The MPCS Alumni Association presented its annual awards during halftime of the homecoming 2021 football game. Congratulations to this year's recipients: Honorary Alumna of the Year Susan King and Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Beau O'Dell '06. Congratulations to both of these deserving honorees!
Susan King’s relationship with MPCS began in 1984, when she was hired as a teacher. After being at the school for several years, she joined the administrative team and became the school's first admissions director in 1989. From 1989-1992, she served in a variety of positions, including lower school principal and interim headmaster. In 1992, she became headmaster at MPCS, a position she held until 2004, when she placed MPCS into the capable hands of Dr. David Tilley. Her leadership during her 12 years as headmaster was critical in the growth of the school in allowing MPCS to become the school it is today. Mrs. King’s love for MPCS has continued since leaving in 2004. We recognize her for her efforts during her 20 year tenure at MPCS. It is clear that she, like the Biblical Esther, was, placed in her influential position at MPCS “for such a time as this.”
Mrs. King’s leadership was what MPCS needed during the time she was here, and the school is forever grateful for the sacrifices and commitment she made to MPCS during transitional years. When reflecting on her time at MPCS, Mrs. King says:
“Mount Paran Christian School will always hold a special place in my heart. I have many fond memories of working with wonderful students, supportive parents, and incredible teachers and staff, all sharing in the mission of MPCS. God called us to excellence, and together we raised our standards to meet that goal. To God be the glory!”
Distinguished Alumnus of the Year: Beau O’Dell '06
After graduating from MPCS in 2006, Beau O'Dell attended KSU and then earned a BS degree from Waldorf University in Fire Science Administration in 2013. He served as a Cobb County Fireman for 10 years. A few years ago, he became involved in the insurance business and was promoted to agency owner with Farmers Insurance (O’Dell Agency in Woodstock) in December 2020.
While a student at MPCS, Beau led chapel worship and was involved in student life, participating in the Arts and Athletics. Three years ago, he began serving on the alumni council and is currently the council’s VP and incoming president, beginning July 1, 2022. Beau’s sister, Tara Ellison '02, is an MPCS alumna, and his mother, Terry, worked as a teacher at MPCS for many years.
Beau and his family attend Four Points Church in Acworth. One of his favorite quotes is, "Charisma will take you to high places but character... character will keep you there! Give me Jesus. You can have all this world, just give me Jesus.”
Beau says of his time at MPCS:
“Mount Paran Christian School has played a major role in my life. The mentors and the leadership helped shape me into who I am today. This school was instrumental in building the foundation of my faith. I am so grateful and blessed to have been brought up through the school.”
