LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Johnnie Smith was nominated anonymously.

"When I hear the word 'LifeChanger,' Johnnie Smith is the first person that comes to mind. Johnnie has a commitment and love for children that supersedes that of everyone I know," said the nominator. "I have witnessed his efforts to mentor children, provide enrichment experiences on Saturdays, stay after school to work with students, attend student events after school, purchase items for students, and hold individuals accountable for children's success. In those moments, I asked myself, 'What drives him to give of himself so much?' Hearing his story of how he was an at-risk teen who was saved by the male educators in his life brings clarity to his driving motivation."

"Since becoming a school leader, Johnnie has created a positive learning environment for students and a work environment for teachers/staff. Through these efforts, his school has seen an increase in morale amongst the faculty, staff, students, and community," said the nominator. "Along with this increase in morale came an increase in student performance. Under his leadership, Holly Hill Elementary School received a report card rating of 'good' for the 2021-2022 school year. Additionally, Johnnie has led the development of the STEAM Magnet Program that serves students across the eastern hemisphere of Orangeburg County School District. The STEAM Magnet Program continues to develop students who consistently outperform their counterparts in academics."

"I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition than this selfless school leader who walks the walk even better than he talks it. Johnnie has shown me what unconditional love is, not only in our personal relationship, but as he talks about how much he wants to help challenge students to reach beyond what he was able to accomplish. It will not take long for you to see that he deserves this honor," said the nominator.