Joe Stevens named first instructional faculty member at UM

The University of Mobile has named the Rev. Joe Lewis Stevens Jr. as its first instructional faculty member, a new faculty category designed to bring experienced academics into the classroom to strengthen programs and provide students with expertise grounded in real-world practice.

Stevens will serve as instructor of Bible exposition at the Baptist university. He will continue his current role as pastor-teacher at Redeemer Fellowship in Saraland, Alabama, and as a hospice chaplain in Atmore, Alabama. He and his wife, Brakia, have four children and live in Daphne, Alabama.

University of Mobile President Charles Smith said Stevens’ appointment reflects the university’s mission of equipping students to make a Kingdom impact for the glory of God and the good of the world.

“This new instructional faculty category allows us to bring seasoned professionals into the classroom in meaningful ways,” Smith said. “It’s fitting that Joe Stevens is our first instructional faculty appointment. Joe is a gifted preacher and a trusted ministry leader in our community and broader region.”

Shaping students 

“We are excited to add Joe Stevens to our faculty,” said Jason K. Lee, provost of the University of Mobile. “He can leverage his ministry experience as a church planter, pastor and hospice chaplain to train our students for a variety of ministry contexts.”

Known for his passion for theology, service and Christ-centered teaching faithful to Scripture, Stevens will foster student engagement, growth and discipleship.

Since 2021, Stevens has taught at the University of Mobile in both online and on-campus settings. He is a fellow with the Center for Pastor Theologians and is due to complete his Ph.D. in Bible exposition in the spring of 2027 at Liberty University.

University officials said additional instructional faculty appointments are expected in the coming months as the university continues expanding the initiative across academic programs.

EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Kathy Dean and originally published by the University of Mobile.