In this year’s annual Women in Business feature, we shine a spotlight on Brianne Hudak, the dynamic founder and head of Journeys School for the Gifted and Talented, an independent institution dedicated to nurturing exceptional students in Western North Carolina (WNC). With nearly 20 years of experience in various educational roles, Hudak has seen firsthand the complexities and challenges that gifted students face. She shares her inspiring journey of creating a school that truly meets the needs of these unique individuals, particularly following the disruptions caused by Tropical Storm Helene.
A Vision Rooted in Experience
Hudak’s journey to founding Journeys School is deeply personal. Over nearly two decades, she has worked in public, private, and charter school settings, where she encountered the systemic gaps in equity and support for gifted and talented students. These pupils, who often face challenges such as being overlooked or underserved, can struggle with underachievement, behavioral issues, and mental health concerns.
“Having been in the trenches and climbed the ladder, I encountered gaps in equity, biases, and misinformation surrounding exceptional students,” Hudak recalls. Her passion for advocacy was ignited by witnessing the barriers that prevented these outstanding young minds from achieving their full potential.
In response, she envisioned a place where gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) learners could thrive—a nurturing environment that recognizes their unique abilities and challenges. Journeys School for the Gifted and Talented emerged from this vision, providing high-ability and high-potential learners with access to an education tailored to their distinct learning styles. This innovative school aims to inspire young dreamers and doers through evidence-based practices and a curriculum that fosters holistic development.
Adapting to a Unique Community
Starting an educational institution in the culturally rich and diverse backdrop of Asheville poses its own set of challenges. Hudak points out that operating a school open to all families across WNC requires a deliberate approach to inclusivity.
“The strangest aspect of starting an educational institution near Asheville is the uniqueness of the areas served. We have to consider schedules, budgets, and effective communications to ensure accessibility for those interested,” she explains. This commitment to diversity and outreach presents a rewarding challenge that strengthens the community by accommodating various backgrounds and needs. The excitement lies in finding solutions that make extraordinary educational experiences available to all families, fostering a sense of belonging and engagement.
Defining Success Beyond Numbers
For Hudak, success is not merely a metric of enrollment numbers or financial gains. Instead, she defines success as the transformative impact Journeys School has on its students and their families. She cites the philosopher Paulo Freire, who once said, “Education is freedom.” This idea underscores Hudak’s mission to empower students to navigate their worlds positively and confidently.
“Success is touching the lives of every student and their families at Journeys,” she reflects. Her ultimate goal is to cultivate lifelong learners who not only excel academically but also contribute to their communities, promoting social responsibility and positive change.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Hudak has crucial advice: introspection is key. “Before launching a business, every entrepreneur should deeply reflect on their own knowledge, passion, and ambition,” she advises. Understanding one’s ability to take risks, balance leadership with business acumen, and strategically plan for sustainability is vital. Furthermore, good decision-making requires patience and consideration—not hasty judgments.
Resilience in the Face of Hurricane Helene
In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, Hudak acknowledges the challenges her school has faced, particularly concerning delays in remodeling and construction. “Our project completion is now targeted for the end of this year, and we are currently enrolling for the 2025-26 school year,” she notes.
Yet, the storm’s impact extends beyond physical structures. The greatest need for local business owners right now, she believes, is support. “Journeys is more than a school; it is a community of ongoing holistic support throughout a child’s entire learning journey,” she emphasizes.
To assist families impacted by Helene, Hudak has initiated a foundation for student scholarships, demonstrating the school’s commitment to its community. More information about how to support or get involved can be found at Journeys Foundation.
As Hudak and her team work tirelessly to create a nurturing environment for gifted learners, her story reminds us of the power of education and community support in fostering not just individual success but a brighter future for everyone.
