Longwood University proudly recognized six outstanding individuals at its 2025 Graduate Commencement Ceremony for their exceptional contributions in research, teaching, leadership, innovation, and service. These award winners represent the heart of Longwood’s mission—dedicated to academic excellence and citizen leadership.
Dr. Steven Mueller, Assistant Professor of Management, received the Graduate Faculty Research Award. Since joining Longwood in 2022, Dr. Mueller has demonstrated a deep commitment to scholarship. His work spans six publications—including three peer-reviewed journal articles and a book chapter—exploring critical ethical issues in organizational behavior, such as secret-keeping, corporate social responsibility, and counterproductive workplace behaviors. His innovative projects, including a study on farm waste management, reflect his passion for research that addresses real-world challenges.
The Graduate Teaching and Mentoring Award was presented to Dr. Laura Poe, Assistant Professor of Information Systems & Cyber Security. Dr. Poe has significantly enhanced the graduate learning experience through curriculum redesign and program development. Her leadership in creating a new Technology Management track for the MBA and building the foundation for the upcoming Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program showcases her commitment to supporting nontraditional students and preparing them for success in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Laurie Wright, a second-year student in the Master of Science in Counselor Education – Mental Health Counseling program, was awarded the Graduate Innovation Award. Laurie led a well-received presentation at the 2024 Virginia Counselors Association Annual Convention on the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on women’s menopause—an underrecognized issue in the field. Her advocacy and scholarship are inspiring further research and legislative engagement, including efforts to revive a local VCA chapter.
Receiving the Graduate Citizen Leader Award, Anna Katherine Keesee, a student in the Counselor Education – School Counseling program, has shown remarkable leadership and dedication to service. In her roles as President of Chi Sigma Iota and Secretary of the Graduate Student Association, she has championed inclusion, equity, and professional growth. She was also named the recipient of the Michele Dowdy Emerging Leader Award by the Virginia Counselors Association.
The Graduate Young Alumni Award was given to Emily Preuss-Anderson, a graduate of the Master of Education in School Librarianship program. As a school librarian in rural Lunenburg County, Emily has implemented engaging practices like “Snuggle Up & Read” nights and interactive book hunts, while also serving as an advocate for rural libraries at professional conferences. Her leadership and creativity recently earned her the 2025 James Regional Librarian of the Year award.
Finally, Mary Harrison, a school counselor at Amelia County Elementary and graduate of the Counselor Education – School Counseling program, was honored with the Graduate Alumni Award. With over 20 years in education, Mary has made a lasting impact through data-driven counseling, crisis intervention, and mentorship of Longwood practicum and internship students. Her strong ties to the university and her dedication to her students make her a model of excellence in the field.
These six award recipients embody the values and vision of Longwood’s graduate programs, leaving a legacy of impact that will inspire future Lancers for years to come.