Her Story
About Natalie
Dr. Natalie (Natalie Doughty) Gaines, Ed.D is an accomplished higher education professional, Adjunct Professor, and Professional Development Specialist with over a decade of experience in education, instructional design, and online learning. Her career began 12 years ago while balancing early motherhood, and she has since built a distinguished path in academia focused on student success, digital learning strategies, and educator development. She currently serves in instructional roles with the University of the People, where she facilitates courses in online education strategies, academic writing, and learner engagement, helping students build the skills needed to thrive in virtual environments. Alongside her academic career, Dr. Gaines is a Professional Development Specialist at Station Based Learning Institute, where she designs and implements educator training programs that strengthen instructional effectiveness and improve student outcomes. She earned her Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership in 2025, further solidifying her expertise in university-level instruction and academic leadership. Her work also reflects a strong foundation in project management, curriculum development, and operational planning, all centered on improving learning systems and expanding educational access. Dr. Gaines is also the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Gaines Properties and Investments LLC, a company she helped build while navigating life as a military spouse. After her company obtaining a builder’s license in 2022, she now leads operations for residential renovation projects, including contracts supporting military housing transitions. In addition to her work in education and real estate, she is a children’s book author and literacy advocate, having launched education-based publications and a nonprofit initiative in 2022 focused on donating books to military families and underserved communities. Across all roles, she is dedicated to education, service, and creating meaningful impact for families and learners.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Natalie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to faith, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Throughout my career in higher education, entrepreneurship, and authorship, I have remained focused on serving others, embracing growth opportunities, and maintaining the discipline to pursue excellence. I believe success is built through consistent effort, meaningful relationships, and a willingness to learn from both challenges and achievements. Most importantly, I am driven by a desire to create opportunities for others, whether through education, mentorship, or business leadership, and that sense of purpose continues to guide my journey.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received was, "Bloom where you are planted, but never stop growing." That advice taught me to give my best in every season while continuing to pursue new knowledge, skills, and opportunities. It has shaped my journey in higher education, entrepreneurship, and authorship, and continues to remind me that success is built through growth, perseverance, and purpose.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering any industry is to invest in your education, believe in your voice, and never underestimate the value of preparation. Seek mentors, build meaningful relationships, and don't be afraid to pursue opportunities that challenge you.
Most importantly, define success for yourself. There is no single path to a fulfilling life or career. I have been able to build a career in higher education, entrepreneurship, and authorship while also being a present and involved mother. I've learned that balance comes from making intentional choices that align with your values. Create a path that works for you, lead with integrity, and never let others define what success should look like for your life.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, faith, lifelong learning, and service are the values that guide my work and personal life. I believe in leading with authenticity, pursuing excellence, and making a positive impact on others. Whether as an educator, entrepreneur, author, wife, or mother, I strive to live with purpose, remain committed to growth, and create opportunities that empower those around me.
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