Longwood GradCast - Beyond the Degree

In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson chats with Travis Mason, a helicopter flight paramedic turned regional Director of Sales. Travis shares how his early experiences in emergency medicine, paired with a drive to grow through education—including an MBA during the COVID-19 pandemic—shaped his leadership approach. He reflects on mentorship, team dynamics, and how staying curious fuels innovation in the evolving air medical field. Tune in for a story of grit, growth, and a passion-driven career path.

In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, Dean of Admissions Jason “Ferg” Ferguson joins Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson to share his inspiring journey from student-athlete to higher ed leader. Ferg reflects on his early years at Hampden-Sydney, the mentors who shaped his career, and how Longwood's graduate program empowered him to grow professionally.He discusses his unique admissions philosophy—including personally signing every acceptance letter—and offers advice to students and alumni about taking risks, staying coachable, and finding purpose. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about leadership, community, and what makes Longwood feel like home. 

In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson talks with Devin Kaiser, Longwood alumna and STEM Projects Lead at the Virginia Air and Space Science Center. Devin shares her path from aspiring opera singer to special education teacher, and eventually to informal STEM education. She reflects on how Longwood's community and faculty mentorship shaped her journey and inspired her focus on citizen leadership and advocacy. Now leading initiatives like STEM Connect in Title One schools, Devin highlights the importance of representation in STEM, the transferable skills educators bring to other fields, and advice for teachers looking to make a shift.

In the first episode of Season Two of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson welcomes Wil Miles BS'16, MS'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 MilesSubscribe to our channel and don't miss out as we sit down with more successful Lancers and share their journeys! Follow us on social media to stay updated with Longwood CGPS: Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudies Instagram: @longwoodgradstudies Twitter: @longwoodcgps YouTube: @longwoodgradstudies Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms

Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree – Season 2 TrailerWelcome back to Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, where we continue to share the stories of Longwood University graduate alumni shaping their industries, communities, and careers in meaningful ways.WHAT TO EXPECT IN SEASON 2In this season, we dive into the diverse journeys of Longwood graduate alumni—leaders, innovators, and career changers—who have taken their degrees beyond the classroom and into the real world. From educators and providers to business leaders and community advocates, our guests share how their Longwood experience shaped their paths, opened unexpected doors, and helped them navigate new opportunities.Join us as we explore the twists, turns, and triumphs of life after grad school. Whether you're considering a graduate program, in the midst of one, or reflecting on your own professional journey, this season will offer insight, inspiration, and practical advice from those who have walked this path before.LONGWOOD ROOTS, LIMITLESS PATHSEach episode brings a fresh perspective on career growth, leadership, and the evolving impact of a Longwood graduate degree. Tune in, get inspired, and discover how Longwood alumni are making their mark in every field.Stay connected and learn more about Longwood's graduate programs at http://www.Longwood.edu/GradprogramsSeason 2 is coming soon—wherever you listen to podcasts.

In the final episode of the Longwood Grad Cast season, host Sarah Tanner Anderson conducts an insightful interview with Quincy Goodine, a double alum of Longwood University's Counselor Education Master's Program and the current Associate Director of Multicultural Affairs and Leadership Development.  Quincy shares his remarkable journey from an undergraduate student to a pivotal leader at Longwood, emphasizing the value of his counseling degree in opening diverse career opportunities. Quincy recounts his experiences that highlight his commitment to creating an inclusive environment at Longwood through various roles, from an admissions counselor to his current position. He discusses his advocacy in multicultural affairs, including the formation and impact of initiatives like the BOND program and the CHANGE coalition, aimed at supporting and empowering historically underrepresented students. Reflecting on his professional growth and the importance of networking, Quincy also speaks on learning to navigate challenges, balance responsibilities, and the significance of self-care. The conversation concludes with Quincy offering advice to aspiring student affairs professionals and sharing his future aspirations, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and a positive attitude in making meaningful change.

In this episode of Longwood GradCast Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson welcomes Judy Deichman, an alumna of Longwood University's School Librarianship Master's program.Judy shares her inspiring journey from volunteering in her children's school libraries to becoming a dedicated librarian. She discusses how Longwood University's supportive faculty helped her transition from an accounting career to librarianship. Judy also highlights the crucial role of Longwood's alumni network in her professional development. A focal point of the conversation is the Lit Limo project, an innovative bookmobile initiative Judy started to promote literacy and provide access to books for underserved communities in Richmond City. She emphasizes the importance of accessibility, community partnerships, and the joy of reading. Judy offers valuable advice for aspiring librarians and educators, encouraging them to stay connected and involved in professional organizations. The episode concludes with Judy reflecting on her future plans and the impact of her work on instilling a love for reading in children.Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudies @longwoodslibInstagram: @longwoodgradstudies @sarahtanneranderson @judy_deichmanTwitter: @longwoodcgps @DoctorT_A @litlimo @JudyDeichman @longwoodslibYoutube: @longwoodgradstudies Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms 

In this episode of Longwood Gradcast Beyond the Degree, Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson converses with Alicia Alvarez, a future double Lancer, as she is a current student in the Communication Sciences and Disorders Master's program at Longwood University, focusing on speech language pathology.Alicia shares her journey as a transfer student, her engagement with Longwood's tight-knit community, and the traits that have influenced her academic path. She discusses meaningful experiences, including her inspiration from her sister's speech therapy journey, and the career-defining moments working with diverse clients. Alicia also reveals her upcoming mission trip to Peru, funded by Longwood's College of Graduate and Professional Studies, where she will assist with hearing screenings. Additionally, the conversation highlights the challenges of graduate school, particularly in time management and the importance of self-care.Alicia offers valuable advice to prospective CSD students and reflects on lessons she would tell her younger self. Tune in to hear Alicia's inspiring story and her dedication to making a difference in the field of speech-language pathology.Subscribe to our channel and don't miss out as we sit down with other successful Lancer's and hear their stories. Follow us on social media to keep updated with Longwood CGPS.Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudiesInstagram: @longwoodgradstudies @41v4rezz Twitter: @longwoodcgps @DoctorT_A  @alvarez122098 Youtube: @longwoodgradstudies Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms 

In this episode of Longwood Gradcast: Beyond the Degree, our host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson interviews Allison Donlan, a dedicated educator and TRIPLE Lancer, about her academic and personal journey at Longwood University. Allison shares her pathway through obtaining a bachelor's in elementary education, a master's in educational leadership, and her current pursuit of a graduate endorsement in reading, literacy, and learning. Inspired by great K-12 teachers and influenced by a speech given by Dr. T-A during an undergraduate classroom visit, Allison emphasizes the role of passionate educators in shaping her career. She details how her education at Longwood, combined with real-world experiences such as serving as a graduate assistant for the special education department, teaching first grade, and leading reading literacy initiatives, have fundamentally shaped her teaching philosophy and career aspirations. Allison attributes much of her success to the supportive Longwood community, including professors and cohort members, and discusses the importance of collaboration, lifelong learning, and making a difference in the education field. She also shares insights into her strategies for fostering a love of reading among students, both in the classroom and at home. She highlights her goals to further impact education as a reading specialist and possibly in administration and curriculum development. Allison's journey underscores the value of multifaceted professional development and community support in cultivating a fulfilling career in education.Subscribe to our channel and don't miss out as we sit down with other successful Lancer's and hear their stories. Follow us on social media to keep updated with Longwood CGPS.Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudiesInstagram: @longwoodgradstudies @allisonddonlanTwitter: @longwoodcgps @DoctorT_A Youtube: @longwoodgradstudies Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Longwood GradCast Beyond the Degree. In this episode, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson sits down with Sadie Hodges, BS'19, MS'20, a proud Longwood double alum and a passionate force in the field of special education. Sadie shares an inspiring journey from her early days influenced by memorable educators, through her involvement with the nonprofit Jacob's Chance, to her current role impacting the lives of her special education students. Revealing her path through Longwood's five-year special education program and graduate experiences, including her groundbreaking work with the Longwood Life program and international presentations, Sadie showcases the power of passion-driven education. This conversation dives deeper into the transformative role of technology in special education, highlights meaningful and life-changing student interactions, and reflects on the importance of continuous learning and collaboration.Sadie's commitment to transition services for students after high school, her vision for inclusive education, and her accolades, including the Jacob Leonard Mission Award, underscore her remarkable contribution to the field. Join us for a heartwarming exploration of dedication, mentorship, and the enduring impact one can have in the lives of students with special needs.Subscribe to our channel and don't miss out as we sit down with other successful Lancer's and hear their stories. Follow us on social media to keep updated with Longwood CGPS.Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudiesInstagram: @longwoodgradstudiesTwitter: @longwoodcgps @DoctorT_A @sadie_hodges Youtube: @longwoodgradstudies Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms 

In episode three of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson talks to guest Kevin Napier BS'18, MS'21, a double alum from Longwood University. The discussion revolves around Kevin's journey from pursuing a master's degree in Educational Leadership from Longwood to working in the advancement office at the same institution. Kevin shares how his master's degree diversified his qualifications and opened up new career doors for him. Also touching on his experiences as a middle school teacher during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kevin discusses the shift in his career from K-12 to higher education. Listen and enjoy as we delve into a conversation about the value of a master's degree in leadership roles and how the social justice focus of the educational leadership program played a significant role in Kevin's career. Subscribe to our channel and don't miss out as we sit down with other successful Lancer's and hear their stories. Follow us on social media to keep updated with Longwood CGPS.Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudiesInstagram: @longwoodgradstudiesTwitter: @longwoodcgps @DoctorT_A @CoachNapierIYGYoutube: @longwoodgradstudies Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms 

In our second episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, we invite you to join us as we sit down with an outstanding double alum, Maddie Hommey BS'21, MS'22 (a Health & Physical Education alum). Enjoy a riveting conversation as our host, Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson, speaks with Maddie about the incredible opportunities that can unfold with determination and a graduate assistantship. Maddie shares her story of how this unique opportunity allowed her to not only pursue her master's degree but also to diversify her skillset in unexpected ways.Discover how Maddie leveraged her graduate assistantship to gain valuable marketing skills, which eventually led her to a part-time marketing role within Longwood, a position she continues to excel in while simultaneously teaching. We delve into how this additional year at Longwood, made possible by her graduate assistantship, influenced her career trajectory and broadened her horizons.Join us in exploring Maddie's inspiring journey as she highlights the transformative power of graduate assistantships, illustrating how they can unlock new skills, shape your career, and offer you unique opportunities to enrich your educational experience.Subscribe to our channel and don't miss out as we sit down with other successful Lancer's and hear their stories. Follow us on social media to keep updated with Longwood CGPS.Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudiesInstagram: @longwoodgradstudiesTwitter: @longwoodcgps @DoctorT_A @maddiehommey Youtube: @longwoodgradstudies Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms

In the first episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, we invite you to join us as we sit down with two remarkable double alums, Ginny Gills BS'89, MEd'05 (a Reading, Literacy, & Learning alum) and Pamela Stepko BS'07, MS'16 (an Educational Leadership alum). Our host, Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson, speaks with these two dedicated educators whose experiences at Longwood helped them to become influential leaders in the field of education.We kick things off by delving into their personal journeys, tracing their paths from being Longwood students, both undergrad and graduate, to the educational leaders they are today. As Lancers turned leaders, their stories provide a glimpse of the possibilities that await future educators and Longwood students.Ginny, principal of Cumberland Elementary School in Cumberland County, Virginia, shares how her Longwood experience has left an indelible mark on the school culture she has cultivated within her institution. Discover the significance of hiring Longwood alumni and how it contributes to the remarkable success of a school.Pamela, a recipient of the prestigious national Virginia Milken Educator of the year Award in 2022, takes us through her teaching journey, highlighting the role Longwood played in her path to excellence. Together, we explore the power of collaboration between Longwood alumni and how it fosters a supportive and successful educational environment.The conversation broadens to address the current challenges in education, emphasizing why Longwood alumni are uniquely equipped to tackle them head-on. Ginny and Pamela offer invaluable advice for aspiring educators considering Longwood or those venturing into the world of education.If you would like to build your professional network, Ginny and Pamela would love to connect with you and support your educational aspirations! They invite you to find them on Twitter: @GinnyGills @Pstepko #ccesdukesSubscribe to our channel and don't miss out as we sit down with other successful Lancer's and hear their stories. Follow us on social media to keep updated with Longwood CGPS.Facebook: @longwoodgraduatestudiesInstagram: @longwoodgradstudiesTwitter: @longwoodcgps @DoctorT_AYoutube: @longwoodgradstudies Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms