University of South Alabama President Gordon Moulton was named the Civitan Club of Mobile’s “Mobilian of the Year” in an April 24 banquet.

Moulton, a 37-year teacher, dean, vice president and, since 1998, president of the University, was honored for his citizenship and contributions to Mobile.

More than 400 people attended the ceremony at the Mobile Marriott.

“I feel flattered, honored and really humbled by this recognition,” said Moulton.

“With all of the people in the University working to further our mission, they're the ones that deserve the credit.”

Moulton is the 55th Mobilian of the Year under the Civitan Club program. He was cited for leading the creation of the USA Research Park and the USA Cancer Research Institute, was well as development of the sculpture park at USA Children's and Women's Hospital. He was credited with numerous activities in the community in support of the arts, music, education, economic development and quality of life.

Moulton was selected from 25 initial nominees for the award, which had been narrowed to five finalists prior to Thursday’s announcement. Moulton was nominated for the award by Mobile’s Senior Citizen Services. Representatives from non-profit and service organizations voted for the five finalists, and the winner was selected by a committee of area leaders.

The four other nominees for the award were: Sonny Callahan, former U.S. Congressman; State Senator Vivian Figures from Mobile; Gerald Friedlander, owner of Mobile Rug and Shade and board chairman of the United Way of Southwest Alabama; and John Tyson Jr., Mobile district attorney.