The thought of being recognized as the "Shining Star" of 2024 at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School's upcoming Gala, at Plantation Golf & Country Club on April 20, is humbling for Judy Collins. She isn't someone who seeks the limelight merely for living a good Catholic life or for being a devoted wife, mother of six, and grandmother of twenty.
However, that's one of the many reasons why she deserves the award, said Leah Mihm, Epiphany's Director of Development. "Judy Collins has been a parishioner at Epiphany for over 50 years. When she had children (and grandchildren) going through Epiphany, she was a room parent, lunch volunteer, and volunteered for many Home and School Association events," Mihm explained.
Judy, along with her late husband, Dr. Thomas E. Collins Sr., felt that a Catholic school education for their kids was of the utmost importance and that Epiphany provided her family with "a spiritual life and a good solid education grounded in the Catholic faith.” The couple saw their six children and ten of their twenty grandchildren graduate from Epiphany. At one point, seven grandchildren attended at the same time.
"I have so many fond memories," said Collins, as she recalled hosting 'fun' days, where the teachers, the nuns, the kids… everyone would come to the house (and the pool)." Later, there were many 'Grandparents' Days' and helping out in other ways. Collins further noted that the friends her children made at Epiphany, some of them lifelong, were of "like-mindedness," due to its Christian atmosphere.
Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School's enrollment period is open, and Leah Mihm invites parents to call and schedule a tour. The school offers a faith-based comprehensive curriculum that includes language arts, math, science, social studies, health, visual and fine arts, music appreciation and instrumental performance, foreign language (Spanish), technology and media, and physical education. Contact Admissions Director Andrea Mitchell at mitchell@ecstigers.com to learn more.
Epiphany provided her family with "a spiritual life and a good solid education grounded in the Catholic faith.”