2024 marked a momentous milestone for math instructor and Phi Theta Kappa advisor Nancy Long as she celebrated 40 years of service at Trinity Valley Community College.

From the moment she joined TVCC from Paris Junior College, she has been a driving force in shaping the academic and personal successes of countless students.

Long’s journey at TVCC began when she found an opening as the division chair for the Math Department. Her dual role as a faculty member and Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) advisor allowed her to blend her passion for education with her dedication to student development. Over the years, she has cherished her hands-on role in guiding students through their academic journeys, helping them achieve excellence while making an impact on the community through PTK’s volunteer initiatives.

“The PTK students have become my kids throughout the year,” Long shared. “And I have enjoyed watching my students grow and excel.”

Under Long’s leadership, TVCC’s PTK has earned multiple prestigious awards, a testament to the dedication and drive she instills in her students. The awards include the Distinguished Chapter Award, a REACH Chapter of the Year, Five Star Chapter of the Year, PTK Award of Merit for Honors in Action, and more.

“These awards aren’t easy to achieve,” Long noted. “Students have to research and work hard to accomplish these milestones and seeing them succeed is incredibly rewarding.”

At the heart of her career is a love for the language of math and the opportunity to teach it at a higher level. Long enjoys the unique environment of community college education, where she can meet students face-to-face, work closely with them, and witness their growth firsthand. She understands the transformative power of higher education, especially at the community college level.

“Community colleges provide an essential foundation for students,” Long explained. “Through data shared by CCSmart [a student-led initiative to support Community Colleges], we have seen how these institutions prepare students to excel at the university level. It is incredible to see the opportunities a community college education opens.”

Professor of Math and Economics and Mathematics Division Chair Jenny Cooper reflected on her experience as both a student and now a colleague of Nancy Long, describing her as a true force in the field.

“Nancy Long is a force to be reckoned with, now and when I had her back in the late 80’s as a freshman,” Cooper expressed. “I remember her coming into class with her bouncing platinum blonde hair and her energetic presence. I absolutely loved her class. She showed such poise, knowledge of the subject, and a caring nature for her students. Now as her colleague, I see the same inspiring traits that I did all those years ago. She genuinely wants the best for her students and works tirelessly to achieve success. I admire Nancy and her diligence and focus on students.”

As Long reflects on her 40 years at TVCC, her impact is undeniable. From fostering a culture of academic excellence to inspiring her students to reach for the stars, she embodies the college’s mission of transforming lives through education.