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In this inspiring episode of Longwood GradCast Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson is joined by Sadie Hodges, B.S.’19, M.S.’20, a Longwood double alum who completed both the five-year Special Education program and her master’s in Special Education. Sadie shares her journey from early influences—like volunteering with the nonprofit Jacob’s Chance and her own cousin’s experiences with cerebral palsy—to pursuing a career dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities.
Listeners will hear about Sadie’s hands-on experiences as a graduate student, including her work with the Longwood Life program, research on video modeling and prompting, and presenting her findings internationally in Ukraine. She discusses her current role at Henrico County Public Schools, highlighting how she incorporates technology, inclusive opportunities, and real-world job training into her teaching.
Sadie also reflects on mentorship, balancing professional development with classroom responsibilities, and the challenges and rewards of special education. She shares the meaningful honor of receiving the Jacob Leonard Mission Award from Jacob’s Chance and her aspirations for advancing transitional programs that help students with disabilities thrive beyond the classroom.
Through passion, advocacy, and collaboration, Sadie’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact dedicated educators can have on their students and communities.
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 @sades123 @jacobs_chance @Henricocountyschools @hermitage_high_school
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
Sadie Hodges
Special Education Teacher - Hermitage High School and Athletics Director - Jacob’s Chance (BS'19, MS'20) : Sadie Hodges is a fourth-year exceptional education teacher at Hermitage High School in Henrico County, VA. She is proud to have earned her Bachelor of Science degree in liberal studies with a concentration in special education and her Master of Science degree in special education at Longwood University. Sadie currently serves as the Athletic Director for Jacob’s Chance, a non-profit in Richmond that serves individuals with disabilities. She also volunteers for the special needs ministry at her church. In her free time, Sadie likes traveling, staying active, watching sports especially basketball, and exploring the outdoors with her loved ones.
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