Alumni Features

Jewell Alumna Expands Education in the Marshall Islands

Natalie Nimmer, ’00, is making a significant difference on the lives of children on the Marshall Islands in her role as Commissioner of Education, a position similar to the U.S. Secretary of Education.

Natalie’s first challenge when she stepped into the position in June 2024 was to create universal access to secondary education. As recently as 2024, all eighth graders were given a test and those with the highest scores were offered the chance to attend high school (ninth grade). Those who tested low didn’t receive the opportunity. 

Natalie explains, “I met with key staff, reviewed the legal occupancy loads of the classrooms, and studied the budget. While the data generally said we could do it, it also took a leap of faith to open the doors and announce that all eighth graders could come to 9th grade when we opened the 2024-25 school year in August. It was a bit scary, but the teachers, principals, and staff pulled together to make it happen. I am proud I used my new authority and budding courage to create universal access to secondary education for an entire nation!”

Through courage, collaboration, and unwavering commitment, Natalie has opened doors for an entire generation, ensuring that no child is left behind in the pursuit of education. In a world where every child deserves the chance to succeed, her story is a testament to the power of leadership and the lasting impact of education on communities. The future is brighter because of women like Natalie, who are not only breaking barriers but building bridges for others to follow.

Brittany Duncan, '11

How does a fly become best friends with a spider? By planting seeds, according to author and illustrator Brittany Duncan.

Brittany, a Jewell alumna from the class of 2011, spends her weekdays sourcing talent at Dairy Farmers of America but her passion lies with a pen and paper creating clever, whimsical children’s stories. 

Brittany’s first book, “The Adventures of Zweebo and LaWanda,” was published in July 2023. Yet, it was many years prior that Brittany began the concepts for her characters.

“Zweebo and LaWanda were created at Jewell while I was sitting in class. It’s very special to bring them back in such a cool way in my book,” says Brittany.

During COVID Brittany started working on her book after she received art materials from her loved ones who encouraged her to start drawing and creating again. 

“I kept taking pictures of nature and incorporating the colors into my palette to create more and more. I was excited to doodle and to share my art with my family and friends.” 

After a certain point Brittany felt like the characters, she had created just for herself had things they wanted to share with the world. “Once the story came to me, I realized I could combine my love of reading, writing, and creating to bring “The Adventures of Zweebo and LaWanda” into the world.”

Last summer Brittany launched her second book, “The Expeditions of Elma and Leeroy,” providing young readers with courage to try new things and to always have hope things will work out. 

Brittany says going to school at Jewell opened many doors for her personally and professionally. She worked in the Call Center for the Advancement Office every night after class. 

“I learned how to hire the right people for a role, how to manage processes, how to inspire your team, and how to do the hard work in the background to make new opportunities for others in your community,” she says. “This experience planted the seed for my future career in human resources.”

Brittany also co-hosted a radio show, served as an RA and worked in Student Affairs helping with summer camps. 

“I have many stories of how seeds planted during my time at Jewell have blossomed into unforeseen blessings. Like most alumni, I grew up there finding many of my lifelong friends and chosen family.”

What’s next for Brittany? The “Journey to Darla’s Garden” series will conclude with a third book! And she has an adult fiction series in the works. 

“I’d love to share with others that all things are possible. That a fly, a spider, a glimmerfly, a dragonfly, a dinosaur, or perhaps even a cardinal can change the world.” 

Learn more about Brittany’s books at: www.launchcrate.com/darlasgarden.