Nataly DeFreitas

On a campus full of unique and extraordinary stories, Nataly DeFreitas stands out. Her path to Dartmouth didn’t start immediately after high school, but after six years serving in the United States Army Reserves. It is not only her life experience that sets her apart: Nataly is both ambitious and dedicated, traits that have been demonstrated throughout her time at Dartmouth.

As a veteran, Nataly cares deeply about making sure this community is recognized and supported on campus. Instrumental in helping revitalize the Student Veterans Association, she organized opportunities for student veterans to connect on campus. Her academic efforts have also reflected her desire to make the experience of veterans at Dartmouth more visible. Her junior research scholar project focused on the history of Dartmouth and its connections to the military, which culminated in a two-hour presentation during “Dartmouth’s History with the Military” symposium. Off campus, Nataly is the cofounder of the Servicewomen Project, collecting the narratives of post 9/11 enlisted servicewomen across the country.

Her reach has gone beyond just veterans on campus. Nataly was an Undergraduate Advisor (UGA) for first-year students, often using her interpersonal skills to step in and support students when they were in need. She was senior editor of the Dartmouth Law Journal, participated in the Rockefeller Center’s Management and Leadership Development Program, served as a learning fellow, studied abroad in Spain, and double majored in English and Economics. Nataly accomplished all of this while being away from her partner.

She is truly a remarkable student, and I am thrilled to honor her with this Legacy Award.