Leadership & Admin Bios
Mary Kathryn Whittle
Head of School
A Mt. Salus graduate herself, having attended from kindergarten through 12th grade, Mary Kathryn brings a lifelong connection to the school and a deep commitment to its mission. With degrees from Mississippi State University and a master’s in counseling from Reformed Theological Seminary, she has served on both faculty and staff and now steps into leadership with a heart for ministry and growth.
“Mt. Salus isn’t about a place — it’s about the people,” Mary Kathryn shares. “I’ve experienced firsthand the impact of teachers and leaders who show up every day to teach, lead, and love students as the hands and feet of Jesus.”
As head of school, Mary Kathryn is dedicated to continuing that legacy, offering a Christ-centered education that shapes minds, forms hearts, and transforms lives through a biblical worldview.
Mary Kathryn is married to her husband, Hunter, and they have three children. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, listening to podcasts, mowing her yard, and investing in her school and church community in various ways.
Dana Phillips
Middle & High School Team Lead
Dana joined the MSCS team in 2021. She holds a BA in English and a Minor in Spanish from Mississippi College and an MA in Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
In addition to teaching middle and high school English classes, Dana serves on the Leadership team, overseeing the high school and assists with admissions. Dana loves the classroom and teaching students to think critically from a biblical worldview.
Dana has been married to her husband, Bryant, for over twenty years, and they have two sons. In her free time, Dana enjoys reading, organizing, and spending time with her family.
Beth Hooks
Administrative Assistant & School Counselor
Beth joined MSCS in 2024. She holds a BSE in Science Education from Delta State University and will complete her MA in Counseling from Mississippi College in May 2026. Beth spent nine years in the classroom teaching various subjects. She enjoys serving students and families and helping them navigate the various aspects of their academic journey.
Beth enjoys spending time with her three children and serving in her church community.