Photo courtesy Spring Hill Schools.
Cordelia Hanger ’24 is living out her purpose in her elementary school classroom, and the state of Kansas has taken notice. Just a year-and-a-half into her teaching career, she has been named a 2026 Kansas Horizon Award recipient, one of only 32 new educators statewide recognized for excellence, leadership, and promise in their first year of teaching.
Teaching the Whole Child
Cordelia teaches at Dayton Creek Elementary School in Spring Hill, Kansas, where she describes her first year in the classroom as both challenging and deeply rewarding. Her purpose as an educator is clear: to support the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally. “Cordelia’s passion for students and commitment to learning truly set her apart,” said Dr. Link Luttrell, superintendent of Spring Hill Schools.
“When I learned I was selected for the Horizon Award, I was honestly very surprised because I know how many candidates there were, and I have no doubt every single one of them is absolutely amazing,” Cordelia said. “I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude knowing that others in my building, my district, and the state saw something in me and believed in me as an educator. The overwhelming amount of love and support I received from my second-grade team, my colleagues, my district, my students, and even parents was an unbelievable feeling.”
Lessons from the Field
Recruited from Colorado to play softball at MNU, Cordelia quickly found a sense of belonging. When she reflects on her alma mater, her memories return to the field. “I immediately think of the memories I made playing softball, especially the friendships that came from being part of that team,” she said. A standout athlete, Cordelia etched her name into the record books as the Pioneer softball career leader in runs, hits, and stolen bases. Head Softball Coach Jennifer Felvus said Cordelia led the team in more than performance. “Cordelia embraced the idea of team and truly wanted the best for every athlete,” Felvus said. “She was an encourager, held people to high standards, and was always an example of commitment and a seeker of excellence.”
Photos by Andy Medina.
Beyond athletics, Cordelia was shaped by meaningful relationships, campus traditions, and mentors like School of Education Professors Dr. Ruth Waggoner and the late Dr. Neil Friesland, who helped build her confidence and her sense of calling. “I had two of the best mentors at MNU,” she said. “Dr. Friesland always knew what to say to bring a smile to your face, all while pushing you to be your best for the kids. Having him observe my teaching, give me feedback, and assure me that I was in the career I was called to has given me so much peace. Dr. Waggoner inspired me with her stories. I would leave her class saying, ‘I want to be just like her!’”
Prepared with Purpose
The experiences of first-year teachers run the gamut from challenges to frustrations to light bulb moments. Cordelia says her experience was rewarding. “I most definitely believe I was as prepared for my career as I could be. The education department at MNU really sets you up for success in terms of going into your first year of teaching with an ample amount of experience, but also exposure to a ton of techniques and strategies that you can put into use in your classroom.” She also credits hundreds of hours of classroom experience provided by her MNU program, which gave her a strong level of comfort as she entered her first year. As she continues her teaching career, Cordelia is thankful for Dr. Waggoner’s continued mentorship. “I know she is someone I can call at any time if I need advice!”
The Purpose Endures
Cordelia credits MNU’s education department with preparing her well for the realities of teaching and encouraging her to lead with heart and purpose. “My first year of teaching is a year I will never forget, and the relationships that were built between my students and me are something I still take great pride in,” she said. “I love seeing them in the hallways or at morning openings. They will forever have a special place in my heart.”
Explore education degrees at MNU at mnu.edu/pgs-education.
