After 38 years of service in education, Cathy Davis will be retiring from her role as head of school at Oak Hill Academy. Davis has served with unwavering commitment for the past 10 years, during which Oak Hill has flourished under her leadership.
Her tenure has seen transformative changes to both the school and its curriculum, helping to shape the future of Oak Hill and ensuring that it remains a place of excellence in education.
Davis is particularly proud of the exceptional team of teachers and administrators at Oak Hill, whose dedication has been integral to the school’s success. She also acknowledges the vital support of the parents, students, board members and the entire community. Their collaborative efforts have been a cornerstone of Oak Hill’s thriving environment.
A trailblazer in education, Davis was the first female head of school at Oak Hill Academy, breaking barriers and setting a powerful example for future leaders. Her leadership journey also includes significant roles as the first female principal of Wayne County High School, career technical director, research professor at Mississippi State University and adjunct professor at multiple institutions, including University of Alabama at Birmingham, Bevill State, Blue Mountain College and Walker College.
Though Davis will miss the staff and students of Oak Hill, she is excited to spend more time with her family – including her mother, children, and grandchildren – in the years to come.
She and her husband, Coach Bubba Davis, reside in West Point and are active members of Calvary Baptist Church.
Davis’s legacy as an educator and leader is undeniable. Her contributions to Oak Hill and the field of education have left an indelible mark. Oak Hill is grateful for her years of service and wish her all the best as she embarks on this new chapter of life.
New head of school
Phil Ferguson will be stepping into the role of head of school. With an impressive 35-year career in education, Ferguson brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the academy.
Ferguson has dedicated 17 years to coaching and athletics, serving as head football coach and athletic director at both Bruce High School and Tupelo High School. His tenure in athletics was marked by a commitment to developing student-athletes and fostering excellence both on and off the field.
Beyond his contributions to sports, Ferguson has spent 18 years as a school administrator, holding principal positions at the high school, middle school and elementary levels. His leadership roles at Guntown, East Webster, and most recently as principal and athletic director at Oak Hill Academy have equipped him with the skills and vision to guide the school into its next chapter.
Ferguson is married to Sara Ferguson and they have two daughters, Claire and Sydney.
“Oak Hill Academy is excited to welcome Phil Ferguson as our Head of School,” said Kyle Chandler IV. “His extensive background in education, administration and athletics aligns perfectly with our mission to provide a well-rounded and enriching experience for students.”
Ferguson officially assumes his new role July 1 and looks forward to leading Oak Hill Academy with a focus on academic excellence, student development and community engagement.
New principal and athletic director
Oak Hill Academy also announced the appointment of Matt Caldwell as the new high school principal and athletic director.
Caldwell brings nearly 30 years of experience in education, coaching, and school leadership, along with a proven record of excellence in athletic administration.
A native of Columbus, Caldwell is a 1991 graduate of New Hope High School. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Teaching and Coaching Education from Mississippi State University in 1996, where he was a three-year football letterman and a two-time All-SEC Academic Honor Roll selection – exemplifying his commitment to both athletic and academic achievement.
Caldwell began his career in 1996 at Columbus High School and has since held teaching and coaching positions at Mize Attendance Center, Seminary Attendance Center, Taylorsville Attendance Center and North Forrest High School. In 2003, he earned a Master of Science in Athletic Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi.
In 2009, he completed the Mississippi Alternate Path to Quality School Leadership Training Institute, paving the way for a successful career in educational administration. He has since served in leadership roles at North Forrest High School, Taylorsville Attendance Center, George County High School, George County School District, Presbyterian Christian School and Heritage Academy. His impressive 29-year career includes 16 years as a school administrator.
Caldwell’s work has earned statewide and regional recognition. He was named Mississippi Athletic Administrators Association Athletic Director of the Year in 2014, Coach of the Year by the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame (Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter) in 2019, and Mississippi Association of Coaches Athletic Director of the Year in 2021.
“Mr. Caldwell’s leadership, character, and dedication to student success make him an outstanding addition to our school community,” said Ferguson, the incoming head of school. “We are thrilled to welcome someone of his caliber to Oak Hill Academy.”
Caldwell and his wife, Melissa, have two adult children: a son, Cade, and a daughter, Charlsi.
Oak Hill Academy looks forward to the leadership, integrity, and vision that Caldwell will bring to his new role as high school principal and athletic director.
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