The de Sales Sheet is published bi-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
Brendan O’Kane, President
Carsten Franklin, Dean of Students
Emily Brown (‘92), Upper School Head
Kaylee Freeman (2010), Middle School Head
Institutional Advancement Staff
Laura C. Johnson, Director of Institutional Advancement
Maggie O'Brien Gerwig (2008), Director of Enrollment and Career Discovery
Lauren Deal, Director of Marketing and Alumni Relations
Mason Turner (2019), Young Alumni Coordinator
Blake Hall (2010), Advancement Assistant de Sales Sheet Photographers: Lightly Focused/Andrew Wheat; Advancement Staff, Yearbook Staff
Mission Statement
Mount de Sales Academy, an independent Catholic school, sponsored 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.
A MESSAGE FROM THE ACADEMY BOARD CHAIR AND PRESIDENT
Greetings Cavalier Family,
A community called to excellence since 1876 is more than a tagline, it is an enduring commitment. Catholic school education is more important now than ever, and our sacred partnership with you is essential as we continue this journey of excellence. We work to ensure the continued success of MDS. This collaborative approach is a testament to how we view our work. We know this cannot be done alone, and thus will listen to and value the insights in our community.
Parents: You are the primary educators of our Cavaliers and our relationship is one to be cherished.
Alumni: You are the living embodiment of the value of a Mount de Sales Academy education. Thank you for making a real difference in the world and having Cavalier pride.
Donors: As the Venerable Catherine McAuley did when faced with the decision as to what to do with her inheritance, you make the decision to invest in the educational experience here and that is truly remarkable. Thank you.
We have a lot to celebrate. Last year, we achieved an impressive 83% acceptance rate at the University of Georgia, which has a competitive 37% acceptance rate. Over the past four graduating classes, 72% of our seniors have qualified for the HOPE Scholarship, with the Class of 2023 alone earning over $8.4 million in scholarships, not including HOPE.
Our devoted teachers, many of whom are also coaches, are committed to developing the whole person. We witnessed at Homecoming first-hand how our healthy, motivated, and dedicated community fosters an environment where our young people can truly thrive. This year, we have committed to developing a strategic vision and plan that will guide us into the next chapter, including our 150th celebration, and we are excited to continue our work together as the premier education in Middle Georgia.
With the unwavering support of the entire MDS community and by the grace of God, our school is poised to thrive for another 150 years. It’s great to be a Cavalier!
Forever de Sales,
Mr. James F. Simpson Jr Chair
Mr. Brendan O’Kane President of Mount de Sales Academy
2024-2025 Board of Trustees
JAMIE SIMPSON, CHAIR
KATIE O'BRIEN BERG (2008)
JIMMY CASSIDY, III (2005)
ROYCE COLLINS (2001)
VERDA COLVIN
LEE GERDES (’85)
JEFF JORDAN (’80)
LOLETA SARTIN
SILVIO SILENZI
JIMMIE SMITH
SHANE SPELLS
PREPARING
ALUMNI
Mount de Sales Academy was recognized at the Platinum level on the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll, with AP Access recognition for our high percentage of underrepresented students taking
What is ercy?
On Tuesday, September 24, 2024, Mount de Sales Academy commemorated Mercy Day and formally installed Mr. Brendan O’Kane as its president during a special Mass held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Senior student Julia Byron addressed President O’Kane, Bishop Parkes, and esteemed guests at a luncheon following the ceremony, highlighting the history of Mercy Day and the importance of grounding the installation of a new president in the values of mercy.
“On this day 197 years ago, Catherine McCauley opened the first house of mercy in Ireland for the poor and marginalized in her community, providing them with education, shelter, and support. As the first Sisters of Mercy welcomed the needy through their doors, a bright vision of the future crystallized in Catherine McCauley’s mind. It was a vision rooted in action. She, along with other devoted servants of mercy, set out to spread the loving-kindness of the Lord through continual service. This journey eventually led to the establishment of Mount de Sales Academy. Catherine’s approach emphasized compassion, dignity, and empowerment, inspiring countless individuals to engage in acts of kindness and service. Her legacy reminds us that mercy is not an abstract concept but a call to actively transform lives and communities through love and support. I believe this living force of mercy is the foundation of the school that I and so many others are proud to call our own.
The Mount de Sales faculty, students, alumni, and community commit to the missioning of President Brendan O’Kane’s leadership.
Entering Mount de Sales in the 6th grade, I quickly realized just how special a place this is. I found love and passion in faculty, staff, and students alike, as well as an enthusiasm for learning and growing as a whole. With a focus on societal impacts, Mount de Sales has cultivated a spirit of mercy and continually gives back to the community. Mercy is not stagnant here. It is not an occasional donation or volunteer hour here and there. It is the constant burning ember of this school. It glows in every door held open, every student helped, every wave hello, every fight song chanted, every class discussion, and every mind invigorated by the possibilities of a life lived with kindness as an unwavering principle.
As Mount de Sales enters a new chapter of leadership with Mr. O’Kane, we can see just how brightly this ember of mercy can shine at our school. His enthusiasm, his passion, and his drive is evident in every interaction he initiates with students and other members of the Cavalier community. Mr. O’Kane truly personifies the mission of the school itself. His spirit of mercy is remarkably contagious, and the fibers of Mount de Sales are stitched even tighter by this lovingkindness.
“The act of showing mercy is not an isolated occurrence. Mercy is continuous. Mercy is infectious. Mercy can be a gentle whisper, a soft embrace, an ember flickering in the darkness. Most of all, Mercy is unending kindness.”
After seven years of walking the halls of Mount de Sales, the final lesson that I will carry into college and the wider world beyond our campus is this: The act of showing mercy is not an isolated occurrence. Mercy is continuous. Mercy is infectious. Mercy can be a gentle whisper, a soft embrace, an ember flickering in the darkness. Most of all, Mercy is unending kindness. All those who have experienced its presence spread this life force, thus entwining and grounding our essence as a community and as Catherine McAuley's enduring mission to the world. Mercy is a sacred dance of humanity and love. It has guided our path as a school since our founding in 1876 and will continue to light the way as we move forward into the bright future. Loyal and true, we ever answer her call, stand up for Mount de Sales.”
Watch Julia Byron’s speech on the Spirit of Mercy!
Kim Baxter, Associate Director for Programs and Service, Mercy Education and MDS Senior student, Julia Byron.
Retiring Faculty
MR. DAVID HELD
Mr. David Held retired after a long career serving Catholic schools. The final 14 years of his career were spent caring for the students, faculty, and staff as President of Mount de Sales Academy. When reflecting on his time at MDS, Mr. Held shares, “My tenure at Mount de Sales was one that I will always appreciate, and I remain thankful to God for leading me to Macon, GA. Working with students from all socioeconomic backgrounds has always been a key mission of Catholic education, and no school does it better than MDS. As Catholic Schools become more exclusive in terms of affluence, Mount de Sales is a model of what we should strive to be as Catholic Schools.”
Mr. Held kept the students at the center of his work and when making decisions always asked, “What is best for the kids?” Reflecting on his leadership at the Academy, Mrs. Mary Pat Dadisman shares, “David brought a solid balanced approach to the entire Mount de Sales community. He respected the abilities of all faculty and staff members to do their jobs professionally, but was always prepared to advise and guide when warranted. David's strong Catholic faith was evident in all the decisions he made, and the actions he initiated were always in the best interest of our students. He embraced our mission, brought a sense of consistency to the campus environment, and never failed to seize an opportunity to make all constituents feel welcome, supported, and appreciated.”
Like the student body, the faculty and staff consistently felt Mr. Held’s support and care. Faculty member Mrs. Melanie Bentley expresses her gratitude for Mr. Held’s leadership saying, “From the first time I met Mr. Held to his last day on campus, he supported me as a teacher. He was always willing to listen and be a voice of reason, no matter how large or small the issue. I will forever be grateful for all he gave to MDS as the leader of our school.”
It is the end of an era as Mount de Sales Academy wishes Mr. Held a wonderful retirement and welcomes new leadership in Mr. Brendan O’Kane. Mr. Held believes that the future of MDS is “very bright,” and he is confident that the school will continue to flourish under Mr. O’Kane’s leadership.
MRS. MARY PAT DADISMAN
A great leader.
The glue and the grease.
A constant and steady problem-solver.
These are the phrases that faculty members have used to describe Mary Pat Dadisman, who retired as Associate Head of School and Dean of Students in May.
Mary Pat began her career at Mount de Sales in 1989 as a middle school math and science teacher. In 2003, she was asked to serve as Middle School Principal at a crucial time for the institution: Bibb County Public Schools had removed sixth grade from their elementary schools, and MDS planned to add a sixth grade to its middle school. Mary Pat led the transformation from a junior high model to a true middle school model. “This was accomplished after much research and is still how our middle school runs today,” she says. “Great attention is paid to developmental skills, exploration, and creativity.”
In 2006, after moving to Birmingham for a year due to her husband’s job responsibilities, Mary Pat returned to Mount de Sales as the college counselor, working in that role for four years. “I gained tremendous insight and knowledge about secondary education and a deep appreciation for the impact the upper school experience has on young lives,” Mary Pat notes. In 2011, the Academy hired a new president, and Mary Pat was appointed Associate Head of School, a position she held until her retirement.
Throughout her tenure, Mary Pat found ways to develop a caring student body. She created the CAVAK awards, short for Cavalier Acts of Kindness, given to students who step outside their comfort zones to help others. Mary Pat also introduced quarterly “Student Spotlight” assemblies to recognize student accomplishments that may not be highlighted in athletic or academic honors programs.
Mary Pat and her husband, Jack, have three children who graduated from Mount de Sales: Zack (2000), Jeff (2002), and Bethany (2004). They also are proud grandparents to nine grandchildren. Although recently moving to Myrtle Beach, Mary Pat has stayed engaged with Mount de Sales by serving as an operations consultant to the new school president.
DR. MIKE FRANKLIN
Dr. Mike Franklin retired after serving at Mount de Sales Academy for 17 years, holding two successive administrative roles. In 2006, he started his tenure as the Upper School Division Head and, in 2020, he transitioned to the role of Middle School Division Head. As he reflects on his work in these two roles, it becomes apparent that the Lord called Dr. Franklin to each role at just the right time in his professional life. He succinctly describes the transition: “As a mid-career educator serving in the Upper School in my late 40s, I was best suited for the Upper School. As a more "seasoned" educator nearing the end of a long career, I was well-suited for providing stability and calmness to the middle school, both in the way I interacted with students and engaged with the faculty.”
Dr. Franklin culminated his long career at Mount de Sales Academy, but our school was not his first experience with Catholic education. He was first introduced to Catholic schools in the first grade at St. Joseph’s Catholic School. The opportunity to close his career at MDS was a full-circle moment for him, solidifying his love for and belief in the impact of Catholic education. When expressing his confidence in the future of MDS he notes, “I hope it continues to ‘re-invent’ itself as it has several times since it was founded in 1876. I also hope it-
continues to serve families who appreciate its mission but may need assistance affording it. I also hope it retains all of its ‘distinctive’ traits: its organic diversity, urban presence, Catholic identity, and academic rigor.”
Dr. Franklin’s legacy remains in the halls of MDS, echoing in our hearts and minds. We are excited for the day that his grandchildren will attend Mount de Sales Academy. Currently, his son and MDS Dean of Students, Carsten Franklin, actively carries on his father’s legacy. Reminiscing on his father’s time at MDS, Carsten shares just how special MDS is to Dr. Franklin: “Mount de Sales brought him back to his childhood faith in Catholicism. As parents and educators, we sow seeds that we may never see bloom. It was the fertile environment on Orange St. that instilled further into my father a deepseated belief that everyone he came in contact with had a "Sacred Story," and though young people and even adults might fail or disappoint, there is an unfailing belief that they can dust themselves off and get back to work.” In his 17 years at Mount de Sales Academy, Dr. Mike Franklin sowed many seeds that will bloom in our Cavalier community for years to come.
MRS. TAMMI EMERICK
Tammi Emerick has retired after 18 years of service to Mount de Sales. A consistent guiding force behind the scenes, she ensured that faculty, staff, and students felt cared for. From handling Accounts Payable in our Finance Department to assisting staff and students at the Middle School front desk, she was always enthusiastic and supportive.
Mrs. Emerick is the proud parent of two sons, Logan (2006) and Zach (2009), who both graduated from MDS. Through her work at MDS, Mrs. Emerick also came to know and love Brandon Sanders as a son. Brandon battled muscular dystrophy and bravely persevered to graduate in 2013. Later, as Brandon’s health was failing, the Emerick family moved back to their former neighborhood, down the street from him, enabling them to assist his family by taking Brandon to Disney World, visiting him often, and including him in family activities until his passing in 2024.
An avid pickleball player who started playing before it became a popular sport, Mrs. Emerick, in retirement, can often be found on the court. On Tuesdays, she plays in a league along with fellow MDS retiree Paul Midkiff. Off the court, her days in retirement are focused on her family and close friends. She is grateful for extended time with her grandchildren, and the children treasure opportunities for backyard play or beach time with their “Gigi and Pop Pop.”
Our school was enriched by Mrs. Emerick’s commitment and devotion, and we know that she will always carry Mount de Sales in her heart.
Welcome Mrs. Freeman!
As you enter Mrs. Kaylee Freeman’s office, you’re greeted with a bright smile and a welcoming “Come on in!” A neon sign on her wall reads, “We Can Do Hard Things,” a motto that Mrs. Freeman has embraced throughout her journey in education and administration. She aims to instill this message in the students of Mount de Sales Academy.
Mrs. Freeman joined the Cavalier family in seventh grade and graduated from Mount de Sales Academy, where she discovered her passion for theater and the performing arts She pursued this passion at Clemson University, majoring in theater and minoring in music. Along the way, she performed professionally and taught theater classes, ultimately realizing how much she enjoyed teaching. After graduating from Clemson, she explored various pathways into education while continuing her professional performances.
During one of her shows, guest director Nancy Halverson asked Kaylee if she had ever considered teaching. Unbeknownst to Mrs. Freeman, Halverson was a teacher and the CEO of the Children’s Museum of the Upstate in South Carolina. She encouraged Kaylee to interview for the Early Childhood Coordinator position, and Mrs. Freeman got the job. “That was the best opportunity I could have received to prepare for a career in education,” Freeman says. Surrounded by supportive teachers, she quickly found her footing in the educational field. After about a year at the museum, she realized that education was where she truly belonged.
Following her time at the museum, she taught for a while, served as the assistant director of a preschool, and eventually moved back to Macon, where she taught 3K at Saint Joseph’s Catholic School. She then transitioned to ACE, where she taught drama to 900 students. Despite her non-traditional route to education, every experience has perfectly prepared her for her current role. As she stepped into the position of Middle School Division Head, she faced the question: “Are you sure you’re ready for this?” Freeman's response? "I have never doubted for a moment that I’m prepared for this. I am confident that God has guided me every step of the way to this exact moment."
NEW MIDDLE SCHOOL HEAD
When she began interviewing for this role, she felt nervous about how her former teachers would react if she were selected. However, upon starting her work here, she realized her fears were unfounded: she was met with unwavering support, security, and a sense of calm.
BEHIND THE CURTAIN
Our theater program offers a range of opportunities and ensures that every student has a place and an opportunity to get involved and make a real impact. We accommodate any student who wants to be involved on stage or behind the scenes!
As One Act students prepare for the fall production, I Will Sing Life: Voices From The Hole In The Wall Gang Camp, MDS alumni and community members from various charitable organizations shared their experiences with the students in a round-table lunchand-learn discussion. The fall One Act production takes place at a camp for children with severe
One of the standout features of our program is the technical theater component and associated club. Students engaged in technical theater take on leadership roles and ownership of their projects, significantly enhancing the collaborative atmosphere. This involvement fosters individual growth and enriches the overall experience for everyone in the program.
Last fall, several of our technical theater students participated in the “2023 Light More Homes Programming Contest benefiting Macon Area Habitat for Humanity.” Students programmed a light show coordinated with Christmas music; the winning team had their show selected to play on Mercer Village Avenue during the holiday season. With our students at MDS entering the contest for the first time, they placed first with their light show. A recent graduate, Elaine DeGuzman (2024), was one of the winners. In addition to placing, the winners were awarded a scholarship to Mercer on behalf of Chick-Fil-A. It was a great example of how our technical theater students develop applicable skills to use beyond the classroom. illnesses and directly ties into what several alumni have experienced firsthand. This play is based on a real camp, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, which Paul Newman in Connecticut started, whose mission is to provide opportunities for children with serious illnesses to experience the transformational spirit and friendships that go hand-in-hand with camp. Students develop a more meaningful connection with their characters in the play with the context given by the alumni who shared their personal experiences.
Our guest speakers from left to right: Demarcus Beckham, Andre Williams, Christie Johnson, Kelsey Hall (2022), and Deven Jackson (2022).
What it means
“In today's challenging academic landscape, we were looking for a school that would provide our son with a challenging academic environment while nurturing his social and emotional growth. A partner who is as invested in our child as we are. We consider ourselves blessed to have found such a partner in Mount de Sales Academy. They have exceeded our expectations!
Our son has grown tremendously during his time at MDS. “
The Harrison Family
“Cavaliers find common ground with everyone they meet. Being a part of a diverse student body teaches each student that we are more similar than different. Our students learn the importance of finding what connects us rather than what divides us.”
“A Cavalier selflessly gives time, talents, and treasures to answer the call to serve others.”
“My husband and I both attended public schools, and we can confidently say that the experience at MDS has been superior in every way. We are committed to providing our son with the best education available, and MDS has exceeded our every expectation. The nurturing community and comprehensive education our son receives at MDS are unmatched, and we are grateful for the positive impact it continues to have on his life.”
The Fox Family
Blake Hall (2010), Advancement Assistant
Maggie Gerwig (2008), Director of Enrollment
to be a
“Being a Cavalier means being adaptive and resilient. Students at Mount de Sales learn that even when something doesn’t go as planned, they can adapt and rise to the occasion. We are not afraid to tell our students that failure is inevitable, and we teach them how to dust themselves off and keep going. Mount de Sales isn’t letting our students quit. We love them too much for that.”
Kaylee Freeman (2010), Middle School Division Head
"Cavaliers can be compared to offensive linemen in football: they demonstrate an exceptional level of dedication and work ethic, often without seeking recognition. Despite the lack of attention, they remain committed to their role, consistently contributing behind the scenes to ensure the success of the team or cause. Their efforts are driven by a sense of duty and commitment, embodying a selfless approach to achieving collective goals."
Mason Turner (2019), Young Alumni Coordinator & Football Assistant Coach
“We appreciate the communication from staff but also that the students are held accountable for the things that they should be able to manage. There are clear expectations for behaviors. We love that there’s a big emphasis on shaping students to become people who care about the world and things outside of themselves. Not only are students encouraged to live out the fruits of the Spirit, the adults interacting with them are expected to do the same. We appreciate the Christ-centered environment.”
The Kombrinck Family
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS: THE MOUNT DE SALES EXPERIENCE
Mount de Sales Academy offers a comprehensive college preparatory program that begins as early as a student's freshman year. Parents who choose this school for their high school education can expect a tailored approach designed to equip their children for future academic endeavors.
Early Guidance and Curriculum Planning
The college counseling process kicks off in ninth grade, with students meeting their college counselor to learn fundamental concepts related to college readiness. Key topics include understanding Grade Point Averages (GPA), the distinctions between “HOPE GPA” and cumulative GPA, and how the HOPE scholarship operates.
During sophomore year, students delve deeper into their learning profiles, exploring study strategies and personality types to identify suitable career paths. For example, a student interested in engineering is encouraged to include calculus in their high school curriculum. These discussions about coursework begin early, ensuring that students are on track to meet the requirements of selective colleges.
Kari Alderman, our college counselor, shares invaluable insights on crafting personal essays with the senior English class.
NAMED SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS & ENDOWMENTS
Ardmore Publishing Literary Scholarship Fund
Established by Susan Crawford (’63), the fund offers competitive scholarships to MDS students based on a writing sample and grammar test.
Bernard F. & Dolores M. Cherer Endowed Scholarship
Established in honor of his parents and in appreciation for Dr. Allen Cherer’s (’69) education at Sacred Heart Catholic School and Mount de Sales Academy, the fund assists Catholic students at Sacred Heart to attend the Academy’s Upper School.
Monsignor John Cuddy Scholarship Fund
The Knights of Columbus Council #925 established the the fund in 2004 to honor Monsignor Cuddy and his ministry by providing financial assistance to a deserving and practicing Catholic family.
Sr. Mary Fidelis Professional Development Endowment
Former faculty member Sally Ryals Burran and her husband established the fund to honor Sr. Fidelis’ 17year career as principal of MDS during a pivotal time in the growth and development of the school.
Mike Garvin Scholarship Fund
Established in 2014 to honor the legacy of long-time coach and athletic director Mike Garvin, the scholarship is awarded to outstanding scholar-athletes.
Goizueta Endowed Scholarship Fund
Endowed by the Goizueta Foundation, this fund enables Hispanic/Latino students to attend MDS.
James 1:27 Endowed Scholarship
Craig and Dawn Murphey endowed this fund to ensure that students who have lost a parent can complete their education at Mount de Sales.
Isabel Meath McKenney Memorial Scholarship
Established in 2012 through a bequest from Isabel McKenney's (’22) son Frank McKenney, the endowed fund provides scholarships for Catholic students.
Joseph F. & Sarah T. Moran Memorial Scholarship
Established in 1997 by the Moran family, the endowed fund provides students the opportunity to benefit from Catholic education at Mount de Sales.
Chris R. Sheridan, Jr. Endowed Scholarship
Chris R. Sheridan ('67) established this scholarship fund in 1990 in honor of his parents, Chris and Eleanor Sheridan, and provide tuition assistance to deserving Catholic students.
Would you like to honor a friend of Mount de Sales through a scholarship fund? Call Laura Johnson at 478-751-3248
"Loyal and true, we ever answer her call. Stand up for Mount de Sales." Our alma mater is a call to action for all who love Mount de Sales. Your involvement will make a significant impact on our Cavaliers and the future of our school.
There are four ways to give — Advocate, Serve, Provide, and Transform — each offering unique opportunities to contribute to the school's mission. We ask each Cavalier family to discern the giving levels that best align with their values and capacity and make their pledge of support today.
Together, we can ensure that Mount de Sales Academy remains a beacon of excellence in education for years to come.
The Class of 2024
COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Agnes Scott College
Appalachian State University
Augusta University
Barry University
Baylor University
Berry College
Brenau University
Brewton Parker College
Central Georgia Technical College
Chattahoochee Valley Community College
Clemson University
Coastal College of Georgia
Coastal Pines Technical College
College of Charleston
Colorado State University
Earlham College
Eckerd College
Emory University
Flagler College
Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University
Florida International University
Fordham University
Fort Valley State University
Furman University
George Mason University
Georgia College and State University
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Military College
Georgia Southern Honors College
Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southwestern State University
Georgia State University
Hampton University
Hawaii Pacific University
Holy Family University
Howard University
Keiser University
Kennesaw State University
Louisiana State University
Loyola Marymount University
Mercer University
Middle Georgia State University
Morehouse College
Norfolk State University
North Carolina A&T State University
North Carolina State University
North Dakota State University
Oglethorpe University
Ohio University
Oregon State University
Oxford College of Emory University
Piedmont College
Regent University
Reinhardt College
Rutgers University
Samford College
Shorter University
Southern Methodist University
Southern University
St. Andrews University
Stetson University
Texas Christian University
Toccoa Falls College
Troy University
Truett-McConnell College
University of North Georgia
University of Alabama
University of Alabama, Birmingham
University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
University of Denver
University of Georgia
University of Kentucky
University of Maine
University of Mississippi
University of Missouri
Wesleyan College
Wilkes Honor College of FloridaAtlantic University
Wofford College
Xavier University
Young Harris College
University of North Carolina, Wilmington
University of North Florida
University of North Texas
University of South Carolina
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
University of Texas, Dallas
University of the South
University of West Georgia
Utah State University
Valdosta State University
The Class of 2024’s Valedictorian, Victoria Ubelhor, embarks on the next chapter of her journey at Georgia Tech, where she will pursue a degree in civil engineering. She carries with her a deep conviction that Mount de Sales Academy provides a solid academic foundation. Victoria shared, “This is a great academic school. Even the bar set here sets you up for success.” The challenges she faced here have equipped her, like her peers, to take bold steps into the world. With a strong faith rooted in Christ, Victoria is confident she will find her community in college, with the understanding that everything won’t be figured out at once. Her time at MDS has not only fostered her academic growth but also helped her gain a stronger sense of self and confidence.
During her time at MDS, Victoria loved, above all else, the sense of community fostered amongst the teachers, students, parents, and alumni. It meant a great deal to see former students choose to come back to Mount de Sales to visit. She encourages students to get involved in a youth group at MDS because she greatly valued her time getting involved with the Catholic community.
As a previous Ardmore Scholar, Victoria wrote in an article published in the 2023 Spring edition of the de Sales Sheet, “I have personally been a witness, giver, and receiver of the boundless kindness and generosity offered by people in the MDS community. As a Mercy school, Mount de Sales Academy invites all students to learn and achieve in a rigorous academic environment and to grow in unconditional faith. As Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)
Molly Nebel
Salutatorian
Victoria Ubelhor
Molly Nebel is driven by a desire to help others. Her passion is supporting those who struggle with mental illness. As a future psychiatrist, Molly plans to treat mentally ill patients so that they can live well in society, and she hopes to educate others, creating more understanding and acceptance of mental illness.
The first step in Molly’s plan is to graduate from Georgia Tech with a double major in psychology and Spanish. Continuing her education in Spanish will allow Molly to work with the marginalized population of Hispanic immigrants.
Molly’s compassion for others partially developed from an appreciation of the support she received as a student. She found that the environment at Mount de Sales encouraged building authentic and trusting relationships with faculty and students. “The faculty were welcoming and genuinely wanted what was in my best interest,” notes Molly. “We could talk about life, and they provided me with guidance.”
Upper School Spanish teacher Theresa Mosbrucker admired Molly's perseverance in overcoming her own adversity. “She loves to learn and keeps her mind thinking outside the box,” Mrs. Mosbrucker said. “Molly has a very joyful heart and a great love and concern for humanity.”
Naturally, in her salutatorian address, Molly encouraged her classmates to recognize and thank those who have loved and supported them:
“The people here tonight are the people we should be thanking because they are the reason we are here today, graduating. And while the next part of our lives may be unknown to us right now, they are the constant support and love we have. They are our guiding light. So as we celebrate this significant and once in a lifetime moment, let's not forget to appreciate those who helped get us here.”
The Monsignor John Cuddy Spirit of Service Award honors the senior who most exemplifies the exact gentle nature, admirable courage, and deep religious commitment of the late Monsignor Cuddy. The recipient shares Monsignor Cuddy’s legacy of opening the doors of faith for others and reaching out to those in the local community.
Elaine’s parents inspired her early on to help and care for people. Her mother works as a doctor in internal medicine, and her father is a nurse at the Heart Center. With deep roots in the curriculum at Mount de Sales Academy, the Mercy in Action program exposes and encourages students to be servant leaders. “I enjoy being the go-to person to be helpful and to serve the poor and those in need,” Elaine shared. Her volunteer experience in several programs, including as a summer camp counselor for SPLASH and working with the United in Pink’s summer camp for children of families affected by breast cancer, strengthened her desire to continue to help others in need.
“I first met Elaine when she entered Mount de Sales as a 7th grader,” Mrs. Sumowski shared. “She was quiet and reserved and brilliant. Fast forward four years later to when I taught her in Honors and AP Biology, Elaine is a force to be reckoned with. She has flourished at Mount de Sales. She is still very smart but also witty, outgoing, and very involved at MDS. She loves science but is also passionate about other disciplines, such as literary and theater tech. Elaine is a wonderful student across the board.”
“Mount de Sales really taught me to develop my social skills,” Elaine said of what she’ll take from MDS. “Learning to talk to people with different perspectives and getting to know them as individuals provided me with a great foundation for my next chapter at Mercer.” She also really enjoyed getting to know her teachers as people and learning their interests outside of the classroom. She enjoyed Coach Franklin’s candid nature with the students, simply asking them questions about themselves during AP World History.
Elaine will continue her education at Mercer University, pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering. She hopes to focus on research and development in this profession.
Audrey Gilchrist Medal of Honor
Elaine DeGuzman
Spirit of Service Award
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.
When Audrey Gilchrist heard her name called as the Medal of Honor recipient at graduation, it didn't register at first. “A friend looked at me and said, ‘It’s you,’” Audrey recalls. “I was surprised and honored, especially to follow last year’s winner, Kim Watson, who is an awesome person.”
The faculty considered Audrey to be an excellent student and person. “Audrey was chosen because she has a servant’s heart,” notes Kenny Epps, who taught and coached Audrey. “From helping people to caring for animals to improving her school community, she shows a level of compassion that is unmatched by most people.”
Audrey puts mercy into action. As a senior, she and a friend started a club at school to provide toys and blankets to animals living in shelters. She's gone on mission trips to support underserved and struggling communities. Audrey has also been active in her church youth group and its outreach to the less fortunate. She was selected as captain of the soccer team for her ability to lead others and for her care for all her teammates.
Audrey feels that she blossomed at Mount de Sales. “I was scared when I first came to Mount de Sales from St. Joseph, but I quickly found that I could be myself,” says Audrey. “At MDS, I wasn’t judged, and I didn’t experience negativity. Our teachers were very supportive and encouraging.”
Audrey is a freshman at the University of Georgia and is considering majors in speech therapy, business, or marketing.
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.
Brittany Cardenas was honored as the 2024 recipient of the Sisters of Mercy Award. Dr. Gabe Germann had the pleasure of teaching and mentoring Brittany, who took his classes and participated in school-sponsored mission trips to St. Francis Inn in Philadelphia and Negril, Jamaica. He noticed something special about her. “Brittany is an absolute joy. She radiates Christ and His mercy in so many ways. In the classroom, she's one of those delightful students who is with me step-by-step through the materials and all its challenges. In the community and on our service trips, she is so good at engaging with others and being a support and joy for those she is around. Brittany embodies all that's great about being a Cavalier!”
Brittany credits MDS with teaching her the importance of leadership, service, commitment, and especially mercy. She understands mercy to mean that everyone is worthy of compassion and care: “Mercy is caring for one another even with our differences. For someone, it might not be a good day, but we still treat them with mercy, respect, and compassion.” During her time at MDS, Brittany consistently demonstrated mercy to those around her, inspiring others to do the same.
Brittany continues her education at Mercer University where she will pursue a degree in nursing. Inspired by witnessing the births of her younger siblings, she hopes to specialize in labor and delivery. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she also plans to use her language skills to serve as a translator and interpreter for her future patients.
Brittany Cardenas
Sisters of Mercy Award
MIDDLE SCHOOL HONORS, 2024
GISA SPELLING BEE
Each year, Mount de Sales participates in the GISA State Spelling Bee. Over 170 schools are eligible to participate, and each school sends its best speller to represent the school. In 2024, two Mount de Sales Academy Middle School students advanced to the state competition: Merrill Long and Robert Durbin.
Merrill finished in a tie for 16th place in the state. Robert competed in the on-stage oral competition held for students, placing in the top 15 in the state. Robert finished 8th overall in the GISA Spelling Bee as a 7th grader.
THE CAVALIER AMBASSADOR AWARD
CAVALIER OF THE YEAR
Plada for Grade 6
Corbin Pendergrass for Grade 6
The Cavalier of the Year is the top overall scholar in each grade. These students exemplify overall excellence in all subjects and demonstrate the qualities that characterize successful students: they work hard, they are well organized, they are eager to learn, they will persist when the going gets tough, they use their time well, and they have a good attitude in and out of the classroom.
of the
Hope Hairston for Grade 7
Attaway for Grade 7
for Grade 8
2024 Cavaliers
Year were Ean Harrison (6th grade), Adelaide Kuo (7th grade), and Eliza Buck (8th grade).
The Cavalier Ambassador Award is given to one male and one female student in each grade who represents MDS to our community and campus guests in an exemplary manner. They demonstrate school spirit and pride for Mount de Sales, they are involved in many school activities, and they are enthusiastic representatives of MDS when they host guests on campus and students who shadow during the admissions process.
Jackson
Madisyn Yarbrough
Dillon Wellls for Grade 8
Leila
Ean Harrison for Grade 6
Eliza Buck for Grade 8
Adelaide Kuo for Grade 7
Robert Durbin for Grade 7
Merrill Long for Grade 8
UPPER SCHOOL HONORS, 2024
UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL GEORGIA’S MACON TELEGRAPH GOLDEN EAGLE AWARDS
The Golden Eagle awards celebrate and honor Central Georgia’s highest achieving, engaged, and hard-working high school students.
Mount de Sales was pleased to nominate these outstanding seniors:
STAR STUDENT
Each school in Georgia may name the student with the highest one-sitting SAT score and outstanding GPA as their STAR student. These students then compete against all the other STAR students in the county. This year, Gabe Howard was named the Mount de Sales’ STAR student. Each STAR student is asked to name the teacher who most influenced his or her academic development. This year, Gabe nominated Mr. Preston Earle as his STAR teacher. Mr. Earle teaches upper school Mathematics and Theology.
STAR Student, Gabe Howard (2024) with Mr. Preston Earle
Gabe Howard
Macon Sports Hall of Fame
Scholar Athlete
Football, Wrestling
Varsity Track and Field
STATE
CHAMPIONS
Jordan Kelly - 4 x 100 relay winner
Katelyn Perazzola - 100 M, 4 x 100 relay winner
Graham Blackwell - 4 x 100 relay winner
Jai Dudley - 200 M, 4 x 100 relay winner
CLASS OF 2024
COLLEGIATE ATHLETES
Baseball
Hayden Partain, Olgethorpe University
Bricen Smith, University of Missouri
Soccer
Katelyn Perazzola, Holy Family University
Softball
Cailey Lindsey, Chattahoochee Valley Community College
Track & Field
Jordan Kelly, University of West Georgia
Katelyn Perazzola, Holy Family University
Water Polo
Talia Fonseca, University of California, Berkeley
ALL-REGION/ALL-AREA
Baseball
Bricen Smith, Hayden Partain,
Anna Cane
Macon Sports Hall of Fame
Scholar Athlete
Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer
Jared Diaz, Kyle Shaughnessy, Levi Siebenmorgan
Boy’s Cross Country
2nd Place in Region
2nd Place in Region: Ethan Sevigny
9th Place in Region: Aiden Wells
Girl’s Cross Country
3rd Place in Region
10th in Region: Hannah Perazzola
Clay Target Shooting
3rd in State during State Final: Levi Siebenmorgan
Flag Football
State Champion Finalist
Kyley Reeve, Britten Rogers, Jordan Kelly, Taylor Moore, Gracie Peek, Katelyn Perazzola
2nd Team: Carter Sparks, Jackson Rowley, Kyle Shaughnessy, Davien Williams, CJ Story, Caleb Linder
Boy’s Soccer
Bennett Griffin, Alex Roseboro, Kudiashe Tarirah, Luca Mandrioli
Girl's Soccer
Anna Cane, Audrey Gilchrist, Katelyn Perazzola, Laura Lillie Sparks
Softball
Sawyer Stuart
Volleyball
Talia Fonseca, Tiffany Owens, Anna Cane, Ellas Walker
Wrestling
Region Runner Up: Team
Carter Sparks, Desmond Brown, Blake Jones, Gabe Howard
ALL-STATE
Baseball
Jared Diaz, Bricen Smith
Flag Football
Katelyn Perazzola, Gracie Peek, Taylor Moore
Football
Lawton Hall
Girls Soccer
Laura Lillie Sparks
Volleyball
Talia Fonseca
Wrestling
Carter Sparks, Desmond Brown, Blake Jones, Kirra Mitchell, Mary Clare Clark, Makayla Batchelor, Gabe Howard, Wilson Brown
The
Wrestling
The MDS wrestling team competed at the 2024 Prep National Championships, featuring over 120 Prep schools nationwide. The Cavaliers finished in the Top 50 in Boys and the Top 15 in Girls nationwide. Six Cavaliers qualified for this year's national tournament (Blake Jones, Desmond Brown, Carter Sparks, Makayla Batchelor, Mary Clare Clark, and Kirra Mitchell). Junior Carter Sparks finished the tournament one win away from national allAmerican and secured a Top 10 national ranking this season.
As an MDS and GIAA first, 8th grader Kirra Mitchell earned HS All-American Honors by finishing national runner-up to one of the top-ranked female wrestlers in the country in her weight class. Kirra is the first Prep National AllAmerican in GIAA history (girls or boys).
Middle School Girls Basketball Team Champions
girls won in the Middle Georgia Basketball Tournament Championship, defeating Tattnall Square Academy, 33-19.
Kirra Mitchell HS All American Honors
Celebration2024!Cavalier
Alumni kicked off homecoming weekend with a downtown meet-up, enjoyed a spirited softball game, and celebrated legends Tony Pierce and Jane Claxton during a lively all-class happy hour—setting the stageforunforgettableclassreunions!
Watch the Alumni Awards and Sports Hall of Fame Induction ceremony here!
The MDS class of 1999 celebrated their 25th reunion!
Alumni gathered at Fall Line Brewing Co. before heading to the homecoming game!
Tony Pierce (‘69) sits with his wife, Bunny, and brother, Philip Pierce (’78), enjoying the bench she designed for MDS.
Athletes reunited at Cavalier Fields for a fun, memorable softball game—Forever de Sales!
Beloved former teacher, Jane Claxton.
Julie Julius (‘79) and Cheryl Bowen (’79) know it’s great to be a Cavalier!
Fellow classmates: “Reunited, and it feels so good!”
ALUMNI Award Winners and Sports Hall of Fame Inductees 2024
David Taylor (‘74) Alumnus of the Year
Dianne Harper St. Francis de Sales Award
Kobe Butts (2022) Young Alumnus of the Year
Commander Burnes Brown (2002) Distinguished Career Achievement
Mary Pat Dadisman Lifetime Achievement Award
Isaiah Jones (2008) Track & Field
Kenny Epps (2004) Basketball & Soccer
Katherine Smith (‘92) Track & Field, Softball, & Basketball
Hayden Kosater (2011) Swimming
The 2011 Boys’ Soccer Team
The Cavaliers with their family and friends after the alumni award ceremony on September 20, 2024.
WHY I GIVE WHY I GIVE
Carl Perazzola ('98) understands a winning athletic program's impact on school spirit and the student experience. He matriculated to Mount de Sales in high school, quickly becoming a stand-out athlete. In his junior year, Carl was a two-time GISA All-State and Macon Telegraph All-Middle Georgia football player who led the state championship football team in solo tackles. Carl was also named a Macon Telegraph All-Middle Georgia track athlete and competed in the GISA state championship on the record-setting 4X400 meter relay team. Following graduation, Carl was a walk-on at Georgia Tech and earned an ACC football championship ring with the team in 1998.HetransferredtotheCitadelonafootballscholarshipand letteredforthreeyears.Hecurrentlycoachesthegirls'MDSflag footballteam.
Read the full article on our website!
We are excited to welcome Roberts Academy to the neighborhood! Our very own Caroline Grove (2014) is the Student Information & Support Specialist and After School Program Coordinator! MDS Upper School Head, Emily Brown (‘94) also serves on the School Advisory Council!
The mission of the Roberts Academy at Mercer University is to prepare students with dyslexia to achieve academic success through dynamic educational programs.
“Modeled after the very successful Roberts Academy at Florida Southern College, the Roberts Academy at Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, is a transitional school for children with dyslexia. The Academy will teach a comprehensive curriculum initially designed for grades 2 through 5 using the Orton-Gillingham approach, an evidence-based teaching method proven to help students with dyslexia. In the Academy’s classroom, the OrtonGillingham approach will engage students in actionoriented learning that combines auditory (hearing),-
Carl and his wife, Lorraine, are also deeply committed to Catholic education. Their daughter Katelyn graduated in 2024 (current student athlete at Holy Family University), daughters Hannah and Samantha are current students, and their son, Carl Dino, is enrolled at Sacred Heart. One of their philanthropic priorities is to enable other students to build a strong foundation through Catholic education and to experience the joy and character growth that comes from participating in a teamsport.
visual (seeing), tactile (touching), and kinesthetic (moving) to teach basic concepts of reading, writing, and spelling across the curriculum. Students attend the Academy until they have mastered the skills to accommodate their learning differences and are prepared to succeed in a traditional school setting.”
robertsacademy.org/blog
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.
My optimism was misplaced. How do I know? It’s mystified I displease myself, sometimes When I dive too deep, When I water up my eyes I wonder what they see, I search for this great me She’s somewhere, inside.”
View the entire digital version of the Page Break edition online.
An excerpt from “The Galaxy of Me” by Beatriz Bernardino
Screen by Anaise Cooke
God in my Heart by Maddie Cooke
Drift by Hannah Denny
ALUMNI ALUMNI LEGACIES LEGACIES
Celebrating the Class of 2024 graduates
Celebrating the Class of 2024 graduates with alumni family members with alumni family members
Many members of the Class of 2024 have immediate family members (parents and siblings) as well as extended family members (aunts, uncles, cousins) who graduated from Mount de Sales. Here, we highlight a few of these alumni.
Wendy Arnold (‘95), Caitlyn Arnold (2024)
Maya Kathryn Blanche (2024), Jacob Blanche (2022), Joel Blanche (2023), Josh Blanche (2020)
Jennifer Beall (1990), Reagan William Beall (2024), and Hailey Beall (2020)
Elaine DeGuzman (2024), Kim Chad McDaniel (‘93), Mary Margaret Dillard (2024), Jackson Dillard (2014), Krista McDaniel Dillard (1990)
Ella Ferrer (2024), Danny Ferrer (2020), and Tom Ferrer (2018)
Share your news with us and update your mailing and email address! Send in birth announcements, engagements, marriages, jobs and promotions. Scan to submit your news, email us at alumni@mountdesales.net or call (478) 751-3240.
Lindley Kay Dillard (2021) served as an intern for Justice Gregory C. Cook of the Supreme Court of Alabama this summer. She plans to attend law school after graduating from Samford University in 2025.
Michael Conforti (2006), and his wife, Carolyn, welcomed their baby boy, Luca Conforti on March 3, 2024.
Commander Burnes Brown (2002) was named commanding officer of the USS South Dakota during a ceremony at the Naval Submarine Base, Kings Bay, Georgia, in February.
Richard J. Buttimer Jr. (’83) was named Dean of Belk College of Business on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte.
President & CEO James F. Simpson III (2004) has been selected by Independent Banker to be part of their annual “40 under 40” community bank leader awards. Simpson has been with Community Bank of Louisiana since 2015, holding the position of President & CEO since 2021.
Greg Brooking (’89) released his first book July 15, 2024, From Empire to Revolution: Sir James Wright and the Price of Loyalty in Georgia (University of Georgia Press, 2024).
Monroe Abrams (’82) received the 2024 Bill Chisolm Award given by the NATA Ethnic Diversity Athletic Trainers Committee.
Carson Leatherwood (2015) and Anna Garcia Leatherwood (2015) welcomed their baby girl, Annie Grace Leatherwood, on July 30, 2024.
The Everen Group, a group of leading energy insurance companies, appointed Robert (Jay) Foskey (’92) as President and CEO.
Taylor Cassidy (’07) and Charlie Cassidy (’07) welcomed their baby boy, Tate Cassidy, on September 13, 2024.
In Memoriam (April 2024 – October 2024)
1957 Dorothy Biggs
1976 Gregory Slocum
1976 Jana Summers Daughtry
1979 Kenneth White Jr.
2013 Brandon Sanders
2017 Kayla Elise Royal
Sara Suchower Keever (2003) and Kenneth Suchower (2004) on the death of their father, Jonathan “Andy” Andrew Suchower on April 14, 2024.
Carly Freliche George (2008) and Caroline Freliche Horne (2004) on the death of their mother, Laura Lewis Mimbs on July 18, 2024.
David Musolf (’87), Michael Musolf (’88), and Karen Musolf (’91) on the death of their mother, Betty Musolf on August 16, 2024.
Joshua Donner (’80), Beau Donner (’82), Matthew Donner (’84), Sarah Waldrep (’85) and Thomas Suttles (’89) on the death of their father, Dr. Robert S. Donner on September 1, 2024.
Dusty Holton (’79), John Holton (’81), Matt Holton (’83), Gavin Holton (’87), Jamey Huser (’96), and Melissa Denson (’94) on the death of their father and stepfather, Darrell Eugene Holton on October 20, 2024.
George and Stephanie Pearson at George’s Georgia Tech graduation for Norman Pearson (2020)
THIS IS THE PLACE
Sending your child to Mount de Sales Academy is about more than academics; it’s about becoming part of a supportive community that fosters lifelong relationships and personal growth. Alumni Dr. Diamond Odell Jude, MD. (2008) and Mr. Quentin Jude (2006) share how their experiences at MDS shaped their paths and enriched their lives and desire to give back to the Cavalier community.
Dr. Diamond Odell Jude, a dedicated internal medicine physician, reflects on her time at MDS, where she shadowed Andrew Intaphan’s (2007) mother, Dr. Intaphan, during high school. This early experience resulted in Diamond asking Dr. Intaphan to write her a recommendation letter for college, laying the groundwork for her career. When she returned to Macon, Dr. Jude worked in the hospital but wanted to transition to a private practice to better serve patients in her local Macon community. The bonds formed during those years were significant enough that, upon her retirement, Dr. Intaphan offered Dr. Jude the opportunity to take over her practice, demonstrating the deep connections forged within the MDS community. Dr. Jude plans to speak to the MDS chapter of the High School Alliance of Future Physicians to share her experiences with current high school students interested in a medical career.
Read the full article on our website!
This academic year is underway with renewed excitement and vigor. Mount de Sales's trustees and administrators are delighted to embark on a strategic planning process to set our future course. As we continue to adapt to the evolving educational landscape, we as a school community embrace new opportunities and confront challenges head-on.
You can follow the planning team’s progress here:
Pictured clockwise from top of page: Sheridan Hall, completed in 1990; Father John Cuddy Hall, completed in 2014 serves as the middle school building; Robert Slocum Field House at Cavalier Fields; David J. Zuver Performing Arts Center, completed in 2004 hosts the All- Class Happy Hour during Cavalier Celebration 2024; students of the class of 2024 celebrate graduation; Maleah Amsterdam (2024) at Candlelight Carol in 2023; Blessing of the canned food drive in 2023 by Bishop Parkes.
