LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

La'Toya Scott-Hammett was nominated anonymously. 

"La'Toya Scott-Hammett, Ph.D. is a native of Natchez, MS. Dr. Hammett received her B.S. in Biology in 2001 from Tougaloo College, M.S. in Elementary Education in 2002 from Alcorn State University, Master's of Arts in Teaching in 2003 from Alcorn State University, B.S. in Nursing from Alcorn State University in 2015 and Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Supervision from Jackson State University in 2007," said the nominator.

Dr. Hammett has dedicated 22 years to the field of education, steadily advancing from a teacher to her current role as the Principal of Susie B. West Elementary School in Natchez Adams School District. Her leadership journey has seen her serve as a program director, student support services coordinator, and assistant principal. She is the second eldest of five children, a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and the mother of one 15-year-old son, Desmond.

"She is a member of Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Natchez. She has a genuine passion for children and the students she serves in the Adams County community. You may catch Dr. Hammett reading her favorite story to the Kindergarten students of Susie B. West Elementary School and being very energetic as she enters the classrooms and walks down the hallways. Her favorite scripture from the Bible is Jeremiah 29:11, 'For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.' On many occasions, Dr. Hammett serves the students in her community and ensures students have school supplies, coats, uniforms, and other necessities to start school. She has followed in the footsteps of her grandfather, Henry L. Smith. Through her sorority, Dr. Hammett has collected coats for students and goes above and beyond for her students. Dr. Hammett can be described in three words: resilient, poised, and dedicated," said the nominator.