by Lauren Deal, Director of Marketing and Alumni Relations
Sending your child to Mount de Sales Academy is about more than academics; it’s about becoming part of a supportive community that fosters lifelong relationships and personal growth. Alumni Dr. Diamond Odell Jude, MD. (2008) and Mr. Quentin Jude (2006) share how their experiences at MDS shaped their paths and enriched their lives and desire to give back to the Cavalier community.
Dr. Diamond Odell Jude, a dedicated internal medicine physician, reflects on her time at MDS, where she shadowed Andrew Intaphan’s (2007) mother, Dr. Intaphan, during high school. This early experience resulted in Dr. Jude asking Dr. Intaphan to write her a recommendation letter for college, laying the groundwork for her career. When she returned to Macon, Dr. Jude worked in the hospital but wanted to transition to a private practice to better serve patients in her local Macon community. The bonds formed during those years were significant enough that, upon her retirement, Dr. Intaphan offered Dr. Jude the opportunity to take over her practice, demonstrating the deep connections forged within the MDS community. Dr. Jude spoke to the MDS chapter of the High School Alliance of Future Physicians to share her experiences with current high school students interested in a medical career.
Dr. Jude highlights the myriad of opportunities available at Mount de Sales. She was involved with the Student Council, science and biology, and chorus, and even helped to create a dance team that performed during the basketball games; she appreciates how MDS encourages students to explore their passions. The supportive teachers provided guidance and resources that allowed her to pursue diverse interests and grow as an individual. Mrs. Donna Washburn, one of MDS’ past choral directors, assembled the chorale ensemble. “She treated us like we were her children,” Dr. Jude shared. She was exposed to a memorable experience; they traveled to New York City to perform on Good Morning America during her time with the chorale ensemble. She also remembered Coach Freeman (1993) as a pivotal teacher. Todd Freeman currently serves as a physics teacher and is an alumnus of MDS. He’s also helped to introduce Freshman Forum this year, a class every freshman takes to learn more about what it means to be a Cavalier. Dr. Jude said of Coach Freeman, “He could connect with us all. He brought you out of your shell to help you grasp whatever you had to do.”
Quentin transitioned to Mount de Sales from a school that is no longer open. He cherished the family feel of Mount de Sales, often attending sporting events that fostered a sense of belonging. In 10th grade, during their shared time at MDS, a school “SWAT” team was formed; this group was dedicated to promoting and supporting their peers. Now that the Jude family has returned to Macon, he and Dr. Jude are committed to rekindling those relationships and giving back to the community that shaped them. “Life is about moments. Reminiscing about past moments and enjoying them is critical,” said Quentin. Dr. Jude recalls the fun of being asked to prom by her now-husband Quentin, even if the answer was a polite “no.” These shared experiences helped to build a sense of camaraderie that has endured over the years.
As alumni, Quentin and Dr. Jude advocate for their school, emphasizing the importance of maintaining solid alumni relations. “To maintain and grow the school, it’s crucial that we get involved in alumni relations. We want to give back to the community that gave so much to us,” Dr. Jude states. Their commitment to supporting MDS is a testament to the strong connections formed during their time there. For families considering Mount de Sales, both Quentin and Dr. Jude have encouraging words. “No matter where you come from, everyone is treated with respect,” Dr. Jude explains. “There are ample opportunities for parents to connect, creating a strong family feel that fosters connectedness. Quentin echoes this sentiment: “There is so much support. I never felt unwanted; I felt accepted. For families unfamiliar with Mount de Sales, there’s a cohesiveness where everyone strives to support your dreams, whether it’s becoming a doctor, lawyer, or something else.”
Mount de Sales Academy is more than an educational institution; it’s a community that nurtures growth, encourages exploration, and fosters lifelong connections. As current students and alumni reflect on their experiences, they underscore the importance of support, respect, and shared memories in shaping their lives. For any family considering MDS, it promises a journey filled with opportunity, connection, and lasting impact. The Jude family looks forward to sending their daughter, Autumn, to Mount de Sales when she is old enough, a future Cavalier!
Original article published from the Fall 2024 de Sales Sheet.