Dr. Cheryl Cavanaugh
Head of School
Dr. Cheryl Turner Cavanaugh is a distinguished educational leader, entrepreneur, and double doctorate holder who has dedicated her life to transforming the landscape of early childhood and Christian education. With a passion for empowering educators and nurturing students, she brings decades of experience in school leadership, academic research, and faith-based education.
Dr. Cavanaugh earned both a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), making her a rare and respected double doctor in the field of educational leadership. Her academic work includes multiple dissertations focused on leadership dynamics within Christian schools, teacher efficacy, and organizational climate—most notably during the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
She is deeply passionate about creating safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive. This passion inspired her to establish New Beginnings Child Care Centers, which have become a vital part of Onslow County and the surrounding communities. For over 20 years, she has been dedicated to providing top-quality, 5-Star educational facilities that serve and support local families.
Dr. Cavanaugh is the Head of School and co-founder of Liberty Christian Academy (LCA) in Richlands, North Carolina, alongside her husband, Jody Douglas Cavanaugh. Under her guidance, LCA has grown into a vital educational institution serving families in Onslow County and beyond, with a Christ-centered mission and a reputation for academic excellence. Dr. Cavanaugh has also served as principal and administrator at various points, embodying hands-on leadership and a deep commitment to her students and staff.
Beyond education, Dr. Cavanaugh is an accomplished businesswoman. She is affiliated with several start-up ventures including New Beginnings Child Care Centers, Liberty Christian Academy, New Beginnings Construction, Forbes Financial and NBI Financial. She is involved in overseeing services for over 1,000 children and leads a team of more than 150 employees across her organizations.
Known for her visionary leadership, Dr. Cavanaugh is driven by faith, service, and academic integrity. She is a respected voice in educational circles and continues to inspire a new generation of students, educators, and community leaders.
Dr. Cavanaugh earned both a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), making her a rare and respected double doctor in the field of educational leadership. Her academic work includes multiple dissertations focused on leadership dynamics within Christian schools, teacher efficacy, and organizational climate—most notably during the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
She is deeply passionate about creating safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive. This passion inspired her to establish New Beginnings Child Care Centers, which have become a vital part of Onslow County and the surrounding communities. For over 20 years, she has been dedicated to providing top-quality, 5-Star educational facilities that serve and support local families.
Dr. Cavanaugh is the Head of School and co-founder of Liberty Christian Academy (LCA) in Richlands, North Carolina, alongside her husband, Jody Douglas Cavanaugh. Under her guidance, LCA has grown into a vital educational institution serving families in Onslow County and beyond, with a Christ-centered mission and a reputation for academic excellence. Dr. Cavanaugh has also served as principal and administrator at various points, embodying hands-on leadership and a deep commitment to her students and staff.
Beyond education, Dr. Cavanaugh is an accomplished businesswoman. She is affiliated with several start-up ventures including New Beginnings Child Care Centers, Liberty Christian Academy, New Beginnings Construction, Forbes Financial and NBI Financial. She is involved in overseeing services for over 1,000 children and leads a team of more than 150 employees across her organizations.
Known for her visionary leadership, Dr. Cavanaugh is driven by faith, service, and academic integrity. She is a respected voice in educational circles and continues to inspire a new generation of students, educators, and community leaders.
