LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Mandi Kulhanek

Position: PTO Vice-President and Substitute Teacher
School: Columbus Elementary School
School District: Columbus Independent School District
City, State: Columbus, TX

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Mandi Kulhanek was nominated anonymously. 

"Mandi Kulhanek is an amazing individual," said the nominator. "She was a flight attendant for Southwest Airlines and a mom to three young children before she decided to stay home from work and help care for her parents, who both had health issues."

"She gave up her job, and in the meantime, she found a passion for being involved at the Columbus Elementary School," said the nominator. "When Mandi was not going back and forth to doctor appointments for her parents, she was devoting her time to the needs of the Columbus Elementary School. She saw a tremendous need to substitute when no other substitutes were available to allow teachers a break and a day off. She became vice president of the Columbus Elementary School PTO. She has devoted all of her spare time to meeting the school's needs, whether through the PTO activities or by assisting teachers."

"This year has been incredibly challenging for her, as she lost both of her parents," said the nominator. "She was no longer a full-time caregiver, but a great mom and volunteer for the school. If you ask anyone at that school, they know who Mandi Kulhanek is. Everyone admires her hard work and determination for a better school for all children."

"I always ask her, 'Why are you volunteering so much of your time here?' She said, 'Because I love making a difference and helping people,'" said the nominator. "She has made sure all events on campus run smoothly and even dresses up as the cardinal bird to do birdie pictures in 100-degree temperatures, just to make children smile."

Comments (22)

Kelsey Zapalac Posted over a year ago

Mandi- you are a light in our community. Keep doing what you are doing and leaving your mark on the future generation. Our town is so lucky to have you and I’m lucky to be apart of the amazing things you are doing for the kids in our community.

Samantha McMullin Posted over a year ago

I’ve known Mandi since grade school and her heart has never changed. Mandi is so giving and kind hearted, she has been her whole life, even through trials and tribulations. She is absolutely the perfect person for such an honor!

Hannah Harkey Posted over a year ago

Truly a gem. Mandi has been changing the lives of everyone she comes in contact with. We are so incredibly lucky to have her in our community and I’m so blessed to have had her as a friend since elementary school! We love you Mandi and are in awe of all the work you do for the entire community!

Meghan Pavlicek Posted over a year ago

What an honor to be nominated! Mandi is so incredibly deserving of this award! She has so selflessly dedicated herself to serving others, whether it was to help her parents, care for her children, her family, or the school and its students. She has the biggest heart and is such a blessing to everyone who knows her.

Brenda Garcia Posted over a year ago

Mandy you have made such an impact on our school. I love Evan and Blair are in the same grade and know my little man will get the best experience while you and your team are there. The changes you all have made are amazing thanks to your leaders ?? ????

Mariana Medina Posted over a year ago

She’s is the best, always have big smile no matter what kind of day she’s having. ??

Charmaine Posted over a year ago

When Mandi is involved with a project, I just know it will go well. She lives a life of service to others. Thank you!

Kristen Posted over a year ago

Mandi is an amazing sweet and kind person. She continuously gives her time to the school and will do anything to get the job done!! She truly has been a blessing to CES as a parent, PTO member and as a substitute!!! She is amazing!!!

Shana Neisner Posted over a year ago

Mandi is a true asset to Columbus Elementary School. She is an active member of our campus PTO which has been instrumental in providing playground equipment, sunshades, recess carts, field trips and classroom grants for our teachers and students. Additionally, she is a substitute teacher. This year alone she has taken on two long term positions while classroom teachers have been out on maternity leave.

Erin Rader Posted over a year ago

Everything Mandi does is with her FULL heart. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of an award such as this. She is a beautiful soul and I’m so lucky to know her!

Arlynne Posted over a year ago

I can’t think of anyone else more deserving of this than Mandi. She’s a wonderful human who loves and serves her community. She goes above and beyond and is always ready to help! We love her!!

Tory Vanskike Posted over a year ago

Way to go , Mandi, i didnt know your parents well, but i know they would be so proud of you and all you have accomplished! God bless, and good luck girl!

Denise Posted over a year ago

Such an amazing person. She truly has a passion for bettering the school and our community. Well deserved!

Monica Heffley Posted over a year ago

I can’t think of anyone else who would be more deserving of this award. She dedicates any spare time she has to the elementary school

Heather Thomas Posted over a year ago

What a tremendous asset this young woman’s is to our community. We are so very lucky to have her!!

Heidi Posted over a year ago

Truly deserved! She is a cherished member of our community and makes a difference in people’s lives! She is a shining example of a community servant and Lifechanger! Way to go Mandi, and Thank you for all you do with CES!

Ashley Glueck Posted over a year ago

A true blessing to everyone who knows her. Columbus Elementary, its students and staff are so lucky to have Mandi’s loving and tireless dedication, passion and care.

Paula Arnold Posted over a year ago

This young woman has created a movement in Columbus ISD. She is one of my former students. I am so proud of her!! Very deserving!!

Kayla Henderson Posted over a year ago

In a world where kindness is a rare, her care & love shine brilliantly! Her heart is a beacon of light, illuminating the lives fortunate enough to be touched by her genuine kindness!

Blake Denley Posted over a year ago

I Vote Mandi!

Ayriel Posted over a year ago

I’ve known this beautiful soul my whole life. I can’t think of anyone more deserving. She’s always been the “mom” of our group and looked after all of us while growing up. And even through the hardest time of her life this past year she never stopped showing up for others. I love you dearly friend. You are an amazing woman!

Cece Posted over a year ago

Mandi is more than a volunteer for our school. She is a friend to all, a true leader and gifted beyond measure with a passion for our kids. She has risen above her own grief to devote her time, energy, and gifts to our school. She is so deserving of this accolade even though she would never ask for the thanks. We are all better and blessed to have her.