Imagine Spring 2023

�imagine� MAGAZINE

SPRING 2023

Contents

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About the Cover: Biomedical Science students walk in the Mount Dora Christmas Parade.

Editor & Director of Public Relations Kayley White Editors and Contributors Diana Bay Cindy Brown Dr. Lori Hadley Dave Hogan Dr. Brian Mast Dr. Tony Kinkel Kathy Pruitt Printing Ford Press Photography George Horsford Malcolm Yawn MDCA Yearbook Imagine Magazine is produced by the Office of Public Relations for the parents, friends, supporters, and alumni of Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children's Home.

Mount Dora Christian Academy and Children's Home 301 W. 13th Avenue Mount Dora, FL 32757 /MDCABulldogs /MountDoraChildrensHome @MDCAcademy @MDCAcademy @mount_dora_childrens_home

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3 Letter from the President 4 Academics 8 Arts 9 Athletics

10 Alumni 17 Development

20 Social Services 22 Memorials and Honors

From the President “Though you can easily count the seeds in an apple; it's impossible to count the apples in a seed.” - unknown I listened to a devotional recently that included a quote which really resonated with me. The quote is from an unknown source and author, but it states,

“Though you can easily count the seeds in an apple; it’s impossible to count the apples in a seed.”

I have thought about that quote a lot since hearing it that day. I think about the number of students who have attended and have been served through Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home since the doors opened on September 10, 1945. The number of students, children, and families served on this beautiful 70-acre campus is staggering.

I don’t know much about an apple, but I would guess an apple has roughly five seeds in it. I read that an average apple tree produces about 300 apples in a growing season. If the average apple contains five seeds, one apple tree will produce about 1,500 seeds per season.

Those 1,500 seeds have the potential to produce 450,000 apples and another 2,225,000 seeds. Those 2,250,000 seeds will then produce 675,000,000 apples.

I could continue the math, but I think you get the picture I am painting.

that God’s story will continue to be written on the hearts of those we serve at MDCA&CH today and for years to come?

As you turn the pages of this edition of Imagine, you will sense a theme of “Home.” For those of you who have called MDCA&CH home, I pray you will find peace in knowing that MDCA&CH is still here and thriving. We invite you to come back and spend the day with us and learn more about our mission, core values, and our plans for the future.

One of our core values at MDCA&CH is, “Live in the future and build on the past.”

It is our goal to nurture and grow the seeds which have been planted. This can be accomplished in so many ways. Even the smallest and most insignificant acts of kindness can lead to a massive yield. Knowing that so many apples are produced from one seed should encourage us to continue fulfilling the mission of MDCA&CH, one heart at a time.

God’s story has been written on the hearts of thousands of children at MDCA&CH. Like the apple seed and apples, we can’t count how many additional hearts God’s story has been written on outside of MDCA&CH, but I have heard many beautiful stories where the seeds have produced fruit.

In Him,

As we enter a new calendar year, I pray that we all see the opportunities we have to share God’s word with others. We have an ability to change the world for the better, one heart at a time. Will you commit to praying

Dr. Brian Mast President

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 3

Welcome New Bulldogs Josef Alleyne, Elementary P.E. Teacher: Alleyne graduated from MDCA in 2013 and played football at Harding University. In 2015, he transferred to Seminole State College and attended the University of Central Florida in 2017. Alleyne graduated from UCF in 2019 with his Bachelor in Sport and Exercise Science. He is set to graduate from the University of Florida with his master's in Sports Management in May 2023. Alleyne previously worked at Advent Health Sports Med and Rehab. He married Mallory in 2020 and, in 2023 they welcomed their daughter into the world.

Ashley Butler, Athletic Trainer: Butler graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in Athletic Training and has been working as an athletic trainer for over 14 years. She has worked with many professional, collegiate, high school, and amateur athletes.

Before joining MDCA, she worked at East Ridge High School, Orlando Health Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, and most recently, Legacy High School. Butler has two children, Madison and Drew. MDCA’s Director of Athletics, Megan Ziegelhofer describes Butler as the perfect fit. “Ashley brings years of experience, as well as a unique skill set, that has already proven to be an asset to our athletic program. Ashley is very passionate about athletic training. She has already input safety and wellness protocols as well as daily treatment plans in place for all of our student-athletes. We are so blessed to have Ashley as part of our team!”

Morgan Pinckney, Elementary Administrative Assistant: Pinckney and her husband, Brian, live in Apopka with their two daughters, Lilly and Mia. She previously worked as the VP of Customer Experience and Data with Girls Scouts of Citrus Council. She also has experience in teaching, curriculum development, and family and youth engagement through her church.

Ashley Tierney, Accounts Receivable Specialist: Tierney is a mom to two daughters who are new MDCA students in the 6th and 8th grades this year. She and her husband, Chad, are both from Iowa and moved their family to Florida in 2015. Tierney has been working at Sunday Cool in Tavares for the last three years in both their art department and accounting office.

She has also been a graphic designer, a dorm mom at a boarding school in Africa, a student ministries assistant, and a stay-home mom.

Nikki Worley, Third Grade Teacher: Born and raised in Central Florida, Worley attended UCF where she earned her bachelor's in Elementary Education. She has now been teaching for four years in public school and taught multiple grade levels. Worley's daughter has attended MDCA since she was three years old, and Worley has loved being a part of the MDCA family as a parent.

4 | Imagine · Spring 2023

The Social Services Department recently gained a valuable new team member who has already proven to be a true blessing to Mount Dora Children’s Home and our residents. Elly Murfin joined our staff recently as a Human Services Specialist. Her husband, Billy Murfin, teaches Bible at MDCA. They have been married 21 years and have one son.

“Elly is a great team member, and her skills in working with children and families are a great addition to the Children’s Home,” said Chuck Shepherd, Director of Social Services. “Her talent, flexibility, enthusiasm, and new ideas will be invaluable to our program.”

Elly wears many hats in her role at the Children’s Home. She provides case management for residents, mentors the girls in the residential program, supports single parents, and serves as a relief parent to the girls at Thompson House along with Billy.

A Florida native, Elly attended Faulkner University and later earned a degree in addiction counseling from Saint Petersburg College. She expects to graduate this year with a degree in Christian counseling from Liberty University.

Working with youth has long been a passion for Elly. She met Billy when both were attending Faulkner University as youth ministry majors. She taught for 15 years at Gulf Coast Christian School. She and Billy actively worked with youth while members at the Northwest Church of Christ in St. Petersburg prior to moving to Mount Dora.

“I chose this job because I have a passion for working with people and youth,” Elly said. “I want to make a difference in the kingdom and feel like this is a wonderful community that is doing just that. I want to make sure the youth in our programs know they are loved, valued, and heard. I love the quote from Mother Teresa that says ‘Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.’ I strive to live my life trying to make sure that all I do, I do in love.”

Zack and Amanda Crotty may not have won the lottery, but becoming houseparents at Mount Dora Children’s Home came pretty close.

“My wife always said that if she ever won the lottery, she’d want to open an orphanage,” Zack said.

“When we first met,” Amanda added, “we were doing the get-to-know-you questions, and he asked if money wasn’t an object and I won the lottery and could do whatever I wanted, what would I do? I said I would open a large-scale orphanage or children’s home, and I would run it and love on the kids every day.”

Zack and Amanda recently joined our staff as houseparents to the girls in Thompson House. They have four children of their own, Landon, 13, Hannah, 12, Addison, 4, and Eliza, 1. The couple has a long history of working with young people and teaching them about God. “I have always had a passion for kids,” Amanda said. “Even as a kid, I helped out in the nursery and helped out with the youth group. I have always worked with kids.”

Zack is a Mount Dora native and graduated from MDCA in 2006. He previously worked for 10 years as a general sales manager for a new-car dealership. In addition to his duties as a houseparent, Zack works at Advent Health Waterman Hospital and is attending nursing school. Amanda grew up in Tampa and has worked as a school teacher, teaching preschool, elementary, and middle school classes.

Amanda and Zack say they approach being houseparents here as a ministry, not just a job.

“We have always been drawn to youth ministry and always felt like it was the area of ministry we were most interested in,” Zack said. “It gives children a solid foundation, especially in today’s secular world. Helping kids have a strong base gives them a great head start; it gives them a chance.”

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 5

Biomedical Sciences Institute Continues to Grow Last fall, our Biomedical Sciences students had the opportunity to visit AdventHealth Waterman to learn about their new Da Vinci Surgical System. This robot helps surgeons deliver a minimally invasive surgical approach. Students were able to get hands-on with the robot and try it out for themselves. BSI students also had the opportunity to hear from MDCA parent, Leila Keeler, DO, FACOOG.

About their visit to AdventHealth, 9th-grader Victoria Jimenez-Vazquez states, "The Da Vinci hospital experience was fantastic. We learned about different types of robotics used in doctors' and nurses' daily lives and participated in a few interactive machines. We got to practice what doctors do with their machines, and we could ask them questions." She continued, "I joined BSI because I wanted to have a career in the sciences and learn more about different branches of science. Being in BSI has helped me remember how much I love learning about science and the world around us. In class, we have done many things, like investigate a scene and tell whether it was a murder or an accident, learn how the body ends up in the morgue, and now we are learning about blood and its components. One of the main things I love about being in BSI is the labs and interactive stuff we do. It's great how our teacher always goes step by step, and when we are stuck or have questions, she is always there to answer and help. BSI is one of those classes where learning is entertaining and where there will always be something interesting happening."

Senior Emma Ferebee shared her experience with the Da Vinci Robot, "I thought the Da Vinci Robot was very interesting as I have never seen technology like that. Thinking back, it is astounding that we have been able to create such machinery, which helps with the goal of the biomedical field to advance society

6 | Imagine · Spring 2023

through technology to aid humanity. I am very grateful that I could see and demo this technology." About the program, she states, "I joined the BSI program when I was in the 9th grade. It was a new program that caught my interest. Though I started on a whim, I have always been interested in the medical field. I love science and have a desire to help people through medicine. The BSI program has opened my eyes to new perspectives and allowed me to experience new opportunities like the Da Vinci Robot. I hope that one day I, too, can make a positive impact in the medical field and change the world for the better."

BSI added five students to the program this year. MDCA is blessed to have Laura Barker open the door and lead these students to succeed in the medical field.

10th-grader Andrew Pappas shared why he joined the program, "I joined BSI because I am interested in the medical field and thought it would be a good experience. BSI is a great program for those willing to put in some time and effort to experience the wonders of the medical field and the body. I look forward to learning more about different medical professionals and the way everything in the body works."

9th-grader Kaitlyn Smith shared her appreciation for this program, "I chose the BSI program because I've always wanted to go into the medical field. I knew going into it that it would be challenging, but I was excited about that! Being able to go into a classroom every day and truly come out of it learning something new is such a great experience, and I'm so grateful to be a part of it. I look forward to learning more about the healthcare industry in general and how to start my own practice or the elements of starting my own practice. It hasn't even been a full year yet, but I'm overwhelmingly grateful for this opportunity and this learning space."

Fine Arts at MDCA

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Snoop Dogg graphite portrait by Sammi Thomas. (01) High School theatre performed the Christmas comedy, Aesop's Fable-ous Christmas Tree in December. (02) Still life in graphite by Madi Watkins. (03) Character in India ink by Abby Rutherford. (04) Ornaments and Bows in colored pencil by Lydia Johnson. (05) Giraffes in graphite by Sienna Keeler. (06)

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Athletic Highlights

CA history, we For the first time in MDcer team coached soc ool sch dle have a mid Perry ('22).

by MDCA alumni, Hailey

The coache Middle Scho ol Girls d by M this sea rs. Knight ('8 Basketball t eam 7) we son in Middle the Centra nt undefeate l Florid d School a League .

ng team our weightlifti Six girls from ed to regionals. advanc

The footba ll team had another succ to the State essful season Championsh as they mad ip game for e it the third ye ar in a row.

The boys varsity basketball team traveled to play against Greater Atlanta Christian School (Coach Hayes' Alma Mater) and won 52-44.

The boys soccer team made MDCA history District 4 champions!

as the Class 2A

Perry Petruccelli ('10) began coaching girls varsity basketball this year after coaching middle school boys basketball for five years. He was assisted by Mikayla 2A CA history as the Class l. Warrington ('14) and Stefani Monn. The team finished with MD de ma m tea cer ional fina The girls soc a winning season, 18-6 and were named the The advanced to the reg District 4 champions.

Class 2A District Champions.

Senior Isaiah Bryant received offers from all three military academies. He decided to continue his education and football career at Navy in the fall of 2023.

The boys va was named rsity basketball team the Class Champions.2A District

Eight student-athletes have signed their National Letter of Intent to play athletics at the next level. We anticipate more athletes signing before the end of the school year.

d Jesiah Pierre Virgil ('22) an d Texas Tech ie gg Re s er ay an football pl University Former MDCAtanding seasons at Miamitively. ec sp re , ity rs ('19) had outs Unive

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 9

A Season of Reflection: Number 32 Comes Out of Retirement Ordinarily, when an institution retires a jersey number in honor of the athlete who wore it, the decision is permanent.

On January 8, 1999, Mount Dora Christian Academy’s number 32 basketball jersey was retired in a special ceremony at homecoming less than a year after the untimely death of its celebrated and beloved owner, Kevin Adams (class of 1993), who was killed in an auto accident on February 17, 1998, in Nashville, Tennessee. This past November, MDCA’s Athletic Director Megan Ziegelhofer and Head Basketball Coach Steven Hayes brought number 32 out of retirement for one season to be worn not by one athlete, but shared by two.

The significance of the names of those two senior athletes who alternated wearing Kevin Adams’s jersey number 32 during the 2022-23 season is powerful. They are twins KEVIN Frederick and ADAM Frederick ('23), who are the nephews and namesakes that Kevin Adams never got to meet. Their mom, Allison Adams Frederick ('95), is Kevin Adams’s younger sister. To see her brother’s jersey number come out of retirement in order to be worn by her own sons during their senior season was indescribable. “The opportunity for my boys to be able to wear my brother’s number 32 jersey represents what this school is all about to me, and that is family,” she explains. “So many people here knew and loved my brother, and those same people have loved and helped my boys grow into who they are. It is a very special connection.”

In addition to their parents being at the first game of the 2022-23 season, the twins’ grandparents, Kenny and Linda Adams, were also there to see the emotional moment when their only son’s number came out of retirement for their grandsons. Both Kenny ('66) and Linda ('72) also graduated from MDCA, saying in a joint statement, “We will always consider it a tremendous honor to Kevin and our family that the school retired his jersey in 1999. Once again, for the 2022-23 basketball season, it was an honor to see Kevin’s jersey brought out of retirement for our grandsons’ senior year. To see number 32 play ball on the MDCA court again worn by family members was an unexpected blessing. We sincerely thank Coach Hayes, Coach Z, and the administration for making it possible.” For Coach Hayes, it was an easy decision. “It was only right to bring #32 out of retirement for Kevin and Adam’s senior year, and the family was happy with the idea of honoring Kevin by bringing his jersey back for one season.” He adds, “It was an honor for our team to honor Kevin Adams and all he stood for on and off the court.”

Kevin Adams’ story is worthy of telling, and it includes an interwoven deep family history at MDCA. As already noted, his parents and sister are graduates, and other family members 10 | Imagine · Spring 2023

are also MDCA alumni. In addition to the Frederick twins, who will graduate this spring, their older sister, Madison, graduated in 2020, and was in the Seven Year Club for cheer.

Former Head Basketball Coach Mike Hill (class of 1977 and 1994 MDCA Hall of Fame Inductee) was not only Kevin’s coach throughout all four years of high school, but he was also Kevin’s uncle and teacher. Coach Hill retired from MDCA in September 2022 after working at the school for 37 years, impacting many lives during that time. Kevin’s cousins, Dr. Sara Hill ('04) and Kelly Hill ('09), also graduated from MDCA and currently work at the school where Dr. Hill is the secondary principal, and Kelly is an elementary teacher.

Additionally, Kevin’s paternal grandparents, Ken and Norma Adams, were dorm parents, and Ken also raised funds for the school. It’s clear that the school has been an integral part of the family for many decades.

Kevin Adams left a legacy at MDCA as a student and an athlete. He was very involved, participating in the Pep Club, Spiritual Emphasis Club, Senior Beta, and the yearbook staff.

Adams was crowned the 1993 Homecoming King, received the President’s Award, was named as a Senior Superlative, and was chosen by his peers as Mr. Christian Home & Bible School (as MDCA was known at the time). He was also named the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce Student of the Year. His athletic contributions are impressive. In addition to playing basketball, Kevin was a member of the 1989 state cross country championship team as a freshman, was selected All-County Cross Country Runner of the Year and was All-State Cross Country.

As talented as he was in cross country, it was basketball, however, that was Kevin’s passion. To say he was an impact player is an understatement. He played on his uncle’s varsity team all four years of high school. “Kevin worked long and hard developing his basketball skills as he grew up,” Coach Hill says.

“He could shoot, pass, dribble, rebound, and play defense with the best of them. His basketball records and accomplishments proved that.” Adams was named on the All-Conference and All-County basketball teams his sophomore, junior, and senior years, and was selected on the All-Central Florida and AllState basketball teams his senior year. Coach Hill says, “The things that made Kevin special were intangible. He was mentally tough, passionate, and coachable. He was a true competitor and leader on and off the court. Every coach needs a Kevin on the team.” Over the course of his high school career, Kevin scored 2,063 points, the second highest number at MDCA. He was also first in steals, second in assists, and fourth in rebounds.

For his many athletic accomplishments, Adams was inducted into MDCA’s Athletic Hall of Fame on January 9, 1999, the evening after his jersey was retired.

“Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there,” is a quote by former UCLA Coach John Wooden.

Coach Hill feels this quote describes Kevin. “Even though Kevin became an excellent basketball player, it was not basketball that defined him,” Hill says. “It was his character. Everyone loved and admired him. He was an exceptional young man who happened to be a great basketball player.” Hill, who started teaching and coaching at MDCA when Kevin was in sixth grade, shared more than just basketball with his nephew. “Our relationship was a strong one, and I loved him like a son,” Hill says. Indeed, Adams was an inspiration in his daily walk and made a lasting impact on all who knew him. He was intentional about reaching out to younger students (see article on page 12), was an exemplary role model for them, and made them feel important, which was one of his greatest gifts. His strong moral character, compassion, relatability, sense of humor, and charm endeared him to everyone. Adams knew how important relationships like this could be because his mentor as a middle school student was Scott Moore ('87), son of former President Dr. James Moore. “Scott Moore was always intentional about reaching out to Kevin, building a relationship with him, and making him feel important,” says Adams’ parents.

Adams attended Lipscomb University (LU) in Nashville, Tennessee, where he pursued a degree in social work. He wanted a career that impacted the lives of others, especially children. He started his basketball career there as a walk-on and became a contributing player on the team where he also wore the number 32 on his purple and gold Bison jersey. He was a member of the 1995-96 LU team that advanced to the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Final Four.

“We could’ve never had a chance to win the conference championship without the way Kevin stepped up and played,” said former LU Bison Head Coach Don Meyer.

Adams continued to be a role model and shining light for others during college. In a speech he gave in a social work class, he said it was his parents who provided the foundation that made him the kind of person he was. “They kept me in line and taught me right from wrong, and I strive to set a good example to my younger sister,” he told his classmates. In that same speech, Adams said, “Even though I am a member of LU’s basketball team and SGA, the Church of Christ is the most important community I’m a part of. It keeps me focused on God.” Adams also said his opportunity to play basketball in college was because of MDCA Coach Mike Hill. “I was fortunate to play in college for a team I had always dreamed of, but it would’ve never happened if it wasn’t for the work ethic and discipline that I was taught by my uncle, who was my coach.”

Adams was tragically killed in February 1998, a few months prior to his college graduation. Lipscomb University held a memorial service where LU President Dr. Steve Flatt, SGA President Justin Scott, Head Basketball Coach Don Meyer,

and Provost Dr. Craig Bledsoe all spoke. Students there painted the Bison statue in the campus courtyard purple with the #32 on it as a tribute to Adams. In May 1998, his parents received his degree posthumously. For at least a year following his death, they received letters from people they’d never met who wanted to share with them the impact that their son had made in their lives. One of his coworkers at the daycare center where he worked said, “The last time I saw Kevin, he was holding a child in his arms.”

MDCA’s former star athlete and 1993 graduate left an unmistakable legacy on those who knew him. Adams would be humbled to know his name still echoes in the halls of his alma mater all these years later. He would no doubt be thrilled that his retired jersey came out of retirement to shine one more time for one more season by two people named after him. Kevin and Adam Frederick, the nephews Adams never got to meet, had outstanding senior seasons wearing the number 32. They are not only talented basketball players in their own right, but they are also young men of admirable character who are respected by faculty and students, were selected by their peers onto the 2022 Homecoming Court and are heavily involved studentathletes at MDCA. Coach Hayes says the following about them: “Kevin and Adam are two of the nicest, most loving young men I have ever coached. They are great Christian young men who have flourished on and off the court. I will truly miss them when they graduate, and I love them as if they were my own.”

Kevin Frederick, Kenny Adams, Allison Frederick, Linda Adams, and Adam Frederick

Obviously, Kevin and Adam Frederick have impacted MDCA much the same way that Adams did, and they cherish being part of a multi-generational MDCA family. They wore the number 32 proudly, and each of them received a jersey to keep at the end of the season. Adam says, “Wearing the jersey gave me a reason to play harder and felt like I was playing for something bigger.” Kevin adds, “It made me proud that I had an opportunity to play for something other than myself and more about my family.” Kevin and Adam Frederick will graduate in May 2023, exactly 30 years after Kevin Adams.

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 11

The following article was written by Danny Rohrdanz ('04), whose young life was forever changed by former MDCA star athlete Kevin Adams (see article on page 10). It illustrates the unique opportunity a school like ours can provide and serves as a challenge to those who want to make a difference. Its heartwarming message of intentionality shows how our older students here at MDCA can profoundly impact the lives of those younger Bulldogs who share this beautiful campus.

The Impact of Kevin Adams on My Life

by Danny Rohrdanz

Growing up at MDCA (CH&BS at the time) in the 90's was special, to say the least. I have so many good memories from my childhood there. When I was a little guy, probably in the first grade, I fell in love with the game of basketball. I became known around the school as the "gym rat" who was always found somewhere in the gym at any given time. Whether it was working on ball handling, my jump shot, or trying to act cool and talk with the older kids, you could always find me in that gym. My love for the game was primarily because of Kevin Adams. He was the star player of the varsity team at MDCA, the big man on campus, and just such a great guy. There was no doubt that he was my hero and a guy I completely idolized. That's why it was such a shock to me and a bit of a surreal moment when Kevin started taking an interest in me and talking to me now and then in the gym or around campus.

Our relationship grew from there. I was lucky enough that Coach Hill (Kevin's uncle) invited me to be the manager and ball boy on that '92-'93 team, so I got to go everywhere with the guys - practices, locker room, home games, away games, meals after games, you name it. I was in heaven. I loved rebounding during warm ups, refilling water bottles, and keeping the shot chart during the games at the end of the bench. It couldn't get any better for me, and Kevin was the one who welcomed me every step of the way. During that year, as I did my best to stay in his shadow, we developed a pretty special and unique relationship, all because of his intentionality with a little first-grader who loved basketball.

There are a few distinct memories I have of Kevin throughout that season. I remember once when he drove me to get some ice cream after school and before practice one day. I thought I was the coolest kid around riding with Kevin in his car. I also remember him giving me one of his playbooks with many of the offensive plays that guys ran during the games. We looked at that book together quite a bit, and he began to help me understand the game a lot more. While I loved the basketball side of things, I just loved hanging out with him. I also remember the night at the end of the season when the guys lost, were eliminated, and the season was over. I just remember crying and crying. But, I also remember Kevin giving me a big hug in the parking lot and talking with me for a bit about how there is a lot more to life than basketball. I'll never forget that moment.

When Kevin graduated and went to play basketball in college, I don't remember too much about those years.

However, I do remember mailing letters back and forth 12 | Imagine · Spring 2023

with Kevin a few times while he was in college, and in one letter, he wrote me "not to have more than five girlfriends at a time." I thought that was pretty funny!

Again, his intentionality as a young man is still surprising to me all these years later. What college athlete has a second-grader for a pen pal?

A few years later, in 1998, when Kevin passed away, I wasn't quite sure what to think. I remember my parents waking me up early one morning and telling me they had some really tough news to share with me, and they told me about Kevin's accident and that he had gone to be with Jesus. It didn't make sense. It didn't seem fair, and all at once, the world became a place where terrible things could happen, death became real, and people you love suddenly aren't here anymore. When Mr. and Mrs. Adams asked if I would participate in Kevin's funeral as a pallbearer, I was completely honored. I remember trying to act brave during that service while feeling so sad. It's a moment that will stay with me forever.

As I grew up, Kevin's impact on my life matured a bit, and I began to see more clearly the incredible lengths he went to, to make me feel welcomed and important.

As I pursued basketball at MDCA and into college, I was always aware of the "little guys" around me. And I was fortunate enough to develop some pretty incredible relationships with those little guys during my playing days, just like Kevin had with me. I always tried to remind myself how Kevin made me feel, and I wanted to pass that along to someone else.

Kevin's jersey number 32 will always hold a special place in my heart. Since Kevin's jersey was retired, I obviously couldn't wear that number, but I got as close as possible and chose to wear number 30 during my varsity years at MDCA. So much of how I acted, played, and competed was emulated based on what I remembered as a first grader hanging out with Kevin.

Writing this now, as a 37 year old, with a family and children of my own (one of whom is a seven-year-old right now, just like I was in my "gym rat" days), it's so clear to me just how impacting their experiences can be even at such a young age. Kevin showed me what selflessness was. When he had every opportunity to be that "big man on campus," star player, and untouchable high schooler, he chose to push all of that aside and spend meaningful time with a seven-year-old kid. I'm forever grateful for Kevin and the way he approached his life. In some ways, even as I approach turning 40 in a few years, when I think about him, I still feel that I want to grow up to be just like Kevin Adams.

Danny Rohrdanz and Kevin Adams

Danny Rohrdanz and Kevin Adams

Kevin Frederick, Kenny Adams, Linda Adams, and Adam Frederick

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 13

Alumni Return Home

Over the years, many have returned to work at their alma mater. This year, 20 alum are working on campus at Mount Dora Christian Academy.

Why would they decide to return to work at MDCA? For some, they felt God had called them to return. "It seemed to be the most natural choice and God's calling for my family and me. It has worked out perfectly, and we have been so blessed by doing so." -Laura Sexton For others, generations of family members have attended and worked at MDCA.

"My grandfather was an active part of the school in its early years. My father is an alumnus and is still on campus weekly, helping design the landscaping on our beautiful campus and being able to be at school with my two boys every day." -Emily Mabry "Several of my family members have worked at, graduated, or are about to graduate from MDCA. My dad also lived in the children's home growing up. His life, and therefore my life, could have taken a very different path if it wasn't for the school, home, and mentors who supported him." -Kelly Hill "MDCA has been a family affair for us. My dad and my siblings are graduates of MDCA. My husband is also a graduate, and we are excited for the day our daughter gets to be at school here with me." -Marissa Rapp For most, MDCA is home. When asked about MDCA, home was a common occurrence for this group of alum.

"This place is like my second home. The memories I made here as a student, and the experiences I'm getting to take part in now, are wonderful. This place changes lives and is a haven within a busy and selfish world where we can focus on God's love, His meaning for our lives, and build connections with other believers."

-Amanda Nunez They also choose to work at MDCA because they enjoy working with like-minded people and familiar faces.

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"Starting a new job at a new company can be scary because of the unknown. But working at MDCA is like coming home. You already know so much about what makes your workplace tick." -Ashton Ward "The best part about working at MDCA is the Christian environment and the people that I work with everyday."

-Cleta Horton "The best part about working at MDCA is our connections as staff members and between faculty and students. The bonds we are building and our support for each other are a beautiful extension of God's work in our lives and of the love of Christ we share with one another." -Amanda Nunez One thing that makes MDCA different is that many students stay from preschool until graduation; they practically grow up here. "I love seeing the satisfaction of seeing our students grow and develop through the years." -Elizabeth Knight

"MDCA is a family. I love that I get to teach littles and coach the older students. It is exciting to watch your students continue to grow after they leave your room."

-Marissa Rapp Something our alums love about working at MDCA is the opportunity to show the same love that was shown to them as students.

"I want to make a difference in the lives of my students like my teachers and coaches did for me." -Kelly Hill "I wanted to be a part of the family atmosphere that is here at MDCA and I wanted my children to experience the same love that I felt here." -Elizabeth Knight Being able to show love, specifically God's love, for the students, draws almost all of our staff to work at MDCA. The most important part of MDCA's mission is to empower its community to love God and others.

"I wanted to be able to teach in a Christian environment. I also remember feeling cared for as a student at CH&BS (now MDCA). I knew that a caring environment was something I wanted to be a part of for the current students." -Amanda Colwell "It is crucial that families today have a Christian option when deciding how to educate their children best."

-Denita Snider "I felt loved and accepted at MDCA because of teachers like Mitzi Brown, who challenged me to be a better Christian and student." -Laura Barker "MDCA allows students to know God and experience His love. The best part about working here is seeing students' lightbulbs go off when they understand concepts of spiritual realities." -Carson Barker

This alum group has seen many changes at MDCA since they were students.

"We have a much better football stadium, a new science building, and the emphasis on academics is much higher.

We had excellent academics, but now students are given more tools to succeed." -Josef Alleyne "I have enjoyed seeing the increase in educational technology over the years. I am proud of the experience we are able to offer our current students to prepare them for college and their careers." -Sara Hill What stands out the most is that the MDCA community feels more like a family than anything else. No matter what the reason, we are thankful for these alum that have returned and continue to return to MDCA to give back to the community that gave so much to them.

Ashton Ward '15 | Kayley White '15 | Josef Alleyne '13 | Carson Barker '13 | Perry Petrucelli '10 | Marissa Rapp '10 | Kelly Hill '09 | Kellyn Means '07 | Amanda Nunez '06 | Siera Bretz '05 | Sara Hill '04 | Amanda Colwell '03 | Arin Wales '00 | Emily Mabry '99 | Jennifer Marcussen '97 | Jason Graves '91 | Elizabeth Knight '87 | Laura Barker '86 | Cleta Horton '84 | Denita Snider '79

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 15

2008

Alumni Updates

Andy Hadley and his wife, Chelsea welcomed their first baby, Ellis, on December 26th.

2017

2010

Lacey Sexton obtained her master's degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology from Liberty University.

She has also just recently been promoted to Senior Hiring Coordinator at The Villages Sales and Marketing Department.

Marissa and Eric Rapp ('11) welcomed their baby girl, Kenley Mae Rapp, on October 11th.

Sarah Baker graduated from Harding University with her BSN in Nursing on December 17. She will be moving to Charlotte, North Carolina and will be working on the orthopedic floor at Atrium Health - Mercy as a medical/ surgical nurse. Sarah plans on getting certified in wound care and begin travel nursing after completing residency on her unit.

2011

2018

Tyrone Johnson is a Firefighter with St. Petersburg Fire and Rescue. He is also a certified personal trainer and has been married for seven years. Tyrone and his wife have two daughters, who are three years old and two months old.

Kristina Pazienza is engaged to William Henley. They will get married on March 12th.

2014

Coleman Bevill graduated from Harding University with a degree in Bible and Family Ministry. He started as the full time Youth and Family minister at Southwest Church of Christ in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Coleman also married Faith Smith on December 18th.

2016

Molly Elenz married Kyle Aubin on November 18, 2022 at the Berkley Chapel in Auburndale.

Mikayla Baker married Tim Warrington on January 7th.

April Kossin graduated from Keiser University with a degree in exercise science in 2020. She worked as a competitive gymnastics coach. April met her husband, Scott, in January 2021 and got married December 15, 2022.

2022

Samuel Baker graduated from Lake Sumter Lineman Bootcamp.

We would love to know what is going on in your life! Let us know about graduations, awards, a wedding, a birth, job changes, promotions, etc. Please email your news to alumni@MDCAcademy.org.

16 | Imagine · Spring 2023

Joy of Giving Recently, I received one of those standard "Retire Well" enticements in the mail. It was an invitation to hear a well-known financial advisor discuss techniques and strategies to decrease my risk and reduce my tax burden. It came with the typical inducement of a wonderful meal at a local restaurant and the fellowship of other area residents who are retired or nearing retirement.

I know these organizations mean well, but the bottom line for them is they want my business to make money for their company. The purpose behind my investments, and the moral compass driving those decisions, is secondary to them.

I know for many Christians like me, motive is important.

There’s certainly nothing wrong with making a profit, but my preference is to be advised by someone whose primary purpose is to help me maximize opportunities to serve the Lord. That is why I’m so proud of the services we offer through the Development Office of Mount Dora Christian Academy and Children’s Home.

We have Christian financial service officers whose only motive is to share with you information on how to maximize resources for Christ. We provide help on annuities, charitable trusts, wills, and other charitable giving tools.

We believe there is a reason why the Lord has blessed you financially. At MDCA&CH, our vision is to be Christ-centered and to help you impact the world your grandchildren are growing up in. We are here to fulfill your dream of leaving a legacy that honors God. In 2022, a record number of Christians just like you honored the children of our home by designating a portion of their estate to our organization. Little did we know back in 1944, when a small group of church leaders in Mount Dora, Florida, got together to form the Christian Home and Bible School, that we would go on to impact thousands of children and become one of the leading K-12 schools in Central Florida. Our unprecedented success is due to your continued love and support and your charitable hearts.

2023 Given the volatility of the stock market and high inflation, no one would have predicted that charitable giving would remain strong in 2022. We certainly experienced this at MDCA&CH as our donors have continued to faithfully support our children. In fact, in November, we saw some of the highest volumes of giving during Giving Tuesday, making our yearend giving greater than the previous year. Looking toward 2023, divided government in Washington means current tax laws will remain fairly consistent.

Therefore, donors will want to be tax-smart. When the stock market stabilizes and stocks begin to appreciate, donating assets as opposed to cash has tremendous tax advantages. If you would like to learn about these benefits, please contact us.

Moreover, more and more donors are looking for organizations they can trust. Mackenzie Scott, the exwife of Bill Gates, calls this “trust-based philanthropy.”

Donors base trust on those who share their values. Here at MDCA&CH, our value system is non-negotiable. We provide children with a Christian Home combined with a school dedicated to Christ's example. In an aimless world, and amid a growing sense of isolation among our neighbors, many of whom don't know Christ, please know you can always trust Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home to remain steadfast in the Word.

A Feeling of Family After 30-plus years of working in public life, it is sheer joy to work at MDCA&CH, an organization that feels like a family. And while happiness is important, those of us here at Mount Dora Christian Academy and Children’s Home focus on solving the hard problems together. We tell the truth about performance.

We set high standards. We harness the power of doing it for each other. We feel safe, and that allows us to focus on a higher purpose of helping children learn about Jesus.

If you have children or grandchildren looking for a place to work that will give them meaning in their lives, please have them visit our website at www.mdcacademy.org and look at available jobs. This is a place where employees know their work is making a difference.

As a joyful employee, please know it will be a jubilant occasion when you contact our office. My cell number is 719-232-9782 if we can help you with your charitable giving needs. May you now and forever be blessed.

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 17

Stults & Jacobs Appointed to Board of Trustees

Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home has appointed two new members to the Board of Trustees.

Mrs. Julie Stults was appointed to the board last fall during the MDCA&CH Board of Trustees meeting. Julie and her husband, Wayne, have been married for 35 years and live in Winter Haven, Florida. They have one son, Tripp, who is 26 and lives in Columbia, Tennessee.

“I have a deep connection and love for Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home because my father and his siblings were raised in the Children’s Home,” said Julie. “My father and mother, Jack and Beth McDonald, worked at MDCA&CH for over 20 years.”

The MDCA basketball court is named ‘Jack McDonald Court’ in honor of Julie’s father, Jack. The Stults Media Center is named in honor of Julie’s in-laws, Gentry and Jeanette Stults.

“It is an honor to have Julie serving on our Board," said Dr. Brian Mast, President of Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home. "The Stults and McDonald families are legacy families and have given so much of their lives to this community.”

Julie and Wayne own their own business, Partner Marketing Group, where they sell promotional products and corporate apparel to several national accounts and local businesses. She enjoys traveling and is active in her church, Central Church of Christ, in Winter Haven, where her husband serves as an elder. “I am humbled and honored to serve on the MDCA&CH Board of Trustees and am excited about the growth and ministry of the school and children's home,” said Julie Stults.

18 | Imagine · Spring 2023

"Julie’s commitment to excellence is reflected in her experience in building a successful company with a national presence alongside her husband, Wayne,” said John Starling, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home. “In addition, Julie’s life-long love for and familiarity with our mission will help us build on our legacy of faith in God and service to others. We are pleased to announce her addition to the Board.”

Mrs. Tarsha Jacobs was appointed to the board on January 1, 2023. Tarsha has been married to her husband, Michael, for 28 years, and they reside in Orlando. They have two sons, Cameron and Michael Jr., and two daughters-in-love. She is an avid runner, triathlete, and yoga instructor. Tarsha volunteers in the women’s and youth ministries at her church, helps feed families at the Ronald McDonald House and Coalition, and serves as a mentor to teenagers and young CPAs. “Mrs. Jacobs is no stranger to the MDCA&CH campus.

She has stepped in on two occasions when we found ourselves in need of an interim CFO,” said Dr. Brian Mast, President of Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home. “She gave me everything she had for about six solid months. It was during her last stint that I knew I needed her on our Board. Her business and accounting acumen will be an asset to our organization.

I absolutely love her passion, energy, and drive. I am thankful for her willingness to serve the MDCA&CH community.”

Tarsha is the President/CEO of Jacobs & Associates, CPA. After working for local CPA firms in Central Florida for 15 years, she began her own practice in 2013.

Tarsha has over 29 years of experience in accounting and has provided services for clients in a range of industries including charter schools, construction, healthcare, manufacturing, not-for-profit, professional services, and retail.

“I have known about Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home and the great support they provide to the community for many years and have enjoyed working with the school on various projects,” said Jacobs. “I look forward to serving as a member of the Board of Trustees and supporting the staff in keeping up the long-standing history of this organization as a light to the community. I hope to spread the love of our savior Jesus Christ in all that we do.”

Tarsha is a member of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants and has served on that Board of Directors for four years and the Council for six years. She has served on numerous committees including Audit, Chapter Operations, Accounting Careers, Women’s Leadership, and Management of an Accounting Practice and was Regional Representative for Region 4 and Past-President for the Central Florida Chapter.

“Tarsha’s distinguished career includes nearly 30 years of experience as a CPA including the founding of her own firm,” said John Starling, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home. “In addition, Tarsha’s financial experience and leadership expertise will complement our commitment to providing a Christ-centered education and service to others. We are pleased to announce her addition to the Board.”

“I am beyond excited to have Julie and Tarsha, two strong Christian women, joining our Board," said President Mast. “When I spoke with them, I loved that both of them showed a strong passion for our mission, but what I loved most was that they didn’t give me an immediate answer. They both asked me for time to take my request to God in prayer. When they finally called me and agreed to serve, I was thrilled for our community. We immediately became better as an organization.”

MDCA&CH Board of Trustees: John Starling, Chairman, Glenn McGehee, Vice Chairman, Chuck Lipford, Secretary, Hon. Joe Wild, Hal Burleson, Dr. Dorsey Hightower, Dr. Jim Carr, Julie Stults, and Tarsha Jacobs

Request for Children

by Chuck Shepherd, Director of Social Services Mount Dora Children’s Home has openings for additional girls (ages 11-18) in the Group Care Residential Program. If you or your church knows of children who need to transition to a more loving and stable home, please contact our Social Services Department at 352-383-9906. Our goal is to serve as many children as possible who need a better home environment.

Children from a variety of backgrounds can benefit from our services. In most instances, these are not “troubled children” but simply children caught up in difficult family circumstances. Some come from homes where alcohol or drug addictions have made normal family life impossible. Others have been abused, neglected, or even abandoned. Some children’s parents or guardians suffer from failing health or other hardships and recognize their children need a better home. We accept children from a variety of backgrounds.

Mount Dora Children’s Home offers many benefits to children in the Group Care Program. They include the following: • Live in a safe, comfortable, home where they will be loved and cared for by Christian houseparents.

• Attend Mount Dora Christian Academy, a fully accredited and academically strong Pre-K through

12th grade private Christian school. Students at all grade levels are required to take Bible classes.

Chapel is held daily. High school students receive guidance on attending college or pursuing other post-secondary career training.

• Receive private tutoring, individual or group therapy by a licensed counselor, and when needed, testing and psychological evaluations.

• All children attend a local Church of Christ and are encouraged to participate in youth groups, mission trips, and other church activities.

Since Mount Dora Children’s Home first opened its doors in 1945, we have always maintained a close partnership with supporting local churches throughout Florida and the Southeast. Many of the nearly 1,600 children and dozens of single-parent families who have benefited over the years from living at the Children’s Home, were referred here by ministers, elders, and other faithful Christians in our supporting churches.

Thank you for referring any children to us who you think might benefit from Group Care. Please prayerfully consider this need. In addition to calling our office, you may email Tonja Rambow at tonja.rambow@mdchome.org or Elly Murfin at elly.murfin@mdchome.org.

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 19

New Home for Tynes Family Having your own home is part of the American dream, but for many single parents, it's a dream that seems far out of reach, especially in today's world of high home prices and rising interest rates. Thanks to the Single Parent Program at Mount Dora Children's Home, one single-parent family has seen that dream come true.

Sheena Tynes and her children recently moved into a newly constructed home in Eustis, Florida, built in partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter and AgeWave Solutions.

The Tynes family has lived in Mount Dora for ten years and is excited about their new space. After having a previous home fall through, a social worker at MDCH relayed Habitat Lake-Sumter's homeownership program to her. Sheena has dedicated her Saturdays to working on the house, and her sons have also volunteered by painting houses at other Habitat project sites. From losing a previous home to applying with Habitat, Sheena has trusted God through the process and the waiting.

"For my children, I wanted a place they could call their own, to have their own space," Sheena said, who joined the Single Parent Program in the summer of 2020 along with her three children. "It's very important to have your own home right now, especially with rental prices increasing."

More than 40 single parents and more than 100 children have been served through the Single Parent Program since it began in 2009. Single-parent families come to us from various backgrounds and for many reasons. Some are escaping abusive relationships, others suffer from spouses or partners addicted to 20 | Imagine · Spring 2023

alcohol or drugs, and many come because they struggle financially or need training for a better career. The Children's Home provides: • Housing on our campus and other financial assistance • Counseling and tutoring • Training designed to help them be more successful For Sheena, providing a more stable environment for her children and saving money to buy her first house were top priorities. "Since I've been in the program, I feel it's been such a blessing for me," Sheena said. "My kids can be in a Christian environment, and I'm able to save money."

Spiritual development is the top priority for all Mount Dora Children's Home residents, including singleparent families. Single-parents are encouraged to grow spiritually and to train their children through Bible stories and prayer times in the home. Children of singleparents who attend Mount Dora Christian Academy benefit from daily chapel and Bible classes and the mentoring and encouragement of Christian faculty and coaches. Single-parent families are expected to attend church regularly while in the program.

"My faith in God has increased," Sheena said. "I have seen a difference in my daughter. She has a prayer life, and her faith in God is different now."

"God is indeed good, and I am grateful I was able to be a part of this program," Sheena said. For more information about the Single Parent Program at Mount Dora Children's Home, please get in touch with our Social Services Department at 352-383-9906, or visit the Children's Home website at www.mdchome.org.

Attend a Benefit Dinner Now that the Covid pandemic is behind us, crowds are returning to the regional benefit dinners hosted by Mount Dora Children’s Home. Attendance has been up at benefit dinners this school year in Nashville, West Palm Beach, Sarasota, and Montgomery.

Benefit dinners are a great way to learn more about the mission of the Children’s Home, which has co-existed on our campus with the Academy since the institution’s founding in 1945. President Dr. Brian Mast delivers an overview of the Children’s Home and does a Q&A on stage with two current or past residents whose lives have been changed thanks to the Children’s Home. In recent dinners, residents sharing their stories on stage have included Rebecca Cox, a participant in the Single Parent Program; Claudia Velazquez, a senior at MDCA and resident at Thompson House; and Josh Young, a

graduate of the Residential Group Care Program.

A highlight of the benefit dinners is the Divine Servant Award. This award is given to an individual or couple who has faithfully supported the Children’s Home for many years or helped with dinner promotions.

Divine Servants recognized so far this school year include Jeff Bartlett (Nashville), Doris Edwards (Sarasota), and Sam Long (Montgomery).

We have two more benefit dinners scheduled for this spring. The Jacksonville Benefit Dinner is on April 22, and the Tampa Benefit Dinner is on May 13.

Scan the QR code for more information on our Benefit Dinners:

Dr. Tony Kinkel, Doria Edwards, and Dr. Brian Mast

Josh Young, Residential Group Care Program Graduate

The Montgomery Benefit Dinner

Bequests are charitable gifts made after death through one's will or trust. Bequests are a growing source of donations for Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children's Home. They give people a chance to make a larger impact with their money and other assets for causes they support.

Everyone is encouraged to have a will or trust.

These important legal documents allow a person's wishes to be fulfilled for how they want their estate to be distributed. Without a valid will or trust, the state decides who gets your money and property after your death.

Nonprofits like MDCA&CH can be included as a beneficiary in a will or trust. You can instruct that a certain percentage of your estate go to one or more charities or select a specific amount of money or assets that you want the nonprofit to receive. For instance, you can gift a rental home or shares of stock to charity in your will or trust.

The Legacy Club honors individuals who are helping provide a financially sound future for Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children's Home by including the Home or Academy in their will, trust, or other planned giving documents. Remembering Mount Dora in your estate is a wonderful way to leave a lasting, faithaffirming legacy. Your generous gift will potentially benefit children and families for generations to come.

If you are considering naming Mount Dora Christian Academy and Children's Home in your will or trust, or have already done so, please contact Tony Kinkel, Vice President of Development, at 352-383-0762, or email development@mdchome.org.

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 21

Memorials

Memorials August 1, 2022 - January 31, 2023 Jerry Adair Mr. and Mrs. James M. Adair Tricky Arnold Mr. Larry Arnold Walter Austin, Jr. Mr. J. Stewart Edgar Ms. Cheryl Harrison Mrs. Betty Huie Dr. and Mrs. William R. McKissick, M.D. Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Payne Mr. and Mrs. Bennie H. Pinckley Ms. Christa Plum Sam Ayers Mrs. Judith Roney Lois Babbitt Mr. and Mrs. Harvey W. Burch Betty June Bailey Mrs. Betty J. Burkhead Joe Ball Mr. and Mrs. James R. Gatewood, Jr. Sam Bass Mrs. Patricia M. Bass Elsa G. Beal Mr. Craig G. Beal Mr. and Mrs. John Collins Ms. Moises R. Hernandez Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert J. Martinez Orvel & Mildred Boyd Mrs. Judith Roney Mr. and Mrs. Garry D. Allison, Jr. Monty Boyd Mr. and Mrs. John McMeen Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Tillery Orvel Boyd Mrs. Judith Roney Pearl Braddock Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Katie Breakfield Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Breakfield Paul T. Breakfield, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Breakfield, III Danny Brineman Mr. and Mrs. C.L. Overturf, Jr. Merriam Brooker Mr. and Mrs. David L. Brooker Mrs. Dana Sawyer Edwin & Patricia Butler Mr. and Mrs. Robert N. Sell Doris Butts Mr. Ray F. Butts John Carpenter Mrs. Joanne C. Peck Lib Carpenter Mrs. Joanne C. Peck Jo Childers Mr. Tim Doyle Miss Sheryl Norfleet Mrs. Peggy Saylor Bob Clayton Mr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Deem Eileen Coblentz Mrs. Peggy Goldtrap Aileen Cook Mr. and Mrs. Jack McDonald

22 | Imagine · Spring 2023

Blaine & Alene Cook Mr. and Mrs. Charles Killian Mr. and Mrs. Burt A. McKee Mr. and Mrs. Billie J. Queen Joe and Aileen Craig Mr. David Samples Mr. and Mrs. Michael Jacobs Mr. and Mrs. Everett C. Smith Polly Crews Mr. Erik Uebele Mr. and Mrs. William L. Evers Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery D. Weathers P.B. Crews Mr. Jack D. White Mr. and Mrs. William L. Evers Robert & Dorothy Hatchett Grace Cumings Mr. and Mr. Robin B. Hatchett Robert and Lynne Keller Charitable Nathan Hayes Account Ms. Renee Jackson Hal Cunningham Lavon Henley Ms. Rebecca D. Little Mrs. Virginia C. Henley Virginia L. Davis Rob & Carol Hennessee Mr. and Mrs. Davis G. Henry Mrs. Maudeann McKendree Cecil Glen Dawson Mary K. Hernandez Mr. and Mrs. Robin B. Leonard Mr. and Mrs. James M. Adair Peter DeLeonibus Al Herron Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Mr. and Mrs. Jack McDonald Don Hemenway Patricia Edgar Dr. and Mrs. Anthony G. Kinkel Mr. J. Stewart Edgar Boyce Edwards Olen Holston Mr. and Mrs. Rick Ricard Mr. William Holladay Louise English Ona Merle Hulion Ms. Kathy D. Anthony Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth L. Hulion Mr. and Mrs. Winston Burnham Mr. and Mrs. Larry P. McDonald Mr. and Mrs. William R. Hendricks Mr. and Mrs. Michael Russell Mr. Bruce Martin William T. Ingram, Sr. Mr. Jim Martin Mr. and Mrs. Gary Shelt Mr. and Mrs. Joe H. Moberly Edith Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Lewie Joe Smith Ms. Donna Bailey Mr. and Mrs. Douglas A. Webster Thelma Justiss Amy Everett Mr. Lyle Lankford Mrs. Lauren Bascue Mr. & Mrs. Byron Maxwell Kelley Woody Fennell Ms. Janet M. Harper Mr. and Mrs. Robert N. Sell Max & Marilyn Kelley Toby Fewell Ms. Janet M. Harper Ms. Elizabeth A. Fewell Alice King Deborah Flagg Mr. and Ms. William H. King Mr. and Mrs. Olan Bates Dennis P. Krauss Lloyd Leslie Fleming, Jr. Ms. Clarisse Krauss Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Nelson Andrew Krikie Ray Fowler Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Mr. and Mrs. Louis L. Bell Sr. Patricia Krikie Lynn Coleman Franks Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Mr. and Mrs. Larry Wyatt Mary Sue Landers Joseph Gentile Ms. Joy Cantrell Mrs. Donna Gentile A. L. and Naomi Lankford Ken Gilliam Mr. Lyle Lankford Mr. and Mrs. John Starling Mary LeCureux George Goldtrap Mr. and Mrs. R. D. Itson Ms. Carolyn V. Craine Edna Ledford Mr. and Mrs. Peter E. Jasanis Mrs. Patricia Bryant Mrs. Patricia W. Swift Marion L. Leonard Ray Gompf Mr. and Mrs. Robin B. Leonard Mrs. Elyse Broemel Barbara Liston Mr. and Mrs. Rick Ricard Ms. Rebecca D. Little Mrs. Jill Townsend Juanita Lowry Barbara Keen Hall Mr. and Mrs. William R. Hendricks Mr. Ross Anderson Roger & Carnelle MacKenzie Ms. Linda Bazar Mr. and Mrs. Tim Greer Gina Harbin William Thomas Martin, Sr. Mary Sue Collins Ms. Hilda R. Butler Mr. and Mrs. Darrell S. Cooper Mrs. June Craun Ms. Martha Hall Mr. Ricky Minor Patricia Jo Karr

James R. Meriwether Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Meriwether Dr. Bob Montgomery Mrs. Deborah Montgomery Johnson Mr. and Mrs. David B. Yunger Shirley Arnold Moore Mr. Patrick W. Hogan Mrs. Judith Roney Mae Moreland Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Breakfield Charles "Bud" F. Myer, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Steven J. Gardner Julie Ann Norman Mr. and Mrs. Knox Norman Howard Reed Oliver, Jr. Mrs. Darlene Oliver Ms. Geneva Overturf Harold Duvall Orum Ms. Linda A. Orum Jean Parson Mr. and Mrs. Patrick W. Jarvis Lillian Pepin Cmsgt. Ret. Paul Pepin Houston Pewett, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Ervon Carroll Adrian Merle Pewett Mr. and Mrs. Ervon Carroll Debbie Powell Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Doug Poyet Mr. and Mrs. Pete Adams Argyle Church of Christ Barlow Vincent Church of Christ Mr. Austin C. Dillinger Mr. Jake Donofrio Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Ms. Morgan Hatfield Mrs. Lily Hooper Mrs. Caroldine Kosko Col. and Mrs. Dennis S. Langley Michael Meador Mrs. Jessica Staschke Mr. and Mrs. Dirk Walker Mr. and Mrs. Steve Yates Harold Nelson Roney Mrs. Judith Roney Flavius L. Rose Mrs. Judith Roney Nellie Rose Mrs. Judith Roney Cynthia Sabetto Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Judith Sadler Stuart Church of Christ Glenda Salter Mrs. Betty J. Burkhead Karen Schreiner Mr. and Mrs. Henry Borg Donnie Sheppard Mr. and Mrs. Roger D. Myers Emma Jane McKendree Shoaff Mrs. Maudeann McKendree Mr. & Mrs. B.W. Smith Mr. and Mrs. James W. Smith

Beverly Smith Mr. and Mrs. James W. Smith Jillene Rose Smith Mrs. Judith Roney Gary Stevens Mr. Clinton Baccus Mrs. Patricia M. Bass Mr. and Mrs. Monte L. Betz Mr. Todd Bohlen Mr. and Mrs. Byron L. Boyer Mrs. Nawana Ceraso Ms. Constance Eckstine Mr. and Mrs. Brad Emch Dr. Ginger Foddrell Mr. and Mrs. Andy Hamilton Mr. Dorrell Harrison Mr. Bryan Hooper Ms. Christine Jones Mrs. Melanie Jones Mr. and Mrs. Kriston J. Kent Mrs. Lilliamely King Mr. and Mrs. John B. Love

Ms. Lori Moore Ms. Stacy C. Myers North Tampa Church of Christ Mrs. Nelda Thompson George Stiffey Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Johnson Dennis & Virginia Stults Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Stults Cletus Stutzman Mr. and Mrs. Doug Horton Mr. and Mrs. Raymond McCain Mrs. Judith Roney Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Tillery Mr. & Mrs. Slim Summerville Mr. and Mrs. Lance Collier Sylvie Mr. and Mrs. Henry Borg Irene Taylor Mr. Gary Fulford Robert Tillery Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Tillery Everett & Lois Tomlinson Miss Jane Merryman

Lois Tomlinson Wayne Wadlington Ms. Dee Anna Carney Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bauman Mr. Jerry H. Dean Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Galloway Mr. and Mrs. Kerry M. Hart Ms. Agnes J. Jones Mr. and Mrs. R. Andrew Jordan Willie Mae Warren Ms. Virginia R. Knox Mrs. Sheila Hunt Mr. and Mrs. Roger D. Myers Joyce Watters Mr. and Mrs. C.L. Overturf, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Mr. and Mrs. Ted Trammell Athel Webb Mr. and Mrs. David Vester Mr. and Mrs. Craig Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Tom Watrous Clara Welsh Mark Tomlinson Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Mr. and Mrs. Robert N. Sell Robert "Bob" West Melvin and Shirley Tunis Dr. and Mrs. Dorsey Hightower Dr. and Mrs. Anthony G. Kinkel Elise Whitman Henry Turney Mr. and Mrs. William Johnson Mrs. Luana T. Elrod Joe Wilder Ms. Vermell Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth A. Edmunds Joshua Van Ravestein Neal Wright Fernandina Beach Church of Christ Mr. and Mrs. Wayne L. Anderson Ms. Tammy V. Pressly Le Young San Jose Church of Christ Mr. and Mrs. Garry D. Allison, Jr. Ms. Debra Gene Sapp

Honors

Honors August 1, 2022 - January 31, 2023 All House Parents Mr. and Mrs. Louis L. Bell Sr. Joe Beddia Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Linda Beddia Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Adrian Boyd Bradley Mr. and Mrs. Robert Browne Lisa Daniels Ms. Donna Coyle Richard & Syble Eads Dr. and Mrs. Brian A. Mast Deborah Flagg Ms. Nicole Kane Steven Hayes Amy Hayes Mr. Jim Pack, Jr. Mrs. Tenli Sarcia

Mike Hill Mr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Deem Benny Hunton Mr. and Mrs. Philip Lukas Charles W. Jackson, III Ms. Janet M. Harper Melva Kinkel Mr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Deem Tom Kirk Mr. and Mrs. Patrick H. Waggoner Jeff & Robin Ledbetter Mrs. Cindy West Caroline Massie Mr. and Mrs. Edward M. Davis Brian & Lorri Mast Dr. and Mrs. James Costello Lorri Mast Dr. Brian A. Mast

Eli Mast Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Ed & Nancy Masterno Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Janet McMeen Mr. and Mrs. Scott T. Price Ralph & Betty McQuiddy Ms. Mariam Slaughter Melba Meriwether Mr. and Mrs. David C. Meriwether Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Meriwether Mrs. Leigh Teague James and Shirley Moore Ms. Tonya Emory Dr. James E. Moore Mr. Patrick W. Hogan Dr. James E. & Dona Moore Dr. and Mrs. James Costello

Doris Moses Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Darlene Oliver Ms. Geneva Overturf Ken & Chris Parsons Mr. and Mrs. Patrick W. Jarvis John & Ellen Pullias Mr. and Mrs. James Herring Fadia Richardson Mr. and Mrs. Thomas D. Thurman Sandra Rodman Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Eads Ken Snider Mr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Deem Frances Sutton Mr. and Mrs. John K. Bornstein Ada Vines Software Tailors, Inc.

Imagine · Spring 2023 | 23

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Mid-Florida, FL Permit #57120

Educate. Equip. Empower.

301 W. 13th Ave., Mount Dora, FL 32757 Phone (352) 383-2155 Fax (352) 383-3112 mdcacademy.org mdchome.org

Save the Dates: MARCH 13-17 Spring Break Chicken Supper 24 APRIL 7 9

No School - Good Friday Easter

MAY 15 19 25 26 29

Middle & High School Awards Day High School Graduation 5th Grade Graduation VPK Graduation Memorial Day - Offices Closed

AUGUST 7 First Day of School

SEPTEMBER 4 Labor Day - Offices Closed NOVEMBER 10 Veterans Day Program 20-24 Thanksgiving Break

If this copy of Imagine is addressed to your MDCA Alumni, please update their contact information by emailing alumni@mdcacademy.org.