LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Kevin Hathaway was nominated by a friend, Phoenix Hathaway.

"Kevin Hathaway has changed my life," said Phoenix. "Not just my life, but the lives of many others. He is a true changemaker, peacekeeper, and the best person you will ever meet. He deserves the LifeChanger of the Year Award for many reasons, including his dedication to education, commitment to connection, and high moral character."

"Kevin is dedicated to education and making an impact on others. He upholds high standards for his work ethic and personal morale. From sheer proximity to him, he exudes enthusiasm and inspires with his genuine growth mindset. Last year was Kevin's first year as a high school teacher," said Phoenix. "He originally studied film and theater, dreaming of becoming a writer and professor. With the job market offering slim pickings, he demonstrated flexibility and sought a teaching career at his son's high school, Lakes International Language Academy (LILA). It was a year that helped Kevin and his son, Skyler, grow and flourish, move out of their comfort zones, and self-actualize."

"Kevin dove into the school year head first, with a positive attitude and the resolve to try his best," said Phoenix. "He was stationed as a Special Education Social-Emotional-Behavioral Skills Teacher, with a caseload of over ten students to manage personally. He diligently studied the curriculum, worked hard to understand the world of Special Education, prepared for a licensure examination, and, most importantly, created engaging and interesting lessons for his students. Soon, he was many students (and staff's) favorite teacher."

"Kevin's goal was to connect," said Phoenix. "He wanted others to know he cares and that they matter. Soon, students would stop by his classroom to chat or wave him down in the halls. Kevin contributed positively to the school environment. He volunteered to help chaperone co-ed dances, served on the yearbook committee, and played "staff vs. students" sporting events (with memorable plays during the dodgeball tournament)."

"Kevin makes an effort," said Phoenix. "He sees someone struggling and does his best to intervene and uplift them. Kevin cares for his school community. He consistently helps others in need and helps himself by pursuing and achieving his goals. He's the best person I've ever met, and I'm glad to know him. If you met him, you would be glad, too."