More Than Words: A Literacy Advocate's Path to Meaningful Change
In this episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner-Anderson sits down with Maria Hamilton (‘21), a Student Success Coordinator at Longwood University whose educational journey is marked by resilience, reinvention, and a hearty dose of humor. From her early days teaching and coaching in Virginia to her graduate studies in Longwood’s Reading, Literacy, and Learning (RLL) program, Maria’s story is one of lifelong learning—and the joyful chaos that often accompanies it.
Maria reflects on being part of the first graduating class of a new program at WVU and the cross-state move that set her and her husband on a new professional path. Along the way, she balanced graduate school, career transitions, and raising three kids—all while navigating the realities of education during a global pandemic. With signature wit, she recounts detours into baking, family swim meets, and “not best practices” in teaching that she quickly outgrew.
A central theme of the conversation is literacy—not just as an academic subject, but as a lifelong foundation. Maria shares how Longwood’s RLL program re-ignited her passion for literacy education, deepened her understanding of reading development, and gave her the tools to support learners across age groups. She and Dr. Anderson discuss how the pandemic spotlighted the critical need for strong literacy instruction, and Maria’s enthusiasm shines through as she shares stories of students' lightbulb moments and her belief that literacy begins in kindergarten and echoes throughout life.
Now in her role as Student Success Coordinator, Maria brings her RLL training to higher education in unexpected ways. She jokes that the job is a form of “incredible wizardry,” helping students rediscover skills they once felt confident in. Every success story is a point of pride, and Maria likens each to a magnet she’d proudly display on her imaginary office fridge.
The episode also highlights Maria’s impact beyond the classroom. From serving on the Virginia Literacy Act advisory board to presenting at conferences (including a standing-room-only session on morphology), Maria’s expertise—sharpened by her time in the RLL program—continues to shape conversations around effective literacy practices. Her work with the Longwood Graduate Alumni Collaborative further reflects her commitment to building connections that last long after graduation.
A standout moment is Maria’s reflection on a favorite quote from Winnie the Pooh: “What’s wrong with knowing what you know now and not knowing what you don’t know until later?” It’s a whimsical yet wise summary of her approach to education, leadership, and life.
Looking ahead, Maria hints at a possible future in higher ed teaching—hoping to multiply her impact by preparing future educators. Her willingness to embrace the unknown, paired with a healthy dose of laughter, leaves listeners inspired and smiling.
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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.
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.
Guest
Maria Hamilton
Maria Hamilton is a passionate literacy advocate and Student Success Coordinator for the Cook-Cole College of Arts and Sciences at Longwood University. With a career rooted in classroom teaching, expanded through leadership in literacy, coaching, and teacher development, Maria brings both heart and expertise to her work. She holds a bachelor's and master's degree from West Virginia University and a Reading Specialist endorsement from Longwood University. She is currently pursuing her doctorate at the University of Virginia, focusing on curriculum and instruction with an emphasis on reading. In her role at Longwood, she supports students in achieving their academic and personal goals by providing individualized guidance and access to university resources. She’s especially dedicated to promoting strong literacy skills, recognizing their foundational importance to lifelong learning and success.
