Stronger Together: A Leadership Journey from Classmates to Collegues

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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