Stories of Impact

My relationship with National Louis University didn't start in a classroom—it started as a child at the Baker Demonstration School, surrounded by best practice without knowing it. I watched teachers and future educators learn, try, and grow right in front of me. That stayed with me. Twenty years later, I returned to earn my master's in special education—less like starting over and more like continuing something already begun. Twenty years after that, I came back again for my Ph.D. in Community Psychology. Now that full-circle journey extends into my work with PADS Lake County, building systems that actually work for people.

As a first-generation college student, attending National Louis University was an impactful experience that shaped both who I am and the educator I've become. My professors provided guidance and encouragement that helped me grow academically and professionally, allowing me to double major and complete a concentration — preparing me to meet the diverse needs of my students. I also worked part-time as a student ambassador, where I built meaningful connections within the campus community. Through my coursework and this role, I gained valuable knowledge, skills, and confidence that I carry into my classroom today. I am deeply thankful for the opportunities NLU gave me.

As a two-time graduate of National Louis University, I am profoundly grateful for my decision to enroll in their student-centered educational leadership program. When I began the M.Ed. program in 1997, I joined a community of educators passionate about making a difference in learners' lives — cohort members I still collaborate with today. When I embarked on my doctoral journey at NLU, my goal was to enhance my effectiveness as a high school principal. The deep learning I experienced, facilitated by highly skilled practitioners, reaffirmed that NLU was the optimal choice. National Louis University has indelibly shaped my professional career, and I remain deeply appreciative of their commitment to excellence.

I see the impact of my NLU degree most clearly in how I support teachers today. During a recent coaching cycle in a Dual Language classroom, I guided a teacher to adjust instruction based on student data, and we saw immediate growth in student engagement — the kind of intentional support I developed through NLU. The program also helped me think beyond my classroom and examine systems. I now advocate for stronger alignment in Dual Language and MTSS to better support multilingual learners. As a bilingual educator and immigrant, NLU helped me step into leadership with confidence and purpose, clarifying that my work is about creating lasting impact for both students and educators.

My doctoral degree from National Louis University has profoundly shaped my personal and professional journey. Born and raised in Zimbabwe, I relocated to South Africa in 2007 and now live in the U.S. Reading U.S. research articles during my South African studies inspired me to pursue doctoral work — a dream that became a reality. I deeply value the opportunity to impact parents, teachers, and my own family by highlighting educational interventions for learners. My work advocates for access and equity while inspiring others to strengthen their teaching and reflect on pressing educational issues. This journey has reinforced my commitment to evidence-based contributions and empowering those who make a difference in learners' lives.

National Louis University played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to leadership. I was fortunate to have earned both my specialist and doctoral degrees there, where the blend of theory and practical application prepared me to address the complex challenges of today’s educational landscape. I am grateful for having had the opportunity to learn from experienced leaders. Today, I serve as an Area Superintendent of Schools within the Pinellas County School District, applying the principles and insights I gained to make a positive impact in our schools.

I loved my experience at NLU so much I chose to do it twice. Earning my master's, I discovered every assignment was practical and immediately applicable to my work in a large school district. When I transitioned to an educational nonprofit, it felt like the perfect opportunity to study system implementation—so I returned for my doctorate. My degrees from NLU have opened doors I didn't know existed. I am now a bestselling author, keynote speaker, business consultant, and AVID Executive Director for the state of Florida. My time at NLU prepared me for all of this—and I know the best is yet to come!

My experience at National Louis University shaped me into a stronger leader, advocate, and community voice. Through my studies, I gained academic knowledge and the confidence to lead with purpose. As a preschool director, I apply what I've learned daily—supporting children, guiding teachers, and building meaningful relationships with families. NLU deepened my commitment to equity in early childhood education, allowing me to better serve diverse communities. Beyond the workplace, I actively support local food and clothing pantries, connecting families to essential resources. NLU helped me find my voice and understand the impact of using it. Today, I lead with intention and work toward positive change.

My degrees from National Louis University's Kendall College reshaped the course of my professional life. Transitioning from Federal Employee to Executive Chef and Partner in a full-service restaurant and brewery required more than passion — it required discipline, leadership, and technical mastery. Kendall gave me the tools and confidence to make that leap. The instruction went beyond recipes, instilling operational strategy, financial awareness, and a standard of excellence. I learned as much from instructors and peers as I did from the curriculum itself. Every day in my kitchen, I apply those lessons — mentoring my team, building systems, and upholding the standards of craft that Kendall instilled in me.

National Louis University helped make my dreams a reality. As a child, I always wanted to become an educator — pretending to be the teacher, taking my Barbie dolls' attendance, and modeling the great teachers I admired. That dream of earning a Doctoral degree never left me.

In Spring 2021, I was accepted into the doctorate program and from day one was welcomed by amazing staff and fellow cohort members. When I defended my dissertation, I cried tears of joy — all the hard work had paid off. NLU fully prepared me to become a principal, and I am forever grateful to be an NLU graduate.

As an alumna, NLU gave me more than a Bachelor's degree — it opened a future I once believed was out of reach. As a first-generation college student, I arrived unsure and uncertain, yet was quickly embraced by a community rooted in care. Faculty, staff, and peers created a space where I felt seen, encouraged, and capable, shaping both my confidence and purpose.

Today, as an employee, that journey has come full circle. Returning as a professional allows me to give back to the community that helped shape me — and the compassion I once received now guides how I serve others each day.

Pursuing my Doctorate of Business Administration at National Louis University has sharpened how I connect strategy to real-world impact. NLU strengthened my ability to think in systems — aligning corporate strategy, organizational behavior, and economic impact beyond theory. As managing partner of Pitch & Pour Supper Club in Chicago, I approach hospitality as both a business and community asset, intentionally designing it to create jobs and drive local economic growth. NLU has refined my leadership lens, helping me make decisions with greater emphasis on culture and long-term value creation. Most importantly, it reinforced my commitment to bridge academia and entrepreneurship — using business as a tool for community development.