Her Story
About Natasha
Natasha M. Stone is an education leader, life coach, and integrated change agent dedicated to empowering students and individuals to reach their fullest potential. Based in Newark, New Jersey, she serves as Director of Student Life at KIPP New Jersey, where she creates meaningful opportunities that support student development, family engagement, college readiness, and career preparation. With a strong belief in building character and developing 21st-century skills, Natasha has spent her career helping young people navigate academic challenges, discover their strengths, and prepare for successful futures.
In addition to her work in education, Natasha is the founder of Progress Over Perfection, a life coaching practice focused on personal growth, confidence-building, career transitions, stress management, and goal achievement. Through her coaching, she encourages individuals to embrace progress while continuing to strive for excellence. Her professional background includes college advising, student development, teaching, and educational consulting, allowing her to provide holistic guidance to students, families, and professionals seeking meaningful change.
Natasha holds a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from Walden University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ramapo College of New Jersey. A passionate advocate for equity, mentorship, and community empowerment, she is committed to creating access to high-quality educational and professional opportunities, particularly for underserved communities. Through her leadership, coaching, and service, Natasha continues to inspire others to pursue their goals, embrace their unique journeys, and recognize that growth is a continuous process.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Natasha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to dedication, a commitment to helping others, and treating everyone with kindness and respect. I believe in the importance of continuous learning, leading by example, and staying open to new opportunities for growth. My willingness to learn new things and support those around me has been instrumental in my personal and professional journey.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to never give up and to keep pushing forward, even when challenges arise. I believe that continuous learning leads to continuous growth, and the more knowledge and experience we gain, the more opportunities we create for ourselves. Staying open to new possibilities has been essential in building a successful and fulfilling career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to prioritize progress over perfection. Keep moving forward, stay resilient, and never give up, even when faced with challenges. Embrace the journey, find what you are passionate about, and remember to enjoy the process—life is too short not to pursue work that brings purpose and fulfillment.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is empowering students to build strong character, develop mastery in 21st-century skills, and prepare for future success. By providing diverse learning opportunities and increasing access to high-quality colleges and professional careers, we can help students reach their full potential and create pathways for lifelong achievement.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in my work and personal life are authenticity, respect, and compassion. I believe in the importance of being heard, expressing my ideas and opinions, and embracing what makes each person unique. I strive to support others in times of need, celebrate my accomplishments with pride, and remain focused on achieving my goals while continuing to grow personally and professionally.
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