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The Valley Today is a radio show and podcast dedicated to shining a light on the vibrant community leaders and local events that make the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia truly special.  Insightful conversations, engaging stories, and event details connect listeners with the heart and soul of the valley, showcasing its unique culture, initiatives, and people.
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Laurel Ridge Community College Outstanding Graduates

May 14, 2026

Host Janet Michael sits down (virtually) with two outstanding graduates from Laurel Ridge Community College, joined by Sally Voth, Public Relations Coordinator for the college. This episode celebrates academic achievement, resilience, and the transformative power of community college education.

Guests

Segment 1 – Maria Valle

Maria grew up in Argentina with a dream of studying abroad. After moving to Warrenton, Virginia in 2022, she discovered Laurel Ridge was just 10 minutes away. She completed her studies in Administration of Justice and will transfer to Shenandoah University in the fall to pursue a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Key highlights:

  • Navigating higher education in a second language
  • Involvement in PDK Honor Society and student engagement projects
  • Her goal: working in victim services, with a focus on Spanish-speaking communities
  • Completing professional training through Fairfax County on domestic violence and sexual violence

Professors Maria credits:

  • Lisa Dunick – English Composition & Literature
  • Lisa Kara – Criminology
  • Tarren Smarr – History & Sociology

Maria's advice: "Be open to new experiences, because they can always lead you to wonderful places you never imagined."

Segment 2 – Mary Herter Nelson

Mary comes from a true Laurel Ridge family — her mother, older brother, and younger sister all attended the college. A homeschool graduate who was initially too shy to enroll, Mary's mom signed her up and helped her take that first step. In just two semesters, she went from nervous newcomer to campus leader.

Key highlights:

  • Founded the Laurel Ridge Dance Club and organized a campus square dance
  • Became a Student Ambassador
  • Participated in Mystery Bus trips and campus life events
  • Part of the TRIO program
  • Plans to work as a teacher's aide before pursuing her long-term calling as a religious sister

People Mary credits:

  • Rich Follett – College Success Skills (helped her build community)
  • Polly Nesselrodt – Spanish professor and Dance Club sponsor
  • Chris Lambert – Student Life
  • Caroline Walls & Sasha Dawson – Academic advisors

Mary's advice: "Find the support system that is going to carry you through. Take the leap with people that you trust."