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

Poised to Discover: Skyler Wong

Thanks to a long-standing partnership with Atrium Health Navicent, MDS established the Discover Scholarship for students who have a parent working at the hospital. This year’s recipient, Skyler Wong, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Tristram and Aileen Wong. Skyler is a current 8th grader, and previously attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School and St. Peter Claver Catholic School. MDS is thrilled to have such a high-achieving student who thrives in a fast-paced, rigorous academic environment. Skyler is a straight-A student who loves all school subjects; he also enjoys playing the piano, video gaming, cooking, and volunteering in the community. Skyler describes himself as hard-working, astute, social, helpful, and confident. Welcome to the Cavalier family, Skyler.

Challenged to Innovate: Cameron Selph

Cameron Selph, son of Mr. and Mrs. Matthew and Kristen Selph, is this year’s Innovate Scholar, receiving a scholarship focused on students with a keen interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). During Scholars Day, candidates spent several hours working on various hands-on experiments with MDS science faculty, as well as participating in a writing assignment. Cameron not only stood out for his teamwork and out-of-the-box thinking; his writing sample was also scored the highest of all the candidates. When asked to describe describe a role model in his life who serves the community and others, he chose his dad, who serves the United States of America in the Air Force. Cameron plans to join the basketball team this year. He previously attended Sacred Heart Catholic School, and we are thrilled to have him join the Cavalier family.

Motivated to Serve: Bryton Smith

Bryton Smith is also an 8th grade student from Sacred Heart Catholic School. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen and Stephanie Smith. The Serve Scholarship is awarded to students with a parent serving in the military. This year, candidates met with representatives from United Way. Bryton learned more about the organization’s Read for the Record program, where volunteers record themselves reading children’s books. Bryton was instrumental in helping them meet their literacy goals. One of Bryton’s teachers said he earns respect from all of his teachers and is proud of Bryton’s ability to lead his peers. As a Cavalier, Bryton aspires to play basketball and soccer. Welcome, Bryton, to your new Cavalier family.