Hey everyone! My name is Corey — I’m a writer, photographer, educator, creator, and civic leader based in the southern foothills of Virginia. A lifelong southerner with Appalachian leanings, my work lives at the intersection of art, media, literacy, and education. I’m driven by a mission to create opportunities for marginalized communities and a vision for a more honest, inclusive, and forward-leaning South.
I spent five years in public education teaching ninth-grade English, publications, media, and AVID before transitioning into higher education and public service. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction, additional graduate work in English and Communication, and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction. I believe deeply in learning beyond the classroom — through life and through stories.
At my core, I’m both a creative and a proud educator. I see stories everywhere: in faces, in landscapes, and in the moments most people overlook. I take a stream-of-consciousness narrative approach to my work, both visually and in writing — sharing stories about adventure, solitude, friendship, serendipity, and the open road. When I’m not teaching or serving my community, you’ll probably find me reading something old, writing something new, chasing the sun, or collecting stories with my right-paw dog, Atticus.
MISSION, VISION & VALUES STATEMENT
My mission is to create meaningful, progessive opportunities for all communities through storytelling, education & creative expression — bridging art, media, literacy, and grassroots community advocacy to foster equitable opportunities for all. My vision is to collect, create & share stories that are honest, inclusive & forward-looking — where diverse voices are heard, experiences are shared authentically & every community can thrive with respect and opportunity.