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In this inspiring episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Sarah Tanner-Anderson sits down with Kevin Napier (B.S. ’18, M.S. ’20, Educational Leadership)—a proud double Lancer, former Student Government Association president, and Leadership Gift Officer at Longwood University.
Kevin’s journey began with deep family ties to Longwood and a clear calling to education. After earning his undergraduate degree in Health and Physical Education, he pursued his master’s in Educational Leadership, a decision that not only prepared him for K–12 teaching but also positioned him for a career-shaping transition into higher education and advancement.
From navigating the challenges of beginning his teaching career during COVID-19, to bringing innovative technology into the P.E. classroom (earning him the “Most Unruly Teacher” award), Kevin reflects on the ways his Longwood degrees broadened his perspective and strengthened his leadership skills. He shares candid insights into balancing graduate school while serving in the National Guard, the unique power of Longwood’s cohort model, and the profound impact of the program’s social justice focus—lessons that continue to shape his work with alumni and donors today.
With stories that span from student leadership to classroom innovation to higher education advancement, Kevin highlights how a Longwood education equips graduates to lead with empathy, adaptability, and purpose.
Themes of this episode: family legacy, educational leadership, service, adaptability, equity, and Longwood pride.
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: @longwoodgraduatestudies
Instagram: @longwoodgradstudies @woodulead
Youtube: @longwoodgradstudies
Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms
Creators and Guests
Host
Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson
Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson serves as Assistant Dean of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, as well as Associate Professor and Program Director of Educational Leadership. A former principal, assistant principal, middle- and high-school English teacher, department and grade-level chair, high-school coach, and club sponsor, Dr. Tanner-Anderson has spent nearly two decades serving and supporting public education in the Commonwealth. A proud Longwood Lancer, Dr. Tanner-Anderson obtained her Bachelor of Arts in English ('02) and Master of Arts in English, Education, and Writing ('07) from Longwood University. She earned her Post Master's Administrative Certification ('11) and Doctor of Education in Educational Administration and Policy Studies ('14) from The George Washington University. Her research interests include women's educational leadership, social justice in education, and literacy leadership.
Producer
Jamie Eacho
Jamie Eacho holds the title of Director of Marketing and Recruitment in the College of Graduate and Professional Studies (CGPS) at Longwood University. Starting out five years ago as the Marketing Specialist for CGPS, Jamie has grown her love for Longwood and her desire to help prospective students find the graduate program of their dreams. While her marketing journey started as the Marketing Manager for Campus Recreation at Roanoke College, and took her to Washington D.C. marketing for the Washington Nationals, and then out to the Eastern Shore of Maryland, marketing for a hospital, she has always held a special place in her heart for working with and for students. As an alumna of Roanoke College, having obtained her Bachelor’s of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing in 2017, her passion for small Virginia schools and the value that they can add to students’ lives runs deep.
Guest
Kevin Napier
Leadership Gift Officer, Longwood University (BS’18, MS’21) Educational Leadership M.S: Originally from Colonial Heights, Virginia, Kevin Napier is a Leadership Gift Officer at his alma mater, Longwood University. He graduated from Longwood with an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology – Health and Physical Education in 2018 and a graduate degree in Educational Leadership in 2021. During Kevin’s senior year at Longwood, he served as President of the Student Government Association. While Kevin currently works in higher education, he also spent about four years in PK-12 education in Henrico County, Virginia, and six years as a soldier in the Virginia Army National Guard. In Henrico County, Kevin worked as a Health and Physical Education teacher for three years and an Innovative Learning Coach for one year. In the National Guard, Kevin served on seven state active duty missions, including a 30-day stint at the Capitol following the January 6th, 2021 riots. When Kevin is not at Longwood or enjoying fishing or kayaking, he coaches travel baseball at IYG Baseball in Henrico County. Kevin is in his third year as a head coach.
What is Longwood GradCast - Beyond the Degree?
Welcome back to LongwoodGradCast: Beyond the Degree, where we dive deep into the stories of Longwood University's graduate studies alumni, students, and faculty. In season two, we’re exploring one big question: “How did you get here?” Join us as our host, Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson, uncovers the inspiring, winding, and sometimes unexpected paths of our graduate alums.
Whether you're dreaming of your next step, reflecting on your journey, or just curious about the stories behind remarkable success, this podcast is your inside look at the transformative power of education, determination, and the Longwood spirit. Let’s dive in.
We're here to support you through your educational journey and career aspirations. Visit our website at Longwood.edu/Gradprograms to explore our graduate programs and professional endorsements.
Leadership is in our blood. Is it in yours?
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: @longwoodgraduatestudies
Instagram: @longwoodgradstudies
Twitter: @longwoodcgps @DoctorT_A
Youtube: @longwoodgradstudies
Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms