Vickie Dodson ('90)

When Vickie Dodson graduated Madison in 1990 equipped with an accounting degree, she delved right into the workforce. In 2003, however, she discovered the University of Virginia Career Switcher program and decided she wanted to be a teacher for the second half of her life. Through the program, perseverance and dedication, Vickie has been teaching math since September 2004. She wouldn't have it any other way. "I love seeing my students' young faces light up when they understand a math concept … sometimes for the very first time," she says. Currently a teacher at Liberty Middle School in Ashland, Va., Vickie received "The Heart of Liberty" award the first year she taught there. An award is given to an adult whom students feel has positively affected them in some way. When Vickie received this award she says, "I was touched, humbled and affirmed all at the same time." A strong supporter in the classroom, Vickie also attends sporting events and other activities outside of the classroom to provide encouragement to her students. Vickie sums up her teaching experience by humbly stating, "Not only do I feel I am 'being the change,' I am also 'being changed.'"

"Being the change is not all about teaching the content; it's about impacting young lives positively for the future."