Hometown Madison Magazine, Brandon, MS (2025)

09/20/2025

Priscilla Jolly Millsaps College Alumna

Tell us a little about your childhood.
I grew up in Jackson. My parents are John Almond, a retired civil engineer and Butch Almond, a retired art teacher. My sisters and I all graduated from St. Andrew’s. In high school I was active on the school track and cross country teams.

Tell us why you decided to attend Millsaps and your experience there.
I really loved my high school experience at a small school, and I wanted to have close relationships with faculty and feel part of a small but vibrant school community. Also, I had a great time visiting for Major Madness! There were some really awesome students who hosted us, and we had so much fun. I knew the academics would be top-notch, but after visiting, I knew it would also be a really fun place to spend four years.

What degree did you receive, and how are you using that now?
My degree is in computer science. I was lucky to have wonderful instructors to encourage me in my studies but also as mentors in life. After working a few years, I decided to pursue a dental degree. My Millsaps connections were a big part of this decision. I am a full-time orthodontist in my private practice, Jolly Orthodontics, in Ridgeland. My husband, Jason, runs the business side of the practice and keeps everyone smiling!

What is your favorite memory from Millsaps?
I made so many kind, supportive and hilarious friends that are still my friends to this day. I met my husband Jason at Millsaps. I also had a great time in cross country and running, and chatting with friends brought me so much joy during college.

What advice would you give to students who are seeking a similar career path?
Work hard and make good grades. Shadow and research career options to find a career that you love and that fits your personality. It is really difficult to do this without witnessing, firsthand, what a job really looks like in action.

See Priscilla's article in the September edition of Hometown Madison!

09/19/2025

Anne Hall Brashier The University of Mississippi - Ole Miss Alumna

Tell us about your childhood.
I grew up in Indianola on our family farm where my grandparents and parents still farm today. I worked on the farm for several summers, and still, today, say those are some of the best summers I’ve ever had. I attended and graduated from Indianola Academy.

Tell us why you decided to attend Ole Miss and your experience there.
Both of my parents went to Ole Miss and I grew up going to all of the Ole Miss football games. I always knew I wanted to go to Ole Miss. I was a member of Chi Omega and enjoyed participating in activities. Ole Miss gave me four of the best years of my life. I still go often to see old friends and games.

What degree did you receive, and how are you using that now?
I studied exercise science and intended to go to physical therapy school. I interned on Capitol Hill in DC after my junior year at Ole Miss, and decided to do a complete career change. My ability to succeed in government with an exercise science degree proves that a political science degree is not required for public service. I serve as chief of staff for the governor of Mississippi.

What is your favorite memory from Ole Miss?
I have too many memories to nail down just one favorite, but my senior year I had my sister at Ole Miss with me as a freshman. It was fun to share a year with her in Oxford and have our family be there for so many Saturdays in the Grove.

What advice would you give to students who are seeking a similar career path?
I’ve spent the last 12 years in public service working for Mississippi. I would encourage everybody, no matter what you are studying, to consider working in government. My time in government has given me an even better appreciation of our state and the opportunities and challenges our elected officials face every day. We need more young Mississippians to become involved in public service and politics to continue the positive trajectory Mississippi is on today.

See Anne’s article in the September edition of Hometown Madison!

09/18/2025

Anthony Stone Holmes Community College Alumnus

Tell us about your childhood.
I grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota, a city full of opportunity and advancement for anyone willing to work.

Tell us why you decided to attend Holmes and your experience there.
I visited Holmes CC and discovered the culinary arts program. I overheard the culinary arts students chatting about how much they liked the program and how they were learning and developing. I really enjoy the freedom of discovery of who I was as an inspiring chef and the sense of family and support I got when I attended Holmes. Although, I worked very hard and learned a lot, my instructor and other staff members went above and beyond to encourage me and other students to reach for success.

What degree did you receive and how are you using that now?
I received three degrees in culinary arts. I worked as head chef at two different locations where I was able to confidently showcase my talents and culinary knowledge. I own my own food truck, Minnesota Lucy’s, in Gluckstadt. Our success, so far, has us on course to open the Minnesota Lucy’s Sport Bar and Grill within a short time. I also mentor at-risk young men. I work with local schools to help high-school and college students to complete their internships. I have also hosted Minnesota Lucy’s, “Feed the Homeless” events to connect and give back to the community.

What is your favorite memory from Holmes CC?
While at Holmes, I was diagnosed with cancer and needed surgery and treatment. I fell into a deep dark depression and felt like giving up. The only light during that time was going to class and crafting my skill. As a student, I was given opportunities to showcase my talents in food demonstrations. I was able to influence and motivate my peers, and work with the community to develop relationships with other professionals. The reason and motivation for my fight to survive my cancer was because of the support, the desire to learn, and the commitment to excellence I gained at Holmes.

What advice would you give to students who are seeking a similar career path?
Work hard and be consistent in developing your craft. Be patient. Success doesn’t come overnight. Listen to what people are saying. Critiques are not rejections. A good chef must serve food that everyone can enjoy, every time.

See Anthony's article in the September edition of Hometown Madison!

09/17/2025

Christina Dent | Belhaven University Alumna

Tell us about your childhood.
I was born and raised in Jackson in a conservative Christian home where faith, family, and hard work were central. I was also homeschooled K-12, along with three older brothers, by our mom. My dad was the business administrator at Mt. Salus throughout my childhood. I spent my time riding bikes, learning piano and flute, and earning money starting when I was six, and my family became the custodians at our church, Providence Presbyterian.

Tell us why you decided to attend Belhaven and your experience there.
Belhaven wasn’t just my top choice, it was my only choice. I found life-long friends, grew in my faith, had professors I loved, and wouldn’t trade those years for anything. I was involved in Reformed University Fellowship, played ultimate frisbee, worked as a writing tutor and in the bookstore, and was an RA. I also met my husband there, and we got married during spring break of my senior year. Belhaven was a safe place to grow and it gave me lifelong gifts that are still blessing me today.

What degree did you receive and how are you using that now?
I received a BA in biblical studies. In 2019, I founded End It For Good, a nonprofit that advocates for health-centered approaches to drugs and addiction. The training I got at Belhaven prepared me not just theologically but also practically to engage in an issue affecting almost every family in our country and talk about it to anyone - from healthcare professionals to law enforcement officers to church leaders.

What is your favorite memory from Belhaven?
My freshman year, I got to sing in the 68th annual Singing Christmas Tree. I spent two beautiful evenings sitting alongside friends, holding a string of lights, and singing my heart out.

What advice would you give to students who are seeking a similar career path?
Be open to where God might lead. It’s unrealistic to ask students what they want to do with their lives. It’s likely they’ll work many different jobs. Life takes twists and turns, and careers can too. Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to ask hard questions or take a path less traveled.

See Christina's article in the September edition of Hometown Madison!

09/16/2025

Amanda Alexander | Mississippi College Alumna

Tell us a little about your childhood.
I grew up in Kokomo, Mississippi. Both my parents were leaders in social and civic organizations. My daddy, the late Reverend Arthur Lee Green, was a Baptist minister and a US Army veteran, retiring as a staff sergeant. My mom, Debora, was an early childhood education specialist for the HeadStart Project. I am the youngest (the baby, as my daddy would say) of two. My older brother, Bernard Green, a nearly 30-year insurance entrepreneur, lives in Hattiesburg. My childhood could be summarized in one word—LOVE.

Tell us about your experience at MC.
My time at MC Law was exceptional. MC nurtures leaders in the same ways that my parents and community have supported me throughout my life. It truly feels like an extension of my family.

What degree did you receive, and how are you using that now?
I received my Juris Doctor. As the founder and managing partner of Alexander Law, I lead a team of litigators who specialize in employment law, workers’ compensation, and civil defense for state and local entities, businesses, and non-profits throughout the state.

What is your favorite memory from MC?
My favorite memory is from my contracts class, where our new professor, Kettle, was explaining the key terms of a contract. At one point, I must have misunderstood a term or process, and I found myself completely confused. Without hesitation, I raised my hand and said, “Professor Kettle, it may just be me, and if it is, I apologize in advance to my classmates, but I’m thoroughly confused and need you to go back a few exits.” To my surprise, the entire class let out a collective sigh of relief and laughed, as we were similarly confused. On that day, I made a lot of new friends who I can rely on as resources, and I hope they feel the same about me.

What advice would you give to students who are seeking a similar career path?
Here’s the best advice my brother gave. “Write it down, chart your path, and work towards your goals. With God, all things are possible. When you feel overwhelmed, refer to your list as a reminder of your purpose.”

Find Amanda's article in the September edition of Hometown Madison!

09/16/2025

The first day of fall is one week from today ~ We visited Lakeland Yard & Garden today, and are ready to welcome fall.

09/15/2025

Cathy Haynie Head of School at Christ Covenant School

What year did Christ Covenant begin?
CCS opened its doors in 2002 with just over 70 students. We welcomed over 650 students to campus in August of 2025!

How many students are part of your very first graduating class of 2026?
CCS will graduate 10 seniors this year with classes of 40 to 60 following them.

What does this milestone (your first graduating class) mean to you personally and to the Christ Covenant community?
Having served CCS for 22 years as the Head of School, to add a High School and have our first graduating class is very special. John 1:16 reminds us of God's overwhelming provision for CCS as grace upon grace. We have built buildings, expanded our football field, purchased land, and more- even just in recent months. Grace upon Grace indeed!

Personally, I thought it would take us much longer to bring this to such fruition, and it has been a reminder that the Lord has good plans for us and will provide what we need to accomplish them. Our Christ-centered mission is important within the independent school landscape, and we are honored to serve our community in this way.

If you could give a piece of advice to the graduating class, what would it be?
Seniors, it is my hope that you will live purposefully, serve faithfully, and remain grounded in your identity in Christ. As you approach graduation and new adventures, I hope you will Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and remember that it is He who will make your paths straight. (from Proverbs 3:5 and 6). We remain among your biggest fans!

09/13/2025

Jack Purvis | St. Andrew's Episcopal School Class of 2025

What are you doing now?
This summer, I had the opportunity to play soccer with a local semi-pro team, Gaffa FC. Now, I am headed off to Colorado College to study biology and play soccer.

What is your favorite high school memory?
My favorite memory would have to be team dinners with the soccer team after practices. These were a great way to bond with people from different classes and really helped the team connect on and off the field.

If you could give a piece of advice to a high school student now, what would it be?
If I could give advice to a current high school student, I would say to walk with kindness and an open-mind.

09/12/2025

Lane Martin | Canton Academy Class of 2020

What are you doing now?
In July I finished helicopter flight school with the Army National Guard in Enterprise, AL, where I learned to fly Blackhawk helicopters. I moved back to Madison County after graduation. In the next few weeks, I'll go through progression back to my medi-vac Guard unit in Jackson, while I decide what my next steps are.

What is your favorite high school memory?
I went to basic training between my junior and senior years, so my favorite high school memory is coming back from basic and playing the first football game of my senior year the next day. I loved being out on the field again with all my friends.

If you could give a piece of advice to a high school student now, what would it be? Make a plan–one for after graduation, but while you are in school, really enjoy it – friends, sports, family. Take advantage of every opportunity you can!

09/11/2025

Hayden Coffey | Germantown High School - Madison, MS Class of 2013

What are you doing now?
Owner/Dentist Madison Dental Studio

What is your favorite high school memory?
Friday night football games.

If you could give a piece of advice to a high school student now, what would it be? Always be prepared for the future, but enjoy and master the phase of life you are currently in because it will pass like all things do.

09/10/2025

With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Charlie Kirk. His unwavering Christian faith and love for America inspired so many, us included.

May God grant comfort, peace, and strength to his young family, friends, and all who were touched by his abounding courage.

This is a heartbreaking loss. 💔

09/10/2025

Delesha Banks | Velma Jackson Class of 2019

What are you doing now?
I am a full-time Multimedia Journalist/Reporter for WJTV 12 News.

What is your favorite high school memory?
A few of my favorite high school memories include attending senior prom, traveling with my cheerleading team for basketball and football games, competing in track meets, participating in Technology Student Association (TSA) competitions, and creating videos and graphics for school-related events.

If you could give a piece of advice to a high school student now, what would it be?
"Keep God first! Never be afraid to be yourself—authenticity is powerful. Make the most of each day, and always strive to put your best foot forward. Whatever you do, approach it with dedication and diligence. Prioritize your education and embrace every opportunity to learn. Cherish time with family and friends, find joy in the little moments, and remember to be kind—to others and to yourself.”

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