The Ripple Effect of Relationships: How One Educator Builds Belonging

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.

Creators and Guests

Host

Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson

Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson serves as Associate 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

Kannan Cangro

Kannan Cangro is the school librarian at Clermont Elementary School in Fairfax County Public Schools, where she leads an inclusive, maker-centered library program integrating literacy, STEAM, and computer science. She holds a Master's of Science in Education from Longwood University and a Master's of Arts in Teaching from George Mason University. In 2026, she was named VAASL Potomac Region Librarian of the Year and received the VAASL Ignite award. As a first-generation American with Southeast Asian heritage, Kannan brings a personal understanding of representation to her work, striving to ensure every student sees themselves reflected in the library.

Producer

Madison Hommey

Health and Physical Education Teacher, Jefferson Forest High School (BS’21, MS’22) Health & Physical Education M.S: Maddie Hommey, an adept educator and enthusiastic athlete, currently serves as a Health and Physical Education teacher at Jefferson Forest High School in Bedford County, VA. Her journey as an educator and her active engagement in various roles reflect her commitment to education and community involvement. Maddie is a proud Longwood University alumna, holding a Master of Science in Health and Physical Education (May 2022) and a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Elementary and Middle School Mathematics Education (May 2021). As a student-athlete she received many awards and recognitions, for academics, athletics, leadership, and service. Now, she proudly serves on the Longwood Graduate Alumni Collaborative. With a robust work background, Maddie has excelled in roles such as Marketing Assistant at Longwood College of Graduate and Professional Services (formally Marketing Graduate Assistant), Social Media Manager for FC Frederick, Remote Teacher at Elevate K12, Camp Counselor at Camp Augusta, Longwood Athletics Compliance Assistant and Marketing and Communications Student Worker, Substitute Teacher, NCAA Soccer Referee, and beyond. Maddie's leadership roles, including serving as the Big South National SAAC Representative and Student Athlete Advisory Committee President at Longwood University, showcase her commitment to student welfare and advocacy. She actively engages in service activities, volunteering for Autism on the Seas, formerly Special Olympics, Alternative Breaks, and other community events, embodying her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the classroom or field.

What is Longwood GradCast - Beyond the Degree?

Welcome to Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, where we celebrate the stories of Longwood University’s graduate and professional studies alumni, students, faculty, and partners. This season, we’re exploring one powerful theme: The Power of People.
Behind every success story, every career pivot, and every moment of courage or growth, there are people who made an impact: Mentors who guided us. Professors who challenged us. Classmates who encouraged us. Communities that believed in us. And sometimes, the people we became along the way.

This season highlights the relationships that shape us and the ripple effect that happens when people invest in people. From graduates mentoring the next generation to professionals leading change in their communities, these stories remind us that success is never a solo journey.

Whether you’re considering graduate school, advancing your career, or reflecting on the people who helped shape your path, this podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the connections that move us forward and the difference they make in the world.
We’re here to support 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. But leadership grows through people.
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