News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
High School Principal Reflects on the Impact of SVCC
As part of American Education Week, Southside Virginia Community College proudly highlights an inspiring alumna whose journey from an uncertain new high school graduate to a successful high school principal began right here at SVCC.
Now serving as the high school principal at George Wythe High School in Richmond, Virginia, Dr. Anita Harper says SVCC gave her the space to explore her options, build confidence, and discover her future path. “SVCC was the perfect place for me to start. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but staying close to home while adjusting to college life made all the difference.”
Dr. Harper shares, “My professors were approachable and genuinely cared about my success.” Personally, she built friendships, gained confidence, and found purpose through leadership opportunities. “SVCC wasn’t just a college for me; it was a community that shaped who I am today.”
While completing her transfer credits, she joined Phi Beta Lambda, an experience that strengthened her leadership skills and confirmed her interest in business. She also credits SVCC’s supportive faculty for helping her thrive. She especially reflects on the encouragement she received from Biology professor Martha Reed, whose belief in her made a lasting impact.
After SVCC, Dr. Harper transferred to Longwood University, later earning her MBA from Averett University and her Doctor of Education from Liberty University. She began by teaching business courses before finding her calling in school leadership.
“SVCC built the foundation for everything that came after,” she shared. “The lessons I learned about perseverance, leadership, and communication still guide me today.”
Dr. Harper wholeheartedly recommends SVCC to others: “Absolutely. SVCC offers a supportive environment that helps students grow, explore, and succeed.” As she now leads future generations, her journey reflects the heart of SVCC’s mission, helping students discover their path and build a future filled with purpose.
To future educators, Dr. Harper shares words of wisdom:
As an educator, we all know that teaching is more than a job—it’s a calling. You have the power to change lives every single day. Be patient with yourself and with your students, and never underestimate the impact of encouragement and kindness. Education is about building relationships and creating opportunities for others to succeed. A powerful principle that I try to live by—"Seek to understand, then seek to be understood”. If you ever doubt your ability, remember that every great teacher started with a passion to make a difference. Keep learning, keep growing, and never lose sight of the “why” you started.
For more information visit, southside.edu/upcoming-semester. If you would like to pursue a career in education, like Dr. Harper, contact Dr. Sarah Horne, 434-736-2087 or by email, sarah.horne@southside.edu.
###