Meet the NARA Education Board Members: Heather Brodersen
MEET THE NARA Education
BOARD MEMBER: Heather
In our efforts to use education to end poverty, we at NARA Education would like to tell you why we’re in it in the first place, and why education, especially using technology for education, means so much to us.
We wanted to connect you on a personal level with the NARA Education board so that you can know who we are and why this cause means so much to us. Hopefully you’ve enjoyed getting a personal look at our passionate board members through the Meet the Board Series. They have loved your feedback so far, and are looking forward to having many more conversations.
We’ve come to our final director, Heather Brodersen. She is the lifeblood for innovative ideas and fundraising, and brings immense energy to every board meeting. She joined the board wholeheartedly when asked, didn’t hesitate for one second, and is committed to growing this organization into everything it can be and more.
Heather has been immersed in education since her time in the U.S. Marine Corps where she lived in Japan, teaching English as a second language, as well as computer classes and acting as a private tutor. She travelled all around the world, gaining exposure to different countries where she learned first hand how important education is. Since retirement from the military, she has spent her time volunteering in schools, and working in non-profit organizations, giving her great experience to bring over to her work with NARA Education
Let’s see what she has to say!
What is Your Motivation to be a Board Member?
My interest in other cultures and ways of life was ingrained in me early in life. My parents used to tell my siblings and I how blessed we are to have been born in the United States. This piqued my interest in life in other countries. During the Guatemalan Civil War, I started writing to a pen-pal in Guatemala. Her mother would explain things to me about what was happening and although I was 10-12 years old, it made me realize that my parents were right about being American. At 17, I joined the Marine Corps and have been traveling all over the world since. I have volunteered and helped people in many foreign countries and realized that daily things we take for granted in the United States are just a dream for many.
My heart goes out to people who do not have basic rights – and the right to education absolutely should be a birthright to everyone on the planet. When Azhar Sindhu asked me to be on the board of NARA Education, I immediately agreed. I am very interested in the program Mr. Sindhu created and also very interested in helping children obtain education worldwide. Our mission is big, but the only way we’ll succeed is through taking these steps.
What Does Education Mean To You?
Education is a way for people to support and help themselves. It is a path out of poverty and a path to freedom from oppression. My parents exhorted us to get our education. My father used to say, “Education can never be taken away from you.” What we hold in our brains is ours alone, but knowledge should be shared so that others can put it to use and gain wisdom as well. However, critical thinking is just as important as content and we need to implement the right education systems to allow everyone to engage in critical thinking.
What Is Your Education Background?
I went to school in a small town in Iowa my entire childhood from kindergarten to graduation. I joined the military and was a basically trained Marine in Boot Camp. I went to an initial Computer Operator’s course and then most training was on the job. I went to many different military schools over the years, but also took college courses while on Active Duty. I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Worldwide Campus. I earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Technical Management and hold a Certificate of Security and Intelligence. My future plans are to complete another degree, possibly in a foreign country. I am a natural researcher and also gain knowledge through research.
If Money Were Not an Object, How Would You Spend the Rest of Your Life?
If I had unending funds at my disposal, I would continue to donate to the programs I currently do, but at a higher level. I would also look for other programs I could support and use my influence to encourage others to support them as well. This is one of the main reasons I work on the NARA Education board because I want to share causes with other people that they might not even be aware of.
Anything Else You’d Like to Share?
I have been a volunteer since about the age of 12. I enjoy the feeling I get when I make a situation better for another person or animal. During Covid shutdowns, I believe I was able to keep a positive attitude by volunteering in many different ways. I encourage everyone to go out and do something for someone else. Not only does it help that person, but it gives a personal sense of fulfillment that is indescribable. Those who have done so agree – Most often, it IS better to give than receive.
Thank You, Kornelia!
Heather loves to share her passions with others and cares so deeply about helping human beings. She is the heart of the NARA Education board, and without her, this organization would not be as far along as it is. She is always coming up with new initiatives for the programs, and ways to get our mission out to the world. She wants to make sure that everyone in the world has access to the education they deserve, so they can create an amazing life for themselves.
Help make Heather’s wish come true! Donate to NARA Education and you can be a part of using education to end poverty.
Ilona Sindhu
Ilona is a writer focused on Old Norse mythology, drawing from her Hungarian, Pakistani, and American roots. She holds a BA in Dramaturgy and Theatre History from NYU and a Master’s in Religion and Literature from the University of Edinburgh. Her work blends myth, culture, and storytelling across borders.
Published: June 13, 2024
Published: June 13, 2024
Published: September 8, 2025
16770 Imperial Valley Dr, Suite 125A, Houston, TX 77060, USA 
info@naraeducation.org 
+1 281-686-4137
16770 Imperial Valley Dr, Suite 125A, Houston, TX 77060, USA info@naraeducation.org