Stories of Impact
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Stories of Impact
Let us know your story! Share with the community how NLU has impacted your life. Click below to learn more.
National Louis University didn’t just shape my leadership—it transformed my calling. Through my dual doctoral journey in Strategic Educational Leadership and Educational Leadership with Superintendent Endorsement, I’ve learned to blend courage with scholarship and advocacy with strategy. NLU gave me a platform few institutions have the vision or courage to create—one where a Black, Puerto Rican woman could pursue two doctoral degrees simultaneously in the Department of Education. When I asked, they didn’t hesitate—they built this pathway around me. That act of faith and innovation reflects NLU’s true heart: equity in action.
National Louis University didn’t just shape my leadership—it transformed my calling. Through my dual doctoral journey in Strategic Educational Leadership and Educational Leadership with Superintendent Endorsement, I’ve learned to blend courage with scholarship and advocacy with strategy. NLU gave me a platform few institutions have the vision or courage to create—one where a Black, Puerto Rican woman could pursue two doctoral degrees simultaneously in the Department of Education. When I asked, they didn’t hesitate—they built this pathway around me. That act of faith and innovation reflects NLU’s true heart: equity in action.
NLU has been a defining part of my journey—a place where I’ve grown, learned, and evolved. From the day I started as a student, I found an environment that encouraged discovery, supported growth, and inspired me to reach higher. The people I met and the experiences I had shaped not only my education but who I am today.
My connection to NLU has taken many forms: I was a student, worked part-time on campus, graduated, and now proudly serve as a full-time staff member. Each role deepened my appreciation for this community and its commitment to helping others succeed.
NLU has been a place of encouragement, opportunity, and meaningful growth. I’m proud to continue my journey here, giving back to a community that has given me so much.
NLU has been a defining part of my journey—a place where I’ve grown, learned, and evolved. From the day I started as a student, I found an environment that encouraged discovery, supported growth, and inspired me to reach higher. The people I met and the experiences I had shaped not only my education but who I am today.
My connection to NLU has taken many forms: I was a student, worked part-time on campus, graduated, and now proudly serve as a full-time staff member. Each role deepened my appreciation for this community and its commitment to helping others succeed.
NLU has been a place of encouragement, opportunity, and meaningful growth. I’m proud to continue my journey here, giving back to a community that has given me so much.
I have been fortunate to collaborate with many remarkable educators and institutions throughout my career, yet I can say with complete sincerity that I have never experienced a learning community quite like National Louis University. At NLU, the mission to inspire and empower all learners is not simply stated—it is lived daily through the relationships among students, faculty, and staff. The undergraduate educator preparation program, in particular, embodies this mission by preparing future teachers who are compassionate practitioners and critical thinkers, deeply committed to equity, access, and transformative education.
What moves me most about being part of this community is how aspiration and inspiration intertwine. At NLU, we do not just teach or learn; we engage in a collective pursuit of inclusion, innovation, and reflection. There is a shared belief that education is a vehicle for social change and that every learner, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to thrive. I find genuine joy in our collective commitment to reimagining what it means to teach, lead, and support one another—especially in times that test our resilience and values.
I have been fortunate to collaborate with many remarkable educators and institutions throughout my career, yet I can say with complete sincerity that I have never experienced a learning community quite like National Louis University. At NLU, the mission to inspire and empower all learners is not simply stated—it is lived daily through the relationships among students, faculty, and staff. The undergraduate educator preparation program, in particular, embodies this mission by preparing future teachers who are compassionate practitioners and critical thinkers, deeply committed to equity, access, and transformative education.
What moves me most about being part of this community is how aspiration and inspiration intertwine. At NLU, we do not just teach or learn; we engage in a collective pursuit of inclusion, innovation, and reflection. There is a shared belief that education is a vehicle for social change and that every learner, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to thrive. I find genuine joy in our collective commitment to reimagining what it means to teach, lead, and support one another—especially in times that test our resilience and values.
I truly thank the National College of Education at National Louis University for shaping who I am personally and professionally. Coming to Evanston from New York and choosing NLU was the best decision I ever made. Its strong academic program, demo school, and diverse students from across the country and offshore introduced me to so much. The caring staff and faculty made a real difference. I have never seen such a strong program, with extensive classroom time, observation, half-day and full-day student teaching, and full immersion in the arts to ensure we were well prepared. National’s outstanding reputation drew school districts nationwide and offshore to recruit its teachers. I was truly ready for my career.
I truly thank the National College of Education at National Louis University for shaping who I am personally and professionally. Coming to Evanston from New York and choosing NLU was the best decision I ever made. Its strong academic program, demo school, and diverse students from across the country and offshore introduced me to so much. The caring staff and faculty made a real difference. I have never seen such a strong program, with extensive classroom time, observation, half-day and full-day student teaching, and full immersion in the arts to ensure we were well prepared. National’s outstanding reputation drew school districts nationwide and offshore to recruit its teachers. I was truly ready for my career.
Earning my Master’s degree from National Louis University in 2016 was a transformative milestone in my life. The education, mentorship, and unwavering support I received at NLU empowered me to grow both personally and professionally. Shortly after graduating, I launched my nonprofit organization, Blue Freedom Project, which has since raised over $20,000 to support victims and survivors of human trafficking. In 2019, I founded Provision Ecommerce Company, a consulting startup that achieved six-figure revenue in its first year. NLU sparked my entrepreneurial spirit and gave me the confidence to lead with purpose. In January 2025, I took a bold step by moving to Dubai to expand my consulting business globally and begin a new venture as an international real estate agent with DAMAC, one of the region's premier luxury developers. My NLU experience gave me the foundation to dream big, lead change, and make a meaningful impact in the world.
Earning my Master’s degree from National Louis University in 2016 was a transformative milestone in my life. The education, mentorship, and unwavering support I received at NLU empowered me to grow both personally and professionally. Shortly after graduating, I launched my nonprofit organization, Blue Freedom Project, which has since raised over $20,000 to support victims and survivors of human trafficking. In 2019, I founded Provision Ecommerce Company, a consulting startup that achieved six-figure revenue in its first year. NLU sparked my entrepreneurial spirit and gave me the confidence to lead with purpose. In January 2025, I took a bold step by moving to Dubai to expand my consulting business globally and begin a new venture as an international real estate agent with DAMAC, one of the region's premier luxury developers. My NLU experience gave me the foundation to dream big, lead change, and make a meaningful impact in the world.
The last eight years teaching at Kendall College at NLU in Chicago have been transformative, shifting my professional focus even more toward meaningful mentorship with our students. Serving as a culinary instructor has profoundly deepened my connection to the hospitality industry, offering the immense reward of watching hundreds of students tap into their passion in the kitchen and launch successful careers within Chicago’s vibrant food scene.
This role requires constant professional evolution; I’ve had to stay aware of industry trends, learning and practicing new techniques in both the kitchen and classroom, which has sharpened my technical and pedagogical expertise. Teaching at Kendall College continues to refine my communication and leadership skills, building greater patience, adaptability, and the ability to motivate diverse learners.
Ultimately, the shared passion of NLU’s students, and my own, has recharged my enthusiasm for the culinary arts and demonstration-based instruction, turning my job into a deeply fulfilling vocation.
The last eight years teaching at Kendall College at NLU in Chicago have been transformative, shifting my professional focus even more toward meaningful mentorship with our students. Serving as a culinary instructor has profoundly deepened my connection to the hospitality industry, offering the immense reward of watching hundreds of students tap into their passion in the kitchen and launch successful careers within Chicago’s vibrant food scene.
This role requires constant professional evolution; I’ve had to stay aware of industry trends, learning and practicing new techniques in both the kitchen and classroom, which has sharpened my technical and pedagogical expertise. Teaching at Kendall College continues to refine my communication and leadership skills, building greater patience, adaptability, and the ability to motivate diverse learners.
Ultimately, the shared passion of NLU’s students, and my own, has recharged my enthusiasm for the culinary arts and demonstration-based instruction, turning my job into a deeply fulfilling vocation.
As a student at NLU, balancing motherhood, a full-time job, and my studies has been one of the most challenging yet transformative journeys of my life. I decided to become a teacher after working as a long-term substitute in one of the most difficult classrooms I’d ever encountered. That year brought tears, headaches, and frustration—but also moments of connection and understanding. I realized those children needed someone who believed in them—and that someone could be me.
NLU has given me the knowledge, guidance, and support to grow as both an educator and a person. Through my studies, I’ve learned to meet students where they are, advocate for their needs, and create inclusive, supportive classrooms. Becoming a Fulbright participant was a dream I never imagined and became the catalyst for my transformation and empowerment.
NLU has shown me how to turn challenges into purpose and approach every student with empathy and dedication. I am forever grateful for the community and mentorship that have shaped me into the teacher and person I am today.
As a student at NLU, balancing motherhood, a full-time job, and my studies has been one of the most challenging yet transformative journeys of my life. I decided to become a teacher after working as a long-term substitute in one of the most difficult classrooms I’d ever encountered. That year brought tears, headaches, and frustration—but also moments of connection and understanding. I realized those children needed someone who believed in them—and that someone could be me.
NLU has given me the knowledge, guidance, and support to grow as both an educator and a person. Through my studies, I’ve learned to meet students where they are, advocate for their needs, and create inclusive, supportive classrooms. Becoming a Fulbright participant was a dream I never imagined and became the catalyst for my transformation and empowerment.
NLU has shown me how to turn challenges into purpose and approach every student with empathy and dedication. I am forever grateful for the community and mentorship that have shaped me into the teacher and person I am today.
National Louis University has truly changed my life in the most wonderful way. From the start, I felt welcomed, supported, and understood. The instructors believed in me even when I struggled to believe in myself. That encouragement meant everything—it gave me the freedom to grow, take chances, and see just how much I’m capable of. Being part of this caring community helped me find confidence I didn’t know I had and brought out talents I wasn’t sure I could pursue. During my time at NLU, I learned it’s never too late to keep learning and growing. That message gave me hope and motivation to keep going, no matter where I began. The courses inspired me and showed how what I was learning fit into my dreams and future. More than that, NLU helped me discover who I truly am. I’ve learned to believe in myself, appreciate my strengths, and feel proud of who I’m becoming. This confidence and sense of purpose will stay with me forever.
National Louis University has truly changed my life in the most wonderful way. From the start, I felt welcomed, supported, and understood. The instructors believed in me even when I struggled to believe in myself. That encouragement meant everything—it gave me the freedom to grow, take chances, and see just how much I’m capable of. Being part of this caring community helped me find confidence I didn’t know I had and brought out talents I wasn’t sure I could pursue. During my time at NLU, I learned it’s never too late to keep learning and growing. That message gave me hope and motivation to keep going, no matter where I began. The courses inspired me and showed how what I was learning fit into my dreams and future. More than that, NLU helped me discover who I truly am. I’ve learned to believe in myself, appreciate my strengths, and feel proud of who I’m becoming. This confidence and sense of purpose will stay with me forever.
National Louis University has been more than a workplace. It has been a space of growth, reflection, and purpose. My work here has allowed me to live out my passion for student success by meeting each student where they are and nurturing their development as whole people, recognizing their stories, strengths, and goals. Each interaction is an opportunity to listen deeply, affirm their experiences, and help them build confidence in their potential.
Through these moments, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of connection—the shift that occurs when students feel truly seen, supported, and challenged to grow. NLU’s commitment to excellence and equity has strengthened my belief that every student deserves opportunity, high expectations, and care that honors who they are and who they can become. This work is more than a role; it is a calling that reminds me daily why I chose this path.
National Louis University has been more than a workplace. It has been a space of growth, reflection, and purpose. My work here has allowed me to live out my passion for student success by meeting each student where they are and nurturing their development as whole people, recognizing their stories, strengths, and goals. Each interaction is an opportunity to listen deeply, affirm their experiences, and help them build confidence in their potential.
Through these moments, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of connection—the shift that occurs when students feel truly seen, supported, and challenged to grow. NLU’s commitment to excellence and equity has strengthened my belief that every student deserves opportunity, high expectations, and care that honors who they are and who they can become. This work is more than a role; it is a calling that reminds me daily why I chose this path.
My time at National Louis University was a turning point in my life. When I first stepped onto the Chicago campus, I had big dreams but was also managing real-life responsibilities. NLU became the place where those dreams were supported and shaped. As part of the first cohort of the Community Psychology PhD program, balancing school, work, and family was challenging, but it taught me resilience and revealed my inner strength. I was especially inspired by my professors—Dr. Viola, Dr. Fromm-Reed, and Dr. Olson—whose guidance and encouragement left a lasting impression. Through their mentorship, I discovered my gift for writing, which led me to become a two-time published author now working on my third book. Since earning my PhD, I’ve been promoted three times and now serve as Deputy Chief of Staff for the Division of Rehabilitation Services, serving as a statewide resource for people with disabilities. NLU didn’t just shape my career—it shaped my purpose, my heart, and the woman I am today.
My time at National Louis University was a turning point in my life. When I first stepped onto the Chicago campus, I had big dreams but was also managing real-life responsibilities. NLU became the place where those dreams were supported and shaped. As part of the first cohort of the Community Psychology PhD program, balancing school, work, and family was challenging, but it taught me resilience and revealed my inner strength. I was especially inspired by my professors—Dr. Viola, Dr. Fromm-Reed, and Dr. Olson—whose guidance and encouragement left a lasting impression. Through their mentorship, I discovered my gift for writing, which led me to become a two-time published author now working on my third book. Since earning my PhD, I’ve been promoted three times and now serve as Deputy Chief of Staff for the Division of Rehabilitation Services, serving as a statewide resource for people with disabilities. NLU didn’t just shape my career—it shaped my purpose, my heart, and the woman I am today.
I’ve spent 11 years with National Louis University, as an Advisor/Career Advisor, Associate Director, and Executive Director of Academic Advising. The opportunity to serve not only our student population, but oversee a team of dedicated and caring higher ed professionals, has been the cornerstone of my professional journey of service. I will be forever grateful for both the possibilities that National Louis University has afforded me and the chance to give back to our growing student community. National Louis believed in my potential, and I believe in each and every one of our Advisors to embody that same potential as well.
I’ve spent 11 years with National Louis University, as an Advisor/Career Advisor, Associate Director, and Executive Director of Academic Advising. The opportunity to serve not only our student population, but oversee a team of dedicated and caring higher ed professionals, has been the cornerstone of my professional journey of service. I will be forever grateful for both the possibilities that National Louis University has afforded me and the chance to give back to our growing student community. National Louis believed in my potential, and I believe in each and every one of our Advisors to embody that same potential as well.
I always heard that National Louis University was the College of Education—a place where educators are made. My first experience with NLU was as a student at the Wheeling campus, completing my Master’s in Bilingual Education. I still remember standing near the American flag during graduation, thinking about what the American Dream meant to me. As I looked at the professors on stage, I wondered, Could that ever be me? That same year, I began teaching at NLU as an adjunct professor. Almost eight years later, I’ve completed my Doctoral degree and have had the honor of serving countless students as an Associate Professor and Chair of ESL/Bilingual Education. NLU has been more than a university—it’s been a community that believed in me, inspired me, and helped me grow into the educator I am today. Its impact has truly been life-changing.
I always heard that National Louis University was the College of Education—a place where educators are made. My first experience with NLU was as a student at the Wheeling campus, completing my Master’s in Bilingual Education. I still remember standing near the American flag during graduation, thinking about what the American Dream meant to me. As I looked at the professors on stage, I wondered, Could that ever be me? That same year, I began teaching at NLU as an adjunct professor. Almost eight years later, I’ve completed my Doctoral degree and have had the honor of serving countless students as an Associate Professor and Chair of ESL/Bilingual Education. NLU has been more than a university—it’s been a community that believed in me, inspired me, and helped me grow into the educator I am today. Its impact has truly been life-changing.
Acts of Service
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"I worked with the Bread Team at what I consider the best organized community service event in my 50 years of volunteering — and I have volunteered with the Marie Wilkerson Food Pantry, Hesed House, Feed My Starving Children, Northern Illinois Food Bank, Loaves and Fishes, and my Sorority for decades. NLU's partnership with this Food Dispensary was an excellent teamwork experience for the good of the community. Those in need received excellent food, and we packed over 1,000 boxes of assorted breads in just 2½ hours. Wow!"
“Volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository was one of those experiences that stays with you long after you leave. With so many families facing reduced SNAP benefits, and the holidays approaching, the need feels heavier than ever. Standing shoulder to shoulder with fellow NLU alumni, and so many others who showed up to help, reminded me how powerful community can be when we choose to show up for one another. I was genuinely moved by the stories, the shared purpose and the simple act of doing something that makes someone else’s day a little easier. I’m grateful for the opportunity and already looking forward to going back.”
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"Volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository filled me with gratitude, purpose, and humility. Sorting and preparing food boxes made me deeply aware of how many families depend on these resources just to get through the week — and reminded me not to take my own stability for granted. More than volunteering, it felt like directly contributing to someone's peace of mind. This experience helped me embody the NLU spirit by pushing me to live out empathy, service, and leadership — because showing up and doing the work is what real leadership looks like."
"I had the privilege of volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository. I worked with the bread group, where together we repacked 10,128 pounds of bread—enough to provide servings for approximately 8,440 households. It was incredibly rewarding to know that our collective effort would help so many families in need. This experience truly reflects what it means to serve as an NLU ambassador—leading with compassion, integrity, and a sense of purpose. In these challenging times, it felt uplifting to be surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared the same commitment to making a positive difference. Volunteering not only allowed me to contribute to my community, but also reinforced the importance of service, collaboration, and empathy—values that are at the heart of NLU’s mission.”
“For my Act of Service, I participated with the NLU Advising Team in creating handmade cards, bookmarks, and bracelets for children and families at Lurie Children’s Hospital. This experience was both humbling and deeply meaningful, as it reminded me of the power of small acts of kindness. Watching our team collaborate with care and intention demonstrated how service can strengthen community and bring comfort to others. Coming together for a shared purpose reinforced the NLU's values of service, generosity, and empathy. This act of service allowed me to reflect on gratitude and the importance of supporting those facing difficult circumstances.”
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