WHERE FAITH TAKES ROOT:
On the Cover:
A glimpse inside the Cletus M. Stutzman Center for Christian Education, where students gather daily for Bible classes, continuing MDCA’s 80-year legacy of faithbased learning.
Editor/Writer
Jenn Marcussen (’97)
Senior Director of Marketing & Communications
Designer
Ashley Tierney
Creative Content Coordinator
Editors and Contributors:
Diana Bay
Mikayla Clement (’26)
Heather Hartmann (’06)
Dave Hogan
Jamey Howe
Dr. Tony Kinkel
Charlie Marcussen
Keith O’Neal
Dr. Sam Smith
Arin Wales (’00)
Megan Ziegelhofer
Printing:
and
of Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home. Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s
insights
I would like to begin by sharing my heartfelt gratitude for the many ways you joyfully partner with us in the ministry of Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home. Each of you represents a vital layer of support—prayerfully, relationally, and financially—and when those layers come togethe, they form an unbreakable bond that allows us to serve children in need, support singleparent families, and provide students with a Christ-centered education.
Thank you for praying faithfully for our work. Thank you for attending events and engaging meaningfully in the life of our campus. Thank you for investing financially in this ministry and believing in what God is doing he e. As we step into a new year, I invite you to prayerfully consider sharing the stories of MDCA&CH with friends, family members, and church communities. Time and again, we see how God uses shared excitement and personal testimony to introduce new hearts to this ministry.
We are entering a season of growth and opportunity, one that will require additional support to help us advance and strengthen our work on campus. For this reason, we are currently posting a new position, Associate Vice President of Development. Please join us in praying that God will lead a qualified, enthusiastic, and mission-minded individual to serve in this important role.
This past fall, I experienced a moment on campus that beautifully captures the heart of why MDCA&CH exists. Standing on the hillside near the creek, I was surrounded by more than 400 secondary students and faculty. Before us was a horse trough filled with wate, a teacher, and a student who courageously proclaimed their faith in Christ, with their family and school community gathered together. That student was baptized—one of six baptisms we have celebrated on campus this year. God is truly moving in powerful ways.
In response to this spiritual momentum, a generous donor stepped forward with a $100,000 gift to help fund a permanent baptistry on campus. We praise God for their vision and generosity. This baptistry will serve as a visible centerpiece of our campus and a lasting testimony to our purpose: to point others to Christ and invite them to surrender their lives fully to Him.
I invite you to read the following articles to see how God is at work throughout our community. Each story is made possible through the faithful dedication of our administrators, teachers, and staff, who pour their hearts into this ministry every day.
On a personal note, I would truly enjoy the opportunity to get to know you. If you are in the area, please reach out. I would love to share a cup of coffee, give you a campus tou, or welcome you to experience chapel with us. I am also honored to visit your church family, whether to preach or simply to share how deeply grateful we are for your partnership and support. Please feel free to call (352-729-5988) or email (sam.smith@mdcacademy.org) me at any time.
Ready to support our mission? Scan to give now.
In Him,
Dr. Sam Smith President, MDCA&CH
AROUND CAMPUS
Student Voices: From the Classroom to Conservation
By Mikayla Clement, Class of 2026
This summer, I experienced an opportunity of a lifetime, traveling to Thailand with WorldStrides and Loop Abroad as part of a high school pre-veterinary program. It perfectly blended my love for animals and my growing interest in veterinary medicine, all in a new environment. As I look back, I can clearly see how my Biomedical Science (BSI) class at MDCA prepared me to step into this experience with confidence
In BSI, I have learned not only scientific facts, but also anatom , physiology lab techniques, and critical thinking. Those skills mattered when I was helping clean an elephant’s wound or practicing proper injection techniques during veterinary rounds. Because of what I had practiced, I didn’t feel overwhelmed—I felt ready.
In Thailand, I worked with elephants, dogs, and cats, learning not only about medical care but also about conservation and each animal’s story. The elephants left the biggest impression on me, especially Chom Choam, my elephant, who had been rescued from a riding academy. Their resilience reminded me that being a veterinarian is about more than medicine; it’s about compassion and advocacy.
I’m especially grateful for Mrs. Barker, my BSI teacher, who encouraged me to pursue this opportunity and equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to succeed. Her passion for science and realworld application inspired me to take this next step.
Traveling halfway around the world reminded me that education doesn’t stop at the classroom door. BSI gave me the foundation, and Thailand gave me the chance to live it out, strengthening my dream of becoming a veterinarian and my gratitude for the mentors who helped make it possible.
AUGUST
A remarkable night of generosity in Nashville raised $179,256 for Mount Dora Children’s Home — the highest total of any one-night fundraising event in our 80-year history. Nearly 300 attendees from 23 congregations united to make the evening unforgettable.
SEPTEMBER
MDCA Elementary earned recognition from CAPE as a 2025 National Blue Ribbon School, one of only 55 private schools nationwide and three in Florida selected for this distinction. Surpassing the top 15% national benchmark in reading and math, our students, teachers, and families exemplify academic excellence rooted in faith.
OCTOBER
Community Helpers Week gave our kindergartners a special visit from Nurses Fleming and Mo, who showed students what pediatric nurses do and why caring for others matters. We’re grateful for our incredible school nurses who serve our MDCA family with skill, kindness, and faith.
NOVEMBER
Our MDCA family gathered for the annual Veterans Day parade and program, honoring those who have served and continue to serve our nation.
Army Retired Specialist Brock Michael ’15 shared his powerful story of faith, resilience, and service, reminding us that “Courage doesn’t mean you’re not afraid. It means you step forward anyway for something bigger than yourself.”
MDCH’s own Army veteran, social worker Tonja Rambow, carried the flag and led this year’s parade.
DECEMBER
Mount Dora shone on national television as NBC’s TODAY Show launched its “Merriest Main Streets” series right in our own downtown. Among the joyful crowd were staff and Peer Tutors from the Wishart Academic Success Center, proudly representing MDCA as our community shared its Christmas spirit with viewers across the country.
Our Bulldog mascot stopped by MDCA’s community greeting card during the Mount Dora Christmas Parade to help celebrate the season and share some hometown holiday joy.
Standing Guard: A New Bulldog Rises From an Old Sycamore
If you spend any time walking the pathways of our 70-plus-acre campus, you know the feeling: the quiet canopy of ancient oaks, sycamores, and pines; the dappling of sunlight through branches older than most of the buildings they shelter; and the sense of rootedness they give our community. For 80 years, these trees have watched over generations of Bulldog students, families, faculty, and friends, offering beaut, shade, and a reminder of God’s steady provision.
But even the strongest trees feel the weight of time. After repeated storm damage, one of our longstanding sycamores could no longer safely remain, and the difficult decisio was made to remove it. (This sycamore and the cedar and the second sycamore beside it were originally planted by former faculty member Robert Thornhill in the 60s.) What remained was a large, stubborn stump along one of our busiest walkways, a daily reminder of what had been, but also a question of what could be.
That question sparked an idea from a few campus personalities. During a discussion between alumnus Parks Messick (‘65), Director of Operations David McGranaghan, and VP of Finance and Operations Charlie Marcussen, the three wondered if this sycamore stump could have a second life.
Marcussen and McGranaghan had seen remarkable chainsaw sculptures online, pieces where fallen or aging
trees were transformed into works of art rather than lost altogether. What if this stump could become something meaningful? Something that represented who we are?
Marcussen reached out to chainsaw artist Daniel Wagner, a local artist living in Central Florida, after relocating from Kodiak, Alaska. Growing up with an appreciation of nature, working in carpentry, and a love of drawing, painting, and sculpting, Wagner started chainsaw carving about 10 years ago, and word of his talents spread by word of mouth. Wagner agreed to take on the project, and over Thanksgiving break 2025, he arrived on campus armed with chainsaws, carving tools, and a vision.
Across several days, an incredible transformation took place. Bit by bit, the old sycamore revealed something new: the strong stance, steady gaze, and unmistakable spirit of a Bulldog.
Today, that Bulldog stands proudly along the main path, determined and full of character. What was once a damaged stump is now a campus landmark and a powerful symbol. It reminds us that while seasons change and storms come, our roots run deep, and our Bulldog spirit only grows stronger.
As our community journeys from class to class and building to building, our newest guardian watches over us, a testament to creativity, resilience, and the beauty that can rise when we choose restoration over removal.
Leadership Updates:
Welcoming New Voices and Honoring Service
Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home continues to be guided by faithful leaders who are committed to stewarding its mission and preparing for the future. Recent updates to the Board of Trustees reflect both continuity and growth as we welcome new leadership, celebrate a historic milestone, and honor those who have served with distinction.
Welcoming Don Hudson
The MDCA&CH Board of Trustees is pleased to welcome Don Hudson of Nashville, Tennessee, whose connection to the ministry spans a lifetime.
Hudson’s story with MDCA&CH began in 1967, when his family moved to Mount Dora to serve at Christian Home & Bible School. His parents served as dorm parents, with his father teaching history and his mother teaching home economics. After a brief time away, Hudson returned in fifth grade an later graduated from CH&BS in 1981, shaped by mentors Orvel and Mildred Boyd, Vernon Means, L.B. Chastain, Robert Thornhill, Cletus Stutzman, Sam Ayres, and Larry Shyers.
Following graduation, he attended Lipscomb University and Life Chiropractic College. He and his wife, Linda, married in 1987 and have three married sons—Donnie, Dallon, and Davis—and three grandchildren. Hudson currently serves as an elder and worship leader at Green Hills Church of Christ.
Reflectingon his new role, he shared, “Mount Dora Children’s Home has a very special place in our hearts,” he said. “The Single-Parent Program has the unique ability to touch two generations at the same time with the love of Jesus.”
Board Chairman John Starling added, “Don brings a deep personal connection to our ministry and a lifelong understanding of our mission. His experience, faith, and heart for service make him a tremendous addition to our board.”
Julie Stults Named Vice Chair
In addition to welcoming a new trustee, MDCA&CH celebrates a historic leadership milestone with Julie Stults being named the first female Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees.
Stults has served on the board since February 2023 and brings both thoughtful leadership and a deep, multi-
generational connection to the ministry. She and her husband, Wayne, live in Winter Haven, Florida, and have been married for 37 years. Their son, Tripp, lives in Columbia, Tennessee, and is engaged to be married this May.
Her family’s legacy at MDCA&CH is longstanding. Her father, Jack McDonald, led the Development Office fo more than 20 years, and her mother, Beth McDonald, taught elementary. Her father and his siblings were raised in the Children’s Home, and the MDCA basketball court bears his name—Jack McDonald Court. The Stults Media Center honors her in-laws, Gentry and Jeanette Stults.
Stults’ appointment as vice chair recognizes her faithful service, steady leadership, and the board’s continued commitment to strong and diverse leadership as MDCA&CH moves forward.
“Our Board of Trustees plays a vital role in protecting the mission and positioning MDCA&CH for the future,” said President Dr. Sam Smith. “The addition of Don Hudson and the leadership of Julie Stults reflect a boad that is both deeply rooted in our history and boldly committed to where God is leading us next.”
Grateful for Faithful Service
We extend our appreciation to two trustees whose board service concluded this year: Dr. Jim Carr of Searcy, Arkansas (2014-2025)and Glen McGehee of Franklin, Tennessee (2014-2025). Their dedication and leadership helped guide MDCA&CH through a season of significant gowth, and we are grateful for their faithful service.
Starling added, “We are grateful for the faithful service of Jim and Glen, whose leadership helped guide this ministry through a season of growth. We are also excited for the continued leadership God is providing through Don, Julie, and our board as we steward this mission together.”
Our current Board of Trustees includes John Starling, Chairman; Julie Stults, Vice Chair; Chuck Lipford, Secretary; Hon. Joe Wild; Hal Burleson; Tarsha Jacobs; Lisa Chaffin; an Don Hudson.
Their governance and vision continue to shape the future of MDCA&CH—one rooted in faith and guided by purpose.
Called to Shepherd, Called to Serve
A Conversation with Sean Algaier, MDCA’s Vice President for Spiritual Life
By Jenn Marcussen
Last July, Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home welcomed Sean Algaier as our first ice President for Spiritual Life and campus minister, a milestone moment in shaping the spiritual heartbeat of our campus. In a role designed to nurture the spiritual culture of both the Academy and the Children’s Home, Algaier has spent his first semester stengthening discipleship, elevating worship, and investing deeply in relationships.
Known affectionately aound campus as Shepherd Sean, he began his ministry at MDCA&CH by doing what shepherds do—being present with people. He spent preplanning week sharing devotionals with faculty, connecting at the leadership retreat, and encouraging teachers before the first bell ever rang
Since then, the evidence of spiritual growth has been unmistakable. Chapel has taken on new energy, with worship that feels more alive, more student participation, and messages that connect deeply to everyday life. Algaier is leading weekly Bible studies with students and departments across campus. Both students and staff ae seeking him out for prayer, encouragement, and conversations that support their faith journey.
His presence has already become part of our vocabulary, not just in title, but in relationship. Students call him Shepherd Sean not merely as a nickname, but as a reflection of how they experience him: guiding, listening, praying, walking alongside, and always pointing toward Christ.
“As our school continues to grow, we recognized the need to be even more intentional about spiritual leadership,” said MDCA&CH President Sam Smith.
Recent months have also brought powerful moments of commitment as students have chosen to be baptized into Christ. Coaches and teachers have gathered with families to pray over them, students have witnessed their friends taking these steps of faith, and our entire community has celebrated as God is glorified though their decisions to follow and serve Him.
Beyond the walls of MDCA, Algaier’s ministry has extended to the Children’s Home, where he leads Bible studies for single-parent families and walks alongside houseparents Zack and Amanda Crotty in supporting the faith development of the children in Thompson House.
“Creating the Vice President for Spiritual Life role was a natural next step in living out our mission, and Sean has embraced it with passion, humility, and purpose.”
Below, we sat down with Shepherd Sean for a lighthearted and honest Q&A to get to know the campus minister behind the mission.
Students call you “Shepherd Sean.” Where did that begin?
President Smith came up with it. He introduced me this way, and it stuck. I want to be seen not only as an administrator, but as more of a shepherd or guide for our students.
When you think back to your first few weeks here, what moment made you feel like MDCA was truly home?
When we arrived in early July, there were no students on campus. But then football started, and we had players deciding to be baptized. That’s when I felt part of the family, when I was witnessing and sharing in these experiences with them.
What themes do you see emerge when students ask for prayer or guidance?
I have a lot of conversations about really knowing Jesus and how to follow Him. Many have heard the words but not had specific encounters
The Algaier Family
How do you personally stay spiritually grounded while pouring into others?
I spend as much time as I can with God. My family and I spend time worshipping and singing together. I also make sure I’m having those spiritual conversations with friends and reading the Word.
What three words would your family use to describe you?
Fun, loving, and compassionate.
What do you appreciate most about MDCA students?
One thing that I find incedible about MDCA and its students is that it’s family-oriented. It’s a shared experience. Bulldog family is for life.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
The audio booth in the auditorium when no one is in there. It’s like all the voices from our past are in that room with you.
If you could share one truth about God with every student, what would it be?
You will go through valleys and deserts and wilderness, but God will always be with you. Knowing God and being close to Jesus doesn’t mean you won’t struggle; it does mean you won’t be alone.
Meet Sean Algaier
Title: Vice President for Spiritual Life & Campus Minister
Algaier
Favorite Verse: Zepheniah 3:17: “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who
He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”
Favorite Worship Song Right Now: “Goodness of God” by Bethel Music & Jenn Johnson
Favorite Coffee Order: Iced caramel macchiato with an extra shot, upside-down
Hidden Talent: I can wiggle my ears.
Most Likely To Say: “That’s wild!”
Perfect Pizza: thin-crust beef, bacon, and mushroom
Hard or Soft Taco? soft
Favorite Team: Kansas City Chiefs & Kansas City Royals
Family:
has been married to Misty for 21 years. They are parents to Greysen (19), Ella (18), Jillian (16), Joshua (8), and Jeremiah (8).
saves.
FINE ARTS A Stage
Set for Growth
This year, Fine Arts at MDCA took a confident step forward, beginning with the space where so much creativity comes to life. Over the summer, our auditorium received a thoughtful refresh, including new stage curtains, sound system and theatre lighting, updated carpeting, and improved ceiling tiles and acoustical paneling. These enhancements have transformed the auditorium into a more welcoming, functional, and inspiring space, not only for performances but also for worship, gatherings, and community events.
The impact was immediately felt when the curtain rose on our fall musical, Babes in Toyland. Featuring one of the largest casts in school history, 51 students from grades 4–12 filled the stage with enegy, talent, and joy. Across four performances in four days, audiences witnessed a growing confidence and depth in our Fine Arts program, as students brought the classic production to life with enthusiasm and teamwork.
That momentum carried through the semester as our reestablished chorus and band program continued to grow. The fall semester concluded with a beautiful Christmas concert that showcased both musical excellence and the heart behind both programs.
Together, these moments tell a larger story: Fine Arts at MDCA is not only thriving but being intentionally cultivated, providing students with spaces, opportunities, and encouragement to develop their God-given gifts and share them boldly.
Students from grades 4–12 brought Babes in Toyland to life in one of the largest casts in MDCA history, showcasing the growth of our Fine Arts program.
The high school chorus performs during the fall Christmas concert, highlighting the continued growth of the school’s reestablished vocal program.
The MDCA band performs at the Christmas concert, closing the semester with a showcase of musical development and ensemble performance.
Sports Medicine
Varsity Football
Varsity Competition Cheer
TJ McCormick & Katie Bayly each received the 2025 FCA Heart of a Champion Award
ATHLETICS
Prepared, Competitive, Committed.
Athletics at MDCA continues to reflect a cultur built on preparation, performance, and purpose. That commitment begins with the Sports Medicine program, led by athletic trainer Chris Horton. From injury prevention and hydration to rehabilitation and recovery, the Sports Medicine team supports student-athletes across every season. The program also provides hands-on training opportunities for student trainers and collegiate interns and earned Safe Sports School recognition from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association.
That strong foundation fueled success across programs throughout the year. Varsity Competition Cheer captured the FHSAA Gameday Division championship at the 2025 Buffalo Cheer Showdown, showcasing precision and consistency on a statewide stage.
Bulldog Football added another remarkable chapter, finishin the season 12–2 and advancing to the state championship game. The journey reflected discipline, esilience, and leadership, particularly from the senior class, whose commitment helped set the standard for the program.
As the spring semester began, MDCA hosted the 9th annual Nathan Hayes Shootout, bringing teams together for a meaningful competition that honors legacy, sportsmanship, and the impact athletics can have beyond the field. Over th weekend, the Nathan Hayes Scholarship Foundation presented 18 college scholarships to student-athletes from 13 schools.
The year has also included meaningful individual honors. Junior TJ McCormick and senior Katie Bayly were named recipients of the 2025 FCA Heart of a Champion Award, recognizing student-athletes who exemplify integrity, service, excellence, and teamwork.
As the year continues, MDCA Athletics celebrates futures being launched. Eight seniors have committed to compete at the collegiate level, including Notre Dame and Rutgers, with several more commitments expected this spring, a testament to a program committed to developing student-athletes for success beyond MDCA.
Nathan Hayes Shootout
varuna/Shutterstock.com
On September 10, 1945, a small group of students walked onto a campus in Mount Dora, Florida, for the very first day of school at Christian Home & Bible School. Thee were no modern facilities, no sprawling athletic fields, and no sense of how far the ministry would one day reach. But there was a clear and steady foundation: God’s Word would be central to everything that happened there.
Eighty years later, on September 10, 2025, that same campus gathered once again, this time to cut a ribbon and dedicate a building that would physically reflect what has always been spiritually true. The opening of the Cletus M. Stutzman Center for Christian Education marked not only a milestone in Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home’s growth, but a sacred moment of continuity. Eight decades apart, the mission remains the same.
Built on Scripture
What has always set MDCA&CH apart is an unwavering commitment to the Bible. With daily chapel and Bible classes for every student, Scripture is not a supplement to education—it is the foundation of it.
The Stutzman Center was created to strengthen that commitment. Designed as the spiritual heart of
campus, the Center now houses all Bible classes, providing students with a dedicated space to study God’s Word, ask meaningful questions, and grow in their faith.
The vision for the Stutzman Center flows diectly from the truth found in II Timothy 3:16–17: “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, ebuking, for correction, for training in righteousness so that the man or woman of God may be fully capable, equipped for every good work.” For 80 years, MDCA&CH has sought to equip students for those “good works.” The Stutzman Center is the next chapter in that calling.
A providential beginning
Appropriately, the building bears the name of a man whose own journey with MDCA&CH began through an act of providence.
As a seventh grader, Cletus Stutzman stood waiting for a bus to take him to a public school. He boarded the wrong one and ended up on the campus of Christian Home & Bible School. What seemed like a simple mistake became a defining moment, not only for Stutzman’s life but for the future of the institution. One
Deeply Rooted, Growing Boldly
Eighty years. One mission. Faithfully forward.
By Jenn Marcussen
That unexpected arrival placed him in an environment shaped by Scripture, faith, and Christian community. It was there that Stutzman’s lifelong commitment to God’s Word took root. After graduating, he returned to his alma mater in 1954, not just to teach, but to serve wherever he was needed.
Over the years, he became a defining pesence on campus, serving as a coach, guidance counselor, athletic director, vice president, executive vice president, and ultimately president. He was involved in every corner of campus life, just as likely to be found encouraging a student or coaching a team as he was cooking fried chicken for a chicken supper.
A passionate athlete and mentor, Stutzman led the 1961 boys basketball team to a state championship and was later inducted into the MDCA Sports Hall of Fame. Alongside his leadership at MDCA&CH, he also preached for congregations across Central Florida, faithfully sharing the same biblical truth that had first shaped him as a student
Reflecting on Stutzman’s legac, MDCA&CH President Sam Smith said, “This building that now bears his name stands as a testimony to his faithfulness, and it challenges each of us to consider how God might use even the unexpected moments in our lives to accomplish His great purpose.”
From underutilized space to sacred purpose
The Stutzman Center also reflects wise stewadship and thoughtful planning. Rather than constructing a new building, MDCA&CH chose to renovate an existing structure that had been underutilized since 2008. Through careful design and purposeful renovation, the space was transformed into a 5,500-square-foot hub for spiritual life on campus. Today, the facility houses five classooms, research and study space, conference and collaboration areas, storage, and a dedicated place to preserve and celebrate our legacy.
that excellence and stewardship can go hand in hand. With construction costs well within Florida’s average per-squarefoot range, the Center demonstrates responsible stewardship aligned with our mission.
(continued on next page)
Designed by Rodney Bryant of KMF Architects and built by Todd Faden of Faden Builders, Inc., the project demonstrates
Cletus Stutzman
Built by many, for generations
The Stutzman Center exists because hundreds of people believed in the vision.
To date, 251 donors have joined together to contribute $815,350 toward the renovation, an extraordinary expression of unity and generosity. Each gift, whether large or small, represented a shared commitment to Christian education and to the students who will walk these halls for decades to come.
This was never just a construction project. It was a declaration of faith.
A day 80 years in the making
The dedication of the Stutzman Center took place during a week filled with celebration. Students participated in special chapels, completed 80 Acts of Kindness, and enjoyed a campus-wide birthday celebration honoring MDCA&CH’s 80th year. On the afternoon of September 10, the community gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, a moment that brought together history, gratitude, and hope.
“Eighty years ago today, on September 10, 1945, Christian Home and Bible School opened its doors for the very first time,” said President Smith.
“Those humbling beginnings built on faith, sacrifice, and vision for Christ-centered education have grown into a thriving Academy and Children‘s Home that we see today. I bet our founders could barely imagine what it would be today, eight decades later.
“How fitting that we gather on this same da, on our birthday, to dedicate the Cletus M. Stutzman Center for Christian Education, a place that will continue to form the hearts and minds of students for generations to come.”
During the ceremony, Bible Department Chair Jeff Hubbad cast a vision for what would happen inside these walls: “We will educate them about Christ, His life, His love, and His Lordship. We will teach them God’s Word and God’s wisdom. Christ will be proclaimed in this building every day.
“Our students could pass every test. They could win every game. But if they have not given their life to Christ, they have lost. That is why at the Stutzman Center, we will help connect these students to God so that He will empower them with His Holy Spirit. We are praying that these halls are filled wit the goodness of God, and ultimately, that these young people will obey the gospel and live out the victory found in Christ.”
Surrounded by students, faculty, alumni, donors, and friends, the ceremony captured the heart of what MDCA&CH has always been: a community centered on Christ, shaped by Scripture, and committed to raising the next generation.
A place for the future
Buildings do not create faith—but they can serve it.
Every day, students will walk into the Stutzman Center to open their Bibles, engage in thoughtful discussion, and wrestle with the timeless truths of God’s Word. They will be challenged, encouraged, and equipped to live with conviction in a world that is often uncertain and searching.
Eighty years after the first students arrived at Christian Home & Bible School, Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home remains steadfast in its purpose: to educate, to disciple, and to point every heart toward Jesus Christ.
The Stutzman Center stands as a visible reminder that while the campus has grown and the world has changed, the foundation remains unshaken.
“Our students could pass every test. They could win every game. But if they have not given their life to Christ, they have lost. That is why at the Stutzman Center, we will help connect these students to God so that He will empower them with His Holy Spirit. We are praying that these halls are filled with the goodness of God, and ultimatel, that these young people will obey the gospel and live out the victory found in Christ.”
Jeff Hubbad, Bible Department Chair
Deeply rooted. Growing boldly.
Once a Bulldog, ALWAYS a Bulldog
REGGIE VIRGIL | CLASS OF 2021
by Jenn Marcussen
Class of 1982
Leslie Windram O’Shaughnessy has accepted a position as a White House Appointee for the second time. She is a senior advisor for Sean Duff, chairman of the Department of Transportation and NASA.
Class of 2012
Austin Holder married his wife, Allison, in May 2025. His father, Jerry (’81), officiated, and hi brother, Kevin (’09), and best friend, Jake Reising (’12), served as groomsmen.
Class of 2013
Heather Ward married Joshua Mudd on April 14, 2025.
Class of 2015
Kayley (Ross) White and her husband, Carson, welcomed daughter Juniper Wren on October 28, 2025.
Class of 2017
Sarah Baker married Zach Browning on October 17, 2025. She is an orthopedic nurse at the University of Virginia Hospital in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Class of 2019
Brianna Hall began her first year of law school at ashington University in St. Louis in August 2025.
Class of 2019
Mackenzie Horton married Alex Gianos on December 14, 2025.
Class of 2020
Jace Spinelli and Hannah Leto (’21) were engaged on January 11, 2026.
Class of 2024
Rachel Horsford, a member of the Seminole State College cross country team, was awarded the FCSAA D1 Runner of the Year title after an impressive performance at the regional competition in Tallahassee.
ALUMNI UPDATES
AUSTIN HOLDER (’12) KAYLEY (ROSS) WHITE (’15) SARAH (BAKER) BROWNING (’17)
BRIANNA HALL (’19)
RACHEL HORSFORD (’24) MACKENZIE (HORTON) GIANOS (’19) JACE SPINELLI (’20) & HANNAH LETO (’21)
MDCA ALUMNI
STAY CONNECTED WITH MDCA ALUMNI
Mount Dora Christian Academy alumni are an important part of our story—and we want to stay connected with you. Whether you graduated last year or decades ago, there are many ways to remain engaged with the MDCA community.
To receive alumni news, event invitations, and reunion updates, email alumni@MDCAcademy.org or scan the QR code to join our mailing list. Have a new job, wedding, graduation, or other milestone to share? We’d love to celebrate it—send your life updates to alumni@MDCAcademy.org so we can include them in future alumni features.
You can also connect with fellow Bulldogs through our MDCA/CH&BS Alumni groups on Facebook and Instagram. MDCA Alumni @mdcaalumni
If you’re interested in planning a class reunion, becoming an MDCA corporate sponsor, or learning more about ways to get involved, contact Jamey Howe, Coordinator of Alumni and Corporate Relations, at jamey.howe@MDCAcademy.org.
Become an Alumni Ambassador
Alumni Ambassadors play a vital role in strengthening connections across generations of Bulldogs. Ambassadors serve as a point of contact for their graduating class, help promote alumni events and reunions, and encourage fellow alumni to stay engaged with MDCA. Your involvement helps build a vibrant, Christ-centered alumni network rooted in shared experiences and lasting relationships.
Thank You to Our Diamond Sponsors
We are grateful for the support of our Diamond Sponsors, whose generosity helps strengthen MDCA and its alumni community. Scan the QR code to learn more about corporate sponsorship opportunities and how your business can make a lasting impact. reunions, and encourage fellow alumni to stay engaged with MDCA. Your involvement helps build a vibrant, Christ-centered alumni network rooted in shared experiences and lasting relationships.
ALUMNI OPPORTUNITIES
SOCIAL SERVICES
From Surviving to Thriving
Danielle Aspinwall gets a fresh start in the Single-Parent
Program
by Dave Hogan
Having grown up with addiction in her family and later battling her own addiction demons, Danielle Aspinwall is determined to change the future trajectory of her life and her children’s future. With God’s help, she is now making that happen as a participant in the Single-Parent Program at Mount Dora Children’s Home.
“One of the greatest gifts (since coming to MDCH) has been the memories my children are now able to make,” Aspinwall said. “Safe, joyful memories that shape how a child sees the world. The kind of memories I did not always have growing up. Watching them laugh, feel secure, and simply get to be kids has been healing in ways I cannot fully put into words.
“This program has given me the opportunity to change the direction of my family’s story. Not just for my children, but for their children and the generations that come after them. It has given us stability, faith, and a future rooted in hope.”
Aspinwall and her children have made considerable progress since she enrolled in the Single-Parent Program in August 2024. She shared her story at last summer’s Nashville Benefit Dinne, where she spent time with families from the Church of Christ in Green Hills, a Tennessee congregation that chose to “adopt” a single-parent family in the MDCH program. She was chosen as the first single-paent family to be “adopted.” The church’s support goes well beyond the generous $50,000 donation they made. Church members have shown love to Aspinwall and her children, including birthday celebrations and spending time together during her visit to Nashville.
impact MDCA is having on her children. They sing Christian songs at home, listen to Christian music in the car, and pray. One day, she said they passed an accident on the road, and her children said, “Let’s stop now and say a prayer for them.”
“I wish I had better words to describe how wonderful it is just to listen to them say their prayers and, you know, what they are thankful for and who they want to pray for.”
In addition to MDCA and the Single-Parent Program, Aspinwall credits a loving grandmother and a caring boss at her job for her transformation. Before coming to Mount Dora Children’s Home, she first enrolled in a faith-based addiction recovery program in Leesburg. It is there that she said she gave her life to Christ and was baptized.
“Recovery became more than healing. It became surrender. I began to understand that God’s love is not something we earn through perfection. It meets us exactly where we are and walks with us forward.”
Looking to the future, Aspinwall has big dreams for her family after graduating from the Single-Parent Program.
“My ultimate goal is to build a house,” she said. “It (a house) will provide us with the security and comfort of knowing that it’s ours.”
She is grateful for the positive influence of theAcademy and Children’s Home on her and her family.
Born in Orlando and raised in Lake County, Aspinwall is mom to Aliana, 8, and Luca, 6. Both children are enrolled at Mount Dora Christian Academy. Aliana is in the third grade, while Luca is in kindergarten. Aspinwall said she can see the
“I am no longer just surviving. I am building. And because of God, the Mount Dora Children’s Home Single-Parent Program, and the people who support it, my family’s future looks diffeent. It looks hopeful. It looks whole.”
Danielle Aspinwall and her children, Aliana, & Luca.
Honoring a Legacy of Service
Vice President of Social Services Chuck Shepherd Retires After 37 Years
By Jenn Marcussen
On a September afternoon filled with laughte, memories, and a few tears, the Mount Dora Children’s Home community gathered for what was expected to be a retirement reception. What unfolded instead was something far more meaningful, a moment that captured the heart of a ministry and honored a man who helped shape it for nearly four decades.
After 37 years of faithful service, Chuck Shepherd, Vice President of Social Services, was being celebrated for a lifetime of advocacy on behalf of children and families. But
midway through the afternoon, as friends and colleagues shared stories of lives changed and prayers answered, there was a slight change to the program.
A surprise announcement followed.
The Social Services Building, the place where countless children and families have taken their first steps towad healing, would now bear a new name: The Chuck Shepherd Social Services Center.
For Shepherd, a man who never sought recognition, the moment was humbling. For the community he served, it was simply fitting
“It would be impossible to fully measure the reach of Chuck’s influence,” said D. Sam Smith, President of Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home. “Hundreds, likely thousands, of children and families have been blessed, shaped, and forever changed because of the work Chuck faithfully carried out here. All across the Southeast, former participants continue to share how their lives were transformed and their faith strengthened because of the ministry Chuck so courageously, compassionately, and consistently led for nearly four decades.”
Smith went on to describe the building as more than a facility, but a testimony.
“Our prayer is that this space will always serve as a marker of Chuck’s faithful service — an Ebenezer — reminding us that through every moment of these 37 years, God was with him and with this ministry.”
A Life Poured Into Others
Shepherd first arrived at Mount Dora Children’s Home in 1984 as a young social worker, never imagining it would become his life’s work. Over the decades, he became a steady, trusted presence for families navigating some of their hardest moments.
“I knew I wanted to be in ministry,” Shepherd once said, “but I didn’t want to be a preacher. Social work became the way I could use my gifts to serve others.”
A Surprise That Became a Landmark
The unveiling of the Chuck Shepherd Social Services Center was met with warm, heartfelt applause.
What made the moment even more meaningful was the crowd itself: faculty, staff, chuch leaders, community partners, and friends who had walked alongside Shepherd for decades. Their voices, stories, and prayers created a powerful atmosphere of gratitude.
“I am so thankful for your 37 years of dedicated service to children and families. You have impacted so many lives, and I am so blessed to be one of them.”
–
Ashley Blanchard (’14), Administrative Assistant for Development and former MDCH resident
“You have a heart of gold. I am going to do the best I can to take over where you left off an continue the legacy you built here at Mount Dora Children’s Home.”
– Garrett Schwarz, Vice President of Social Services
His leadership helped MDCH evolve with the changing needs of society, but one of his most defining contributions came in 2013 with the creation of the Single-Parent Program, a pioneering initiative designed to help struggling single parents and their children rebuild their lives through housing, education, counseling, and faith-centered support.
“Chuck has been instrumental in the success of our Children’s Home and the development of the Single-Parent Program,” Smith shared. “He is a quiet servant-leader who has poured into children and families, impacting not only their immediate future but also their eternal future.”
Shepherd’s ministry extended beyond campus as well. A graduate of Lipscomb University’s social work program, he has served as an elder at Orange Avenue Church of Christ and as a board member of Network 1:27, helping strengthen services for children and families across the nation.
The building now stands as a permanent reminder of what one life of faithfulness can accomplish — not in headlines, but in homes restored, children protected, and families given a second chance.
A New Chapter
At the end of September, Shepherd and his wife, Joy, relocated to Columbia, Tennessee, to spend more time with their grandchildren and extended family. Even in retirement, he continues to serve as MDCH’s church coordinator for Tennessee, helping new congregations connect with the mission he helped build.
Hear the Voices Behind the Celebration
This story doesn’t end on these pages.
Scan the QR code to watch the surprise unveiling of the Chuck Shepherd Social Services Center and hear reflections fom friends, family members, and colleagues who gathered to celebrate Shepherd’s remarkable impact and enduring legacy.
The Joy of Giving
Your Giving Matters Now More Than Ever
Dear Friends,
Thanks to your faithful support, our donations have increased by 31 percent since 2023.
In a world increasingly marked by confusion, broken values, and moral drift, Christ-centered education and a safe, faith-filled home ae not luxuries; they are necessities. Your generosity does far more than fund classrooms, scholarships, or a secure environment. It helps shape young hearts and minds with biblical truth, grounding students in faith while equipping them to stand firm, think criticall, and live courageously for Christ.
Our firm pledge to all of our donors is this: e will not compromise on our principles. We will remain faithful to our calling to give every child an education rooted in Christ, grounded in God’s Word, and designed to prepare them to be lights in this world. Lives are being changed, hope reigns again, and the next generation is ready to embrace God’s glory.
Because of your faithful generosity, Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home is experiencing a powerful season of momentum. One meaningful sign of this shared commitment is that 97.5 percent of our employees give to the Annual Fund, reflecting a community united in belief, purpose, and faith. With enrollment growing and wait pools across nearly every grade, we sense God clearly calling us to steward this moment with vision and courage.
“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” (Psalm 126:3)
This year, cherished traditions are entering new chapters. Our longstanding spring dinner is being reimagined as the Presidents’ Dinner, honoring the faithful leadership of the past while inviting new families, alumni, churches, and community partners into the story God is writing today. Gatherings like our Grandparents Lunch to Learn continue to celebrate legacy, reminding us that faith, wisdom, and generosity are passed from one generation to the next.
“One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.” (Psalm 145:4)
We have witnessed God’s provision in extraordinary ways, from record-breaking benefit events and fully funded ministry projects to renewed church partnerships and transformational gifts that will bless students and families for years to come. Each gift, large or small, is a testimony of trust in God’s work through this ministry.
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…” (Ephesians 3:20)
Your generosity does more than sustain programs—it shapes hearts, anchors children in biblical truth, and prepares the next generation to stand firm in faith and shine for Christ
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
Thank you for believing in this mission, walking in faith with us, and helping write the next chapter of hope, transformation, and Christ-centered impact.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Dr. Tony Kinkel Vice President of Development
P.S. Don‘t miss out on the chance to support our ministries. Scan the QR code to donate today!
The 2025–2026 school year has already brought exciting growth and meaningful achievements, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share them with you. On behalf of our staff and facult, I want to first thank you for your continued support and encouragement that makes all of this possible. Your partnership allows our students to learn, grow, and thrive each day in a community shaped by faith, care, and excellence.
We are excited to share that MDCA Elementary has been named a 2025 CAPE Blue Ribbon School by the Council for American Private Education, an honor awarded to just 55 exemplary non-public schools nationwide and only three in the state of Florida. This prestigious recognition reflects exceptional academic performance and affi MDCA’s high standards in teaching, curriculum, leadership, and school culture, as well as demonstrated excellence in core subjects such as reading and math through rigorous, sustained measures of student achievement.
end note
To support the continued growth of our students, we added three teacher assistants directly into our elementary classrooms. These assistants provide vital daily support through small-group instruction, targeted reading intervention, and timely math support for students who need additional reinforcement. By reteaching concepts, offering extr practice, and assisting with lesson preparation and grading, they allow classroom instruction to flow smoothly while ensurin that every student receives the attention they need. Just as importantly, they strengthen classroom culture as positive role models and trusted encouragers. In partnership with our already thriving Wishart Academic Success Center, this added layer of support creates a seamless system of care, meeting students where they are and helping each one move forward with confidence
Additionally, we are grateful for the impact of the Bridge Program, a targeted transitional initiative designed to support students from the Children’s Residential Home & Single-Parent Program. This new program addresses academic gaps, trauma-related challenges, and emotional and spiritual needs through individualized instruction, trauma-informed Christian counseling, spiritual care, and strong relational engagement from the teachers. Operating within a least-restrictive, case-by-case model and in close collaboration with Social Services staff, the Bridge Pogram equips students with the confidence, esilience, and readiness needed for full participation in the Academy.
Together, these efforts allow Mount Dora ChristianAcademy & Children’s Home to more fully live out our mission of educating, equipping, and empowering students in a Christ-centered, loving community. Thank you for partnering with us in this important work and for investing in the lives of our students.
Glory to God, Head of School
Mount Dora Christian Academy
Educate. Equip. Empower.
301 W. 13th Ave.
Mount Dora, FL 32757
Phone (352) 383-2155
Fax (352) 383-3112
mdcacademy.org mdchome.org
If this copy of Imagine is addressed to your MDCA Alumni, please update their contact information by emailing alumni@mdcacademy.org. At Mount Dora Christian Academy & Children’s Home, we educate, equip, and empower faith-driven world changers in a Christ-centered, loving community.
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baptism, one of
that have taken place on campus this year, reflects the spiritual mvement happening at MDCA. During the school day, students and staff gathered to witness freshman Gavin Marquez take this step of faith alongside VP for Spiritual Life Sean Algaier, President Sam Smith, and Bible teacher Lou Daranda.