Stories have always been a powerful way to bring people together, offering new perspectives and fostering understanding. For Valparaiso University alumna, Kimberly Dana ’91, storytelling is more than just a passion—it’s a lifelong mission. As an educator, literacy coach, and award-winning author, she has dedicated her career to supporting children as they navigate new languages, cultures, and identities.
With over 25 years in education, Kimberly has taught in classrooms across the country, from the suburbs of Philadelphia to the Los Angeles Unified School District—where she was honored as Teacher of the Year—to her current role as a literacy coach in Metro Nashville Public Schools. Working in one of the most diverse school districts in the nation, she supports more than 21,000 English Learners from over 130 countries, helping students balance language acquisition with preserving their cultural identities. These experiences have deepened her commitment to fostering literacy, inclusion, and cross-cultural understanding—values that are at the heart of her latest children’s book, Millie and Mina.
Her foundation for this work was built at Valparaiso University, where she majored in English and was an active member of Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honor Society. A transformative study-abroad experience in Cambridge expanded her worldview, immersing her in new cultures and reinforcing her belief that literature can serve as both a bridge and a mirror—helping readers see themselves while also understanding others.
Inspired by her students and her love for diverse stories, Dana wrote Millie and Mina, an award-winning board book published by Picklefish Press. The story follows two young girls—Millie and Mina—who come from different backgrounds but form a deep friendship through shared experiences. By highlighting their differences and commonalities, the book celebrates diversity, fosters inclusion, and encourages young readers to embrace the richness of cultural exchange.
For many English learners, adapting to a new country can be overwhelming. Through both education and storytelling, Dana strives to create welcoming spaces where all children feel seen, valued, and empowered. With Millie and Mina and future stories she hopes to share, she remains dedicated to using literature as a tool for empathy, connection, and global understanding—one page at a time.
Valparaiso University is proud to shine a light on the impact of its alumni and their commitment to making the world a brighter place for all.
