Nardin Today Winter 2020-2021

42 Nardin Today Winter 2020-21 alumni spotlight Amazing Things... Natalie Lana '16, E'12, Montessori makes an impact By Natalie Lana ’16, E’12, Mont >> My Nardin journey began before I was born. My mother graduated from the high school in 1980, along with many of my aunts and close family friends. My earliest childhood memories include watching my three older siblings head off to attend Montessori and anticipating the day when I, too, could join in on the fun. When it was finally my turn, Nardin Montessori planted seeds of creativity, curiosity, and a love of learning that grew throughout elementary, middle, and high school, and continued to blossom into my young adult life. At all levels, Nardin equipped me with tools to think for myself, to learn from my mistakes, and to always consider the impact of my actions. Having the opportunity to attend and graduate from Nardin Academy is a privilege that I do not take lightly. From a young age, I was encouraged to follow my dreams, and I was graced with what felt like boundless love and support from the entire community. When I reached the high school, I felt ready to take on the world. I was able to challenge myself with new sports and activities, accelerated Spanish classes, and leadership roles in school clubs and national organizations, such as Relay for Life and National Honors Society. Nardin also presented me with a world of opportunities, and gave me the courage and confidence I needed to find my own way. Throughout my time at Nardin, I participated in service learning experiences that fostered a strong sense of responsibility to pursue justice. In 2015, I was part of a small group of students who participated in Nardin’s very first international service trip to Managua, Nicaragua. I remember climbing to the top of a landfill in the countryside where people were paid to sort through hazardous waste