Her Story
About Kimberly
Dr. Kimberly M. Nolan is a Teaching Professor at Northeastern University, where she has dedicated the past 13 years to advancing online and hybrid education, conducting research, mentoring students, and fostering meaningful learning experiences. With more than 25 years of experience in education, Dr. Nolan has built a distinguished career focused on student success, educational leadership, and academic innovation. Her passion for education was inspired by her mother, who also built a career in academia and encouraged her commitment to lifelong learning and service.
Dr. Nolan’s career began as a middle school science teacher in New York City before she advanced into leadership roles as a dean of students and assistant principal at a K–8 school in Vermont. After earning her doctorate, she served as a teaching principal at an alternative high school in Vermont and later worked as an academic advisor within the community college system before transitioning to her current role at Northeastern University. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Vermont, a Master’s degree in Secondary Education from Johnson State College, and a Master’s degree in Education Leadership and Policy from Mercy College in New York City.
In addition to her academic career, Dr. Nolan is a dedicated advocate for youth development and educational equity. She is a member of the American Educational Research Association (AERA), where she also serves as a reviewer, and she is the author of the 2024 open-access book Getting Out of South Carolina’s Juvenile Justice System, published through Lived Places Publishing. She also operates an educational consulting business and serves as a board member of the nonprofit organization Earn the Right, which supports at-risk youth in juvenile detention facilities throughout South Carolina, previously serving as board chair. Through her teaching, research, consulting, and community involvement, Dr. Nolan continues to empower others and create meaningful pathways for growth, opportunity, and positive change.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kimberly
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my 25-year career in education, including my current 13-year tenure as a professor at Northeastern University and my previous roles as a middle school science teacher in New York City, dean of students, and assistant principal in Vermont. I am deeply passionate about my work as an online educator, where I have the opportunity to engage with students and colleagues through asynchronous learning, office hours, and live sessions that foster meaningful connections and collaboration. I also credit my success to my educational foundation, which began with my studies in Vermont and continued at Mercy College in New York City, providing me with the knowledge, skills, and experiences that have shaped my career and commitment to education.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received came from my mother, who was also an academic and inspired me to follow a similar path in education. Her guidance taught me the importance of pursuing work that is meaningful, staying committed to lifelong learning, and recognizing the value of balance. I now live near my mother in South Carolina, and we enjoy spending time together at her beach house, where we relax and recharge. This balance is essential because, in a demanding profession, you cannot pour from an empty cup; taking time to care for yourself allows you to continue making a positive impact on others.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering the education industry is to always remain committed to learning and growth. Knowledge and education are powerful tools that open doors, create opportunities, and build confidence. Continue expanding your skills, seek out new experiences, and never stop investing in yourself. A lifelong commitment to learning will help you adapt, lead with purpose, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunities in my field right now come from the ability to share knowledge, support others, and create meaningful solutions through my consulting work. As I begin building my own consulting firm, I am excited about the opportunity to use my experience in education, leadership, and professional development to help individuals and organizations grow. At the same time, one of the key challenges is navigating the evolving landscape of the industry while staying innovative, adaptable, and responsive to the changing needs of clients. I believe continued learning, collaboration, and a commitment to making a positive impact are essential for success in this next chapter.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are compassion, service, integrity, and a commitment to creating meaningful change. I am deeply passionate about my involvement with the nonprofit organization Earn the Right, which supports at-risk youth in juvenile detention facilities throughout South Carolina. Through my experience as a former principal of an alternative high school in New York City, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges young people face and the importance of providing guidance, resources, and opportunities for a brighter future. My recent publication, Getting Out of South Carolina’s Juvenile Justice System, through Lived Places Publishing, reflects my dedication to advocacy and education. With my background, including two master’s degrees, my consulting work, and my continued involvement with youth-focused initiatives, I remain committed to empowering individuals and making a lasting difference in the lives of those who need support the most.
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