Natalie Pough

Atlanta, GA | K-6, Mathematics, 2022

What motivates you to contribute to excellence in STEM teaching?

I am motivated by the belief that every student deserves access to high-quality learning experiences that not only build technical skills but also cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence. I’m driven by seeing students, especially those who might not initially see themselves as “STEM people,” discover their own potential to solve problems, ask big questions, and make sense of the world.

What has been the most transformative moment that affirmed your impact on STEM education?

My career has taken me to places I never imagined. Still, the most transformative affirmation of my impact in STEM education has been seeing my students thrive long after leaving my classroom. Watching former students excel in STEM fields, return to share their successes, or even pursue teaching careers themselves is a powerful full-circle moment. It shows me that my work shapes mindsets, builds confidence, and opens doors for students who once doubted they belonged in STEM, confirming my purpose as an educator.

Using your platform as a Presidential Awardee, how do you hope to advance our nation in STEM?

I aim to build strong math education communities in areas lacking access to essential resources and support. I choose to be a voice and advocate for students, teachers, and communities that deserve high-quality instruction and opportunities. My goal is to help create pathways and partnerships that ensure all learners receive the best education, regardless of their location, and to empower educators to deliver excellence in mathematics education.

Biography

Natalie Odom Pough, Ed.D., is an educator with over 20 years of experience. For the past eight years, she has served in academia as a faculty member at Clemson University, Indiana University School of Education–Indianapolis, the University of Missouri, and Georgia State University. In addition to her work in higher education, Natalie has also served as a middle school mathematics and social studies teacher, as well as an assistant principal. During her PAEMST application and award period, Natalie served simultaneously as both a practitioner and an academic. This dual role enabled her to truly “practice what she preached” and build stronger connections with her students, many of whom were in-service teachers. This experience proved invaluable to her research focus and deepened her commitment to driving the meaningful changes needed in mathematics education. Natalie's career has enabled her to develop a strong understanding of how to cultivate a positive and healthy mathematics-learning environment where all students can achieve success. Natalie’s research focuses on mathematics instructional practices, preservice and in-service teacher preparation, and new teacher attrition. Her teaching certifications are in mathematics and social studies, creating a natural space to examine how mathematics impacts our daily lives and supporting her efforts as the Model United Nations Advisor. Natalie holds a B.S. in Management, an M.A.T. in Middle Grades Education with certifications in Mathematics and Social Studies from Clemson University, and an Ed.S. and Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Central Florida.

High-resolution version of the teacher profile photograph

The views expressed in awardee profiles are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of NSF or the PAEMST program.