When one thinks of Mrs. Mary Ann Odom, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Dedication to her students, kindness, willingness to serve are all great examples. When we asked a group of Bayou Academy Alumni, a resounding characteristic described is her servant heart. In the fall of 2020, Bayou Academy Foundation & Head of School, Curt McCain, saw the need for financial assistance to students within the Bayou Academy family. The pandemic was a financial burden to many families and it was clear that a solution was necessary. With that, the Mary Ann Odom Servant Heart Scholarship was born. 
Students who were recognized as needing financial assistance were constituents of this scholarship and were given relief during an already difficult year. Mrs. Odom taught at Bayou Academy for many years, dutifully serving her students in academics and life-lessons. Students all remember her fondly, with Gib Ellis (c/o 2008) saying, “I always loved that she let me sit at her desk for class. I don’t know if it was to keep
a better eye on me or what, but it made me feel special.” Many others echoed his sentiments, with the overwhelming majority saying she was the perfect mix of love & discipline. Kim Abide (c/o 1989) said, “Mrs. Odom has always been one of my favorite teachers! She is one of the teachers who inspired me to become a teacher. Thanks to Mrs. Odom, I was well prepared for my English classes in college.” Mrs. Odom is now retired from Bayou Academy, but has definitely left her legacy here. This scholarship in her honor embodies what it means to have a servant’s heart. Giving to others less fortunate is what Mrs. Odom instilled in her students. This scholarship is being utilized by families who need relief from financial strain, while continuing to give their children the best education.
If you would like to contribute to the Mary Ann Odom Servant Heart Scholarship, please send your 100% tax deductible donation to P.O. Box 1044, Cleveland, MS. 38732 with “Odom Scholarship” in the memo line OR you can use the link below to submit your donation via Paypal. Mrs. Odom’s servant heart will continue to be honored through the students supported through this endeavor!
