Because Someone Believed: The Power of Mentors in Education

How does a young girl inspired by exceptional teachers grow into a literacy leader who is now shaping the next generation of students and educators?In this inspiring episode of Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree, host Dr. Sarah Tanner Anderson sits down with Madison Lewis (B.S. ’19, M.Ed. ’20), a double Longwood alumna completing the Reading, Literacy, and Learning program at Longwood, kindergarten teacher, mentor, and advocate for literacy, to explore a journey rooted in relationships, curiosity, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.From childhood teachers who helped her rediscover confidence and a love of learning to professors, mentors, and colleagues who continue to challenge and support her today, Madison's story is a powerful testament to the lasting influence of people who show up at exactly the right moment.Having dreamed of attending Longwood since she was a teenager, Madison reflects on how the university became a place where she found connection, leadership opportunities, and lifelong friendships. Through experiences as a Longwood Ambassador, Honors College student, student leader, study abroad participant, and graduate student in Reading, Literacy, and Learning, she discovered that the most meaningful lessons often happen outside the classroom.Now teaching in Cumberland County, Madison is carrying those lessons forward. Whether she's helping kindergarten students learn to read, partnering with families, mentoring future educators, or supporting colleagues, she approaches every interaction with the same philosophy that shaped her own journey: every person deserves to feel seen, valued, and understood.Throughout the conversation, Madison shares how influential educators such as Linda Moore, Dr. Dorothy Cosby, Dr. Wendy Snow, and many others helped shape her career and sense of purpose. She also reflects on the supportive community she found at Longwood and the network of mentors, family members, colleagues, and fellow alumni who continue to guide her today.As both a mentor and mentee, Madison demonstrates how meaningful relationships create ripple effects that extend far beyond a single classroom, school, or degree.In this episode, listeners will explore:How one elementary teacher changed the course of Madison's life and inspired her calling to educationWhy Longwood felt like home from the very beginningThe power of storytelling, leadership, and community-building on campusLessons learned from stepping far outside her comfort zone during a study abroad experienceHow the Reading, Literacy, and Learning program prepared her to become a literacy leaderThe evolution of the science of reading and its impact on today's classroomsWhy mentoring future educators has become one of the most rewarding parts of her careerHow strong relationships with families, colleagues, and students create lasting impactWhat it means to be a "group project" and how the people around us shape who we becomeMadison's story perfectly captures the heart of Season 3 by reminding us that success is never achieved alone. From the teachers who first believed in her to the students she now serves, her journey illustrates how encouragement, mentorship, and authentic human connection can transform lives for generations."Thank you, but Madison was a group project." — Tracy LewisSubscribe to Longwood GradCast: Beyond the Degree to hear more stories of alumni whose lives and careers demonstrate the enduring power of people, connection, and opportunity.