A journey of growth, success and lasting connections in Belmont Athletics and the College of Education
On a hot summer afternoon, Jackie Verseman sipped an iced latte from BruinBites in Belmont University's new admissions center as she shared stories about her time as a graduate student-athlete. She had been describing the profound impact of Belmont's coaches, faculty and staff on her journey when, as if on cue, a familiar face appeared.
"Jackie!" called out Jeff Langdon, director of Cross Country and Track & Field, walking by with a prospective student and his family. The serendipity of the moment wasn't lost on her – this chance encounter epitomized the close-knit community Verseman had found at Belmont – a place where even after graduation, she was recognized and welcomed back with open arms.
A Path to Nashville
Verseman's journey to Belmont started in her small hometown of Perryville, Missouri. She initially pursued her undergraduate degree in elementary education at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. As a student-athlete on the track and field team, she had been recruited for her throwing abilities.
"I got recruited for track and field, and they also have a great education program," Verseman explained. "So I said, it's a no brainer."
But as her senior year approached, the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench in her plans. With canceled seasons and extended eligibility, Verseman found herself with an unexpected opportunity to continue her athletic career while pursuing a master's degree.
"I knew I was going to have an extra year, and I knew I wanted to get my master's," she said. "So I said, 'Okay, what do I want to do from here?'"
Finding Her Fit at Belmont
After researching various programs, Verseman's attention was drawn to Belmont's teacher leadership program. The flexibility and customization options appealed to her, allowing her to explore different areas of education while continuing her athletic pursuits.
"Belmont's always been a school we competed against, and I just loved that they always seemed like a very welcoming team," Verseman said. Reaching out to both the track coach and academic advisors, Verseman quickly felt welcomed into the Belmont community.
The master's program, typically designed as an 18-month course for working teachers, presented a challenge. Verseman was determined to complete it in just one year to coincide with her athletic eligibility. Dr. Amanda Nelms, assistant professor of education, confirmed it was doable, explaining that the 30-credit-hour requirement translated to about five courses each semester. That was all the encouragement she needed. She decided to push herself and tackle it head-on.
A Period of Profound Growth
Verseman's time at Belmont proved to be more than just an academic pursuit. It was a period of personal growth, self-discovery and community building. The campus atmosphere, particularly the presence of faith, had a profound impact on her.
"The presence of faith on this campus, and especially on the track team, where I spent a lot of my time, was just so prominent," Verseman reflected. "These people made me want to be better."
While excelling in her studies, Verseman continued to make her mark on the track field. Her final year of eligibility at Belmont culminated in a series of personal bests at the conference championships. "At conference, which was my last meet ever, I set personal records in all of my events," Verseman said. “It was really cool because my mom and dad, my sisters and one of my best friends were there."
This moment was made even more special by the supportive community Verseman had found at Belmont. As she addressed her teammates before the meet, emotions overwhelmed her.
"I remember tearing up because I found a family here at Belmont," Verseman recalled. "It was bittersweet, because it was my last year.”
A Symbol of Belonging
As Verseman completed her master's degree in teacher leadership in 2023, she received more than just a diploma. Belmont's athletic department presented her with a special ring—a symbol of her accomplishments and her place in the Belmont community.
"I wear this ring," Verseman said, displaying the Belmont Bell Tower and her name. "I don't ever take it off. I shower with it, I sleep with it, all these things. I think it's just nice to be proud of where I came from and to feel welcomed back at any point."
This ring serves as a constant reminder of her Belmont identity, a tangible connection to the university that helped shape her into the educator and person she is today.
Paying It Forward
Armed with her master's degree and a wealth of experiences, Verseman has started her professional career at Battle Ground Academy (BGA) in Franklin, Tennessee, where she now serves in multiple capacities. "I am the associate to academic and library support," Verseman said. "It was essentially a position they added on. Since we're a private school, we do not offer special education services, but we help students who may need that extra boost, that extra support with executive functioning."
This role allows Verseman to combine her passion for education with her desire to support students in need of additional assistance. Verseman will also begin teaching a 7th grade math foundations course this fall, and she coaches middle and upper school throwers at BGA, sharing her expertise and experiences with young athletes. Her commitment to the sport extends beyond the school year, as she also coaches for WilCo Track and Field, a summer AAU team. "Coaching allows me to fill that 'athlete' void," Verseman said. "It's a way for me to stay connected to the sport I love while helping develop the next generation of throwers."
Verseman's commitment to education and helping others also continues to extend beyond the classroom. Each summer, she participates in a mission trip with a group called Vincentian Marian Youth, traveling to different states to assist communities in need.
Discover More
Learn more about the master's degree in teacher leadership program.