de Sales Sheet Magazine Fall 2021

The

de Sales Sheet Magazine of Mount de Sales Academy | Fall 2021 Edition

A MESSAGE FROM THE ACADEMY PRESIDENT Dear Friends,

The de Sales Sheet

The de Sales Sheet is published annually by the Office of Institutional Advancement for alumni and friends of Mount de Sales Academy.

851 Orange Street | Macon, GA 31201 P: 478.751.3240 | F: 478.751.3241 Web: www.mountdesales.net E-mail: alumni@mountdesales.net Please direct all address changes and correspondence to the above address.

Administration David Held, President

Mary Pat Dadisman, Associate Head of School, Dean of Students Emily Brown, Upper School Head Mike Franklin, Ph.D., Middle School Head

Institutional Advancement Staff Laura C. Johnson, Director of Institutional Advancement

Lauren Deal, Assistant to Middle School Head and Admissions Support Ashley K. Griffin, Director of Admissions Keith Hatcher, Director of Athletic Development and Alumni Relations Amanda A. Livingston, Director of Development and Marketing

We are all very proud of the fact that our Mount de Sales community not only survived 2020 but also thrived! The high level of academic instruction for which we are known continued safely with no interruptions throughout the 2020-21 academic year. Furthermore, students were able to take part in athletic and fine arts programs and other extracurricular activities, which are vital to their personal growth and sense of normalcy. These remarkable accomplishments were due to the extraordinary commitment, creativity, and cooperation of our teachers, staff, students, and parents.

It has been said, "If you aren’t moving forward, you are falling behind." While we as individuals may pause to catch our breath after such an emotional and draining year, Mount de Sales as an institution continually self-examines and evolves to fulfill our mission to graduate critical thinkers, compassionate citizens, and servant leaders. To this end, we have added several new courses to the curriculum this year including Faith in the Modern World, Religion in Literature, African American Studies, and Sewing for Service. MDS also is the only independent school in the region approved to offer the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma program.

with the goal of further aligning the middle and upper school curricula and increasing faculty collaboration across divisions. New faces and fresh perspectives have a way of energizing us all!

We are grateful to each of you in our extended Cavalier family who support our students and staff with your thoughtful prayers and your generous gifts. I wish you and your family a safe, healthy, and peaceful year.

David Held President, Mount de Sales Academy

In August, we welcomed new families, new faculty members, and implemented a strategic change in division leadership

de Sales Sheet Photographers: Lightly Focused/Andrew Wheat; Advancement Staff, Yearbook Staff Volunteer Editor: Mary Pearson

Mission Statement

Mount de Sales Academy, an independent Catholic school sponsored and inspired by the Sisters of Mercy, is a diverse college-preparatory community of learners—students and teachers alike—who are poised to discover, challenged to innovate, and motivated to serve.

2021-2022 Board of Trustees Hon. Verda Colvin, Chair Mr. Spyros Dermatas (’72), Secretary Mr. Jamie Simpson, Treasurer Mr. Jarome Gautreaux (’85), Past Chair

Mrs. Monica Atcheson Mrs. Elaine Hardison Ms. Quintress Hollis (’96) Dr. Jeff Jordan (’80) Mrs. Mary Ann Mahoney

Mr. Matt McKenna (’75) Mr. Craig Murphey Dr. Jimmie Smith Mr. Shane Spells

ACADEMICS & ATHLETICS 16

ART THROUGH THE AGES

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CAMPUS NOTES

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MIDDLE SCHOOL HONORS

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CAVALIER ATHLETICS

ALUMNI SECTION

Contents SPECIAL FEATURES

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THIS IS MY WHY

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FINE ARTS IN FOCUS

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MDS EXPERIENCE: STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS

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ACADEMIC COACHING

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SUMMER AT THE MOUNT

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REMEMBER WHEN

REGULAR FEATURES 02 08 24

DISCOVER, INNOVATE, SERVE DONOR SPOTLIGHT FIVE FACES

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CAVALIER CONNECTION ALUMNI LEGACIES THE TIES THAT BIND

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16

24

40 ON THE COVER

Seniors Zaire Morgan, as Donkey, and Duncan Peeples, as Shrek, take center stage in the 2021 spring performance of Shrek: The Musical JR.

Discover, Innovate, Serve

ELI FAULKNER

Discover, Innovate, Serve In each issue of the de Sales Sheet we feature individuals from within the MDS community who embody the Academy’s mission to "discover, innovate, and serve." This year we are proud to highlight three new Cavaliers, who have been awarded scholarships based on these three core pillars.

POISED TO DISCOVER: ELI FAULKNER With a strong partnership with Atrium Navicent Health, MDS established the Discover Scholarship for students who have a parent working at the hospital. The 2021-2022 award winner is Eli Faulkner. He is currently in the 6th grade and is the son of Zach and Rachel Faulkner.

Eli is an avid reader and was on the math team at his elementary school, St. Joseph’s Catholic School. He enjoys playing sports and looks forward to joining different clubs and athletic teams at MDS. His teachers describe him as friendly, respectful, and eager to learn. Eli is a standout student with

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KRISALYN NGUYEN

strong grades and test scores, and his academic potential and strong worth ethic were evident during our second annual Scholars Day in March.

CHALLENGED TO INNOVATE: KRISALYN NGUYEN Krisalyn Nguyen is this year’s Innovate Scholar, which focuses on students with a keen interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Krisalyn, a 9th grader from Warner Robins, was one of six high school candidates for the STEM scholarship. During Scholars Day these students were challenged by MDS physics teacher Mark McMahon to design, describe, and conduct an experiment to determine the speed of a laboratory cart. Using mathematical equations on experimental data to determine the value of the variables, each student then graphed their results to determine the speed of the cart.

Krisalyn describes herself as creative, reliable, independent, and curious.

She is passionate about her church and local community. The daughter of Minh Nguyen, the family chose Mount de Sales for its Catholic education, college-counseling program, and the academic rigor and opportunities the school provides its students.

SYDNEY HOGAN

MOTIVATED TO SERVE: SYDNEY HOGAN At MDS we are thrilled to be able to offer an annual scholarship opportunity for children of public servants. The 2021-2022 Serve Scholar is Sydney Hogan, daughter of Ms. Bridget Hogan and Mr. Enrique Hogan, who works for the Macon/ Bibb Sheriff’s Department.

Sydney is a very bright and musically talented young lady. She plays the violin and the piano and enjoys reading, drawing, painting, and playing basketball. Described as a "natural leader" by one of her former teachers, Sydney was an elementary school spelling bee champion in the 4th and 5th grade. She is a 6th grader at MDS this year.

Merit Scholarships Rising 6th and 9th graders are eligible to receive a renewable academic scholarship. The deadline to apply is January 2022. Contact the Admissions Office for more details: 478.751.3240

Sharing Faith Within Your Family

Featuring Rev. Jessica Asbell (2003) // MDS Musings Blog

Published September 2020

MDS alumna Rev. Jessica Asbell (2003) recently published Where Faith & Family Meet, a three-year weekly family devotional book. The scripture readings follow the Revised Common Lectionary 2017-2019.

the introduction to her book. Enjoy the following devotion for the second week in September with your family:

The devotions are designed to help families see how Biblical stories are relevant to their personal experiences today. Jessica shares her own stories and encourages families to share their stories with each other.

Your Story

"By telling your own stories to your family, you can help them see how God has touched your life," noted Jessica in

Exodus 14:19-31 "God Always Finds a Way"

Talk about a time when what you felt like God was telling you to do seemed impossible. How did God help you through?

My Story and the Bible Story Looking back and seeing God’s fingerprints in your life is a lot easier...

Scan to continue reading this story and other Mercy Musings blog posts. Subscribe to receive more stories like these in your inbox. www.mtdesales.link/musings

2021-2022 Merit Scholars

MDS offers academic scholarships for rising 6th and 9th graders. Testing for these scholarships is held in January each year.

We congratulate these 2021-2022 scholars!

Mercy and McAuley Scholars: (Top) Maddie Cooke, Evan Lin, Jackie Ho, Lawrence Brown, Maripher Zepeda; (Left) David Kay, Raegan Ellis, Abner Livingston, Fiona Leary, Aiden Panek, John Paul Clark, Not Pictured: Carter Sparks

de Sales Scholars: Dillon Wells, Cole Steele, Merrill Long, Madisyn Yarbrough, Kaiden Scott, Bryson Tanner, Not Pictured: Bere Leary

Choosing MDS THE CABINESS FAMILY

her character as well. She believes the strong MDS curriculum of today, together with the faculty support that allows students to be creative, try new things, grow into themselves, and set big goals, will help create a path to a successful future.

Audra also feels that MDS helps create a foundation of faith, beyond going to church. Compassion and service, spiritual growth, integrity, and ethics are incorporated into the natural part of the day and curriculum.

This is My Why

Alumni Edition

Every parent dreams of their child's ideal learning environment, and many develop a wish list that includes a strong academic curriculum, leadership opportunities, and the ability to acquire life skills in a setting that encourages a responsible, respectful, God-centered life. For the Cabiness family, choosing Mount de Sales Academy for their daughter, Madisyn, was an easy decision. "In my heart, I knew we were always going to give her a Catholic education," she says.

Attending MDS is a family tradition.

Audra Howard Cabiness (’87) and her brother, Reggie Howard (’85), are both alums who flourished under the tutelage and love of former faculty Sister Fidelis (d.), Robert Slocum (’74), Ron McLachlan, Rosa Shaheen (who still sent Audra’s family Christmas cards and beautiful handwritten notes

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until her death this year), and many other devoted teachers at both St. Joseph’s Catholic School and Mount de Sales. It is these individuals, former school chaplain Monsignor John Cuddy (d.), close-knit classmates, and the wonderful memories that make Audra excited to experience it all again through the eyes of her child.

Audra says, "Our hope for Madisyn is that she will continue to grow and flourish, find her niche, have fun, and come away feeling good about her educational foundation like we did!

From Tulane to Emory and back home to Mercer—I never felt unprepared thanks to SJS and MDS, and the seamless education of the two schools.

My brother had a great experience too—and when you hear him speak, he always talks about his background and his appreciation and love for Mount de Sales."

Audra credits SJS and MDS for the firm foundation she received, not just academically, but also in shaping

Audra says, "There are many wonderful schools in our city, but we believe that the faith-based education, coupled with the academic and extracurricular opportunities, place MDS above the rest. It is wonderful to have a child who truly loves school, and as a parent making a decision about where to send your child to school, that is all you can hope for: that you are able to find a school where your child can get a great education, establish cherished friendships, feel safe and cared for, and learn to be of service to others. For us, that has been SJS and MDS." "From Tulane to Emory and back home to Mercer—I never felt unprepared thanks to SJS and MDS, and the seamless education of the two schools."

Audra Howard Cabiness ('87)

Power of Prayer On September 24, 1827, Catherine McAuley opened the first ever Sisters of Mercy house in Dublin, Ireland, to educate young girls and serve those in need. The mission has spread across borders and landed at Mount de Sales Academy. Our deeply rooted values stem from the Sisters of Mercy: spirituality, service, community, and social justice. And with that, begins prayer.

During morning announcements at MDS, students are invited to join in the school’s shared prayer or to celebrate one of the many different faiths practiced on campus. We embody a culture of respect and understanding for families of all faiths because at the core of our mission, we support the formation of the whole, genuine person.

Prayer is a process through which we learn to trust both God and ourselves. It is an ongoing conversation where we discover who we’re called to be. Prayer helps center one’s thoughts; it is universal. All faiths are connected through some form of prayer where each person builds a foundation within their faith to better serve a higher purpose or greater good.

Prayer is the first step, but not the only one. Prayer requires action, and MDS challenges its students to put their prayers into action every day. Whether it’s advocating for social justice through the student-led Diversity Awareness Club (DAC), enriching life through nature in Mrs. Liza Sumowski’s campus garden, or fulfilling service hours through the Mercy in Action program, we are all called to serve. Mount de Sales helps students answer their callings and prepares them for a life of service, both academically and spiritually. Fulfilling the Mercy mission tests our courage, love, and patience at times, but the power of prayer strengthens all of us. We have a vast network of support in our MDS community who all want to lift each other up.

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly, defend the rights of the poor and needy."

Proverbs 31:8-9 Prayer is a powerful tool within the Mount de Sales community. It is during quiet times of prayer that our faculty and staff reignite their commitment to MDS’s mission to discover, innovate, and serve the students.

The leadership at MDS instills within all of us a call to serve compassionately. Catherine McAuley said it best during her years of service with the Sisters of Mercy: "Compassion should be our animating principle when undertaking instruction with children and adults, since they are made in God's image."

Spotlight: Fine Arts

CREATIVE CONTENT: Band and Songwriting and Music Production

HEATHER RUSSELL HELPS CHORUS STUDENTS WITH A DIGITAL VOCALIZATION ACTIVITY

Fine Arts in Focus

by Caitlin Arnold, Sophomore The fine arts programs offered at Mount de Sales Academy serve as a source for enrichment in many of the lives of our students. The courses within our program provide students with the chance to grow creatively and expose them to different cultures.

Fine arts classes help students connect to the world and each other with harmony and grace. I had the fortunate opportunity to interview the faculty responsible for orchestrating the band/songwriting, choir, and theater courses and talk with some students taking fine arts classes.

ENGAGING ACTIVITIES: Chorus Ms. Heather Russell is serving her second year as choral director.

Students can take chorale, concert choir, keyboarding, and a musical theater class.

"During chorus, I’ll use songs from the popular app TikTok to keep students interested and engaged in the classroom. For example, I’ll put a measure of music on the board and have the students try and guess what song it is. I use experiences such

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as these to try and do things that revolve around music with the hope that the students will enjoy it. Chorus is about respect for the conductor/ teacher as well as the different types of music. Students may also have the opportunity to learn foreign languages in preparation for their spring and winter performances."

Ms. Russell has a wealth of knowledge in chorale training and challenges her students to push their limits vocally and intellectually in song.

When I talked with a sophomore in the chorale course, she said, "I decided to do chorale before I even knew how to sign up for classes. I’ve done chorus most of my life and it was a 'safe place' for me. I could be singing without being in the spotlight or really worrying about what others thought of me too much. I was doing it with my friend from middle school so I knew if I didn’t have any other classes with her we would at least be able to do chorus together. My greatest accomplishment would have to be learning many songs. We learned some songs in different genres, languages, and styles. My inspiration to do chorale is our teacher, Ms. Russell. She is so cool and you could tell how much she loved music, but you could also tell how much she cared about everyone."

Mr. Trevor Goody is serving his third year as band director. Songwriting and Music Production is offered to upper school students. Different levels of band classes are offered to both middle and upper school students.

"In songwriting, students use Bandlab, where they can make, edit, and publicize their work. The students are required to write one song in each of the five chosen genres of music.

Those genres are rap/hip-hop, blues/ jazz, rock, country/bluegrass, and pop. The students are also required to write an extra song in whatever genre they choose. Band class helps the students grow in creative ways; I help the students learn their fingerings on the instruments by making names for them. Students describe band as FUN." Mr. Goody’s calm, cool, and collected demeanor sets the tone for a great environment to explore music!

Emalee Yeoman chose to take band because she wanted to learn a new instrument and is currently playing the clarinet and the bass clarinet.

She finds inspiration by listening to music in shows, movies, and on the Mr. Goody plays his saxophone with band students. Emalee Yeoman, foreground, practices the clarinet.

radio and loves searching how to play pieces of her favorite songs. "To me, my greatest accomplishment was playing in the high school band when I was in 7th grade. I went to LGPE [Large Group Performance Evaluation, sponsored by the Georgia Music Educators Association] with the high school students to help support them in the competition."

NEW EXPERIENCES: Theater Mrs. Georgia Olson is serving her second year as theater director.

Students can choose theater performance and technical theater classes as well as participate in One Act and musical performances.

"Within theater, I help the students who haven’t experienced theater before by running scripts, music, and dances. I teach them stage directions early in the course so students can get a grasp of the stage and be ready when it’s showtime. Students develop so much confidence by learning to speak clearly in front of an audience.

They use skits and plays to help

them get comfortable with being on the stage. Theater helps students build character academically and emotionally."

Mrs. Olson welcomes every student to take a chance with theater because the students learn so much about themselves and their capabilities once on stage!

Senior Kelsey Hall loves being involved with her friends in theater and putting on a show for others. "My inspiration comes from my friends," said Kelsey.

"I’m always nervous to audition and I wouldn’t do shows if I didn’t have my friends with me for support. I love the theater and the shows I have done so far." She continued, "My greatest accomplishment would probably be being able to learn difficult dances or have the chance to adapt them so that I can do them with the rest of the cast."

Kelsey Hall, bottom right, and Shrek: The Musical JR castmates warm-up backstage.

Student writer Caitlin Arnold (2024) is an Ardmore Scholarship recipient.

FineArts at the Mount

BECOME A PARTNER FOR THE ARTS! Support the legendary Fine Arts program at Mount de Sales as a sponsor today.

Sponsorship dollars help secure equipment, instruments, supplies, and expand programming for instrumental, vocal, visual, and performing arts.

For questions about available sponsorship levels and benefits: Amanda Livingston | 478-751-3240 | alivingston@mountdesales.net

Donor Spotlight

must use the funds for need-based scholarships for students who were previously enrolled in a public school.

Ultimately, the tax credit means a charitable donation with no net loss of money to the donor!

DRS. BRIDGET AND MICHAEL WRIGHT

Giving GRACE

by Laura Johnson Mount de Sales is blessed to have many faithful contributors. With rising tuition that covers only 75 percent of the cost to educate each student, the generosity of our donors is vital and appreciated. I think one of the greatest personal rewards in donating to a school is the knowledge that your contribution is helping a child in need and providing a better academic education and social environment than that child could have otherwise.

Drs. Bridget and Michael Wright value education, and they have not hesitated to assist with the tuition needs of MDS students over the past five years.

"My mother and my siblings graduated from Mount de Sales," noted Michael when I asked why they give. "Mount de Sales is a place where a student can get a quality education in a diverse environment that reflects the greater community."

One of the vehicles that the Wrights use to contribute to MDS each year is the Georgia Education Tax Credit program. Essentially, the tax credit allows individuals and business owners to redirect a portion of their required state income taxes to an independent K-12 institution of their choosing. By law the recipient school

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"The tax credit program is an easy way to direct funds to Mount de Sales. My wife and I are both business owners and are able to direct a significant amount of money to the school, up to $10,000 per business in taxes to MDS, each year. This has no effect on our overall tax bill and keeps those dollars in our community supporting the school we care about," said Michael.

Individuals who receive a W-2 can redirect up to $2,500 of their state income taxes each year depending on their filing status. Owners of S-corporations, LLCs, and partnerships with a schedule K-1 can redirect up to $10,000 while C-corporations may contribute up to 75 percent of their tax liability.

Tax credits are managed by a Student Scholarship Organization, and Mount de Sales has partnered with Grace Scholars. Taxpayers register for the credit with Grace Scholars each year.

"The process is pretty simple, can be done online, and requires minimal record keeping," said Michael.

Since 2015, MDS donors have contributed over $1.2 million in tax dollars to fund scholarships for approximately 30 students each year.

The tax credits have had a tremendous impact on our school and our students.

Throughout the years, I’ve had students tell me that they want to return the favor one day and give back to MDS in the same way they were supported, so there is a wonderful generational impact of giving.

"If you own a small business and would like to see more of your tax dollars spent in the local area, this is a simple way to do it," said Michael.

"I think anything I can do to help keep funds in our local community, it’s worth doing."

Give the gift of GRACE and redirect your state taxes to Mount de Sales Academy!

ACT NOW!

SUPPORT SCHOLARSHIPS AT MOUNT DE SALES Georgia taxpayers—individuals and corporations—can receive a CREDIT toward their Georgia tax liability for amounts contributed to the GRACE Scholars Program. The education tax credit is an easy way to donate with no net loss of money.

2022 PRE-REGISTRATION Pre-register through December 15

VISIT GRACESCHOLARS.ORG TO REGISTER. Scan for more info

2021-2022 SPIRIT OF MERCY ANNUAL FUND Spirit of Mercy Annual Fund gifts sustain Mount de Sales as a premier academic institution by enhancing the technology, programs, and campus facilities used by every student, every day.

CURRENT PROJECTS: •

• • •

Scholarships and tuition assistance Athletics Student activities Instructional support

To help fund a project and show your support, visit: www.mdsgives.net

THE MDS EXPERIENCE Finn Sumowski (2022) already has his sights set on the future: attending Georgia Tech to pursue an electrical engineering degree followed by a career in a private space program. He credits his teachers and the courses he's taken at MDS with enabling him to discover his passions. "It's helped me find exactly what I want to do after high school, after college. It has helped me look farther into the future than just getting into a college.

I kind of know what I want to major in, I know what I want to do, I know where I want to be in 10 years."

The path he has chosen can be attributed to those heavyweight science classes—Mr. Mark McMahon's Honors Physics, AP Physics I, and AP Physics II classes, to be exact. And thanks to Mrs. Carlson's English class, he is proud of the fact that he has mastered the skill of writing papers.

Finn grew up attending the Catholic church, and when it comes to exploring and understanding Catholicism in a much deeper way, Finn credits theology teacher Mr. Patrick Tunnell with guiding him. "He challenges us to think more than most classes, because you wouldn't really think of a theology class as one where you're challenged, but it's more intellectually challenging where you're faced with situations and questions you really don't know the answer. There is no answer, it's more of you having to think both sides." According to Mr. Tunnell, "Finn has been one of the most thoughtful and faithful Catholic students I have ever taught. Though there are areas he has struggled with Catholic thought, I have never seen a student seek to understand the faith as much as he has. He is genuinely a good guy, and I know he will be a good leader in the future."

FINN

SUMOWSKI

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And a leader he is. Finn has been in the Boy Scouts for several years, holding leadership positions since he was 12. He will soon attain the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. For his Eagle Scout project, he built muchneeded food and utensil storage cabinets for Daybreak, a homeless shelter in Macon.

Finn also is a Marching Cavalier. His musical abilities include playing the bass guitar and tenor sax. His other hobbies include MDS Mock Trial and extemporaneous speaking for Literary competitions as well as fishing, hiking, and restoring an old sailboat.

Finn is appreciative of his Mount de Sales experience.

He said, "MDS has a wide variety of students. There's a lot of respect for everybody here."

Student Spotlights 2020-2021 Jordan Kelly (2024) has a creative, compassionate, and competitive spirit.

Broadening her creativity has been an important part of Jordan's Mount de Sales experience. She enjoys crafting one-of-a-kind wares in ceramics class and finding the perfect angle in photography.

Though she is drawn to fine arts classes that inspire her, Jordan counts math among her favorite subjects.

Math comes easy to her and it is a subject in which she consistently excels. Jordan recognizes her strengths and how her talents can benefit those who need an extra push. In math teacher Mrs. Laura Bell's words, "She has stayed ahead of her self-paced math class. She uses her free time in class to help others catch up."

Jordan is a dedicated athlete as a member of the cheer, track, and basketball teams. Outside of school, she cheers competitively with MGA Cheer Extreme in Macon, an activity she has enjoyed for the last ten years.

Traveling around the state and beyond for cheer plus keeping a hectic schedule with school sports can be a lot to manage for any student. Jordan credits selfdiscipline and teamwork as the keys to balancing extracurricular activities and her studies.

When asked to describe her experiences at Mount de Sales, Jordan said, "You have to work on academics, but it is still fun. Everyone cares. The teachers are really nice. When you ask a question, they will break it down for you so that you fully understand it. I also love the food and my friends!"

Though she is not sure what trajectory her path will take, Jordan is keeping her college and career options open. It is no surprise that this creative spirit is interested in perhaps pursuing photography as a profession.

JORDAN KELLY

The de Sales Sheet Fall 2021 Edition

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Literary Magazine

For decades, students have published a literary magazine sponsored by the Mount de Sales Academy English Department. The publication, which has had different names through the years, including Inklings, Cavalier Cavalcade, The Hard Copy, up to its current masthead, Page Break, features original creative writing pieces in the form of short stories and poems as well as artwork in a variety of mediums, including digital drawings, photography, and paintings.

Page Break gives Upper School students opportunities to see their work published, motivates creative students, and gives them an audience for their work. Student staff members gain skills in organization, management, and teamwork. They review submitted works and select which pieces will be published, edit writing pieces, create the layout for the final copy, and publicize the magazine to their peers through videos, announcements, and flyers.

World War III Hannah Denny, 8th grade

The Blackest Day

By Noah Silver Fluorescent, cerulean lights twitch in the pitch-black gloom Pale moonlight shines on the midnight wanderers Trees blow in the bronze like swaying giants lost at sea

Crash and Burn Madeline Jones, 9th grade

Here’s what I remember from the day I died. I took a walk because as the Ember’s thoughts wandered as she soared through the sky towards home. old saying goes, “motion changes emotion.” I wasn't so sure about that The day had been slow for her scouting squad, with only a mild blizzard to because all I saw was smoke and gas that had turned the sky a dark gray,report to the Alatus council. Ember was wondering about Iris’ progress with giving me a nauseous feeling. I was born in the middle of it, but my mother her studies when Violet, their squad leader, stopped flying and hovered in used to say the world went from beautiful and full of life, to a world of midair. The other three began to whisper amongst themselves. Ember looked heartbreak and death, all because ofWorld War III. up and noticed the clouds moving faster. The air around her was crackling with electricity, and the sky seemed to turn green. A sharp wind sent Ember For as long as I could remember and longer, the first nuclear war had tumbling sideways through the air, catching her off guard. She quickly been destroying the planet entrusted to our care. Our nation’s leaders said we her composure and fought the wind to return to her squad. The hair regained would be safe, but they vanished because they couldn’t handle seeing what on the back of Ember’s neck stood up as the wind whipped her fiery hair they initiated. I don’t know where they could have gone; there was no escape around her face. Violet's dark eyebrows furrowed as she began to call out from the war. orders.

My mother was found dead on the streets because of the smoke that had“Asher and Camille, follow me. We’ve got to get ahead of this storm,” filled her lungs so she couldn’t breathe. My father was caught up in a she yelled over the wind. As she finished that sentence, the clouds ahead bombing. My younger brother was fighting in the war. He had been fighting began to funnel directly in the path back to base. “If we move fast enough, we with hope for the world, just as many innocents of all the countries did. could I had get through there before it touches down!” feared that he would die. I got a death letter for my mother and my father. If I received such a letter for my little brother, I would have no one left to love. “What about Fox and me?” Ember shouted, struggling to stay airborne in No one left to live for. the raging winds. Fox, her scouting partner, looked around frantically. He was the newest and youngest scout and had never been caught in a tornado before.

I passed by multiple people who were coughing, but had nowhere to go because their homes had been destroyed. That was normal though. My eyes “You can bring up the rear. Try to get up higher and stay out of the crosswere watering. Maybe I was reacting to the smoke, or maybe it was because winds!” With that, Violet soared upwards towards the clouds. Ember sighed, there was a little girl, limp in her sobbing mother’s arms, dead from the and motioned for Fox to follow. He looked terrified. His small frame made pollution. I heard sirens go off warning us of another bombing. Before Ihim could a top choice for a scout, but at only eleven years old, he had minimal move, a man scooped me up and took me to the nearest bombing shelter.experience.

The The clouds began to swirl as the violent cyclone touched down. shelters were made from the few remaining houses in our area. If you couldn’t Ember whipped her head around, trying to keep an eye on Fox, when she hide under a bed or desk, you were dead. heard a muffled cry. Fox was being pulled into the rotating storm. Ember gasped, watching his thin golden wings flutter uselessly against the wind.

Once we got inside, the man asked me if I was Marlee Taylor. I nodded, wondering why he needed to know. He handed me a letter: a tiny envelope “Hurry up, Ember! Every scout for themselves!” Violet gasped from with a wax seal. I knew that seal. I didn’t want to read it, so I tore it up. above, I did her voice barely making a dent in the roaring wind. Ember tried to not cry or make any noise. I did not feel anything, except for a cold numbness suck in a breath, but couldn’t. She hovered as best she could, her bright that spread from my heart to the rest of my body. orange wings flickering like fire. Fox continued to swirl, a scream frozen on his face. Ember took a last look at Violet’s fleeting form and dove down into A plane was coming, so all in the shelter hid under the beds and desks, the storm. Leaves, branches, even entire trees whipped violently around her. but I didn’t. I stood there. People were screaming at me, trying to get meHer to wings ached as she pushed closer to Fox. She dodged scraps of human hide, but I was ready. I had nothing left to live for. No hope at all. I closed my and buildings that had been ripped from the earth. For a moment, her homes eyes and braced myself for the end, and then … darkness. mind wandered to the poor humans that this storm was killing. Lives were being torn apart by natural disasters every day, and it was up to the scouts to stop it.

Bright, Right?

A’nna Wilcox, 11th grade Bright, right?

The light was always bright It may take a bit Of searching, scanning But the answer was there It’s been flickering I can still make out the shapes And sometimes The full picture appears I’m used to sight Took it for granted But now that it’s gone I wonder if I’m wrong Enough of this It’s all jargon This poem is about calculus And it’s really hard In math I can usually understand But my friend, reason, has left She visits sometimes She gives me some insight

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Chicago Sophie Bolan, 10th grade

The Essence of Our Nature Kennedie Owens, 11th grade

Light and Lines Ella Hawkins, 10th grade

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Neglected, chalky buildings tower over the open road Blue hydrangeas add color to the eerie, ashen town Distant trains rumble to form a melody in our heads A bright gas station sign blares in the distance Midnight wanderers disappear into the black void that is the night sky.

Scan to read the complete 2020-2021 Page Break edition online. www.mtdesales.link/pb 12

Academic Coaching

PAUL MIDKIFF

Academic Coaching For the 2021-2022 school year, Mount de Sales has rolled out a new delivery model for the student academicsupport program. Known for our curriculum and rigorous academics, MDS is also well respected for the services we can provide to students with diagnosed learning differences.

Our goal has always been to meet students where they are academically and help them excel by providing the support, environment, and tools to be successful now and in the future.

As the program evolved, the administrative team worked to ensure that academic support was more than just tutoring time. Over the last several years, we have discovered that what most of our students with learning differences need is to have the support to become better students. As they participate in the program, students become more organized, better planners, and more independent and confident learners. Our coaches are experienced classroom teachers who guide and support students via hourly conferences built into the regular academic day. Academic Coaching is also a daily course Middle School students can take for a semester or a full year. Best of all, this service is now offered at no additional expense to our families.

In middle grades, Mrs. Martha Barrett and Mrs. Laura Heacox help students plan for the weeks ahead by developing a study plan, assisting with and teaching how to organize notebooks and learning materials, and encouraging students to advocate for themselves.

Mrs. Barrett, in reflecting on the program’s mission, shared, "Through the academic coaching program, we are able to work with the students to help them develop strategies for academic independence and success.

The small-group atmosphere allows for an individualized approach with each student."

According to Dr. Mike Franklin, Middle School division head, the goal is to "coach them out of the program" as they become more responsible and confident.

Upper School students work on executive-functioning skills such as working memory and time management but also have full access to the Academic Coaching Center from 7:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. on a dropin basis or by referral.

The biggest change in the Upper School has been opening the program to students without a formal diagnosis. Any student who may be struggling academically is welcome to seek assistance from academic coaches. "Sometimes that assistance is simply time management. If a student misses a couple of days,

coming back to school with all the make-up work looming can be overwhelming for some. For those students, all we do is sit down and form a plan to get all the work done," said Mr. Paul Midkiff, Upper School counselor. Sometimes students who seek assistance may only need help communicating with their teachers; coaches assist these students with what to say when they request a teacher’s help.

Students with common learning differences receive accommodations that include extended-time testing, preferential seating, and access to teacher lecture notes. Personal counselors at each division remain an integral part of the relationship between the school, families, and students, and oversee the paperwork and accommodations associated with diagnosed learning differences.

Since all too often those students who could benefit most from academic support are also the ones most reluctant to try it, Mr. Midkiff shared one of the program’s signature goals: "We are trying to offer a 'safe space' where students can feel comfortable asking for assistance on something they are struggling with.

Through these conversations we offer strategies for students to try when they are faced with similar difficulties in the future."

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Summer Camps

GIRLS BASKETBALL CAMP

Summer at the Mount

by A'nna Wilcox, Senior The cold splash of water while racing through freshly cut grass. The peals of laughter with your friend of only a few days. The tingling satisfaction of learning a new skill.

From June to July, the Mount de Sales community preserves these summer experiences for the next generation. With the warmer months and safer conditions come camps with something to offer for any child in Middle Georgia. From sports camps that teach athletic spirit to educational camps that nurture curiosity and creativity, summers at the Mount are full of learning and excitement. By empowering the special talents of every child, Mount de Sales continues to nurture its legacy of being "decidedly different."

One of the longest-running summer camps at Mount de Sales is SPLASH Camp, directed by 8th-grade science teacher Melanie Bentley. SPLASH is known for its unique range of course options for campers. From athletics like World Cup Soccer and Archery to STEM activities such as Edible Science or VR Lab, any camper from ages 6 to

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13 can find a class they enjoy. Along with artistic courses like cooking or woodworking, there are even courses that focus on pure fun—Wet and Wild being a camper favorite. Campers get to choose more than their classes: from board games before classes to popsicles at the end of the day, every day at SPLASH gives children the chance to make a choice.

"There’s something for everyone," says Laura Heacox, 8th-grade math teacher at Mount de Sales and teacher at SPLASH for seventeen years. For Mrs. Heacox, SPLASH camp provides more than just a way to teach during the summer. Every

year, she looks forward to witnessing the creativity, excitement, and development of kids across Middle Georgia. "It’s another essential part of the MDS community," she adds. Not only have her daughters grown up while attending SPLASH, she now gets to see her oldest, Rachel (2023), return to the camp as a high school counselor herself.

For Mrs. Heacox, SPLASH means family: not just her own children, but the Mount de Sales family as a whole. She notes the overwhelming enthusiasm and dedication of MDS high school counselors, many of whom were once her students. "I think students volunteer year after year because of the fulfillment and joy of helping campers learn and grow," she explains. Now that SPLASH has returned to campus, its lively environment of campers and staff is more memorable than ever.

A new and innovative addition to the collection of summer camps at MDS is the Video Game Development camp, taught by Dr. Billy Melot and MDS art teacher Andrew Wheat.

Dr. Melot and Mr. Wheat founded the video game company Paradigm Games in 2018, hoping to shift the video game industry to more positive perspectives. "Our company was really the inspiration for starting this camp," Softball Camp

says Dr. Melot, the programmer of the duo. The camp serves as a way for older children who enjoy video games to learn more about the positives of the industry and be inspired to pursue technology further. The camp’s organized curriculum allows students to learn how games work behind the scenes­—and then create their own.

Dr. Melot and Mr. Wheat focus the lessons on the six elements of game design, including logic, graphic design, and databasing. As campers progress through over a thousand lines of code, they also develop problem-solving skills as they troubleshoot and fix bugs they encounter. The camp allows campers to not only have a unique, fully functional game by the end of the week, but also gain technological literacy that has uses outside of video games. Campers learn the same basic code but then add their own personal touches such as pixel art or music, which can be created or imported.

Creativity with designs is encouraged: "I feel like I can bring my ideas to life," one artistic student beamed.

Through the partnership with the Otis Redding Foundation, Camp DREAM brings the wonders of Otis Music Camp to younger aspiring musicians.

The camp, held on the Mount de Sales campus, teaches children ages 5 to 11 a variety of skills in the performing arts, including guitar, songwriting, and theater. Although Camp DREAM was Camp DREAM

Video Game Design Camp founded in 2018, this is the first time that it has taken place on the Mount de Sales downtown campus. While campers focus on the technical aspects of performance, they also learn how to express themselves and collaborate with others. "We want these kids to leave here knowing, 'You’re great at something,'" says Karla ReddingAndrews (1980), vice president of the Otis Redding Foundation and director of Camp DREAM.

cheer, basketball, and wrestling. No matter the activity of these camps, coaches are always geared towards creating a fun and encouraging environment. Campers don't just learn and practice new techniques; they also form bonds with their peers and hone their teamwork skills. Like a regular season during the school year, coaches emphasize the importance of hard work and dedication to their young athletes. Whether a child has no experience or "breathes" the sport, they will leave their camp feeling confident and ready to play.

The coaches of DREAM encourage students to discover and improve their talents and then use them to touch the lives of their audience.

Even when school is out for the While campers cycle through classes summer, the Mount de Sales throughout the day, every subject community continues to have an works in harmony to create a unique impact across Middle Georgia. No performance at the end of the week. matter the camp taking place, the The result was an inspiring and school’s teachers and students love hopeful message that every student to spread the distinct experience of helped write: "Make a wish come Mount de Sales. Any child, no matter true, love everyone around you," their interests, can benefit from the was the chorus. Each child smiled educational, encouraging, and—most with pride and confidence on the of all—fun of summer at the Mount. stage, singing, dancing, or playing instruments. Camp DREAM succeeds Student writer A'nna in its main goal: giving tomorrow’s Wilcox (2022) creators the foundation to thrive. is an Ardmore Scholarship recipient.

For any athletic child, there is surely a sports camp at MDS that will engage and keep them moving! Sports camps range from outdoor sports such as soccer, baseball, and junior football at Cavalier Fields to the athletics on the downtown campus, such as The de Sales Sheet Fall 2021 Edition

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Middle School Curriculum and historical periods. Units include Ancient Greece, Early Christian and Byzantine art, the Renaissance, Baroque, and Impressionism.

Students will display their projects in the showcase room in Cuddy Hall. They will create a simulation of handprints found in Lascaux, a network of twenty-five ancient caves in Montignac, France. When studying the stele of Hammurabi, the King of Babylon, they will fashion a replica of this carved, stone slab. Mosaics will come to life as they each design their own after an analysis of the Alexander Mosaic from Pompeii.

MIKE FRANKLIN

Art through the Ages Dr. Mike Franklin taught AP Art History for a number of years to high schoolers. As he transitioned from his role as Upper School head to Middle School principal, an opportunity to provide 6th graders with an art elective simultaneously presented itself by way of Ginger Williams's retirement from Mount de Sales; she was the studio art teacher for middle schoolers. It seemed a natural fit, then, for Dr. Franklin to step into the classroom and share his in-depth knowledge and expertise in this new course.

Much like AP Art History, Art through the Ages offers a different perspective from studio art on works from the prehistoric era—with the earliest works of man—to contemporary modern art. "It meets the needs of enriching the 6th-grade curriculum. It is just as important as studio art but is good for the non-artist student," said Dr. Franklin.

Hands-on, experiential learning is a key middle school philosophy.

While it is not a studio art class, Dr. Franklin says that students will spend considerable time completing projects based on works they study. Projects coincide with the different units that explore paintings, structures, pottery, and statues from geographic regions

Alexander Mosaic (credit: iStock/Simone Crespiatico)

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In addition to projects, students will complete an interactive notebook of colored-pencil drawings and ten facts about each work studied in the course. They will cover four to five works each week. By semester's end, students will have an impressive journal of nearly 100 pieces, not to mention a wealth of knowledge about the significance and the development of art from ancient times to present day.

Dr. Franklin believes that "art history is really important. The more you can put in front of them, the more they will appreciate it."

Interactive notebook

Middle School Honors

Middle School 2020-21 Honors AMBASSADORS OF THE YEAR: This award recognizes the male and female students in each grade who are true representatives of Mount de Sales.

These students model citizenship and school spirit and are enthusiastic hosts for visitors and guests.

6th Grade: James Noland, Sayge Stuart; 7th Grade: Kaylin Young, Ace Hatcher; 8th Grade: Nate Frankum, Madisyn Stewart

ARDMORE PUBLISHING AWARD This is a scholarship given through the generosity of alumna and faithful supporter Susan Crawford (’63). The scholarship program seeks to reward student literary talent as exhibited in exceptional knowledge of grammar and mastery of the craft of writing.

8th Grade: Lawrence Brown, Julia Byron

Lawrence Brown

Julia Byron

Charlie Clark

Sam Clarke

Betsy Cowart

Chloe Dudley

Nate Frankum

Ace Hatcher

SPELLING BEE 8th Grade: Charlie Clark, champion; Stephen Leach, runner-up

CAVALIERS OF THE YEAR: Our highest academic award, this recognition goes to the overall top scholar in each grade.

6th Grade: Sam Clarke 7th Grade: Betsy Cowart 8th Grade: Fiona Leary DAR AWARDS The Georgia Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution honor students who exemplify good citizenship and an 8th grader who has an interest and brilliance in American History.

Stephen Leach

Fiona Leary

James Noland

Braeden Stephens

Madisyn Stewart

Sayge Stuart

Daniel Wright

Kaylin Young

History—8th Grade: Daniel Wright Citizenship—6th Grade: Braeden Stephens; 7th Grade: Chloe Dudley; 8th Grade: Stephen Leach

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Campus Notes

Campus Notes News and Highlights

FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS

NEW FACULTY

Technology instructor Eunice Andrews took a four-week summer road trip.

She drove more than 4,000 miles— through Georgia, Tennessee, Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado—to see more than 50 family members and many friends. Highlights of her trip: family wedding in the Colorado Rockies, visit with her four-day-old great-niece in Kansas, and a drive through Beaver Valley, where her family has lived for more than 100 years.

Craig Carroll: Middle School Courses: 6th Grade World Geography, 7th Grade Foundations of Democracy Coaching: Middle School Softball Assistant Coach Fun Fact: I won a hot dog eatingcontest at the age of 7.

Trevor Goody, band director, married Miranda McCranie on June 19 in downtown Macon. They met in marching band at Georgia Southern, where he was the drum major and she was a majorette.

Robert Ochieng, Middle School teacher and varsity boys soccer coach, ships used uniforms and gear to young soccer teams in Nairobi, Kenya. He has been donating items for the past five years.

Pete Kidder: Middle School Courses: 6th Grade Language Arts, 7th Grade Language Arts Credentials: B.A. in education, Georgia College and State University; M.Ed., Georgia College and State University Fun Fact: I was once a Waffle House chef.

Carsten Franklin: Upper School Courses: AP Art History; United States History; Holocaust Studies Coaching: Director of Wrestling, Associate Head Wrestling Coach, Varsity Football Coach Credentials: B.A., Louisiana State University; AP-Certified Instructor; Level 2 (Bronze) USA Wrestling Coach; NFHS Accredited Interscholastic Coach Fun Fact: I once lived and worked

in Loches, Indre-Loire, France, for our partner school, Saint Denis International School.

Kimberly Laguines: Upper School Courses: AP Biology, Honors Biology, Forensic Science Coaching: Varsity Girls Basketball Head Coach, Track Assistant Coach Credentials: B.S. in biology with chemistry minor, Macon State College; M.S. in science education curriculum design, University of Florida-Keiser; Thinking Maps-certified trainer; Gift Science endorsement Fun Fact: I am a certified phlebotomist.

Deion Taylor: Middle School Courses: 8th Grade US History, Keyboarding Coaching: Varsity Boys Basketball Head Coach Credentials: B.S. in political science, University of Richmond Fun Fact: I’m a huge Marvel cinema and comic book nerd.

SPRING 2021 STUDENT NEWS The Diversity Awareness Club (DAC) sponsored a school-wide drive for the Brookdale Warming Center. The MDS community stepped up by filling twelve large boxes with necessities, including toiletries, games, and warm clothing.

United Way Golden Eagle Award Nominees: Taylor Colvin (Athletics), Camdyn Doucette (Art), Taylor Frankum (Math), Catherine Good (Citizenship), Alex Mitchell (Science), Zaire Morgan (Drama), Sam Renfroe (Social Science), Grace Todd (English and Literature)

TREVOR GOODY

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EUNICE ANDREWS'S TRIP TO BEAVER VALLEY

ROBERT OCHIENG'S UNCLE AND YOUNG SOCCER PLAYER

The Ardmore Scholarship is sponsored by donor and alumna Susan Crawford (’63) and recognizes literary talent.

2021 winners: Lawrence Brown, Julia Byron, Kennedie Owens, Noah Silver, and Victoria Ubelhor The two-week Entrepreneurial Challenge was part of the Academy's specialized Diploma Endorsement Program. Students had to start a business with an initial $25 investment.

Will Green, Sydni Hill, and Tyler Guy sold spare center caps for tire rims for profit. It was a success—so much so that Will continues to sell parts on eBay. Sales topped more than $1,200 soon after the challenge was complete.

Akweley Allotey was recognized as a 2021 Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) Student. Allotey chose to honor Spanish instructor Stephen Beaty as her STAR Teacher.

To obtain the STAR nomination, students must have the highest score in a single sitting on the two-part SAT and be in the top ten percent or among the top ten students of their class based on grade point average.

CRAIG CARROLL, DEION TAYLOR, KIMBERLY LAGUINES, PETE KIDDER, CARSTEN FRANKLIN

WILL GREEN

AKWELEY ALLOTEY AND STEPHEN BEATY

LEADERSHIP CHANGES

EMILY BROWN

DR. MIKE FRANKLIN

KENNY EPPS

Mount de Sales announced three transitions in leadership for the 2021-2022 year.

Emily Brown ('94) is the Upper School head. She has been at MDS for 21 years. Before serving as college counselor, Emily taught American History for fourteen years in the Middle School and spent a year as the Academic Resource Center director.

She continues to teach the SAT Prep class in high school.

Dr. Mike Franklin is the Middle School head. He is a seasoned educator and brings an abundance of school administration experience to his new post. Dr. Franklin previously served as head of the Upper School, where he also taught AP Art History. He now teaches a new course, Art through the Ages, in the Middle School.

Kenny Epps (2004) was named athletic director. He teaches in the Upper School history department and has also served as an assistant coach for the girls and boys basketball teams, off-season strength and conditioning coach, and site supervisor for Cavalier Fields during his five-year tenure at MDS.

Transitions

Leaving a Legacy

Italian, which she hopes to use as she travels. A compassionate spirit, Andrea also is looking forward to rescuing and rehabilitating homeless animals.

ANDREA HADDIX "Coming to MDS was a God-thing," Andrea Haddix, recently shared. She planned to go to graduate school, but a conversation with the MDS Foreign Language Department chair, along with the serendipitous exit of a Spanish teacher, landed Andrea at the school she has served for 23 years—and in a career that she has loved. "I found my spot at MDS, and I was on fire about teaching. I never went to graduate school, and my students became my kids."

GINGER WILLIAMS Ginger stepped out on faith when she made the decision to leave her 30year teaching career in public school and pursue an opportunity to teach in private school. First, she was asked to be a long-term substitute at MDS while Laura Heacox was on maternity leave, then to be the assistant to Michael Vullo in the library, and finally to serve as a permanent 7th grade teacher.

"I was in heaven from the moment I stepped onto the campus," said Ginger.

"MDS has been a great place to be. It was everything I was looking for and more." She is especially appreciative of the support she received over the years when she wanted to try something new in class. Creativity has been a hallmark of her approach to teaching. When the school shut down in March 2020 due to the pandemic, Ginger taught math to her students using koi in her backyard pond.

2020-21 Retirees

Andrea taught Upper School Spanish, then French, and joined the Middle School faculty in 2012. Former Middle School Division Head Kari Alderman said that Andrea’s superpower was working with students who had trouble finding their place, whom Andrea calls her "exceptional students." For Andrea, leaving those students has been one of the hardest parts of retiring, along with the loss of daily connections with the coworkers who became her second family. When Andrea’s mother was hospitalized at Navicent Health, Andrea would stand in the pedestrian bridge, look at Sheridan Hall, and feel comforted that her colleagues and students were praying for her mother.

"MDS was a beacon then and has truly been home to me," said Andrea.

Andrea is not only a teacher but also a lifelong learner, and she is looking forward to taking college classes in her retirement and learning German and 20

Ginger enthusiastically answered the call a few years ago when Vineville Academy needed an art teacher as it was becoming a fine arts magnet school, a position she held for eight years. She credits her paraprofessional, a talented local artist, with helping her create many of the activities she enjoyed using with her art students at MDS. "When I open the door to my art room, I see the creative chaos and get excited."

Ginger and her husband will be stepping out on faith again as they move to

Alpharetta to be closer to family. The move to Atlanta is coming full circle for Ginger as she began her teaching career in Roswell, and she doesn’t rule out the possibility of teaching again.

JANEEN THOMAS Janeen Thomas says that she is grateful to have been part of the Mount de Sales story. With 20 years of service as the site supervisor for Goodwill’s janitorial staff on campus, Janeen made sure that our buildings were cared for in the manner of a premier educational institution. "It has been a source of pride to me that I could provide services for a school of excellence. I like that MDS teaches that service to others is important, no matter what type of service you provide," Janeen shared.

Janeen started at MDS in 2000 when Sister Rosina was principal and Chester Pierce was an administrator. She remembers how helpful Coach Pierce was and how welcomed she felt, and over the years Janeen became close to many of the staff. "I felt like I was a part of the school community rather than just providing a service."

Pat Wallace, director of facilities, described Janeen as one of the best people he has ever had the opportunity to work with. "In my 15 years at MDS, Janeen never once told me she couldn’t take care of something, even if it was outside her normal job description," said Pat. In retirement, Janeen is looking forward to taking things one day at a time while enjoying time with her grandchildren.

C AVA L I E R S 2020-2021 Highlights VARSITY SOFTBALL

The varsity softball team won the region championship vs. Stratford, 2-0. Jordyn Partain pitched a perfect game, reached her 600th strikeout, and hit a home run.

Head Coach Katherine Smith—Area 1-A Coach of the Year / Jordyn Partain—Area 1-A Pitcher of the Year, GACA Single A Pitcher of the Year / Henderson Hurdle—Area 1-A Player of the Year

MIDDLE SCHOOL WRESTLING

The Middle School wrestling team won the end-of-season championship. Individual placements: 1st—Eli Fisher, Nate Frankum, David Little, Carter Sparks; 2nd—Makayla Batchelor, Ace Hatcher, Blake Jones, Asher Neubauer

CLASS OF 2021 COLLEGIATE ATHLETES Lacrosse Josh Denny, Centre College Soccer Taylor Colvin, Trine University Zeke Saviello, Bucknell University Softball Kathleen Carpenter, Covenant College Henderson Hurdle, Georgia Southwestern Chloe Nepveux, Palm Beach Atlantic Heartly Nepveux, Piedmont College Jordyn Partain, Samford University

NOTABLES Wrestling Varsity wrestlers Elijah Batchelor and Gabe Howard placed 2nd and 3rd at area, qualifying them for state.

Swimming Boys varsity finished 3rd at the Middle Georgia championship.

VARSITY GOLF

Matthew Rogers, varsity team captain, tied for first in the area tournament and achieved four dual match wins during the season. He was named to the All-Area Team.

Track Boys 4x400 relay team placed 6th at state.

Cross Country Varsity boys attended the state meet; Zeke Saviello placed 18th.

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ALL-REGION/ALL-AREA Boys Basketball 1st Team: Will Green; Honorable Mention: Kyler Andrews, John Gautreaux, A'Khori Jones, Nic Sartin Girls Basketball 1st Team: Molly Fitzpatrick; Honorable Mention: Emma Carter, Heartly Nepveux, Jordyn Partain Football 1st Team: Trey Butts, Elijah Freeman, Sean Langan, Drew Senn; Honorable Mention: Aerion Bond, Gabriel Ferguson, Jermaine Robinson, Fernando Washington Boys Soccer 1st Team: Jose Benjume, Sebastian Lopez, Alex Mitchell, Zeke Saviello Girls Soccer 1st Team: Sophie Bolan, Molly Fitzpatrick, Maddie St. Peter, Samara Roseboro Softball 1st Team: Sarah Hatcher, Chloe Nepveux, Heartly Nepveux, Sawyer Stuart; 2nd Team: Isabel Blackwell, McKenna Smith Volleyball Lily Sanfrey ALL-STATE Football GHSF—1st Team: A'Khori Jones; Honorable Mention: Kobe Butts; GACA—A'Khori Jones, Kobe Butts Softball GACA—1st Team: Henderson Hurdle; 2nd Team: Sarah Hatcher, Chloe Nepveux, Heartly Nepveux

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VARSITY FOOTBALL

Varsity football placed 2nd in region and made a state playoff appearance.

Kobe Butts—2020 GHSA Region 7A Offensive Player of the Year, Macon Touchdown Club Player of the Week / A'Khori Jones—2020 GHSA Region 7A Defensive Player of the Year, Macon Touchdown Club Back of the Week / Sean Langan—Macon Touchdown Club Bobby Gene Sanders Memorial Scholar, National Football Foundation ScholarCitizen-Athlete of the Year

VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY

Middle School boys placed 2nd in the Middle Georgia championship.

Individual placements: 2nd—David Kay; 3rd­—Ethan Sevigny

VARSITY SWIMMING

Caden Cahill qualified for the 100 fly and 100 back events in the 2021 GHSA State Swimming and Diving Championship. Caden bested both of his qualifying times at the state meet and broke school records for both events.

COACH BUBBA POOL celebrated his 100th career win as the Cavaliers topped GMC in baseball on April 20. Pool, a 1992 MDS graduate, has been head coach for seven seasons and won his first game against GMC. "One hundred wins is a direct result of having a supportive administration, many good players, coaches and a great wife," he said.

CLASS OF 2021 College Acceptances

Alabama A&M University Albany State University Andrew College Auburn University Augusta University Baylor University Berry College Boston College Brenau University Bucknell University California College of the Arts Centre College Clark Atlanta University Clayton State University Clemson University College of Charleston College of Coastal Georgia Columbus State University Covenant College Denison University Drake University Duke University East Georgia State College Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Emerson College Emory University Erskine College Fisk University Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University Florida International University Florida State University Fort Valley State University Full Sail University Furman University

George Washington University Georgia College Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia Military College Georgia Southern University Georgia Southwestern State University Georgia State University Gordon State College High Point University Howard University Indiana University-Bloomington Johns Hopkins University Kennesaw State University Lafayette College Louisiana State University McGill University Mercer University Michigan State University Middle Georgia State University Mills College Morehouse College New York University Newberry College North Carolina A&T State University Oglethorpe University Ohio State University Ohio University Palm Beach Atlantic University Piedmont College Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rochester Institute of Technology Samford University Savannah College of Art and Design School of the Art Institute of Chicago Seton Hall University

Sewanee-The University of the South South Georgia State College Spelman College Trine University Tufts University University of Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham University of California-Davis University of California-Riverside University of Georgia University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign University of Maryland University of Massachusetts University of Minnesota-Twin Cities University of Mississippi University of Montevallo University of Nevada-Las Vegas University of North Carolina at Asheville University of North Carolina School of the Arts University of North Georgia University of Oregon University of Pittsburgh University of Rochester University of San Francisco University of South Alabama University of South Carolina University of Tennessee University of Toronto University of Virginia University of West Florida University of West Georgia Valdosta State University Wofford College Worcester Polytechnic Institute Xavier University Xavier University of Louisiana Young Harris College

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FACES Class of 2020

ZAIRE

MORGAN

The Sisters of Mercy Award is given to the senior who most demonstrates the values of the Sisters of Mercy by reverencing the dignity of each person, creating a spirit of hospitality, and pursuing the integrity of word and deed in his or her daily life.

Zaire is a big-idea person who is committed to action, and his passion is addressing food insecurity in vulnerable populations. He believes that education is the key to success, but lack of adequate food and shelter contributes to an educational divide that keeps families in poverty.

"All of the resources are there," noted Zaire. "There is no need for additional government spending, because so much food is wasted already, so we just need a system to reallocate these resources."

Leading by example, Zaire and his family donated food left over from a family wedding, and subsequently, to commemorate each anniversary, they donate additional food. He and other MDS students also started the Diversity Awareness Club (DAC) in 2020, which has focused on learning about and providing for basic needs in minority communities, including addressing food insecurity.

Zaire credits his theology class in 9th grade and volunteering through the Mercy in Action program for his heart for service and desire to feed the hungry. He says that Mount de Sales has taught him that "no matter how unprepared or unskilled one is, you can have your ideas heard, take action, and make a big difference." As a freshman at the University of Georgia, Zaire plans to continue to make a difference, and he chose the school in part because of its strong agricultural program. He also would like to continue his service work in Macon by helping to expand a downtown community garden and get the produce to needy families.

"Zaire is a young man with vision beyond his years," noted Mrs. Mary Pat Dadisman, associate head of school. "He is quick to volunteer and is a great organizer of community service projects. Zaire sees things from a mature perspective and is capable of engaging all in discussions that initiate real thought. He is also a gifted actor who entertained us from the stage for years. We are certain Zaire will impact the world in many ways!"

Zaire is the son of Ronnie Morgan and the late Shawnda Morgan and is studying biochemistry and plans to enter dental school after graduation.

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FACES Class of 2021

MARY FRANCIS RILEY The Monsignor John Cuddy Spirit of Service Award honors the senior who most exemplifies the same gentle nature, admirable courage, and deep religious commitment of the late Monsignor Cuddy. The recipient shares Monsignor Cuddy’s legacy to open the doors of faith for others and reach out to those in the local community.

"The feeling of joy that you get from helping others is amazing and one of my big takeaways from my time at Mount de Sales," said Mary Francis, this year's award recipient. The school’s emphasis on Mercy in Action, a vehicle through which students volunteer in the community, taught her the importance of serving others, especially when she worked at St. Peter Claver’s food pantry and made connections with the clients.

Receiving the Monsignor Cuddy Award was particularly special to Mary Francis and her family. Monsignor Cuddy married her parents, baptized her and her siblings, and was influential in their family’s faith. As an active member of St. Joseph Church, Mary Francis was disappointed when the youth group began to disband, and she helped Patrick Tunnell, MDS theology teacher and a former priest at the church, to restart the program. "A youth group is a perfect way to stay in touch with your faith, and it has been neat to see others get involved and grow in their faith," she said.

"Mary Francis is one of those people whose good heart shines through in everything they do," noted Mr. Tunnell. "The Cuddy Award is a very important award in that it honors that which is most honorable, but often goes unnoticed, loving others. Mary Francis embodies the love of God that Msgr.

Cuddy was well known for embodying himself. She is a perfect example of the goodness that our world so badly needs. I cannot wait to see how she changes the world through her virtues."

Mary Francis plans to continue helping others as a psychiatrist, and she is currently studying psychology at Mercer University. Mary Francis is the daughter of Art and Kathy Riley, a second-generation Cavalier, and the last of three Riley children to attend MDS.

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FACES Class of 2021

THOMAS SMITH

The Chester W. Pierce Distinguished Service Award is given to the senior who is dedicated to the Academy's mission, generously gives freely of his or her time, and motivates others to make significant commitments to the school.

Former MDS Coach Chester Pierce and Thomas Smith share a love of baseball and a commitment to the Mount de Sales community. Thomas is a recognized leader who was elected to represent his class each year in the student government association, and as a senior Thomas was elected student body president and chosen to be a captain of the football team. He is much loved by his peers, and was voted the 2020 Homecoming King. Thomas shared his love of MDS with prospective students and families as a Cavalier Ambassador, and like Coach Pierce, he plans to continue to be involved with MDS long after graduation, hoping that one day his own children can attend.

Thomas is grateful that his parents chose to send him to MDS as he loves the diversity of the student body, the challenging academics, and the discipline that he learned in the classroom and on the field. Even though he did not want to be shown favoritism since his mother (Katherine) and uncle (Keith Hatcher) work at MDS, having family at school had its advantages, according to Thomas, especially on the days he forgot something. "Being at MDS felt like home," he noted.

Mrs. Mary Pat Dadisman, associate head of school, said, "Thomas is a great example of what we love to see in Mount de Sales students. He possesses a perfect balance of self-confidence and humility. He is a friend to all and is equally comfortable talking to adults and peers. Thomas participated in a wide variety of school activities and was an ardent Cavalier fan with a tremendous amount of school spirit."

Thomas attends Georgia College & State University and hopes to enter the nursing program to become a nurse anesthetist. He welcomes this new chapter and the opportunity to enjoy the college experience, make new friends, and "get serious about life."

Thomas is the son of Todd and Katherine Smith and a fourth-generation Cavalier.

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FACES Class of 2021

TAYLOR

FRANKUM

The Medal of Honor is the highest award given to a senior. The recipient epitomizes the spirit of Mount de Sales in his or her daily life and demonstrates a sense of compassion, mercy, and justice at the school, at church, and in the community.

For Taylor Frankum, living out the spirit of Mount de Sales means embracing new opportunities and challenges as the best way to learn and have fun. He lived this philosophy during his time at Mount de Sales, where he was an outstanding student who competed as a four-sport athlete. While at MDS, his favorite high school class was BC Calculus because Mr. McMahon would put a problem on the white board, and the class learned complex math skills by trial and error when solving the problem themselves. When the track and field team needed a pole vaulter, it was Taylor who answered the call and taught himself to vault before his lacrosse practices.

Taylor’s favorite memory from his time at MDS happened on a football Friday night. He loves to compete in front of crowds, and in the game against Tattnall, he caught a pass and ran 85 yards where he was tackled on the one yard line (the Cavaliers scored on the next play). "It was electric," said Taylor.

"I broke a tackle, and I could hear the fans, and so I was just running for my life."

Taylor is also committed to embracing opportunities to improve his community. He has volunteered every summer at his church, River of Life, and also helped with youth camps. "Taylor brought a positive attitude with him every day and was always willing to help out a classmate in need," said Mrs. Georgia Olson. "He is the embodiment of a good Cavalier and was a true asset to MDS in his time here."

Taylor is the son of Brian and Jennifer Frankum and a second-generation Cavalier. He's currently exploring aerospace engineering at Georgia Tech.

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FACES Class of 2021

EMMA

BROWN

The Mount de Sales Alumni Scholarship is presented annually to a deserving senior who has shown commitment to scholastic achievement, school involvement, and community outreach. The scholarship was given this year in memory of Dorothy "Tillie" Lamb (’41).

"The most important lesson that I have taken as a member of the MDS community is that my time here is not seven years and done. My gratitude is not short-lived. Leaving this place completely would be impossible—it is part of who I am. I plan to be an active alum, carrying on the school’s mission and supporting it for the next generation," said Emma Brown.

Emma loved her experience at MDS and always felt welcomed and cared for, and she enjoyed the personal relationships she developed with faculty. "The curriculum and teachers both modeled what a compassionate and active citizen should be. They taught me to be a freethinker, to question, to listen, and to respect others’ beliefs even when we disagree."

Emma felt a great connection with her basketball team; some of her fondest and funniest memories are of relationships with her teammates. She is respected by her peers and was elected class president as a sophomore and junior and student body vice president her senior year.

"Emma stood out to the selection committee because of her high academic performance, leadership skills, and obvious love for MDS," said Ms. Laura Johnson, director of Institutional Advancement. "I have no doubt that Emma will always see herself as a Cavalier and will continue to support the school as an alumna."

Emma is the daughter of Mark and Emily Brown and is a fifth-generation Cavalier. She is enrolled at Young Harris College and is leaving her options open as far a major or career path.

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Cavalier connection

Share your news with us and update your mailing and email addresses! Send in your updates such as birth announcements, engagements, marriages, jobs, and promotions. Visit us online at www.mountdesales.net/alumni, email us at alumni@mountdesales.net, or contact Keith Hatcher at (478) 751-3240.

1970s

Robert Slocum (1974) was inducted into the Macon Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his storied history as an athlete, athletic director, and longtime coach.

KENNY EPPS AND ROBERT SLOCUM

1980s

Dr. Renethia Nikki Primus Baker (1989), a pediatrician, was promoted to associate medical director of people and culture at the Southeast Permanente Medical Group.

Arlecia Stubbs Sewell (1989) was appointed assistant principal at Southwest High School in Macon.

DR. NIKKI BAKER

1990s

Krista McDaniel Dillard (1990) was named the Georgia-based regional admissions counselor for Samford University, her alma mater.

Bubba Pool (1992) celebrated his 100th victory as the varsity baseball coach for Mount de Sales. The Cavs topped GMC on April 22, 2021, marking this milestone. His first win as coach was also against GMC. Bubba has been the head coach for seven years.

ARLECIA STUBBS SEWELL

Jocelyn Stevenson (1994) was appointed the commissioner of Nashville's Metropolitan Airport Authority by the mayor in 2020. She also serves as vice president of the National Association of Bar Executives and will become president in 2023.

Kate Stewart (1995) is certified to sell accident, life, and critical-illness policies and is employed by Aflac.

KRISTA DILLARD

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Kristy Steele (1997) and her husband own newly expanded businesses the Design Gallery and the Tub Doctor

in Warner Robins. They celebrated a grand opening in August. Their son, Cole, is a 6th grader at MDS.

2000s

Kimberly Epps (2002) was named varsity cheer head coach, and Kenny Epps (2004) was named athletic director for MDS. Josh Thornley (2007) and his wife, Ashby, welcomed a son, Penning Brooks, on July 12, 2021.

Chris Barroso (2008) is the new general manager of Jim Shaw's restaurant in Macon.

Katie O'Brien Berg (2008) and husband, Brad, welcomed their first child, Mary Anderson, on July 3, 2021.

Christopher Faulk (2009) has authored two books, "Stop Overthinking: Attacking the Mindset of Self Doubt" and "10 Interview Tips for Teenagers."

2010s

Anna Hernandez (2011) married Rory Schubbe on May 28, 2021.

Erickson Michael Watkins (2012) received his bachelor's in business management from Georgia Military College in 2021. After more than eight years serving in the public sector as a certified police officer, he started his own insurance agency, Erickson Watkins Aflac Agency.

Spencer Ely (2015) and Mallory Speir (2018) were married March 13, 2021.

Spencer is a currently employed with Flint EMC as a geographic information systems analyst, and Mallory is a master cosmetologist and barber at Snipz Hair Studio in Gray, GA. Jonathan Hubbard (2016) was sworn in as a courthouse security officer

with the Macon-Bibb County Sheriff's Office. His father, Lt. Anthony Hubbard, pinned on Jonathan's badge.

Anna Ingram (2016) graduated from Mercer University in 2020 with a bachelor's in public health. She was accepted into the Mercer School of Medicine and began classes on the Savannah campus.

Jack Grist (2017) was accepted to Georgia State University's College of Law.

MARY ANDERSON BERG

JONATHAN HUBBARD, CENTER

ANNA HERNANDEZ SCHUBBE

ANNA INGRAM

SPENCER AND MALLORY ELY

BRADLEY COATS

Credit: We Do Photography

Ryan Murphey (2017) was awarded the Professional Promise Award in Supply Chain Management as part of the Volunteer of Distinction Awards for his graduating class at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Bradley Coats (2018) graduated from the University of Alabama with honors. He was accepted to Washington University in St. Louis School of Law.

JOSH THORNLEY AND FAMILY

THE MDS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EXTENDS SYMPATHY TO: Randy Thomas ('65) on the death of his mother, Jean Thomas, on April 3, 2021.

Joey Shaheen ('68), Susan Harshbarger ('69), Janet Wood ('71), and Tina Brack ('74) on the death of their mother, Rosa Shaheen, on June 15, 2021.

Michael Deep ('72) and Timothy Deep ('75) on the death of their mother, Thelma Deep, on June 21, 2021.

Andy Greenway ('75) on the death of his father, Robert Leaston "Bubber" Greenway Jr, on May 23, 2021.

Gene Clance Jr. ('78) on the death of his father, Gene Clance, on June 7, 2021.

Carole Myers ('81) on the death of her mother, Anne Linnenkohl, on April 11, 2021.

Larry Lawrence ('76) and Audrey Lawrence ('83) on the death of their brother Ronald Michael Lawrence.

Laurel Huff ('91) on the death of her father, Raymond Huff, on May 18, 2021.

Susan Fitzgibbons Abernathy ('82), and Gregg Fitzgibbons ('85) on the death of their mother, Mildred Fitzgibbons, on April 13, 2021.

Grandchildren include Mike Simmons ('89), Billy Simmons ('92), Kevin Simmons ('93), Taylor Abernathy (2006), and John Garrett Abernathy (2012). Great-grandchild is Emily Martinez (2018).

Will Thompson (2012) on the death of his grandmother Aljean Thompson on May 24, 2021.

Tony Rutherford ('82) on the death of his father, Terry Rutherford, on April 11, 2021.

Amy Shiflett Haas ('84) on the death of her sister, Laurel Shiflett Cavner ('81), on April 13, 2021.

In Memoriam (April-August 2021) 1940 Evelyn Barrow 1942 Florence Barnes Childs Simmons 1950 Alieze Miner McGrath 1963 David Cranshaw 1981 Laurel Shiflett Cavner 1995 Primus "PJ" JaMac Peterson Former Faculty: Sister Mary Regina Werntz, RSM

ALUMNI LEGACIES

Celebrating Class of 2021 graduates with alumni family members

Legacies not pictured: Akurorkor Allotey, Akweley Allotey, Brandon Benjume, Brannon Butler, Matthew Carey, Emma Rose Carter, Victoria Cioffi, Hannah Cunard, Catherine Good, Lindsey Gowan, Sarah Hatcher, Henderson Hurdle, Nneoma Iteogu, Alyssa Laconico, Lily Leatherwood, Nnamdi Nwoke, Carson Pierce, Samuel Renfroe, Anne-Therese Reynes, Priscilla-Anne Reynes, Mary Francis Riley, Keith Royal, Gianna Williams

Ashley Barrett (2015), Alexis Barrett (2021), and Troy Barrett (2012)

Isabel Blackwell (2021) and Gracie Blackwell (2018)

Alexa Bobadilla (2021) and Jose Bautista (2013)

Jordan Bowie (2018) and Clay Bowie (2021)

Emily Brown ('94) and Emma Brown (2021)

MDS Board Chair Verda Colvin, Taylor Colvin (2021), and Weston Stroud (2013)

Anna Kate Cowart (2021) and Kate Cowart ('92)

Krista McDaniel Dillard ('90), Jackson Dillard (2014), Lindley Dillard (2021), and Chad McDaniel ('93)

Brian Frankum ('85), Taylor Frankum (2021), and Cole Frankum (2019)

Lindsay Hall Paul (2014), Holly Hall (2021), and Rachael Hall (2017)

Makayla Hall (2021) and Marqueta Bell-Hall ('87)

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William Gautreaux (2019), John Gautreaux (2021), Jarome and Mitzi Gautreaux ('85)

Michael Johns ('87) and Ethan Johns (2021)

Eric Kline (2014) and CJ Kline (2021)

Sean Langan (2021) and Lauren Langan (2013)

Emily McGee (2021) and Anne McGee ('82)

Tyler McKinney (2021) and Brandon McKinney (2019)

Heartly Nepveux (2021), Summer Nepveux (2016), and Chloe Nepveux (2021)

De’Essence Morris (2009) and Cierra Ridley (2021)

Lily Sanfrey (2021) and Elena Sanfrey (2019)

Brandon Sartin (2011) and Nicholas Sartin (2021)

Matthew Shirley (2021) and Benjamin Shirley (2019)

Jessica Redus ('96), Robert Sizemore (2021), Rick and Yvette Sizemore ('93)

Keith Hatcher ('96), Lynn Hatcher ('72), Thomas Smith (2021), Ricky Hatcher ('71), and Katherine Hatcher Smith ('92)

Davis Stuckey (2021) and Cynthia Dockrell Stuckey ('97)

Christian Thomas (2021) and Terry Thomas (2020)

Mallory Towles (2021), Erika Towles (1993). Not Pictured: Jalen Towles (2018)

Remember When

by: Jane Claxton and Sandra Tate, Former Faculty

Sister Mary Fidelis Barragan, RSM MDS Principal, 1970-1987 Pink slips, blue slips, and yellow Post-It notes on the workroom door indicating a quick 7:50 a.m. unscheduled faculty meeting. One-way halls, Tuesday/Thursday reverse schedules, and music practice on the day before a school Mass.

Serendipity creativity. Surprise holidays, very shiny floors in St. Joseph Hall, and silence in homeroom after prayer, pledge, and roll as the entire school community awaited Sister’s voice over the PA system. Color coding was a way of life. A particular color indicated a student’s grade level. A similar system was used for office forms, grade sheets, and teachers’ roll books. And the dress code requirements—girls wore no earring larger than a dime and the seams of oxford cloth shirts were no more than two inches off the shoulder; a boy’s hair was expected to clear the ear and collar and his shoes were to be polished.

Those details were part of the MDS "way of life" and, indeed, such details are still vivid in the minds of those who were a part of the Mount de Sales community during the Sister Fidelis era.

Sister Fidelis had a competitive spirit and wanted each student, teacher, parent, and alum to show MDS loyalty and the spirit necessary for healthy competition. No matter how proud she was of a trophy that indicated state or region 38

championship (and proud she was of every trophy earned in athletic or literary competition), she always asked how the cross-city rivals had done in the competition, for they were worthy opponents and she recognized that fact. She wanted each student to feel a part of the MDS community and show the Cavalier spirit. When 8th grade was the entry-level grade, she one day came to each English class and spent most of the period teaching the fight song to those newcomers. By the end of the day, there was no doubt that those 13-year-olds could loudly, enthusiastically, on key, and in perfect time sing "DeSales is the high school that is greatest of all" at the next pep rally.

Sister Fidelis’s pride in our school was absolute.

How often did we gather around the stage for a few minutes after homeroom to honor the most recent recognition of a student or teacher? She was proud of our students and faculty and their achievements, and she made everyone exceptionally proud of all that had been accomplished. Long after she left MDS, many teachers who coached the various sports and literary groups received notes of congratulation when she would read in the Southern Cross of a Mount de Sales victory.

Can anyone forget the glow on her face as students returned to school in August after a campus change had been made during the summer? During her era the old library became the Cavalier weight room, the space behind Mercy Hall became Burke Hall, and the old tennis courts were transformed into the Trapezoid. But conscious of the time-honored tradition, she had installed fire brick on the new Trapezoid just for the homecoming bonfire that would be held in October. Sister purchased the brick house on Rose Place, the board house that we call Gray Cottage, and a two-story Victorian on Appleton that for a few years was known as Hamlet Hall. That

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building is now gone, and that lot is part of the land on which the Zuver Center sits.

And who of the MDS community can forget Sister’s continual concern regarding the erosion on the campus? She was proud of the campus— its growth and appearance—and expected a polished, refined look at all times. Many also remember that when students became a bit lax in their disposal of lunchtime trash, all students and faculty would be instructed to return to homeroom at the end of the day and wait in silence while the class officers of each grade cleaned the campus to her satisfaction. Only then were all dismissed for the day.

Most of all, the MDS community of the '70s and '80s associate Sister Fidelis with the exceptional learning environment that continues today. Sister Fidelis empowered all members of the MDS community to give the best in every endeavor.

She expected 110% from students and faculty; she often received 150%. An ordinary student or teacher, under her leadership, became a good student or teacher. An already good student or teacher became exceptional. After her retirement from MDS, she told others of a visit to MDS by a member of the accrediting board of the state department and his conclusion that "Mount de Sales is one of the finest schools in the state of Georgia." Later, she recalled that this same individual sent many educators to Macon to observe the MDS way of life.

In 2007, the Alumni Association named Sister Mary Fidelis Barragan the recipient of the St. Francis de Sales Award. She was proud of this honor and proudly displayed the award in the community home in Savannah where she then lived, showing it to all who visited and calling others to tell of the award. Indeed, the Alumni Association could have found no better friend of our school nor one who contributed more toward making Mount de Sales Academy the school it is today.

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Community

Sheridan—are recognizable today as they remain invested in Mount de Sales and in Macon. As Sally noted, everyone was of modest means then, but "you truly cannot imagine how hard the parents worked" to build Mount de Sales. The Morans and many other families raised the money to construct Mercy, St. Joseph, and McAuley Halls by soliciting door to door, raffling cars, and holding fundraising events such as the May Festival. "There was never any question of looking for volunteers, it was a commitment they expected to make," said Sally.

SALLY MORAN HOGE

The Ties that Bind

by Laura C. Johnson I recently had the opportunity to visit with Sally Moran Hoge and Joe Moran, who graduated from Mount de Sales in 1967 and 1973, respectively. Sally and Joe, along with their siblings— Margaret Moran Hurd (’64) and Jody Moran Hatcher (’69)­—faithfully support the Academy through the Joseph F. and Sarah T. Moran Memorial Scholarship Fund, an endowment that provides scholarships for Catholic students. The fund was originally established by their mother, Sarah Thomas Moran (’32), when their father, Captain Joseph Francis Moran, passed away in 1997. The elder Moran was the oldest of eight children who had grown up in Pennsylvania in a very poor coal mining town during the Depression.

Although they had wanted to send their children to Catholic school, the family couldn’t afford it, and as Joe said, "That was the premise for setting up the scholarship in his honor."

Over the course of our conversation, I was fascinated by the community they described as they were growing up in Macon—Catholic immigrants primarily from Ireland and Italy, many of whom lived on Progress Street.

This community was deeply rooted in their faith and family and devoted to their church and school. Many of the family names—Cassidy, McBrearty, McGoldrick, McKenna, Shaheen, and 40

The commitment wasn’t just financial, it was also the gift of time. "These parents were the ones who took the guys to the basketball games," said Joe. "They rode in cars because there were no buses. And, before the gymnasium and stadium were built, all the games were on the road and most were far away." Joe remembers that there were even family members who didn’t have children at the school at that time who helped out. "There was just so much community involvement. When the nuns asked that a family do something, they did it."

At that time, the highest calling in this Catholic community was to enter into the priesthood or the sisterhood, and everyone with whom Joe and Sally went to school seemed to have family members who were called to that vocation. In fact, two of their aunts became Sisters of Mercy, Sr. Mary Patricia and Sr. Mary Gratia, and served for a time as principals of Mount de Sales. Knowing the reputation of the Sisters for discipline, I asked what it was like to attend the school run by your aunt, to which Joe replied, "It was bad enough if the principal knew your aunt, let alone be your aunt." Sally pointed out that the Sisters were well educated and went to school every summer. "They had master’s degrees and some even had Ph.D.s," said Sally.

Listening to Sally and Joe talk, it was evident to me that the Sisters at Mount de Sales were held in high esteem by this close-knit community who readily took care of their needs. The Morans and many other families provided furniture for the convent and rides to the grocery store or train station. The

Sisters were particularly fond of getting rides from Captain Moran, which may or may not have had something to do with the beverages he surreptitiously provided for their journey.

Certainly, there was an expectation by all that parents were an integral and important part of the school life. "If you wanted the school to work, you were part of making it work," said Sally. Mrs. Moran, who had just nine students in her graduating class in 1932, was an active part of the alumni association and understood that the time she spent volunteering with the school was an investment in future generations.

She set a wonderful example that her children carry out today.

Sally and Joe love the Catholic community in which they grew up and the school where they were educated. It is impossible to talk with them without admiring the sense of ownership and dedication that their family and many others have to Mount de Sales, while also sensing their desire for that devotion and investment to extend far beyond their generation.

"Tuition is just as big a sacrifice to folks these days, but the need is still there for involvement in the school," said Joe. "It’s not enough to just pay tuition; you’ve got to be a part of the school."

This is the legacy of Joseph Moran and Sally Moran Hoge, and I hope it becomes the standard to which all of us who love Mount de Sales will aspire.

JOE MORAN

300 South Davis Dr., Warner Robins, GA 31088 478.923.9668 www.shswr.org

St. Joseph's Catholic School Est. 1872

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SACRED HEART CATHOLIC SCHOOL HAS MUCH TO CELEBRATE! Our students are experiencing unparalleled learning opportunities in a beautiful new state-of-the-art facility. We aim to build a strong foundation by providing excellent academics, state-of-the-art technology, service learning, visual and performing arts, and athletics.

WELCOMING FAMILIES OF ALL FAITHS IN 2K - 6th Grade St. Joseph’s Catholic School strongly believes in educating the whole child. In addition to a rigorous academic curriculum, our students are able to develop their talents in fine arts, sports, technology, and community service.

Together, we continue a legacy of high achievement both in and out of the classroom. The exuberant teachers and staff foster opportunities for students to grow in faith and leadership into the young women and men God has called them to be.

The development of the whole person remains at the heart of a Sacred Heart education. We strive each day to educate our students in a Christ-centered learning environment grounded in faith, joined as family, and focused on our future.

At the end of the day, what we really want is for our children to walk away shining in the light of the Catholic faith through service, self-discipline, and academic excellence.

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