LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Jennifer Whitehead was nominated by her friend, James VanZandt.

Ms. Whitehead is making a difference in the lives of so many people in her community and school, and is the epitome of a LifeChanger! She's in her 11th year of teaching and coaching, and she continues to pour her heart into her students while simultaneously chasing her higher education goals of attaining a PhD in Education. She offers a tremendous amount of love and support to her students, both during school hours and on her own time.

Ms. Whitehead began this school year serving in many roles within her organization, most notably coaching girls Varsity volleyball. As head coach, she is a true leader and role model for her players and strives to provide students with a true high-quality scholar-athlete experience on a daily basis. For example, she has been working on sports-based youth development exercises, organizing fundraisers, recruiting local college athlete guest speakers, assigning peer mentors, and providing academic support to players, all while advocating for each scholar-athlete, their families and the communities she serves. This is just one of many acts of kindness and professionalism that Ms. Whitehead performs for her students each day to make them feel special and loved.

In addition, Ms. Whitehead also teaches high school Physical Education and Health and serves as Athletic Director, Head Coach for the girls Varsity Basketball team, as well as Head Coach for Girls on the Run, where tremendous effort and countless hours go into ensuring her program’s success. Ms. Whitehead builds long-lasting, personal relationships with her colleagues and takes deep ownership of the success of her students in academics, athletics and in life!

Ms. Whitehead has the highest moral standard of excellence and is always watching out for the safety and propriety of her school environment. She's a born leader who is loved by her students and adored by everyone who has the pleasure of working with her. She strives for excellence and pushes her students to become their best.

"I believe she is exactly what this award says - a true LifeChanger," said VanZandt. "I continue to be impressed by Jennifer’s dedication and commitment to bettering her school, her community and her students' lives while living out her ideals. She is a shining example to so many young people who are looking for a leader of integrity, strength, courage and zeal for life."