Building Bridges: A Path from Passion to Profession
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.
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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.
