Longwood GradCast - Beyond the Degree

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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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
Katie Jamrozy-Hamby
Katie Jamrozy-Hamby earned her Doctorate of Education from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2025. She holds a Masters of Science High School Assistant Principal, Virginia Commonwealth University (Ed.D. ‘25), Longwood University (BA’11, MS’21) Educational Leadership M.S: Born in Corpus Christi TX and a proud NAVY brat, attended Great Bridge High School in Chesapeake Virginia.Katie Hamby is a high school assistant principal in Amelia County. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2025 with a Doctorate of Education. She also graduated from Longwood with a graduate degree in Educational Leadership in 2021 and an undergraduate degree in English with a concentration in secondary education in 2011.. While Katie currently works in PK-12 she spent two years in higher education, working for the admissions office at Longwood and two years in the private sector managing Sandy River Outdoor Adventures. Katie has also been a high school English teacher and an Instructional Technology and Innovation Specialist. All of her PK-12 experience has been serving Region 8! Outside of her professional responsibilities Katie enjoys CrossFit, the beach, and outdoor adventures. She and her husband, Mike, live in Farmville with their two dogs and newborn twins.
Guest
Kim Van Acker
Ms. Van Acker is in her 18th year of education. She began her career teaching 8th grade English and math in Southwest Virginia before transitioning to the eastern part of the state working with students with multiple disabilities, ranging from Autism, Down Syndrome and Hearing Impairment. Ms. Van Acker believes her best years were spent serving the students in Room 106. She learned the art of differentiation, creating learning experiences to meet the needs and abilities of her students and how to work collaboratively with various related service providers, teacher assistants and support staff. This experience was pivotal in her role as an elementary school self-contained Autism teacher in LCPS. While the majority of Ms. Van Acker’s teaching experience has been with students in the middle, her love for leadership began while serving as an ESY Coordinator for many years. Through this, she gained insight on leading groups of people to provide a safe and fruitful learning experience throughout the summer. Ms. Van Acker is a proud charter member of Hovatter Elementary School, which opened in the Fall of 2021, where she served as the Dean before coming to Willard. Ms. Van Acker believes that all students are capable of learning, at high levels, and that every kid is good inside. Outside of school, Ms. Van Acker can be found logging many miles around town, lifting weights, capturing moments as a photographer and baking to soothe the soul. She is a proud boy mom and a Coach’s wife extraordinaire. Ms. Van Acker feels honored to serve the scholars, families and staff in the Willard community.
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 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.

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Website: www.Longwood.edu/Gradprograms