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.

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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.

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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.

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In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson sits down with Travis Mason (MBA’22), a former helicopter flight paramedic whose journey has taken him from the adrenaline-fueled world of emergency medicine to the strategic helm of sales leadership across the Northeast region.

Travis traces his career back to his teenage years as an ambulance paramedic, sharing vivid stories of long shifts in Richmond and how a move to Farmville became a surprising turning point. It was there that he connected with Centra Health System and Longwood’s graduate community, relationships that would go on to shape his trajectory in unexpected and transformative ways.

With a lifelong drive to become the best paramedic he could be, Travis realized his dream of serving as a helicopter flight paramedic—a role that demanded precision, quick decision-making, and unwavering commitment. He speaks candidly about how these high-stakes experiences fueled his desire to expand his impact, leading him to pursue a bachelor’s degree at Radford University Carilion and an MBA during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing the rigors of academics with a demanding full-time role, Travis leaned into the discipline and critical feedback that honed his leadership style.

Now Director of Sales for the entire Northeast, Travis reflects on the transition from frontline care to executive leadership. He shares what it means to build and lead high-performing teams, emphasizing mentorship, emotional intelligence, and a solutions-first mindset over traditional sales playbooks. Drawing on lessons from the field, he’s brought patient-centered thinking into the boardroom—proving that care and commerce aren’t mutually exclusive.

The conversation also ventures into the future of the air medical field. From night vision goggles to the promise of remote-controlled aircraft, Travis offers a behind-the-scenes look at how innovation is reshaping emergency care—especially in underserved rural areas. His mission is clear: make lifesaving care more accessible, more efficient, and more compassionate.

A standout moment in the episode is Travis’s reflection on the mentorship of industry legend Rob Hamilton, whose simple yet profound advice—be curious—continues to guide Travis through complex decisions and bold career moves. That spirit of curiosity and growth underscores his belief that careers should ignite passion and align with purpose.

As the episode unfolds, Travis shares his vision for teaching future Longwood students, especially around using data for decision-making without falling into the trap of analysis paralysis. Describing his own journey in three words—fun, challenging, rewarding—Travis’s story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of staying open to what’s next.

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In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson welcomes Jason “Ferg” Ferguson (M.S.’12, Counselor Education), Dean of Admissions at Longwood University, whose journey is a powerful testament to the value of involvement, mentorship, and intentional leadership.

Originally from a small town in Georgia, Ferg reflects on his formative undergraduate years at Hampden-Sydney College, where he was a two-sport athlete and active member of organizations. Guided by parents who instilled the importance of engagement, Ferg credits these early experiences with shaping his approach to leadership and community.

From his first role in the college mail room to his current post as Dean of Admissions, Ferg shares how a 30-year career in higher education has been influenced by impactful mentors, faculty, and staff. He speaks candidly about the lessons learned from being a student-athlete—resilience, teamwork, and the power of every individual contribution—which continue to inform his leadership style.

Despite initial hesitation about returning to the classroom, Ferg’s graduate experience at Longwood was both enriching and empowering. He highlights how faculty support and the program’s interactive approach enhanced his critical thinking and counseling skills—tools he now uses daily when guiding students and families through the admissions journey.

One hallmark of Ferg’s role is his personal commitment to students: he signs every acceptance letter by hand, a tradition inspired by his mentor Anita Garland. This small but meaningful gesture reflects his belief that every student deserves to feel seen, wanted, and welcomed into the Longwood family.

Throughout the episode, Ferg opens up about the challenges facing admissions today—from political pressures to shifting enrollment trends—and underscores the importance of honest conversations, collaboration, and staying true to Longwood’s mission. He recalls powerful success stories of students who once doubted themselves but found purpose and belonging at Longwood.

Dr. Tanner-Anderson shares a touching moment involving her 11-year-old son, who already names Longwood as his top college choice—echoing Ferg’s goal to make Longwood not just an option, but the first-choice for future students.

Looking ahead, Ferg encourages prospective students and alumni alike to stay coachable, take risks, and embrace failures as part of their growth. His passion for student transformation and his deep belief in the Longwood experience are at the heart of this inspiring conversation.

"I want every student to know—before they ever step foot on this campus—they belong here." – Jason Ferguson

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In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson welcomes Devin Kaiser (B.S.’21, M.S.’22, Special Education), a passionate Longwood University alumna whose journey showcases the power of adaptability, purpose, and lifelong learning.

Devin began her college career with dreams of becoming an opera singer but soon shifted her focus to special education—an unexpected but fulfilling path influenced by her mother, a fellow Longwood graduate and teacher. Despite initial hesitation, Devin found a home at Longwood, drawn in by its tight-knit community, supportive faculty, and meaningful academic experiences.

Throughout the episode, Devin reflects on the transformative impact of her Longwood professors, including Dr. Khan, Dr. Jones, Dr. Alves, and Dr. Feathers, who helped shape her approach to teaching and leadership. She shares how Longwood’s commitment to citizen leadership deeply resonated with her, especially in advocating for students with disabilities and empowering them to engage in their communities.

After several years in the classroom, Devin experienced burnout—a turning point that led her to discover new ways to serve and educate. She now thrives in an informal education role as the STEM Projects Lead at the Virginia Air and Space Science Center. There, she leads STEM Connect, a literacy-integrated program for Title One schools, and organizes dynamic STEM events and book distributions. She also collaborates with notable figures such as Andrea Beatty, author of Rosie Revere, Engineer and Ada Twist, Scientist.

Devin discusses her involvement with the impactful Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race project, which celebrates the legacies of women of color in STEM—many of whom began their careers in Hampton, VA. She emphasizes how representation in STEM empowers young learners to see themselves in those roles and imagine new futures.

For educators exploring career shifts, Devin offers heartfelt encouragement, noting how skills gained in the classroom—like data analysis, goal setting, and IEP writing—translate seamlessly into other fields. Her story reassures teachers that their talents and experiences are highly valuable beyond traditional school settings.

Devin also shares practical tips for integrating STEM into the classroom, from starting small with hands-on activities to seeking external support through community partnerships like the one she now leads.

Looking ahead, Devin is excited about both her growing family—she’s expecting her first child—and her ongoing contributions to the world of STEM education. Her journey reflects the strength of a Longwood foundation: community, citizen leadership, and the courage to grow and adapt.

"I am not the educator or advocate I am today without my time at Longwood." – Devin Kaiser

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In the first episode of Season Two of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson welcomes Wil Miles B.S.’16, M.S.’17, a dedicated health and physical education teacher at Powhatan Middle School, as well as a coach and Director of Social Media at Powhatan High School.

Wil shares his remarkable journey from Longwood undergraduate and graduate student to educator, mentor, and coach. Reflecting on his decision to pursue a degree in kinesiology which leads him into Health and Physical Education, he delves into the transition from student to professional, the key principles that guide his work, and the significant impact of his mentors.

Beyond the classroom and the field, Wil has remained deeply connected to his Longwood community. As a former Theta Chi member, Interfraternity Council leader, and summer peer mentor, he built strong bonds that continue to influence his personal and professional life. He also discusses his commitment to helping others—such as providing internet access for students in need during COVID—demonstrating how Longwood’s values of service and leadership extend beyond campus.

In this episode, Wil also highlights his coaching successes, including leading his varsity soccer team to the state tournament, and shares a lighter side of competition through his fantasy football achievements. Through engaging storytelling, he emphasizes the importance of advocacy, mentorship, and staying busy with purpose, offering inspiration to both current students and fellow alumni.

"I am not the person or professional today without my years at Longwood." – Wil Miles

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