Longwood GradCast - Beyond the Degree

What happens when a love of teaching, creativity and community transforms a school library into the heart of a school?

In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson talks with Kannan Cangro (M.Ed. '15), an award-winning school librarian whose innovative approach to literacy is helping hundreds of students discover the joy of reading and the power of belonging.

Kannan began her career as an elementary art teacher before finding her calling in school librarianship. Today, she serves as librarian at Claremont Elementary School, where she has built a library program grounded in equity, accessibility and meaningful relationships. Her work has earned regional recognition, but at the heart of her story is a commitment to ensuring every child feels seen, valued and connected to books.

Kannan reflects on how her Longwood graduate experience shaped her as both an educator and a leader, including the mentorship of faculty members like Dr. Audrey Church and the support of a close-knit cohort that continues to influence her work today. She shares how flexible, student-centered faculty helped make graduate school possible while modeling the kind of leadership she now brings to her own profession.

She also discusses the creative programs that have become hallmarks of her library, including her "True Book Fair," which ensures every student takes home brand-new books regardless of financial circumstances, and her popular reading pet initiative that helps young readers build confidence and excitement around literacy. Through community partnerships, grants and a deep understanding of student needs, Kannan continues to expand access to books and learning opportunities for every child she serves.

Now recognized as a leader in school librarianship, Kannan advocates for literacy, inclusion and innovation while helping students discover that reading can open doors to endless possibilities.

In this episode, Kannan talks about:

• The Longwood faculty and cohort experiences that shaped her career
• How she transitioned from art education to school librarianship
• Creating a library culture built on belonging and connection
• Why equitable access to books matters for student success
• The inspiration behind her "True Book Fair" initiative
• Creative ways to engage young and reluctant readers
• Building community partnerships to expand opportunities for students
• How school libraries can serve as powerful centers of learning, creativity and support

Listen to hear how one educator is redefining what a school library can be and why the relationships we build can change the trajectory of a child's life.

What happens when a teacher follows her curiosity far beyond the classroom?

In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson talks with Dr. Becky Schnesker (B.S.’05, M.S.’06), a double Longwood alumna whose career has taken her from the classroom to the Amazon Rainforest, Antarctica and beyond.

Becky is an educator, National Geographic educator and explorer, author, school founder and assistant professor of education. But at the heart of her story is something much simpler: curiosity, and the people who encouraged her to follow it.

Becky reflects on how her Longwood experience shaped her as both an educator and a lifelong learner, including the professors and mentors who saw possibilities in her before she could see them herself. One handwritten note from a professor describing one of her assignments as "PhD caliber material" stayed with her for years.

She also shares how a desire to rethink education led her to help open a tuition-free school, write Expedition Science, and take elementary students beyond traditional classroom walls. A chance conference conversation, a Twitter message and a grant application eventually opened the door to an expedition to the Amazon, followed by experiences in the Galapagos, Iceland and Antarctica.

Now preparing the next generation of teachers, Becky continues to challenge conventional ideas about what education can be and what students are capable of.

In this episode, Becky talks about:

• The Longwood professors and mentors who changed the direction of her life
• Why curiosity can be a powerful foundation for learning
• How she took elementary students' learning beyond the classroom
• The unexpected path from a conference conversation to the Amazon Rainforest
• What exploring the world has taught her about teaching
• Why she believes ideas should never be "too weird or too big"
• Bringing her Longwood experience full circle by mentoring future educators

How does a young girl inspired by exceptional teachers grow into a literacy leader who is now shaping the next generation of students and educators?

In this inspiring episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson sits down with Madison Lewis (B.S. ’19, M.Ed. ’20), a double Longwood alumna completing the Reading, Literacy, and Learning program at Longwood, kindergarten teacher, mentor, and advocate for literacy, to explore a journey rooted in relationships, curiosity, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.

From childhood teachers who helped her rediscover confidence and a love of learning to professors, mentors, and colleagues who continue to challenge and support her today, Madison's story is a powerful testament to the lasting influence of people who show up at exactly the right moment.

Having dreamed of attending Longwood since she was a teenager, Madison reflects on how the university became a place where she found connection, leadership opportunities, and lifelong friendships. Through experiences as a Longwood Ambassador, Honors College student, student leader, study abroad participant, and graduate student in Reading, Literacy, and Learning, she discovered that the most meaningful lessons often happen outside the classroom.

Now teaching in Cumberland County, Madison is carrying those lessons forward. Whether she's helping kindergarten students learn to read, partnering with families, mentoring future educators, or supporting colleagues, she approaches every interaction with the same philosophy that shaped her own journey: every person deserves to feel seen, valued, and understood.

Throughout the conversation, Madison shares how influential educators such as Linda Moore, Dr. Dorothy Cosby, Dr. Wendy Snow, and many others helped shape her career and sense of purpose. She also reflects on the supportive community she found at Longwood and the network of mentors, family members, colleagues, and fellow alumni who continue to guide her today.

As both a mentor and mentee, Madison demonstrates how meaningful relationships create ripple effects that extend far beyond a single classroom, school, or degree.

In this episode, listeners will explore:

• How one elementary teacher changed the course of Madison's life and inspired her calling to education
• Why Longwood felt like home from the very beginning
• The power of storytelling, leadership, and community-building on campus
• Lessons learned from stepping far outside her comfort zone during a study abroad experience
• How the Reading, Literacy, and Learning program prepared her to become a literacy leader
• The evolution of the science of reading and its impact on today's classrooms
• Why mentoring future educators has become one of the most rewarding parts of her career
• How strong relationships with families, colleagues, and students create lasting impact
• What it means to be a "group project" and how the people around us shape who we become

Madison's story perfectly captures the heart of Season 3 by reminding us that success is never achieved alone. From the teachers who first believed in her to the students she now serves, her journey illustrates how encouragement, mentorship, and authentic human connection can transform lives for generations.

"Thank you, but Madison was a group project." — Tracy Lewis

Subscribe to Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree to hear more stories of alumni whose lives and careers demonstrate the enduring power of people, connection, and opportunity.

In this powerful episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson sits down with Ebony Cherry (B.S.’04, M.S.’22), a double Longwood alumna, former student-athlete, and innovative school leader, to explore a journey defined by resilience, relationships, and purpose-driven leadership.

Ebony shares her full-circle path from navigating childhood trauma and arriving at Longwood as a first-generation student-athlete to becoming a people-first assistant principal committed to creating safe, supportive environments for both students and educators. Choosing Longwood not once, but twice, Ebony reflects on how her undergraduate and graduate experiences shaped her evolution from survival mode to a confident, boundary-pushing leader in educational leadership.

While completing her master’s in Educational Leadership, Ebony leaned into the same principles that guide her work today: authentic connection, accountability with empathy, and the belief that leadership is earned through trust. Drawing on her background in athletics and coaching, she brings a “player development” mindset into administration by using data, communication, and relationship-building to help both students and teachers grow.

Throughout the episode, Ebony reflects on the Power of People that shaped her path: professors who showed up, literally and figuratively, during her hardest seasons, mentors who pushed her to see her own leadership potential, and a Longwood community that became a place of stability, belonging, and transformation.

Now a noteworthy assistant principal, Ebony is redefining what leadership looks like in education by balancing high expectations with humanity, and ensuring every person in her building feels seen, valued, and supported.

In this episode, listeners will explore:

• The realities of entering college as a first-generation student without a roadmap
• How Longwood became a place of healing, stability, and lifelong connection
• The shift from athlete and coach to impactful educational leader
• What it means to humanize leadership while maintaining accountability
• How mentorship, relationships, and community shape lasting success
• Why true leadership starts with investing in people, not power or position

Ebony’s story embodies the heart of Season 3 by demonstrating how resilience, mentorship, and meaningful relationships can transform not only individual lives, but entire communities.

“I'm gonna hold you accountable, yes, but I'm also gonna love you through the process.” — Ebony Cherry

Subscribe to Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree to hear more stories of alumni whose journeys prove the lasting power of people, connection, and opportunity.

How does a French soccer player end up co‑founding a global content brand with millions of followers?

In the Season 3 premiere of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson sits down with Alex Durand (MBA ’22)—international student‑athlete turned entrepreneur and co‑founder of AT Frenchies—to explore how resilience, relationships, and opportunity intersect to create global impact.

Alex shares his journey from leaving Paris as a teenager to navigating the American collegiate athletics system and ultimately choosing Longwood University for its flexible hybrid MBA program and elite athletic environment. While completing his MBA in just one year, Alex applied lessons in strategy, negotiation, communication, and leadership in real time—bridging the gap between content creation and sustainable business building.

Throughout the episode, Alex reflects on the Power of People that shaped every step of his path: Longwood faculty and staff like Wade Edwards, who supported his visa journey; Coach Sean, who believed in him as a Division I athlete; and Tom, his childhood best friend and co‑founder whose partnership laid the foundation for AT Frenchies.

From early social media videos documenting life as French expats, AT Frenchies has grown into a global brand with partnerships including NBC and Peacock, the Olympic Games, the French Embassy, and major international cultural and sports organizations. Alex also previews his upcoming book, Pardon Our French: The Parisian Way of a Happier Life, which explores joy, balance, and cultural perspective in a fast‑paced world.

In this episode, listeners will explore:

• The leap from France into the U.S. collegiate and athletic system
• Why a hybrid MBA was the right fit for an entrepreneur‑athlete
• The transition from “influencer” to business owner
• How relationships open doors across global industries
• Why purpose and people matter more than metrics

Alex’s story sets the tone for Season 3—demonstrating how meaningful connections, mentorship, and community can shape careers far beyond the degree.

“Your relationship is your new net worth.” — Alex Durand

Subscribe to Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree to hear more stories of alumni whose journeys prove the lasting power of people, connection, and opportunity.

This season, we’re exploring The Power of People: the relationships that influence our paths, sustain us through change, and leave a lasting imprint long after graduation.

Education is more than a degree. It’s the mentors who guide us, the professors who challenge us to grow, the classmates who stand beside us, and the communities that believe in our potential. Behind every success story, every career pivot, and every moment of resilience, there are people and often, it’s the people we have become along the way.

In Season 3, Longwood graduate alumni reflect on the relationships that shaped their journeys and the ripple effect that comes from investing in others. These stories highlight connection, leadership, and courage, and how meaningful impact is built through human relationships.

Whether you’re considering a graduate program, currently navigating one, or reflecting on your own life beyond the degree, this season offers insight, inspiration, and perspective grounded in the power of connection.

BUILT ON CONNECTION, DRIVEN BY IMPACT

Each episode reminds us that growth doesn’t happen alone. Join us as Longwood graduate alumni share how community, mentorship, and shared purpose have shaped their journeys, and how showing up for others leads to meaningful change.

Because when people invest in people, powerful things happen.

Stay connected and learn more about Longwood’s graduate programs at http://www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms.

In this final episode of Season 2 of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson engages with Janine Cervantes (M.Ed.’05), a school librarian from Honduras, to explore her remarkable journey in education and libraries across the globe. Janine reflects on her roots and early life influences in Honduras, where her parents instilled a love for learning and languages. She shares how she originally pursued special education and later transitioned to library science, leading her to Longwood University. Janine recounts her academic experiences, highlighting the courses and faculty members who played pivotal roles during her studies.

Throughout the episode, she discusses the various international libraries she has worked in, emphasizing the importance of cultural respect, adaptability, and focusing on positive influences. Janine shares the challenges and joys of working in countries like Morocco, Qatar, Thailand, and Egypt, noting unique experiences and professional growth in each. Now back in Honduras, she is opening a children's library, aiming to inspire and educate young minds through storytelling. Janine's journey underscores the transformative power of libraries and the lasting impact of a Longwood education.

In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson welcomes two remarkable alumni, Katie Jamrozy-Hamby (B.S.’11, M.S.’21) and Kim Van Acker (M.S.’21), graduates of Longwood University’s Educational Leadership master’s program whose friendship has become as influential in their careers as the degree itself. Their conversation is equal parts professional insight and personal reflection, highlighting how shared experiences can transform both leadership journeys and lifelong connections.

Katie and Kim recall their first meeting in class—what began as tentative introductions soon grew into a strong and enduring friendship that has supported them through challenges, milestones, and career transitions. Together, they navigated the sudden shift to virtual learning during the pandemic, finding in their cohort not just classmates but a trusted support system. Those bonds, they reflect, became critical to their success both then and now.

The episode traces their transition from teaching to administration, exploring the defining moments that pushed each of them to embrace leadership. Katie and Kim share stories of early challenges, the lessons learned along the way, and the practical strategies that help them thrive as administrators. They emphasize the importance of presence—being visible in schools, engaging with students, and finding joy in everyday interactions—as a cornerstone of effective leadership.

Dr. Anderson also highlights Katie’s exciting new chapter: her recent completion of a doctorate and her upcoming role as Program Director of the Educational Leadership Graduate Program at Longwood University. Both she and Kim speak passionately about the skills and confidence they gained in the program, and the ways those tools continue to shape their leadership philosophies.

The conversation is rich with practical advice and personal wisdom. Katie and Kim discuss their favorite leadership books, including The Energy Bus and works by Malcolm Gladwell and Simon Sinek, and they open up about how they manage stress—whether through a “sacred day,” long runs, or baking. They also offer empowering advice for women aspiring to leadership roles: embrace the leap, find your rhythm, and don’t get caught chasing a perfect balance.

As the discussion unfolds, listeners are treated to a glimpse of what Katie and Kim imagine as their “dream school”—a community-centered space with robust support systems for students and families. It’s a vision rooted in hope, collaboration, and the kind of leadership that uplifts others.

The episode closes with gratitude: from Katie and Kim for the program that shaped their careers, and from Dr. Anderson for their ongoing impact as leaders and ambassadors of Longwood’s Educational Leadership program. It’s a heartfelt reminder that mentorship, friendship, and education can spark change far beyond the classroom.

Subscribe now to hear more powerful stories from Lancers making a difference beyond the degree—and follow us to stay connected:

Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudies
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Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms

In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson sits down with Maria Hamilton (‘21), a Student Success Coordinator at Longwood University whose educational journey is marked by resilience, reinvention, and a hearty dose of humor. From her early days teaching and coaching in Virginia to her graduate studies in Longwood’s Reading, Literacy, and Learning (RLL) program, Maria’s story is one of lifelong learning—and the joyful chaos that often accompanies it.

Maria reflects on being part of the first graduating class of a new program at WVU and the cross-state move that set her and her husband on a new professional path. Along the way, she balanced graduate school, career transitions, and raising three kids—all while navigating the realities of education during a global pandemic. With signature wit, she recounts detours into baking, family swim meets, and “not best practices” in teaching that she quickly outgrew.

A central theme of the conversation is literacy—not just as an academic subject, but as a lifelong foundation. Maria shares how Longwood’s RLL program re-ignited her passion for literacy education, deepened her understanding of reading development, and gave her the tools to support learners across age groups. She and Dr. Anderson discuss how the pandemic spotlighted the critical need for strong literacy instruction, and Maria’s enthusiasm shines through as she shares stories of students' lightbulb moments and her belief that literacy begins in kindergarten and echoes throughout life.

Now in her role as Student Success Coordinator, Maria brings her RLL training to higher education in unexpected ways. She jokes that the job is a form of “incredible wizardry,” helping students rediscover skills they once felt confident in. Every success story is a point of pride, and Maria likens each to a magnet she’d proudly display on her imaginary office fridge.

The episode also highlights Maria’s impact beyond the classroom. From serving on the Virginia Literacy Act advisory board to presenting at conferences (including a standing-room-only session on morphology), Maria’s expertise—sharpened by her time in the RLL program—continues to shape conversations around effective literacy practices. Her work with the Longwood Graduate Alumni Collaborative further reflects her commitment to building connections that last long after graduation.

A standout moment is Maria’s reflection on a favorite quote from Winnie the Pooh: “What’s wrong with knowing what you know now and not knowing what you don’t know until later?” It’s a whimsical yet wise summary of her approach to education, leadership, and life.

Looking ahead, Maria hints at a possible future in higher ed teaching—hoping to multiply her impact by preparing future educators. Her willingness to embrace the unknown, paired with a healthy dose of laughter, leaves listeners inspired and smiling.

Subscribe now to hear more powerful stories from Lancers making a difference beyond the degree—and follow us to stay connected:

Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudies
Instagram: @longwoodgradstudies @mariahamilton1424
Twitter: @longwoodcgps
YouTube: @longwoodgradstudies
Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms

In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson sits down with Daija Fowler (M.S.’23), a speech-language pathologist whose journey from psychology major to Communication Sciences and Disorders leader highlights the power of purpose, mentorship, and professional reinvention.

Daija traces her path back to her undergraduate days at UNC Greensboro, where a shift in academic focus—and a few pivotal conversations with her mom and a childhood friend—led her to discover a calling in Communication Sciences and Disorders. That moment of clarity set her on a path toward Longwood University, where she pursued her Master’s degree in speech-language pathology.

A first-generation college student, Daija speaks openly about the challenges she faced navigating graduate school applications, tuition costs, and the weight of doing it all without a roadmap. But it was at Longwood where she found her footing—and her voice. As a graduate assistant in the CSD department, Daija stepped into roles that demanded precision, organization, and adaptability. With the mentorship of faculty like Dr. King, she not only helped run the behind-the-scenes operations of the clinic but also developed a deeper appreciation for the profession she was preparing to enter.

Now working full-time in the school system, Daija reflects on her transition from private practice to public education while maintaining her original clients in an after school capacity. From the nerves of her first interviews to the satisfaction of helping students meet their communication goals, Daija shares how each stage of her journey has deepened her confidence and commitment. Her passion for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and fluency—specialties she didn’t expect to fall in love with—demonstrate the value of staying open to new possibilities.

Throughout the episode, Daija shines a light on the often-overlooked complexities of the SLP role. From diagnostics to collaboration with classroom teachers, she makes it clear that speech-language pathology is about far more than “teaching kids to talk.” It’s about connection, growth, and giving students the tools to be heard.

A standout moment in the conversation is Daija’s tribute to the mentors who helped shape her: Dr. King, Dr. Wallace, and Dr. Walker. Their belief in her potential fueled her drive and underscored the lifelong impact of supportive academic relationships.

As she looks ahead, Daija’s considering ways to share her story more broadly—possibly through a YouTube channel—to support others navigating the early stages of their SLP careers. Describing her journey in three words—authentic, adaptable, creative—Daija’s story is one of resilience, resourcefulness, and the courage to grow beyond expectations.

Subscribe now to hear more powerful stories from Lancers making a difference beyond the degree—and follow us to stay connected:

Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudies
Instagram: @longwoodgradstudies @__MoReese @atoz_aboutspeech_slp
Twitter: @longwoodcgps
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Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms