LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Brenda Cano was nominated by her colleauge, Fernando Cepeda.

"As Mrs. Cano's colleague, I have seen her work through the years," said Cepeda. "I began working for Harmony Public Schools back in 2010. Since then, I have been impressed by Mrs. Cano's positive attitude and how this attitude affects her students. Her ability to multitask as counselor and leader of our Title I school steers us towards success. She has always gone above and beyond by taking that extra step to help those in need, even if that means staying after school, working with our folkloric dance team, organize our 5 de mayo program, or buying small gifts to reward our successful students."

As a bilingual teacher and counselor, Mrs. Cano has the innate ability to understand the issues and complexities that arise from the ever-changing dynamics of low-income families. She works closely with them to find positive solutions for their everyday struggles, and she has even taken personal time to check upon her students at home and share University goals and academic visions with them. She demonstrates kindness and empathy to all of her families. Mrs. Cano has also nurtured and developed a tremendous level of trust with her most needy families, always keeping the well-being of her students first.

"Mrs. Cano’s ability to 'think outside the box' and utilize her resources allows her to be a highly effective leader and model for others," said Cepeda. "She sets a high standard of responsibility for herself and others and thrives upon helping her students. I believe Mrs. Cano has moved mountains to help our students graduate and motivate them to keep studying."