mark Foley, and the weekly Bible study True Spin.
Freshman Seminar, a course which provides freshmen with practical tips for being successful in college, and the UM Expo which introduces new students to the many clubs and activities available, are included in the back-to-school whirlwind.
Here is quick look at just some of what is new at UMobile for 2010–11:
• George W. Bush — Former President Bush will be the keynote speaker at the 6th annual University of Mobile Leadership Banquet on Oct. 7. The event raises financial support for the university’s annual academic scholarship fund. Tickets are available by calling the UMobile Development Office at 251-442-2237. For more information, visit www.umobile.edu/banquet.
• New Center for Leadership Development (CLD) — This new center is part of 2020 Vision, the university’s 10-year strategic plan to become a nationally recognized leader in the revitalization of Christian faith and character in a nation that has distanced itself from God. Information on the twelve23 Prayer Movement for America, a project of the CLD, is online at www.twelve23.org.
• New entrance — The entrance to UMobile gets a distinctive new look with a gatehouse, gates and decorative fencing. UMobile trustee Jim Daniel, CEO of the 103-year-old Daniel Metals Inc. in Birmingham, donated the gates and fence.
“I see this Christian college making an impact on a lot of young people’s lives, and that is something I have a passion for. This college is molding the lives of young people, and it’s exciting to be a part of that,” Daniel said.
• New website and logo — With direction from UMobile student focus groups, the university has a new logo. The new look is featured on the new website at www.umobile.edu.
• New major — The School of Christian Studies has a new major in Intercultural Studies, designed for students preparing for the missions field. The degree is useful for working in a multicultural setting in an American city or an international setting in a global business network, missionary agency or non-governmental organization.
• New paving — The entire campus is being repaved, including parking lots.
That’s more than 20,000 tons of asphalt which will give a smooth ride and a fresh look to campus.
With more than 40 areas of study, UMobile students have a varied and strong academic program that integrates learning, faith and leadership. Courses are offered through the College of Arts and Sciences; the schools of business, Christian studies, education and nursing; the Center for Performing Arts; the Center for Adult Programs and the Graduate School.
For information on admission, call enrollment services at 800-WIN-RAMS or 251-442-2222, or e-mail umadminfo@umobile.edu. (UMobile)
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