Dr. Lonnie Burnett, a native of Mobile and a graduate of the University of Mobile, has led the university since 2019. A former teacher in the Mobile County Public School System, Burnett has been at the University of Mobile since 2005, when he became a history professor at the university. He also served as a vice provost and founding dean of the school’s College of Arts and Sciences.

Burnett received his PhD in history from the University of Southern Mississippi and has written two books: “The Pen Makes a Good Sword: John Forsyth of the Mobile Register,” published in 2006, and “Henry Hotze, Confederate Propagandist: Selected Writings on Revolution, Recognition, and Race,” published in 2009. Both were published by the University of Alabama Press.

Here, Burnett discusses the pursuit of excellence, distinguishing the University of Mobile from other schools and how the school fits into the landscape of Mobile.

Questions and answers have been condensed and edited for clarity.

What are your primary goals for the University of Mobile during your tenure?