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University of Mobile Established New Christian Collection

The school unveiled the Dr. Rick Lance Christian Studies Collection at its renovated J.L. Bedsole Library.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of a stack of thick leather-bound books on a shelf, representing an academic theological research collection.
The University of Mobile has launched the Dr. Rick Lance Christian Studies Collection, located in the school's newly renovated J.L. Bedsole Library. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The University of Mobile has established the Dr. Rick Lance Christian Studies Collection to honor the longtime minister. The collection is housed within the newly renovated J.L. Bedsole Library on the university campus.

Why it matters

This initiative recognizes Rick Lance for his decades of service and ministry. The university created the collection to provide students with deeper theological resources for their faith.

The library expansion added over 700 square feet of new bookcases to the facility. This project follows the library's official reopening for the fall 2026 semester.

The players

University of Mobile

This is a private Christian university located in Alabama that focuses on faith-based education.

Rick Lance

He serves as the executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions and has held the position since 1998.

J.L. Bedsole Library

Named after a prominent Alabama benefactor, this library serves as the central academic research facility for the university.

J.L. Bedsole Foundation

This philanthropic organization provides grants to support education, healthcare, and community development projects throughout Alabama.

The details

The J.L. Bedsole Library underwent a renovation supported by a grant from the J.L. Bedsole Foundation, which expanded the space for student study and research. The school awarded Rick Lance a doctor of humane letters in May 2026 to celebrate his leadership at the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.

Timeline

  1. 1971: The J.L. Bedsole Library was originally dedicated.

  2. 1998: Rick Lance began his tenure as executive director.

  3. May 2026: The University of Mobile awarded Rick Lance a doctor of humane letters.

  4. Fall 2026: The renovated J.L. Bedsole Library opened to students.

  5. October 22, 2026: A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held for the library and collection.

Market Landscape

The library renovation marks a significant modernization of the facility following its original 1971 dedication. This project keeps the university competitive by expanding resources to meet the needs of contemporary students.

Students and visitors now have access to expanded study areas and new resources at the university library. These upgrades provide a modernized environment for campus research and religious study.

The takeaway

This collection provides a permanent academic record of service within the Christian ministry. Readers interested in research can utilize the upgraded facility to explore these new theological resources.

What happens next

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the renovated J.L. Bedsole Library and the new Dr. Rick Lance Christian Studies Collection is scheduled for October 22, 2026.

Further reading

Learn more about the community and individuals highlighted at the university by visiting the Mobile People section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by The Alabama Baptist.

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