Powered by Purpose: The Legacy and Leadership of Dr. Natalie Coleman
For Dr. Natalie Coleman, education is not just a profession—it’s a calling, a legacy, and a lifelong mission of service. A proud two-time graduate of Governors State University, Natalie earned her Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry in 2007 and her Master’s in Educational Administration in 2011, later going on to complete her Ed.D from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She is now the CEO and founder of After the Peanut (ATP), a youth-focused STEAM education nonprofit that is transforming how students from underserved communities experience science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
Natalie’s passion for education was ignited early in life. Growing up in a household where academics were cherished, she credits her literacy-teacher mother and electrician father for fostering her love of learning. “I feel like I came out of the womb reading,” she jokes. With strong parental support and the guidance of Black women educators in her formative years, Natalie developed values rooted in knowledge, discipline, and possibility.
Her path, however, wasn’t linear. While serving overseas as a Military Police officer in Iraq, Natalie passed the Chicago Police exam—but quickly realized that law enforcement was not her purpose. Upon returning home, she reflected on her own educational journey and the lack of representation she experienced in STEM fields. “I didn’t see Black science teachers growing up. I wanted to change that.” Natalie turned to Governors State once again, drawn to the university’s supportive environment and commitment to community. There, she began her pivot into secondary education, preparing to become the kind of role model she never had.
Natalie speaks highly of the professors who shaped her time at GovState, particularly Dr. Pam Guimond and Dr. Karen D’Arcy, both now Professors Emeritus. Their mentorship and rigorous instruction pushed her to grow intellectually and professionally, while the small class sizes allowed her to share her military-honed leadership skills with fellow students. This synergy between life experience and academic excellence laid the foundation for her future as an educator, civic leader, and innovator.
Today, Natalie leads After the Peanut, a thriving nonprofit named both in honor of George Washington Carver—the legendary “Peanut Man”—and the molecule ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which provides energy to living cells. “Just as ATP powers life, we want our programs to energize students’ imaginations and futures,” she explains. ATP was born out of a moment in Natalie’s classroom at Bloom High School when students struggled to name a scientist who looked like them. That moment sparked a mission.
Since its founding in 2014, After the Peanut has made a lasting impact:
- • Reached over 20,000 students
- • Created more than 2,000 hours of STEAM curriculum
- • Trained 1,500+ educators
- • Awarded 100+ scholarships to its Summer STEAM Camp
- • Launched Full STEAM Ahead, a professional development program supported by a $250,000 grant from the State of Illinois
Though no longer serving as a Will County Board member, where she held office for two terms, Natalie continues to use her public service experience to advocate for equitable community resources. She works closely with local, state, and federal leaders to champion access, representation, and opportunity—particularly in education. “My personal mission is service—service to my country, my community, my family, and my ancestors,” she says. “I want to do something meaningful for the next generation, just as my ancestors did for me.”
When asked what advice she has for young people hoping to make an impact, Natalie is both candid and empowering. “Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. If you see a problem, you’re probably the one meant to solve it. Network in person, find a mentor, and be one. Don’t just talk about change—create it.” She credits mentorship, personal relationships, and stepping outside her comfort zone as the keys to her growth.
Looking ahead, Natalie has big dreams: she hopes to open a STEAM community center and museum in her hometown of Joliet, Illinois—an inclusive space where students can explore, build, and believe in their future. This dream, like everything she does, is rooted in a deep sense of purpose and legacy.
The unexpected loss of her mother in 2019 reframed how Natalie views time and intention. “Life is fleeting,” she reflects. “You have to live for yourself and choose a path that brings joy, not just money. Chasing your dream can lead to freedom, purpose, and true wealth.”
Dr. Natalie Coleman continues to embody the GovState spirit: resilient, visionary, and committed to building a better future. Through her nonprofit, advocacy work, and relentless dedication to youth empowerment, she is lighting the way for the next generation of STEAM leaders.
Author: Jocelyn Bell, Alumni Relations Communication Coordinator
Learn More About After the Peanut