National University Alumni Association

Every year, the Marine Corps Reserve prepares Marines for serving, assisting with national emergencies, and partaking in global military operations. It’s been our pleasure to have them around for 108 years. Happy birthday, Marine Corps Reserve! Thank you for all you do. 🇺🇸

With the job market as competitive as it is, applying for positions and molding your career can feel like a sport! But that doesn’t mean you need to do it alone — we’ve got your back. Our Career Services team hosts monthly workshops to help you craft your resume, polish your interviewing skills, and get networking tips. It’s time for you to conquer! Or at least visit Indeed with more confidence. 😉 Learn more here. ➡️ https://bit.ly/4cbAYpH

Dr. Novia Reid is a true And-er™. She's a Doctoral Grad AND a Licensed Clinical Social Worker AND a dedicated daughter. Her journey is a testament to balancing personal fulfillment, professional growth, and family dedication.

“I wanted to obtain the highest degree possible in my niche, and I did. That fulfilled me. But beyond personal fulfillment and achievement, the journey of earning my degree helped me hone my therapy skills and impact lives, birth a divine calling, and complete a one-of-a-kind research study. So, while I’m grateful for my degree, I’m mostly thankful for the journey that led to earning it."
Reflecting on what empowers her, Dr. Reid says, "I feel empowered when I help women cultivate self-love and self-dating, foster healthy relationships with themselves, let their true selves exist, and live their version of their best lives. But I also feel empowered when I’m my authentic self… when what I say and do aligns with what I believe and who I truly am."

Dr. Reid's journey from Jamaica has also shaped her path and resilience. "My mom, Norma Reid, has influenced me beyond measure. Her sacrifices to help ensure my sister, Saskeia, and I were taken care of when we migrated from Jamaica is something I’ll never forget. Her integrity, hard-working nature, humility, and powerful acts of kindness have inspired and nurtured me to become a better person.”

Dr. Novia Reid's journey exemplifies the incredible dedication required to balance personal and professional growth, emphasizing the impact of a supportive educational environment.

, join us in celebrating Dr. Reid's incredible achievements!

"Reflecting on my journey, it seems almost implausible," shares Dr. Nina, who earned her Doctor of Education in Global Training and Development last year. Just four months after relocating from Florida to Hawaii, Nina, already a mother and pregnant with her third child, faced the daunting prospect of pursuing her doctorate. Despite the challenges, including her husband’s deployment and her own medical complications, her resilience was supported by the tight-knit military spouse community and NU’s understanding faculty. "Life as a military spouse is inherently unpredictable, but with support, I've learned anything is achievable," Nina explains.

Nina's determination is evident in her actions. "Life happens. Everyone has difficult circumstances in life. I resolved to persevere, determined not to let circumstances dictate my academic pursuits. Even the day after my c-section, I submitted my final assignment, a personal commitment to excellence," she recounts.

As a dedicated mom AND military spouse AND doctoral grad, Nina’s journey showcases the incredible strength and support within the military community and the unwavering pursuit of academic goals. Congrats, Dr. Nina! 🎓

"I would not have been able to complete my doctorate without the support of NU's faculty and advisors. They supported me during both pregnancies, allowed for extensions during my maternity leaves, and ensured that I stayed on track in completing my degree. The online format of my program allowed me to attend courses, even with a newborn. I would often rock my babies in a swing, while completing discussion board posts or papers," - Cassie Z., Ed.D. in Organizational Innovation, Class of 2023.

As a working parent, spouse, and student, Cassie stresses the importance of seeking support. "It is okay and important to ask for help. If I hadn't asked for extensions or they hadn't been granted, I would have had to drop out of my program to take care of my newborns. NU supports the whole learner and will help you navigate new jobs, children, moving, marriage, etc."

Cassie's story illustrates the incredible determination required to balance motherhood and advanced studies, showing how crucial support systems are in achieving success. We’re so proud to have her as part of our ! 🎓

The latest edition of your monthly newsletter, the NU Alumni Connection, is available now! Read more for alumni spotlights, NU Foundation Gala recap, professional development resources, and more! Check your inbox or visit https://bit.ly/nualumniconnection

Reminder! Our "Optimizing Brain Health and Performance" session is tomorrow! Join us at 3:00 p.m. PT to learn valuable tips for enhancing your brain health. Hear from Amanda Lee (NU, MA '15), an expert from Brain Balance Centers of Greater San Diego. Register here: ➡️ https://bit.ly/46uWxjQ

"I grew up in a low-income, underprivileged neighborhood here in South San Diego. An immigrant from the Philippines, achieving my master's degree was something that was unheard of when I entered the U.S. at age 8. I never dreamed or even imagined I would be where I am today academically," - Michelle A., M.Ed., Class of 2024.

Despite significant health challenges, including a double organ transplant, Michelle's educational pursuit is deeply connected to her gratitude for her angel donor. "I believe that there is a plan for everyone to do good in this world, just like my angel donor was able to bless me with a second chance at life. Use your platform whatever it may be to spread the word of kindness, love, and perseverance."

As an educator, mother, wife, and survivor, Michelle’s story is a powerful reminder of how determination and support can change lives, inspiring us all to make a positive impact. 💙🎓

🚀 Join us for the NU Mentoring Network Webinar! 🌟 Learn the secrets to building a thriving mentor-mentee relationship from experienced mentor and NU alumna Vanessa Hernandez (NU, MA, '16). Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your mentoring journey! Registration link in our bio. See you there!

Members of the NU alumni community receive a discounted rate for co-working space at CoWork at National University in San Diego, CA!

Happy Book Lovers Day!

Let's celebrate the love of books and the talent of our alumni authors! Explore our Alumni Author's Corner, where we proudly showcase the literary works of our alumni. From insightful business strategies to children’s books, our authors have it all! 📚✨

If you're an alumni author with a book to share, we'd love to feature your masterpiece! Simply fill out the submission form here https://www.alumni.nu.edu/s/1843/bp21/interior.aspx?sid=1843&gid=2&pgid=861&cid=2258, and let your words reach a community that cherishes the power of storytelling. 🖋️📝

Purple Heart Day. It's a day to remember those who've given so much for our country. To those who’ve returned with visible and invisible wounds, your bravery and sacrifice are unmatched. I know firsthand the challenges you face.

To those who didn’t make it home, your memory lives on in the hearts of those you left behind and in the freedom we enjoy today.

If you know a Purple Heart veteran, reach out. Please don’t wait for them to ask for help; they might never do. Let them know you’re there for them. A simple gesture of support can make a world of difference. Be the friend, the neighbor, the support system they need. You might just change someone's life.

Let's honor these heroes not just today but every day by supporting our amazing veteran community. 💜

"My family is my reason why! After 12 years of struggling to stay focused, my wife’s pregnancy with our first daughter was the push I needed. With 4-week courses I was able to balance raising a newborn and coursework. Now, with a second daughter and a goal of becoming an educator, I’m showing my girls that anything is possible!" - Daniel L., BA in Sport Psychology, Class of 2023

Father. Husband. NU Alumni. Future educator. We’re so proud of Daniel for turning his dreams into reality and setting an inspiring example for his family and future students! 🎉

From sea to shining sea, we’re indebted to the U.S. Coast Guard. Thank you for your protection against maritime threats and helping hands while helping people at sea. Happy birthday! 🇺🇸

Excited to share the upcoming NU Speaker Series featuring Amanda Lee (NU, MA '15). She will be sharing valuable insights on maximizing brain performance and effective strategies to boost cognitive, physical, social, and mental wellness! Everyone is invited 💙🧠 RSVP at: https://bit.ly/NUSpeakerSeriesAug24

August is and we’re excited to share some of The Whole Person Center’s resources and services available to the !
There are weekly virtual yoga and mindfulness sessions, a book club, and webinars about a variety of topics including personalized self-care, intersectionality, and educational and career journeys. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3Yt1gki

For 249 years, members of the Army Chaplains have been assisting soldiers by providing the spiritual insight and support they need to fight each battle. Happy birthday, chaplains. Your dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. 🇺🇲

Happy ! To the hardworking parents in our doing it all – we are so proud of each and every one of you 💙

While you’re catching some rays, have you noticed the passing of the days? Summer is still in full swing, but it’s not too early to prepare for the back-to-school season. Teachers, it’s almost time for you to be the fantastic educators you are, so what’s on your back-to-school must-haves list? 📋

“I wanted to show my daughters pursuing their degrees that if you put your mind to pursuing a goal or dream, no matter how old you are, you can achieve anything.”

Dr. Evans, the first in her family to earn a doctoral degree, achieved her Doctor of Education last year. Despite navigating challenges, including the pandemic's impact on her dissertation process, she pushed through. “Things may have been different without the support from my family, friends, and a very supportive chair and committee,” she reflects. Her dedication, alongside family support and academic guidance, enabled her to excel in her studies and international research.

Her journey demonstrates the impact of perseverance and the importance of having supportive people around you, especially during challenging times. Congratulations, Dr. Evans, on this incredible milestone! 🎓💙

Let’s throw it out there: Sometimes, even professionals don’t have everything together — and that’s okay! If you’re in “adulting” mode and need a boost to hone your career, our Career Services team is ready to help with advice, networking, and career readiness skills development. You don’t have to navigate your journey alone, so see what we can do for you today! https://bit.ly/4411H5a

Let us help support, empower, and make graduation a reality for Maryam and other current students! Donate now!

With the support of our generous donors, we are opening pathways to possibilities, changing the world one student at a time. “Becoming a nurse practitioner will put me in a better position to assist my community and make a positive impact on those I serve.” - Maryam Y., MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner.

Learners from all walks of life will gain the knowledge they need to shine brighter and blaze new trails. With your support, students like Maryam can complete their degrees and give back to their communities. Donate today and become a founding member 💙 https://bit.ly/3LqDNbs

Your latest issue of the NU Alumni Connection Newsletter has dropped! Check it out for a milestone announcement, alumni spotlights, and other exciting news! Read this and past issues here:
https://bit.ly/3X2DMBR

Members of the NU alumni community will receive a discounted rate for co-working space at CoWork at National University in San Diego, CA!