Nastajae Alderson

Nastajae Alderson is a proud first-generation college graduate with a passion for education and youth mentorship. She earned her undergraduate degree in English Education in 2023 and a master’s degree in 2025 in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Arkansas. Nastajae is currently entering her third year as a classroom teacher. She began her teaching career in 2023 teaching 8th grade English at Central Junior High School and now teaches 10th grade English at Har-Ber High School, where she is preparing for her second year.

Each Summer since 2022, Nastajae has been involved with Upward Bound, beginning as a mentor and growing into her current role as Residential Coordinator. As someone who grew up without a roadmap to higher education, Nastajae knows firsthand how powerful it is to have guidance and support, which is why she loves this job so much. Her favorite part is living with the students in the residence halls and watching them gain confidence in themselves academically, socially, and personally. Through her work in and outside the classroom, Nastajae continues to empower and uplift students by helping them see their potential, push past barriers, and reach their academic goals.

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