Where learning, faith, leadership change the world

From singing at the Pentagon to winning national honors as entrepreneurs who operate a clothes closet that helps those in need, University of Mobile (UMobile) students are showing how “Learning, Faith & Leadership” can change the world.

The energy on campus is evident as faculty and staff use the final days before classes begin Aug. 19 to prepare for residence halls filled to capacity and students eager to develop their talents in more than 40 areas of study.

Ram Rush, the annual back-to-school orientation extravaganza of get-to-know events, concerts, worship experiences and athletic competitions, begins Aug. 16 when students move in and continues through Aug. 24.

The most noticeable changes to campus are the result of the university’s faithful stewardship of resources. This summer, UMobile renovated existing academic buildings to make more efficient use of space and meet changing needs.

One key aspect of the project is the retaining wall constructed on both sides of the entrance drive — a necessary and beautiful addition designed to save the historic Eichold Oaks lining the drive from erosion that threatened them.

Additional facility updates include:

• Renovated Ben May building to house the College of Arts & Sciences, with 10 faculty offices and five classrooms.
• Updated Frances Garner and M.C. Farmer academic buildings.
• Expanded the bookstore and moving the student fitness center to Bedsole Commons, the student center on the first floor of J.L. Bedsole Library.
• Replaced original windows in Weaver Hall with tinted energy-efficient windows that will reduce heating and air conditioning costs.
• Installed outdoor lights at Jacobs Baseball Field to allow for night games.
• Completed baseball locker room with erosion control underway.
• Renovated outdoor swimming pool with new decking and restrooms.

The “University of Mobile Experience” provides outstanding and challenging academic opportunities, a variety of ways to learn and practice leadership, and intentional faith-developing Bible study, worship, service, missions, ministry and more. Programs are constantly being updated and expanded, including:

• Freshman Seminar, a series of classes that provides new students with tools and tips for college success, adds a new strengths development program. Part of the Student Success Center’s “Freshman Year to Dream Career” four-year career development program for all students, the strengths-based program helps students identify personal strengths and talents while intentionally developing them so as to stand out to future employers.
• UMobile is launching a new record label, 8Eighty Records, to develop students and alumni as Christian vocal and instrumental artists. The label’s first release will be a live worship album recorded at Ram Hall featuring four original songs written by UMobile students and alumni.
• The School of Christian Ministries is engaging students in interactive ministry by integrating academic training in ministry coursework, practical training in ministry teams and leadership training as ministry interns, plus international service projects and partnerships with churches and faith-based organizations.
• A new Show Choir, Chorale and Percussion Ensemble are among the 22 ensembles in the Center for Performing Arts/School of Music and School of Worship Leadership. A full schedule of performing arts events is on the university calendar at www.umobile.edu, including the popular Christmas Spectacular, which drew national attention in 2012. To arrange for an ensemble to perform at an area church, school or community event, call 251-442-2420.
• Project Serve will be held Sept. 20, when the university moves the classroom to the community with service projects at more than 60 locations in Mobile and Baldwin counties. 
• The College of Arts and Sciences is piloting the use of a cutting-edge technology, VoiceThread, in selected courses. The cloud-based application allows students easy access to course material away from campus and encourages off-campus classroom discussions.

Students and families interested in learning more about UMobile are encouraged to visit the campus during one of the special Visit Days, attend the Christmas Spectacular & Tour Day, enjoy a transfer reception for students considering transferring from another college or arrange a private visit or group tour.

For more information or to arrange a campus visit, go to www.umobile.edu/visit or call enrollment services at 251-442-2222 or 1-800-WIN-RAMS. 

(UMobile)