Faith, Leadership, and Lifelong Learning: Meet Dr. Angela Castleman
When Dr. Angela Castleman describes her new role as Assistant Professor of Education/Program Director at Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU), she calls it a “dream come true.” With more than two decades of experience in education—spanning from the classroom to school administration to online adult learning—she brings a wealth of knowledge, energy, and passion to MVNU’s online education programs.
A Lifelong Calling to Education
Dr. Castleman’s journey began early. “I knew I wanted to be a teacher from the time I was a child,” she reflects. That calling led her to MVNU as an undergraduate in the late 1990s. She graduated in 2000, eager to live out her dream of teaching.
Her career started in the secondary classroom, but she soon realized she was also drawn to leadership and administration. After earning her master’s degree and principal licensure, she stepped into roles as assistant principal and later as an elementary school principal. Alongside this, she discovered another passion: teaching adult learners.
“I loved adult learners from the very beginning,” she recalls. “They’re motivated, invested, and often balancing work, family, and school. Walking alongside them is incredibly rewarding.”
This blend of classroom experience, administrative leadership, and adult learning expertise uniquely prepared her for her role today at MVNU.
Why MVNU Online Stands Out
Having taught in both traditional and online environments, Dr. Castleman understands what makes online education both challenging and rewarding. She points to MVNU’s one-class-at-a-time structure, strong faculty support, and intentional integration of faith as distinctives that set the programs apart.
“We really prioritize personalized learning,” she explains. “Our faculty make an effort to connect with students individually—whether through video, one-on-one conversations, or simply by making sure students know they matter. Even though the classes are online, students never feel like they’re on this journey alone.”
That personal touch, she says, reflects MVNU’s commitment to being more than a degree provider. “We care about the whole person. Faith, encouragement, and community are woven into the student experience.”
Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders
MVNU’s online education programs are designed for working professionals who want to expand their opportunities in teaching and leadership. Dr. Castleman emphasizes that field and clinical experiences remain a core component, even for online learners.
“Just because you’re in an online program doesn’t mean you miss out on hands-on learning. Our students still work directly with mentor teachers and university supervisors in classrooms, gaining the real-world experience they need to succeed.”
That practical focus, paired with MVNU’s reputation for strong graduates, ensures that students are well-prepared for licensure, advanced credentials, and meaningful roles in education.
Encouraging Adult Learners to Take the Leap
Dr. Castleman understands the hesitation many adults feel when considering a return to school—concerns about time, family, work, and whether they can succeed academically. Her advice is simple:
“Life is going to keep moving whether you take the step or not. Eighteen to twenty-four months from now, you can either be in the same place—or you can be further along in your career and your personal growth. At MVNU, we have the people and the supports in place to help you succeed. If you have the drive, we’ll walk alongside you every step of the way.”
A Community That Cares
Looking ahead, Dr. Castleman is most excited about seeing students graduate and reflect on their time at MVNU. “What I hope they say is, ‘MVNU cared about me, and MVNU pointed me to Christ.’ That’s the kind of impact we want every student to experience.”
For professionals ready to take the next step, MVNU’s online education programs offer the flexibility, support, and faith-centered foundation to make it possible.
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