Connected for Good

In this episode, Dr. Ashley Ellis, Chief Academic Officer for Loudoun County Public Schools, shares her insights on the future of education in Loudoun, highlighting innovative approaches to literacy, workforce readiness, and community engagement. Her leadership emphasizes personalized learning, authentic assessments, and strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations to prepare studen...

Most communities overlook the critical pathways that lead to meaningful careers—until now. Karen Schaufeld reveals how innovative education centers and community-driven programs are transforming workforce development, creating real opportunities for students who don’t fit the traditional mold, and why exposing kids—and their parents—to diverse careers is essential for future prosperity. In this ep...

In this episode, we dive into the incredible work being done by LAWS, an organization that's not just saving lives but shaping the future for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Sam Clarke, the CEO of LAWS, shares how their new community-focused shelter is breaking down barriers and offering hope and healing in Loudoun County. You'll hear about the wide range of services LAWS provid...

Most community-led solutions to addiction are invisible or underfunded — until someone like Melissa Hinton steps up. She didn’t just identify a glaring gap in Loudoun County’s recovery system; she built a movement to fill it, transforming lives along the way. In this episode, Melissa shares her personal journey from childhood struggle to sober leadership, revealing how her own experiences with add...

Stacey Metcalfe is the visionary guiding Morven Park through a remarkable modern renaissance. Discover how one leader’s trust, innovation, and deep connection to history are reshaping a treasured historic site into a vibrant, inclusive hub that attracts over 300,000 visitors annually—and inspires change beyond its gates. Stacey reveals how trusting your team and embracing failure can unlock expone...

We sit down with Lisa Max, CEO of The Arc of Loudoun. Discover her remarkable journey from the tech industry to leading a nonprofit organization that supports nearly 5,000 people with disabilities each year. Lisa shares her insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of community connections. Learn how The Arc of Loudoun is transforming lives and creating a just, equitable world for people w...

Join us as Rory Miott shares his inspiring journey from military service to community leadership on Connected for Good. Discover how literacy, mentorship, and collaboration play pivotal roles in empowering underserved communities. Learn about the impactful initiatives of the African American Community Alliance and how collective action drives meaningful change. Don't miss this insightful conve...

In the inaugural episode of Connected for Good, hosts Matt Bender and Stephanie Nerantzis engage with Fr. Daniel Vélez-Rivera, a community leader and changemaker in Loudoun County. They discuss his journey from the tech industry to faith leadership, emphasizing the transformative power of education and community service. Father Daniel shares insights on innovative programs like Educando Con Amor,...